Paris.

It's a city I love going back to. We spent some fabulous days there, and it's a city that just never gets old. Each time I visit, I find new things to love about it. For starters, there are some fantastic hotels. And you don't have to blow your budget to enjoy a wonderful stay in the city. You just have to have an open mind. The place we stayed at was recommended by a friend who lives in the city. It's a little place with little rooms, see:

So what if you have to duck each time you go through a door! I love experiencing the old. And the wonderful service you get from the reception, where they know you by name. One of the things that shocked me was the americanization that has taken place over the years. A Starbucks at the Louvre. Really?? They also have a fancy new MAC store there too.

Trying to find the real Paris, we rode the subway like the real people do. I just don't know how they do it. The Paris subway system needs a revamp. You can barely breath down there because there are too many people, it's super hot & stuffy and there is no air circulation. And I thought the TTC needed work. It's luxury compared to the Paris Metro. The chocolate souvenirs we purchased didn't even make it back to the hotel because they melted instantly down there!

Did you know that to paint the Eiffel Tower it takes 60 tons of paint. There's a job for you Robert!! I also learned that when Hitler visited Paris and wanted to go up to the top of the tower, the elevators were broken so he had to walk up! ha! Oh, and I also learned that my mom LOVES shopping.