The 23rd of June marked the end of our month-long French adventure, and we were eager to switch hotels in Paris. However, fate had other plans! This day also marked the opening of Paris’ two-day Olympic Day celebration, a spectacle designed to win over hearts and votes for the 2024 Games. Our taxi ride across the city found itself caught in the middle of this grand event, with a major sports showcase sprawling across the city center.
Imagine the Parisian landscape transformed! High divers soared from Pont Alexandre III, while climbers scaled a wall near the Pavillon de I’Arsenal. Cyclists raced around Place de la Concorde, while sports fields popped up on the lawn of Les Invalides. Even the Seine River transformed into a floating running track!
This temporary sports arena, however, created a major obstacle for our taxi driver. Roads and bridges were closed to traffic, creating a gridlock of frustration for Parisians and tourists alike.
While the inconvenience was real, it also presented a rare opportunity. We were able to witness the transformation of Paris into a giant sports park. Later that evening, we joined the excited crowd at Pont Alexandre III, where the vibrant atmosphere was contagious. The power of sport, like music, brought people together, creating a cheerful and energetic buzz.
Traffic, Taxis, and the Eiffel Tower’s View
Of course, a large-scale event like Olympic Day comes with heavy security. While the constant sirens from police vehicles cruising the Champs-Élysées were a bit jarring, the traffic jam actually provided a silver lining. Our taxi boasted a transparent roof, giving us a unique perspective for capturing Parisian street scenes. The iconic “Parisien Taxi” sign perfectly framed our shots, making us wish we could linger in that taxi a bit longer.
The traffic jam also triggered a funny anecdote. I couldn’t resist sharing my infamous four-hour taxi ride between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris with my travel partner, Kent. In 2012, a car accident on the highway caused a nightmare traffic jam, a memory that still haunts me to this day. “You think this is bad? I’ve seen worse here…” I joked, channeling my inner “been-stuck-here-before” Vivienne.
A Home Away From Home: Les Jardins d’Eiffel
Finally, our taxi managed to cross a bridge still open to traffic. We were close to our hotel, but the city’s gridlock meant we were stuck. Our driver, ever resourceful, suggested we get off at the nearest point and walk the rest of the way.
With over 70 kilograms of luggage (travel light? Not our forte!), we took his advice. Kent guarded our bags while I scurried down Rue Amélie, the side street leading to our hotel, Les Jardins d’Eiffel. Our driver’s directions were spot on; we were indeed very close.
I quickly returned, and our friendly and efficient porter effortlessly lifted Kent’s massive seaman’s bag. This was my first positive impression of Les Jardins d’Eiffel, a welcome relief after our cross-town taxi adventure.
After a smooth check-in, we ascended to our top-floor room, the 5th floor. Exhausted from our taxi journey, we finally arrived at our home away from home for the next five nights.
A Parisian View: La Tour Eiffel
Even the receptionist’s confirmation of our “Eiffel Tower view” couldn’t prepare me for the breathtaking sight that awaited us. Upon entering our room, we were greeted by a stunning panorama of the iconic Eiffel Tower! This was the privilege of our “Privilege Double Room,” a cozy space with a mesmerizing view.
While the room itself was modestly sized (approximately 15 square meters) and featured a simple interior, it was elevated by the incredible vista outside our window. Kent, ever the poet, dubbed it our “real French window.”
For a three-star hotel, Les Jardins d’Eiffel delivered. The room was clean, equipped with a safety box, slippers, a kettle, a hair dryer, a mini fridge, a TV, clean towels, daily housekeeping, and even a bathtub – a big win for me! It was everything we needed for our final days in France. But of course, the spectacular view remained the undisputed star of the show.
Bistrot Chez France: A Taste of Parisian Charm
Just across the street from Les Jardins d’Eiffel, we stumbled upon Bistrot Chez France, a popular French bistro known for its homey atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
The friendly and energetic Madame France, the owner herself, warmly welcomed us and managed to secure us a table for two. As it was already past 9 PM, we skipped the appetizers, saving them for our next visit. I opted for the Breast of South Western Duck with Orange Sauce, while Kent chose the Lamb of Sisteron with Rosemary Sauce.
My duck was cooked to perfection, and the orange sauce was a revelation. It was rich, sweet, and zesty, a perfect complement to the tender duck. Kent, a lamb enthusiast, was pleasantly surprised by the delicate flavor of the French lamb, a stark contrast to the stronger flavors of Australian lamb.
For dessert, we shared the Pistachio Crème Brûlée, a creamy and delicious treat with a satisfyingly crunchy toffee topping. It was the perfect ending to our meal, and the recommended Rosé wine provided a delightful accompaniment.
Bistrot Chez France was a true gem. From the welcoming atmosphere to the delicious food and charismatic Madame France, it was a memorable culinary experience.
Shimmering Lights and Unforgettable Views
The Eiffel Tower’s nightly sparkle is a legendary sight. Every hour, after dark (which in Parisian summer means 11 PM), the tower shimmers with a mesmerizing light show for five minutes. This was our second chance encounter with this magical display, and it was just as exhilarating as the first time.
After dinner at Bistrot Chez France, we were taking a leisurely stroll when we unexpectedly stumbled upon the show. We turned a corner, and “Boom!” there it was, in all its glory! The tower’s mesmerizing glow never ceases to amaze, even after multiple viewings.
For me, the Eiffel Tower’s sparkle, as seen from our “real French window” at Les Jardins d’Eiffel, was the perfect culmination of our Parisian experience. It was a moment we’ll cherish forever.
Stay tuned for more reviews of Bistrot Chez France and Les Jardins d’Eiffel!
