Welcome, dear readers, to the second part of my Parisian adventures! After introducing you to the charming hotel, Les Jardins d’Eiffel, it’s time to delve into the neighborhood that truly made our stay magical.
Rue Saint Dominique: A Picturesque Parisian Gem
Just a stone’s throw from our hotel, Rue Saint Dominique is a Parisian dream come true. This charming street is overflowing with quintessential Parisian cafes, bustling bistros, chic fashion boutiques, and irresistible bakeries. Every corner radiates a unique energy, inviting you to savor the true essence of Parisian life.
But wait, there’s more! This lively street boasts one of the most breathtaking Eiffel Tower views in the entire city. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a romantic evening, Rue Saint Dominique offers a captivating panorama of the iconic landmark – a sight that never fails to amaze.
I’ve noticed numerous Instagram photos showcasing the Eiffel Tower from this very street, but surprisingly, few mention its incredible location! Perhaps I’m revealing a well-kept secret – a Parisian treasure waiting to be discovered. “Pourquoi pas?” as the French would say.
Musée Rodin: A Masterpiece of Art and History
Our journey of discovery continued with a visit to Musée Rodin, a renowned art gallery dedicated to the illustrious sculptor, Auguste Rodin. Even if you’re not a fervent art enthusiast, this museum is a must-visit. Situated in the heart of Paris’s 7th arrondissement, it’s easily accessible by Metro, with Varenne and Invalides stations being the closest.
However, we chose to enjoy a leisurely stroll from our hotel, embracing the classic Parisian motto: “Paris is a walking city!” This charming walk allowed us to immerse ourselves in the city’s ambiance, discovering hidden gems along the way.
Did you know? Musée Rodin was originally a grand mansion called the Hôtel Biron, transformed into a museum in 1919. The extensive gardens, encompassing a picturesque pond behind the main building, showcase many of Rodin’s most famous sculptures. “The Thinker,” “The Gates of Hell,” and “The Burghers of Calais” are just a few masterpieces that grace these manicured gardens, surrounded by vibrant rose bushes and lush trees.
As we visited during the centenary of Rodin’s passing, we were fortunate to witness the special exhibition “KIEFER RODIN,” an awe-inspiring display that brought together the works of two artistic titans: Anselm Kiefer and Auguste Rodin. This captivating exhibition was a true highlight, showcasing the brilliance and depth of these artistic giants.
Pont Alexandre III: A Bridge of Love, Lost and Found
Prepare to be captivated by the Pont Alexandre III, my absolute favorite bridge in the world. This bridge, a masterpiece of Parisian architecture, is the most ornate and extravagantly detailed bridge in Paris, and perhaps even in all of France!
The bridge holds a special place in my heart, filled with countless memories – love, loss, and rediscovery. Laughter and tears have echoed across its elegant structure, and I believe that at 117 years young, Pont Alexandre III has witnessed it all, standing proudly and gracefully through time.
Connecting the left bank, home to Les Invalides, with the right bank’s Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and the iconic Champs-Élysées, Pont Alexandre III is a true symbol of Parisian romance and grandeur.
This bridge was a major factor in our decision to stay at Les Jardins d’Eiffel. Its proximity allowed us to indulge in numerous evening strolls, even after dark, enjoying the magical atmosphere of Paris under the twinkling lights. And don’t forget, summer in Paris means that dusk doesn’t arrive until 11pm! We fully embraced the convenience of our location, even sneaking in a late-night fashion photoshoot – no taxis or Metro rides required. Stay tuned for that amazing story in my upcoming blog post!
Les Jardins d’Eiffel: A Parisian Experience Beyond Compare
The secret to securing a room with an Eiffel Tower view at Les Jardins d’Eiffel is to book early and make a specific request. While availability is always subject to change, a little planning goes a long way.
For me, the combination of a romantic nighttime stroll across Pont Alexandre III and a room boasting an Eiffel Tower view was the perfect recipe for a Parisian dream come true. And the best part? You don’t need to book a five-star hotel to experience this magic.
One crucial tip: Don’t expect your housekeeper to be fluent in English. France is a beautiful country, but language barriers can sometimes be a reality.
My advice? If your French isn’t up to par, don’t hesitate to contact the front desk for any assistance. They’re always happy to help, no matter how small your request may seem. From extra tea bags or champagne glasses to an iron and ironing board, they’ll go above and beyond to ensure your comfort. And yes, I did indulge in all those requests – more than once! The staff at Les Jardins d’Eiffel were incredibly polite, helpful, and efficient.
Wi-Fi Woes and Internet Freedom
Don’t check in expecting blazing fast Wi-Fi. Sadly, this has become a common issue in many hotels, although some, like those in Singapore, have managed to crack the code for super-fast internet access.
Hoteliers need to take Wi-Fi seriously – for many travelers, especially those who work remotely, reliable Wi-Fi is essential. In fact, it’s often ranked second only to a comfortable bed in hotel preferences. The slow Wi-Fi was a bit of a frustration for Kent, who needed it to back up our travel photos. But for me, it was a chance to embrace a few days of internet-free freedom!
A Parisian Dream Awaits
If a room with an Eiffel Tower view in Paris sounds like a dream come true, then Les Jardins d’Eiffel is your perfect destination. The hotel is a charming oasis, and the neighborhood offers a treasure trove of Parisian experiences just a short walk away.
Embrace the beauty of Paris, explore its hidden gems, and create your own Parisian fairytale!
