🇫🇷 Email #4: Paris Arrival
This post is part of the Europe & Asia 2005 Retrospectives series. It is a raw record of the journey, preserved exactly as it was written in internet cafes and sent as an email to family and friends. While my travel style has evolved, the desire to experience the world and the wanderlust expressed in these notes remain the same.
Original Email Date: October 14, 2005
Location(s): Paris, France
4 days was definitely not enough time in Ireland, and I know I missed most of what the country has to offer since I only left Dublin to see Wicklow and Glendalough. Unfortunately, I didn't make it to Blarney Castle to kiss the stone, but not sure I need the gift of gab. BTW - BR, the pint of Guinness was pretty good in the Gravity bar. The best part, though, is that there was a shamrock in my drink (I took a couple of pictures and will send them if I can get them downloaded).
I am now in Paris, and it is beautiful. Everywhere you turn, there is another amazing monument, building, cathedral, or garden. And many of you commented on the size of the Louvre, but I really did not understand till I saw it myself. It is massive - there is no way you could properly see the museum in one day.
MC suggested that we get the museum pass, so I have been to most of the major spots, and I think my favorite is the Musée Rodin. It's housed in his former mansion, and the gardens are lovely (Dad - you would really enjoy it). Other highlights include the Eiffel Tower at sunset and the boat tour on the Seine at night. GB - Thanks for the suggestion.
Tonight, we have reservations at Les Bouquinistes. I have no idea what it is, but my foodie friend MC is very excited, so it must be good. And then tomorrow, we're off to the Palace at Versailles. Well, I'm off to a quick nap.
More later.....
SW - There were no prince sightings in London (and I already left when you made the request). Also, you should always be prepared, so shame on you!!!
LC - Have fun at your U2 concerts and give BB a big hug for me.
And to all my moms out there (SR, EB, NL) - I am being very safe, so please don't worry.
The Retrospective Reflection (2026)
Looking back at this entry, I realize how much I relied on a network of friends to build my itinerary. In 2005, you didn’t check an algorithm or a top ten list on an app. Instead, you carried the recommendations of those who had gone before you, and their suggestions for museum passes and boat tours became the map for the journey. Even then, I had surrounded myself with a supportive circle of travelers guiding my way through Europe. This post also captures that specific pre-digital struggle of trying to download and share photos.
