Who: Malia Bodhaine of Denver
Where: On the top of the Cathedral of Notre Dame, Paris
Best meal: A hot, made-to-order jambon and fromage (ham and cheese) crêpe at any sidewalk crêperie is the tastiest and cheapest meal in Paris, at only 4 euros. As for dessert, stay at the same crêperie and enjoy a citron crêpe (with fresh-squeezed lemon juice) or indulge in the decadent Nutella and banana crêpe. C’est magnifique!
Best deal: When in Paris, purchase the excellent bargain Museum Pass at any participating museum, which allows quick access to Paris’ most famous museums, including the Louvre, D’Orsay, Centre Pompidou and Rodin Museum. With the two-, four- or six-day passes (for 30 euros, 45 euros, or 60 euros), you will never stand in lines at Paris’ crowded and beautiful museums and can revisit the mysterious Mona Lisa as many times as you’d like.
Best time to go: Summer in Paris is crowded and hot, whereas early spring is still drizzly and chilly. Late spring or early fall are perfect: not too crowded and with all the soleil (sun) you’ll hope for in a Parisian vacation.
Best travel tip: Climb all 400 spiral steps to the top of the Cathedral of Notre Dame (gain free entry with your museum pass). See where the famed Hunchback rang the bells in the belfry, and see the gargoyles and chimeras up close. It’s a tough climb, but the views of the Seine and the city from above are stunning, and you’ll have earned your crêpe when you get back down.
