My time in France (Jun. 2017) was a perfect balance of reflection, exploration, and awe-inspiring beauty. I started in Normandy, where the weight of history was palpable, from the solemn American Cemetery in Colleville to the remnants of D-Day at Arromanches. In Rouen, I walked through medieval streets and admired the grandeur of its cathedral before making my way to Paris.
The City of Light dazzled with its iconic landmarks standing beneath the Eiffel Tower, strolling the Champs-Élysées, and marveling at the opulence of Versailles. A sunset cruise along the Seine was the perfect ending, capturing the magic of Paris as the city lit up around me.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Normandy
Caen Memorial & Excursion to the Normandy beaches:
Omaha Beach, once the most heavily defended of the five D-Day landing sites, is now a peaceful stretch of sand, but standing there, the history feels alive. The American 1st and 29th Infantry Divisions fought fiercely against German defenses here on June 6, 1944, facing unimaginable odds and heavy casualties. As I walked along the beach, it was impossible not to imagine the chaos and bravery of those soldiers. Being on the same sand where they fought gave me a deep sense of gratitude and a new perspective on their incredible sacrifice.
Visit the American Cemetery in Colleville
Visiting the American Cemetery in Colleville was a powerful experience. Overlooking Omaha Beach, this cemetery is the final resting place for over 9,000 American soldiers who lost their lives during the D-Day invasion and the battles that followed. Featured in Saving Private Ryan, the site was both humbling and serene. The peaceful surroundings were a stark reminder of the true cost of freedom. It was a moment I won’t forget.
After a short walk to dinner, we stopped at a restaurant called the Caen Grille. I had a ham slice with a creamy Dijon mustard sauce and potatoes, followed by an apple crisp. I can’t find my photos anywhere, but the meal was good. I get a good laugh thinking about this meal seated in cowprint booths, I thought “God, this meal is so small.” Only to shortly realize that American portions are just inexplicably large LOL. This was also where I learned ice is a very Americanized practice.
The Originals Boutique, Hotel Spa, Honfleur Sud offers a comfortable stay just outside Honfleur, Normandy. This hotel features modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, an indoor heated pool, a sauna, and an on-site restaurant. Free parking makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like Honfleur’s Old Port and the Pont de Normandie. Ideal for relaxation or sightseeing, it provides a practical and cozy retreat. I will say, the hotel wasn’t the most suited for 40 high school kids trying to eat breakfast. We had to go down in groups of two to take turns grabbing breaky. However, if you’re a small group, you should have no issue!
Day 2: Normandy Region
Rouen, Paris
Walking tour of Rouen
Visit the Rouen Cathedral
Catch a glimpse of Notre-Dame Cathedral
Walking tour of the Latin Quarter
Enjoy dinner in the Latin Quarter
Our class visited the historic Latin Quarter of Paris. Along the way, we passed the “Love Locks” bridge and the charming merchant shops lining the Seine River. Once we reached the Latin Quarter, Gareth gave us a brief orientation before letting us explore on our own for four hours.
Day 3: Paris
Place de la Concorde Champs-Élysées
Arc de Triomphe Les Invalides
Eiffel Tower
Versailles & Seine River cruise
Gallery
Where The Wind Takes Me. 