France: The Sequel

Our first visit to France was a raging success. And since I cannot resist the temptation to ruin a perfectly good memory, we are embarking on a month-long adventure in Paris in the hopes that we can recreate our magical first experience abroad.

We will be staying on the quiet, picturesque and centrally located Ile Saint Louis. The building dates back to the 17th century, a large mansion built by a wealthy Parisian family. Here is our building exterior, on the Quai de Bourbon:

The interior of our apartment:

And our view of the Seine from the outside:

I am eager to explore this captivating city (my favorite, after DC, of course) with my family, curious to discover which charms have disappeared and which remain.  One change, however, will be readily apparent: the Paris I remember, the playground for an irresponsible and carefree nineteen year old, will be cast in a new light as it becomes the playground for my two young daughters.  Watching them consume each and every bit of Paris, with fresh eyes and youthful wonder, might just rival the experience of my younger days. 

Or it could make me wish we had signed them up for camp instead. 

Stay tuned as the adventure begins!