Jordan Courtenay’s Field Notes from Paris, France
Courtesy of Jordan
Field Notes are firsthand travel recommendations for and/or by our ECT Clubhouse members. Get the lowdown on destinations across the globe from travelers and locals alike. This week, Jordan Courtenay shares her notes from Paris, France.
The City of Light, the City of Love—it’s no wonder Paris is one of the world's most coveted travel destinations.
After a year without seeing each other, my best friend and I decided to meet halfway and explore the city for ourselves—the perk of a long-distance friendship, I suppose!
I, myself, had been to Paris a few times before with family and school, but to go with a friend was a different experience entirely. We stayed in the bustling Le Marais neighborhood (central yet safe enough for two young women traveling alone), we tackled the dreaded public transport system, and we enjoyed delicious food and drink to our heart’s content—the perfect long weekend.
Sights Worth Seeing
Versailles
Just a short train ride away from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is surely worthy of a spot on your to-do list.
What was once a royal residence commissioned by King Louis XIV is now a history museum rich in splendor. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, with around 15,000,000 visitors each year, and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason…
Montmartre
Safe to say, there are many districts to explore within the city of Paris. But if you’re to visit just one, let it be Montmartre.
From the Moulin Rouge to the Sacré-Cœur, it’s filled with iconic attractions and myriad bakeries, patisseries, artisan shops, and squares brimming with painters and caricaturists alike.
You could spend hours here roaming its cobblestone streets, with hidden treasures around every corner, including…
Food for Thought
Local Cuisine
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to good food in Paris—there’s no doubt. But if you’re looking for delicious French food at very affordable prices, head to Brasserie Dubillot in Le Marais. For only 19€, the flank beef was cooked perfectly (as were the fries), and the garlic butter sauce was deliciously full of flavor. To top it off…
For the Views
If you’re ever in the mood for a cocktail, be sure to visit one of the many rooftop bars in Paris. Think Creatures for stunning views with the Eiffel Tower in the background. Or, if you fancy something a little smaller and more intimate, we really enjoyed…
Courtesy of Jordan
Courtesy of Jordan
Also included in Jordan’s notes:
Where to find the best fruit tart in all of Paris
The best photo spots for the Eiffel Tower
Tips and tricks for the French capital
The ultimate brasserie on the Champs-Élysées…
…And more
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