That's a Wrap - Bittersweet "See You Later"

Is it time to go back yet? This is not a goodbye, but see you later as I do not like goodbyes & I will definitely be back! As I am writing this, I am enjoying some fabulous Champagne with a beautiful Charlotte view- if you take the girl out of France, the girl is going to bring France home with her! I know I have talked a lot about Cava, but Champagne is amazing, too! I cannot choose which is my favorite, yet, so I guess I have to continue trying…but that is besides the point!

I have had some time back in Charlotte and have really been able to reflect. I do not think I have ever experienced time go so fast. It is a very bittersweet feeling as I am excited to see everyone back home but I am definitely leaving of piece of myself in all the places I was able to visit. I cannot even tell you how many times, in my head, I would talk to myself and be like “I am in Europe right now, is this real life?” - surreal is the best word to describe it! I am someone who gets homesick easily and the fact that I was not homesick once, nor anxious to get back, really showed to me how happy and "comfortable" I was in the areas I went. I use comfortable loosely as I was constantly out of my comfort zone but definitely in a positive way. 

I absolutely fell in love with Germany. I was excited to go but did not know what to expect as it was my first time in Germany and Europe in general. It blew me away! I would go back tomorrow. The people were so helpful and friendly and just take so much pride in where they live and what they do. I appreciated that. The history was is so rich and it will always hold a special place in my heart as it was my first European destination ever! I wish I could have had everyone with me exploring and experiencing together as my pictures or descriptions my help paint a picture but the feeling you get when you experiencing it cannot compare. It truly inspired me and I cannot wait to go back! 

b

Spain was completely different than Germany, as were the people. It was a very positive experience and I am thankful to have been able to venture to areas throughout Spain that gave me a “feel” for cities, as well as “off the beaten path” destinations. I really enjoyed being in the bigger cities of Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia and it was also a nice change of pace to spend two nights in Cuenca where the atmosphere is more relaxing. I had the opportunity to see more of Spain through being a passenger in the car, too. That was special because you go from Barcelona, which is very much a big city, to hills and mountains on the coast of the ocean. It was really special you can get such different aspects of life in such short distances away. The food and cava will bring me back in a heartbeat - but not just that, obviously. There is so much more to learn, see and to experience and I cannot wait to take that on! 

  

France, France, France. I think everyone knows that France has always been the dream of mine to visit - particularly Paris. I cannot come to describe how my heart felt when crossing the border from Spain to France. It just felt right, like I was in the right place or something. It was a different type of trip, as I was with a group traveling throughout, but I found that made it even more special. I know this whole time I have been talking about wanting to share in these experiences with others because of how magical they are, and I definitely had that opportunity. I without a doubt, knew myself, and absolutely fell in love with Paris. I did not even have much time there, but I loved every second. I enjoy living in a smaller city/area as I do not think I could see myself ever living in New York but Paris, yes. I felt a sense of belonging like I was in the right place. I have never truly felt that before while traveling as I am normally a “homebody” and love my home (like I mentioned), but this was special to me. For what I was able to see and do, it lived up to and exceeded every expectation and I hardly saw the city! I was fortunate enough to have the most unreal view as I was flying over it and also had a hotel right next to the Eiffel tower so not too shabby! Memories and friendships were made, that I will never forget and I am not sure if I can get much better than that. 

PSA - If you want to be “in” you need to get a selfie stick! I knew what they were and had seen them here and there but oh my goodness are they popular in Europe and maybe because all of the people visiting but I literally was dodging selfie sticks left and right but guarantee people got some awk faces of mine as I didn’t realize their selfie stick was in action! Seriously hilarious - but if you’re a major “selfier” this is for you! 

Throughout my time and my writing I know a constant thought was "I wish I could share this with everyone" so I tried my best to try to share pieces of it through writing, postcards, etc. One of the most moving ways I was able to keep my family close was through the different churches I visited. It was very special being that a lot of places I was able to visit revolve around the church in their city. The architecture, design, art and history of each and every church was remarkable. I was able to light a candle in most churches and so it was a moving way for me to experience my faith and family through my travels, especially during Lent. When looking back, it is pretty special to know that their are candles burning around the world for us! The moments were always special and definitely an aspect of my travels I will continue and will never forget. 

  

I have said this so many times while traveling but also now being back - the people of this world are truly amazing! I did not meet one person who didn’t speak more than one language. Some speak 4! Think about that - that is not easy and going from German, to English, to Spanish, to French that is incredibly impressive. I commend and respect people for that. I could speak a few words here and there but communication is everything and that why languages are such a beautiful part of life, without them, complete chaos and at times, that’s how I felt when trying to communicate. Like a 2 year old who knows what they want but cannot find the words - but I am very fortunate for all the intelligent people I came into contact with as they were all so helpful and even taught me a few words here and there! I am motivated to learn other languages. I definitely need to master one more but would love to learn at least two. Like I mentioned before the crash course on French Jerome gave me gave me a glimpse at French and it truly does motivate me though. Why should I come into another country and only speak English? They put forth the effort, like I mentioned before, for other languages. I need to as well! Plus, it fascinates me. The capability of speaking in different ways. Languages are beautiful…especially French, in my opinion! 

  

This opportunity has allowed me to truly learn more about myself. I can officially say, even though I had already had it, I definitely have the “travel bug” and could have stayed in Europe much, much longer. I have been gone a while, but it definitely doesn’t feel that way. I have met incredible people, some of which I hope to keep friendships with from all over the world, and that’s what this is all about, right? They have made an immense impact on my life for the brief periods they were involved in my life, but those experiences have assisted in my growth as a person. When telling people about my travels and where I would be going, I received many comments but the one that really stands out in my mind is that I will have a life changing experience. I can say, they cannot be more right. I will forever be changed, for the better, from experiencing such culture and putting myself out of my comfort zone. I am thankful for that & the only thing left to do now, is book my next flight! On this trip, I tried my best to live in the moment as I did not want any moments to pass me by, but the only instance I was looking into the future is was for exactly that. I never want to stop learning and experiencing and I am thankful to be in the career where I can not only do it professionally, but personally. I’ll be back, but until then, the memories will remain near and dear to my heart. 

xo

Paris, I Adore You!

Paris, my dream city, was everything I could have wanted and I did not even get to see most of it! I was very busy with the conference in which brought me to Paris, but just being in the city was all I needed. I felt so comfortable and happy - something I would never have expected from just arriving! I loved that! When I arrived, there was not too much time to spend exploring but I did walk throughout the streets and see the cafes and bakeries. Obviously, that made me fall in love then and there. That evening the people of the conference were invited to a Lido show - Parisian style almost like a Vegas show - and it was fun to experience that! There was all the glitz and glamor that you could want and it was fun to experience a show here like I have had back at home!   

 The next two full days were for meetings and networking and such! I enjoyed it more than I thought I would because, yes, I wanted to explore and see Paris, but at the same time I was meeting amazing people who wanted to share information about France and their businesses as a whole. That was really interesting! I wanted to take full advantage of my time in Paris so I did not let the busy schedule get in my way! There was a party for all the tour operators and vendors at Centre Pompidou with food, champagne, dancing and an art exhibit! The building is a very different architecturally but I loved it! The exhibit was displaying Jeff Koons and it was so enjoyable walking through and seeing the very different pieces. 

  

The following evening there was much, much more free time so I walked and walked and walked to see any and everything I could! Of course, I got up close and personal with the Eiffel tower and loved every second of it! I went to areas with many, many shops - very high end shops and saw beautiful chocolate shops with displays for Easter, too! It was more than I could imagine, but I definitely need to come back as there were many aspects of this city I was not able to enjoy at all. 

I am so thankful to have been able to come to Paris, even if it meant working most of the time, because I still did get to experience the feelings of being in Paris and some of the sights, sounds and, of course, pain au chocolat and macaroons! I’ll be back and cannot wait to see more of this amazing city! 

Flashback Friday - Maneuvering German Trains

I honestly was very nervous when I found out I would have to figure out and maneuver the train system in Germany (and I ended up taking a train in Spain and France, too) and I think it was because of the unknown and the inability to speak the language. I know I keep coming back to the language concept but it really is incredibly important! Anyways, I took many trains in Germany and there was not real reason to be nervous. It is all very user friendly and I got lucky and all my trains were on time and I was, too that worked out nicely. 

 I had the privilege of riding first class in all of my trains but one and I can definitely say both are equally nice. In first class, there are people coming around and asking if you want something instead of you getting up to get it yourself, but everyone can always use the exercise, right?! Regardless, I had a fabulous experience taking the trains and would suggest them to others and take them again. 

I took both types of trains offered - either the regional train or long distance train. The train being taken obviously depends what point you are leaving anf going. The long distance train is high speed and therefore, lesser stops and I rode that for my longer rides. I had my carry on and luggage that I had with me for my month long trip and that was able to be accommodated on the  train with areas to store luggage at the entrance/exit and they truly make it user friendly for travelers of all different purposes. 

I also was fortunate to have my tickets ahead of time and on there it will show the platform the train departing will be at or arriving to, the time, the seat and cabin number, the train number, as well as the final destination. This made it simple to try to find the places I needed to be. I always checked the monitors for any changes, but come on, Germans are on their game and so efficient (maybe that’s why i fell in love with it so much) and so there were never changes in my schedule as usually the same trains travel at the same times and locations everyday! Efficiency at it’s best that’s for sure! 

When at the platform you can find the train that you will be taking and it will break down the cabins for you in letters starting with A and ending some other letter. I cannot remember but next would be B, C, D…so standard. They also have the platform labeled with these letters and so you can see which cabin you’re seat is and in correlation to the letters on the diagram and platform, that’s where you should be in order to board the train. You do not get much time to board it, especially when having a lot of luggage, so this was handy so that I could be prepared before hand and never missed a train! 

Inside the train, seat numbers are above the seats and usually you can always reserve seats including coach, too! That was convenient for me with all my luggage. Then you just listen and watch the time for your stop. You do not have to speak the language to master the train, you just have to think a little smarter as you are at a disadvantage with not, but anyone can do it and it is truly very easy and simple. A smart way to travel throughout Germany, that’s for sure! 

Sights, Sounds & Tastes of Lourdes

From Pic du Midi our group went to Lourdes. We spent the final days of the pre-tour in and out of Lourdes with visiting some small villages to hike as well. We had the same luck with the two hikes as we did Pic du Midi - the mornings when we loaded the bus, it was raining and wet and when we got to the villages, it was gorgeous! I actually got sun on one hike - I want to insert a sassy emoji here but cannot so picture the girl with her hand out. It felt so nice!! 

 Anyways, our first hike was through The cirque de Gavarnie. There were many waterfalls and lots of snow to walk through but absolutely beautiful sites. I loved having the opportunity to walk and hike through these places as I felt way better being active during it. Very fortunate to see and experience this! Of course, after a hike in the sun, you need to taste the local beer! It was actually perfect. 

The following day were able to visit a Pyrenees National Park and see Pont d’Espagne which is in the little village of Cauterets. The village was so very cute and this was another exceptional hike. Beautiful scenery and lots of skiers. It was enjoyable watching the littlest kids putting their skis on and learning from their parents, too! Very sweet! In the village, we were able to go into a bakery and see the bakers in action, too! I was in my element! It was so special and the delicious smells were something I wish I could bottle up and bring home with me…well I can try to recreate with baking but I do not think that it can get much better then the sweet smell of freshly baked pastries, cakes, breads, everything! Their speciality is called La Tourte and it was almost like a mix between a cake and muffin and they do a variety of flavors but their speciality is blueberry. It was enjoyable to see them during the baking process and also taste the finishing product. The bakers were incredibly friendly and showed us around their bake shop as they were busy in production. I loved being in there and seeing their tools, too! 

 

 

Also incorporated on both of these visits were spa visits. Unfortunately no treatments involved, but did get to see them as they are very popular in this region. It inspired me to possibly enjoy a spa day upon my return - won’t be the same though! 

The highlight of the tour was Lourdes. It was especially special for me being Catholic, but it is a very spiritual town. It is an important pilgrim destination to welcome those to pray, meditate, learn about the history, heal mentally and physically, etc. Lourdes is a village in France where the Blessed Mother appeared eighteen times to Bernadette in 1858 and that’s why it is so symbolic. It was extra special being it was holy week and I was able to see all the palms being gathered for Palm Sunday. We were able to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and truly was an uplifting experience. People come to visit, near and far, in search for healing. Like mentioned, it could be mental or physical, but they come for that and, of course, the special water of Lourdes, too. The water is not to be confused with holy water, but it is water that has been known for miracles  People bring gallons, suitcases, everything just to fill up with the water from Lourdes! Also, people come in wheelchairs, on stretchers, in many ways, shapes and forms in search for a miracle. We were told that there have been thousands healed there, those healed do have a place on the wall expressing their gratitude, and they have also had miracles occur. However, they are very careful in what they call miracles. There are only eleven times, our of thousands, that they consider miracles. Impressive! 

 

Now, I know I normally write about food, and there is some throughout this but we did eat at some amazing places but, at this point, the scenery, views and history really blew me away. I cannot talk enough about it! I am sure the same will run across through your mind with the pictures. 

I am so fortunate that my pre-tour group were all amazing people! There was a lot of conversing, laughing and just the utmost genuine people that I could have spent with. I love that I have been able to make friends with people from around the world. I am fascinated by them!We also had the most lively and full of personality tour managers and guides throughout! That made it exceptional as well. Thankful I will see them all for the conference in Paris! 

I learned that in Korea they celebrate 100th day of birth for a newborn. My friend was here in France and so he could not celebrate with his sweet little girl, so we celebrated with him and helped him send some pictures and videos home. It was super cute! I like that celebrate. I love any reason to celebrate, really! 

Speaking of Paris! Yes, Paris! I am so happy to experience it even for the smallest bit. I will not get to see much because of the busy schedule, but I will be there…my dream city, and I will see as much as I can!

For now, all that kept me away is the flight from Lourdes to Paris and that’s not much!  Thanks to Jerome, I received a crash course in French and practically fluent now…! I wish! It did help me get that much more excited and unfortunately, I am not very good but will certainly try to learn! 

Au Revior Lourdes. Bonjour Paris! 

xo

Midi-Pyrénées - Starting with Toulouse

The reason I am traveling throughout France is because of an event called Rendezvous France where suppliers and tour operations come together and meet, discuss, connect, etc. This event is three days in Paris and I, fortunately, had the opportunity to participate in a pre-tour, which was the Midi-Pyrénées Great Sites tour which began in Toulouse. I honestly did not know what to expect, which you may find as a trend during my travels, but I went in with a complete clear and ope minded head and tried not to be too nervous as it was a whole different element and completely knew people. I do not know why I was so nervous as I have called in love with the people in every place I have been - but that’s just me! 

Anyways, I was able to take a train from Perpignan to Toulouse, it was about an hour and very quick and easy! Honestly, the train systems in Europe rock! They are clean (my favorite), efficient and easy. Cannot get much better than that! 

Arriving in Toulouse there were probably close to 75 people that were just arriving as well, from all over the world, and ironically, the first person I met was from Michigan. I was like WHAT! This is crazy! It was a sign that I had no reason to be nervous and just remain confident. 

The first, and only day in Toulouse, was spent exploring the city and also visiting the Aéroscopia Museum. Toulouse is called the “pink city” because of all the brick used making it made up of mostly pink or a reddish color buildings - like brick. I loved Toulouse - pretty shops, buildings, churches - during the day was nice but fell in love with it at night. The museum was interesting and all about the variety of planes, usage, how built, history behind them and such. Flying can intimidate me at times but it was quite interesting to see how it has progressed over the years. I think I would be extra nervous to fly without doors and windows - but hey, maybe I am not that rebellious! 

 

It was not that busy of a day as everyone was just arriving and trying to get situated but in the evening, we did have a welcome cocktail party. It was fun to learn about people and where they were from as the groups were parting ways the following day and so it was nice taking advantage of some time to learn about those that were going in a different pre-tour. As nice as it was, the best part of my evening was my walk throughout the streets of Toulouse as it was dark and they were lit nicely. It was magical, honestly. I had some really good company as well so that’s always helpful too. Exploring a new city is great anytime, but always nice to have company! 

Unfortunately, one quick day was all my time in Toulouse! I definitely want to visit again, as I do think there was more to see, but I took full advantage of my time there and what I did not realize, is how much more magical my pre-tour would get!

xo

Pic du Midi

Oh. My. Goodness. That’s all. I really only need to post pictures and not even write because the pictures speak a thousand words!!!! For a little background, Pic du Midi is a mountain in the French Pyrenees famous for its astronomical observatory. It is close to 9,500 ft and I went to the top! It took two, very steep, cable cars to reach it but we got up and down - phew! Honestly I did not expect that. It was unbelievable and we were able to spend most the afternoon up there taking in the views, seeing the conservatory, enjoying lunch - just wow! What an opportunity. Someone was looking out for us as it was kind of a chilly morning, almost rainy leaving Toulouse and going there and when we arrived, the clouds broke free and the sun was shining up until when we took the cable car down. I love seeing the snow when the sun is shining!

xo

ROAD TRIP - To France we go, in an original way!

What’s a European trip without adding a portion experiencing a little road trip? I have had the pleasure of flying, taking taxis, taking a bus, trains and now, a car. I was happy to play passenger to Sandra driving as I cannot drive a stick shift and I really do not like driving in unknown places and she was a fabulous “pilot”. We went on a unique journey as during the drive we changed where we wanted to go probably three or four times which consisted of pulling off the freeway and looking at a map to determine the best route. Very spontaneous! I really do love riding in the car - my mom always calls me a puppy because whenever it is time to go somewhere, I am happily there waiting and will always tag along! I feel like is because I do not want to miss out on anything, but who knows! Anyways, I started in Barcelona and took a train to Lleida where I met Sandra with the car and then we just drove. Contemplating between going to San Sebastián or Toulouse (where I had to be in a couple days) we decided against both and went into the direction of Perpignan, France. The scenery was so beautiful I can hardly describe it. I went from a hustling and bustling city like Barcelona to hills, trees, mountains…just nature in general. It was a pretty amazing experience to be able to see so much of Spain in the short time I was there.

On our road trip, we obviously had to stop for lunch and this is where we found one of the most amazing cities that I had experienced in Spain - Vic. Thank you google as we made the stop because we saw a restaurant that looked perfect! There were many aspects to the city from restaurants, to shops, to bridges and bakeries, and, of course, churches. Being catholic, I have truly enjoyed seeing all the churches and such through each city I have visited and Vic’s church was exceptional. I was not expecting to see what I did or it have an impact on me like it did, but wow! The architecture, paintings, history…everything was absolutely breathtaking and definitely a special opportunity for me to go and experience. To think that I experienced truly by accident makes it even cooler!!!
After leaving Vic we decided that we were going enjoy the hotel which was on the coast - in Begur. By the time we arrived it was dark and so it was not easy to see our views but I could imagine it with the sounds of the waves and the large gusts of wind. I was anxious to see in the morning but did enjoy listening to that and using other senses to imagine it. That evening we stayed in the hotel for dinner and had a relaxing meal with cava…oh how I miss cava!

     

 

I almost forgot where I was in the morning and when I woke up to waves and wind I saw the most beautiful view. Now if only the sun was out, I probably would have been on the beach, but even on a cloudy day the views were spectacular. How could you not be in awe by this?!

 

To finish our road trip, we headed to France. Perpignan to be specific. How cool is it that, without issues, you just drive over the border. Hardly even realize, except for “Welcome to France” signs and a French flag, that we had left Spain. I cannot describe the feeling of actually feeling myself being in France. As most know, Paris is my dream city and I was not even that close to Paris yet and I had this absolutely amazing feeling that I was where I had always wanted to be. Perpignan was the final stop on our road trip and where a very different aspect of my trip began. Cannot wait to share all that as it truly has been a magical time in France.

xo