Review: France Vacation, Normandy, Paris, Bayeaux, Arc de Triumphe, Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise, Pastry Class

It truly was the trip of a lifetime.  The wonders of Paris (which has been on my list to see for many years) didn't fail to impress.  The Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the shops, the restaurants, the friendliness of everyone we encountered was simply amazing.  The Arche de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées, the boat ride down the Seine.

The one thing I wouldn't do again is Versailles.  I think I had built it up so much in my mind that it couldn't impress me.  Having visited Catherine's Summer Palace and Peter the Great's Winter Home, as well as the Biltmore house and the Hearst Castle, I found the furnished homes much more inviting and interesting.  Also, it was a Sunday and thousands of tourists were there.

The stop in Bayeaux for 3 nights was a slice of heaven.  We took the 8 hour D-Day tour (on June 6 no less!), and the tour to Le Mont Saint-Michel, which was completely amazing.  This fabulous monastery built on a granite rock in between a river and the English Channel must be seen to be believed.  Our hostess at our Bed & Breakfast was full of local lore and cooked like a pro.