Agreat way to experience France is by riverboat. I have always loved the country’s culture, the people, and scenery, so I decided to take a seven- day voyage on the Monarch Countess. After a long flight to Paris the boat awaited its 117 passengers along the banks of the Seine, offering a glorious view of the Eiffel Tower.
After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we traveled by bus to Auvers-sur-Oise, the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh. The town features not only his burial site, but also paintings and informational displays about his life there.
Following lunch, we headed to the Palace of Versailles, with its massive grounds, elaborate rooms and exquisite gardens. Each room was breathtaking and deepened my understanding of the Sun King, Louis XIV, and his love of ornate design.
On Day 2, we visited Claude Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny. They did not disappoint. I viewed the lily pond where he painted his famous water lilies and toured his home, where his love of color was evident, especially in the bright yellow kitchen overlooking acres of blooming flowers.
The next morning, we arrived in Rouen and boarded a bus for a trip to the Normandy beaches. Five D-Day landings took place June 6, 1944, during World War II along 54 miles of the French coast.
I walked along the historic sands of Omaha Beach, known as “Bloody Omaha,” and Utah Beach. Pointe du Hoc was especially striking as we stood on the dramatic cliff where U.S. Rangers scaled steep heights under fire. Our final
Photos by Bev Mast and most emotional stop was the Normandy American Cemetery, which holds the graves of more than 9,000 U.S. service members.
The boat departed Rouen and met our Normandy group in charming Caudebec. Its riverfront paths and small shops made it easy to see why it is called the “Pearl of the Seine Valley.”
We later returned to Rouen, a beautiful and historic city. During a two-hour walking tour, we were amazed by 13th-century homes that are still inhabited. The city is also known for the trial of Joan of Arc. A nearby site marks where she was executed May 30, 1431.
Paris, with its constant energy, was our final port. We took a whirlwind coach tour of the city’s landmarks. The Eiffel Tower came into view as we rounded a corner for a photo stop. We traveled along the Champs-Élysées, admiring the tree-lined boulevard and upscale shops, and circled the Arc de Triomphe, taking in its intricate artwork. We also passed the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral, along with many other historic sites.
I opted to spend two additional days exploring on my own. One full day at the Louvre left me awestruck by the works of the masters, especially the Mona Lisa. Outside the museum, I enjoyed my first taste of Parisian coffee and a buttery croissant, though the coffee was not my favorite.
On my final day, I visited Notre-Dame Cathedral. Having seen it 10 years earlier before the fire, I was pleased to find its restoration once again elegant and breathtaking.
What can I say about France? It is like a graceful, classic lady, full of charm and distinct character, and a place everyone should explore. Au revoir!