Paris 2016 - Day 1, Institut du Monde Arabe

A fascinating exhibition of the discoveries of Osiris Egypt's Sunken Mysteries on the Left Bank across from the Bastille. I love all things Egyptian and a glimpse into underwater discoveries is right up my alley. The exhibit is a little dark (lighting) and ackward in layout - but once you are over those details it is very enjoyable. The audio guide covers 17 highlights of the presentation and in my opinion required for English speakers (although the English signage is good). 

Paris 2016 - Day 1, Les Trois Font LA Parie Restaurant

We tried a new lunch spot on our way to view the exhibit at the Arab museum. It has been a while since we walked this Left Bank neighborhood and I almost forgot it's charming feel. Les Trois Font La Paire is located at 26, bld Saint Germain (01 43 26 73 22; www.lestroisfontapaire.fr ) and is a well kept, friendly dining spot. Today is sunny and you cannot help taking one of the tempting windows overlooking the street. The lunch starter + entree will run you $14.50 Euro. Service here is good and the ingredients are fresh and tidy. My fish was a bit overlooked - luckily (and accidentally) my preference so be forewarned. That said, I'd return. 

St. Germaine Street View

Antipasto Salad

Goat Cheese Salad

Chicken Risotto 

Fish of the Day

Pene pasta with tomatoes

Paris 2016 - Day 1

We arrived safely in Paris for another New Year's celebration. My Facebook memories page reminded me that 6 years ago Mark and Heather (my niece and her husband) joined us for the first time in the City of Light. Amazing -  it seems like only yesterday that they were here with us to me. Our flight on AA was uneventful and I slept for most of it (thankfully). I am becoming more and more accostumed to these overseas journeys in coach seating. My back pillow continues to do a terrific job keeping me comfortable in otherwise uncomfortable seats. 

It is almost like sleepwalking. Land CDG airport in Paris, disembark through customs, the seemingly endless walk to the train depot, update travel card at service counter, and 20 minute RER train ride to Saint Michel train station. We are back at d'Albe Hotel in the heart of the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank of the Seine River in Paris - and our same room 106. It is home away from home and like home, great to see our old friends are fairing well year after year. Today - our first day (yes I know it is still 2015 but I couldn't help rush the new calendar for this post) and we have a light schedule. After settling into our hotel - we will grab a quick lunch before seeing an exhibit at the Arab Museum. 

Amsterdam - Day 5, Goodbye

Another rainy trip to Amsterdam but not so bad that we could not get outside to visit the sights in town. I like this city more and more. The museums and restaurants are top notch. Street life is inviting and the crowds are friendly. I will definitely come back and even spend as much as a week here. Until next time ... 

Amsterdam - Day 4, Greek

We decided to try a Greek restaurant located next door to our hotel. We had been eyeing it since our arrival and after a long day of sightseeing opted for something quiet and close for dinner tonight. The staff is friendly and food was good at Greka's Greek Deli, Singel 311.

Amsterdam - Day 4, Westerpark

It was such a lovely day outside that I decided to break from the group to visit a weekend market at Westerpark. The rest of the gang went to see the Resistance Museum.

Amsterdam - Day 4, WWII Walk

This morning we joined our Ben de Jong, our guide and historian, for a walking tour through World War II in Amsterdam (www.historywalks.eu). The 3 hour tour is extremely informative and well done. You cannot beat the price at 25 euros per person. 

Amsterdam - Day 3, Seafood Bar Revisited

We couldn't resist returning to eat at The Seafood Bar, Spui 15 (www.theseafoodbar.nl) near our hotel. Our first visit was a hit. This place is popular so make your reservations online early. Our second visit match our first experience in this lively and tasty dining spot. We recommend it.