July 14 — my final full day in Paris, and it just so happens to be Bastille Day (though, as I learned from our guide, the French actually call it Le Quatorze Juillet). It’s France’s national holiday, commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789 — a defining moment in the French Revolution and a powerful symbol of freedom and the fight against oppression.
The streets were already buzzing when I woke up this morning at L’Hôtel du Collectionneur, my gorgeous art deco-style hotel in the 8th arrondissement, not far from Parc Monceau. This hotel has an elegant, cinematic feel — fitting for a day that would be filled with moments straight out of the movies.
But first: breakfast.
And not just any breakfast — possibly the most delicious one I’ve had this trip. The chocolat chaud was unlike anything I’ve tasted before. Warm (but not too hot), rich, and creamy, with the deep flavor of excellent dark chocolate — not too sugary, not too sweet. Just perfection in a cup.
Then came the omelette. Made by a chef on-site, it was light, fluffy, and expertly cooked — simple, but somehow extraordinary. It was one of those quiet culinary surprises that makes travel feel magical.
A Mystery Tour & A Sky-High View
Since many roads were closed for le quatorze juillet, our wonderful Avalon cruise director described today’s activities as a “mystery tour.” We didn’t know exactly where we’d end up — and honestly, that added to the fun.
Our first destination? Tour Montparnasse. While Parisians jokingly refer to it as “the Ugly Tower” (la tour moche), it offers one of the best panoramic views in the city — precisely because you can’t see the tower itself from up there!
Completed in 1973, the 59-story skyscraper towers over the Left Bank and was once the tallest building in France. Today, it’s often appreciated not for its appearance, but for the stunning 360-degree view it offers — and it did not disappoint. The Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the rooftops of Paris stretched out in every direction.
It was a little crowded due to the holiday, but totally worth it. I took my time up there, soaking it all in.
A Travel Agent’s Perspective (and a Tense Exchange)
While waiting for our group to regroup at the bus, I ended up in a conversation with a British traveler who was venting about how unprepared he felt for his Avalon cruise. When I asked what his travel advisor had suggested, he said he hadn’t used one — and that’s where things got a little tense.
I suggested that next time he might benefit from working with a local agent who could help guide him before departure. He disagreed, saying travel agents aren’t necessary and no one in Europe uses them. I pointed out (gently!) that it didn’t seem unnecessary given how frustrated he felt… and well, the conversation ended there.
I wasn’t pitching my services — I can really only work with travelers from the U.S. and Canada — but it reminded me why I do what I do. Travel should be joyful, not stressful. A little guidance can go a long way.
A Pilgrimage to Amélie’s Café
Later in the afternoon, I made my way to Montmartre, one of my favorite neighborhoods in Paris — artsy, whimsical, and full of narrow cobblestone streets that make you feel like you’ve wandered into a postcard.
While exploring, I stumbled across Café des 2 Moulins, the very same café where Amélie worked in Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain — one of my all-time favorite films. I was thrilled.
Of course I had to go inside. The café has kept much of its quirky charm (but the tobacco counter was removed a couple of years ago) — a perfect blend of vintage and whimsy, just like the movie. I ordered boeuf bourguignon (which was rich and flavorful), a thé glacé maison — not too sweet with orange, lemon and mint (YUM!!), and of course, I had to finish with a crème brûlée — because if you know the film, you know that Amélie finds joy in cracking the caramelized sugar top with the back of her spoon. Naturally, I did the same. I half expected to see Amélie herself quietly observing the world and plotting one of her good-hearted schemes.
Montmartre always has a way of surprising me, and this moment — unexpected and sweet — felt like a little movie magic brought to life.
A Quiet Evening, a Park Bench, and a Laugh with Remy
After leaving the café, I strolled around Montmartre a bit longer before heading to the Moulin Rouge metro stop to return to the hotel. When I emerged from the station near my hotel, I noticed a park just a block away and decided to wander in.
I found a shady bench and just sat for a while, quietly reflecting on my time in Paris. It felt peaceful. Unrushed. And honestly, a little emotional. This city has such a strong hold on my heart.
As I was leaving, I noticed a sign urging visitors to dispose of trash properly to avoid attracting les rats. Let’s just say Remy was not impressed. He gave the sign a rather indignant look. (Don’t worry — more on his adventures will be in the blog soon enough 😉.)
Back in the room, I flipped on the Tour de France and listened to the city buzzing outside. Later tonight, I might try to catch the fireworks on TV. As much as I’d love to see them in person, I don’t quite have it in me to battle the crowds tonight — and honestly, I’m okay with that.
Tomorrow: Embarkation Day — My 50th Cruise!
Tomorrow’s an early start! We’ll check out of the hotel at 8am and catch the TGV high-speed train to Dijon. From there, we’ll make our way to the Avalon Poetry II and begin our journey down the Rhône River.
I can’t believe this will be my 50th cruise. What an incredible milestone — and I feel so grateful to begin it here, in the heart of France, on a day filled with history, charm, and more than a few moments of joy.
Cleared For Take-Off! 