Day 5: A View From on High

This morning was started off by Jon and Amy making a delicious breakfast of eggs and breakfast potatoes that were hand chopped and fried. After eating our very delightful breakfast we made our way down to the local metro and to the Musée d'Orsay. When we arrived at the museum we were each handed a sheet of paper that had highlights of the famous works art that were being displayed at that particular museum. We strolled through the main level of the museum between imposing marble statues as well as a cutaway model of the Garnier Opera House. We Upstairs to see all of the beautiful impressionistic artwork such as many paintings from Van Gogh. Many of us were very intrigued to see artwork that we are familiar with back at home and then we got the chance to see those very works of art in person, and the original.

Enjoying the Art in the Musée d'Orsay

After our morning in the Musée d'Orsay we made our way to Sacré-Cœur by way of the metro. Not only did we get to see this beautifully situated church, but we also got to visit an area of Montmartre.
is the city on a hill that is right on the border of Paris and provides a wonderful view of Paris when at the summit. We first took the funicular up, except Vincenzo who decided to run up the many, many, many stairs. Once we reached the top, we got in line to see all of the beautiful works of art inside the church. Soon we reconvened as a group and discussed the best areas to eat and shop. The area surrounding Sacré-Cœur was super cute and also offered a lot of places to get souvenirs. Janie, Amy, and Jon enjoyed an artisan food market, while Vincenzo, Kristiana, Nicole, and Hope wandered the local shops.

The crew at Sacré-Cœur

From Sacré-Cœur we headed to the Arc de Triomphe. The monument sits in the middle of one of the largest roundabouts in Paris, with 12 roads converging around it. To get to the arc we went through and underground tunnel so that we didn't have to walk through the many lanes of crazy traffic. Once safely in the middle, we made our way up the many stairs of the spiral staircase. At the top, we were provided with a beautiful panoramic view of the city. It was a great experience and offered many good places to take pictures of the entire city.

Arc de Tromphe

Getting the best angle

Dinner was at a very cute and picturesque Italian restaurant that was only a few blocks away from our little home. Everyone loved the food and it all looked very appetizing. After dinner we came back home and here I am now, writing the blog. And soon to sleep.

- Kris :)

The whole group, including Skip & Cher before they head off on their own side adventure

Hope and Nicole got their Macarons

Photo Credit: Amy