In June and July of 2013, I was lucky enough to go on a high school choir trip to France as an incoming senior. We were able to spend time in many of France's cities, experiencing a wide range of breathtaking scenic views and some of France's key places to visit. Having this adventure as first trip out of North America, it was undoubtedly a trip I never will forget. Here are some of my favored places throughout France you must see when you visit.
1. The Eiffel Tower
If anyone travels to a new country and doesn't visit the countries most well-known landmark, you don't do traveling correctly! Standing at 984 feet, visitors are able to ride lifts to the different sections of the tower and view the whole city. The view is magnificent as you are able to take in almost all of city in one view.
2. Notre Dame de Paris
This medieval Catholic cathedral has examples of Gothic architecture and is considered as one of the largest churches in the world. Visitors are able to sit through the free masses and are allowed to participate at any time. Not to mention, the book and movie "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" was based on this famous church.
3. The Louvre Museum
Established in 1792, the Louvre Museum is home to many sculptures, paintings and antiquities from Egypt and the Middle East. Some of the most famous pieces include the "Mona Lisa," "Lady of Auxerre," "The Seated Scribe" and "The Coronation of Napoleon." Going here gives you a chance to immerse yourself in all types of art history and have pretty awesome art pieces to see.
4. Arc de Triomphe
Placed in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, one of the largest shopping streets in Paris, the Arc de Triomphe honors those who had passed in the French Revolutionary and the Napoleonic Wars. Like the Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C., there is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that honors the soldiers who died that were never identified placed beneath the Arc.
5. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, often known as Sacre-Couer
Like Notre Dame, this Basilica is also open to the public for free masses. There are also many gift shops featured in the sides of the church, and is a walk-way for those who just want to see the inside of the church. Also the church has many side roads where artists sell their work. I bought a painting of point shoes on music sheets here, and it is one of my favorite art pieces I have ever purchased.
6. Seine River
This 483 mile-long river runs throughout the city of Paris. Visitors are allowed to take boat tours throughout the day. Personally, I would recommend participating in one at night. You are able to see all of the buildings near the river's edge all lit up, and if you end near the Eiffel Tower around 11 p.m., the tower will sparkle.
7. The Palace of Versailles
Built as a symbol for political power and absolute monarchy, this palace was home to the royal family until they were forced to move back to the capital in the fall of 1789. Now, it holds many tours for visitors to look around the building and through its gardens.
My mom also went on the trip with me. She became a queen as the gates surrounding Versailles had a crown on them.
8. Normandy beaches
Coming here was one of the most emotional feelings I have ever witnessed. Just being on the beaches and in the cemetery, you are overcome with sadness. My choir was able to sing the National Anthem for both flag raises in the morning, and we were able to put a wreath at the bottom of a statue where we sang a couple of our songs we had prepared for this moment. After we went on the beaches, sang more, and honestly, it brought our choir closer than we have ever been. I highly recommend visiting and paying your respects. You won't regret it.
There is so much more to France that you don't realize until you go there. Just going to the little towns and cities, and immersing yourself in their culture gives you more experiences than you ever thought you would see. I am still overwhelmed with the opportunities I was given on this trip, and I can't wait to go back and visit to relive all of those and make more memories.
