Why Paris?
I think every Pinay (Filipino for that matter) should visit this place, whether solo or otherwise, at some point in their life. And it’s safe to say I was mildly influenced by Stephanie Perkins’ novel – Anna & the French Kiss.
How did you get here?
I flew Economy from Manila c/o Cathay Pacific. I also was lucky enough to get upgraded to Economy Premium for my MLA to HKG leg (yes, there’s a difference and it’s noticeable).
How much did that cost you?
This was in 2013 and fuel surcharge was still included (I noticed in 2015 it wasn’t charged anymore). The fare cost USD1,300. Hefty, I know.
Where did you stay?
This was my first time to travel outside the Philippines on my own so I was more cautious (ergo, more scared) than my recent trips. So I stayed at a non-budget type hotel Hôtel Londres Eiffel, it’s small like most of them but the furnishings looked new and I especially loved their wooden stairs.
How many nights did you stay?
8 nights BUT 6 of which were part of a tour.
How much was your accommodation?
EUR150…per night. Yikes! It was my first time, please learn from me. LOL.
What did you eat?
Breakfast during the tour was included, buffet style, jams, cereal, croissants, the CROISSANTS! Outside of it I went to a bakeshop (Les Gourmandises d’Eiffel) that was a few meters away from the hotel. Best.chocolate.croissant.ever. Since then I’ve been snooty towards locally made croissants (sorry, French Baker).
What did you do here?
As part of the tour I actually got to go to a LOT of tourist attractions, 7 days aren’t enough to see the beauty of Paris and I still actually have metro passes, I was told they don’t expire. The extra 2 days I spent on my own I went to Monet gardens, coz Cher.
What’s the one thing you recommend/most memorable moment in this place?
Within the city center, definitely Eiffel Tower, read more here. Outside, Palace of Versailles.
it begins with a step 