Cinecittà

So if you didn't know, I'm taking a Film & Mafia class. It's interesting, except watching mafia movies that take place in Italy, while you're in Italy, just has gotten me a little paranoid.

For our class visit we took a field trip to the Cinecittà Film Studios here in Rome. In English it translates as Film City. It was nothing compared to Universal Studios or anything, but it was a cool trip.

It's pretty small, and there were maybe 5 or 6 actual studio stages. We didn't get to go inside any of them, but we went to the backlot movie sets. The first "street" we walked through was supposed to be New York. One side was and old New York, and the other side was a modern New York.

Old New York

Modern New York

As we kept walking the buildings would change to those supposed to be in Paris, Rome, and even Los Angeles. Apparently HBO had a television show called Rome, which they filmed at Cinecittà. That was a big set with a bunch of fake buildings, including the Pantheon. But the show only lasted one season.

It was crazy because everything looked so real! We were allowed to touch the sets and it was so fake! Everything was hollow, and most things were made of some type of foam, but it seriously looked like solid marble. Even the bricks that looked so real fooled you.

Fake bricks

They also filmed Gangs of New York there. So I basically walked in Leonardo DiCaprio's footsteps. It's a popular place, but I just wonder what makes them decide what to film at this studio in Italy compared to LA. Buildings that were right next to each other would be completely different places. On one side would be Florence, and Verona on the other.

Florence

Federico Fellini who was a famous Italian director filmed all of his movies in Cinecittà, and we saw the stage that he filmed in. Then there was a museum dedicated to him that had props, costumes, and a video telling his story.

Another building was more of an exhibit, but it went through the whole film making process. There were different rooms for different things in pre-production or post-production like sound editing, costumes, dialogue, and props. I've always been intrigued by the film making process, not that I could ever direct or anything, but I don't know why it's just so fascinating to me. And it amazes me how much work goes in to one movie.

It's kind of cool how even though movies are produced in different countries the whole process is the same. It's almost like a universal language. Ok I won't get too deep in to this. But I'm really glad I got to go to the studios! Now I need to go to the big ones in Hollywood that for some reason I've never been to.

Buona Pasqua!

I know this post is long after Easter, but I figured it’s important enough to still write about it.

For Easter Sunday we decided to go to the Easter mass at the Vatican. I mean, how many times will you be in Rome on Easter Sunday? My flight from Paris didn’t get in until late Saturday night, and I didn’t get back to my apartment until almost 1 am. The mass began around 10 am, and we planned to get there around 8 am, meaning I got a very limited amount of sleep.

So I wake up Sunday morning after 8 am. Apparently the time changed, and I had no clue. I didn’t even think Italy did daylight savings. And I don’t know why it’s weeks after the US either since we’re in the same hemisphere.

So after that panic of waking up late I had to get ready quite quickly. Luckily the Vatican is walking distance so we got there around 9:30 am or so. There were so many people! There might have been more people than when I was there for the election, but it wasn’t as chaotic. And St. Peter’s was decorated with flowers at the altar.

We got a decent spot, still in the square but a little farther back. And it was a beautiful sunny day! It was a very traditional service, and basically all in Italian, so for the most part I had no idea what they were saying. Some parts they had translators, but usually only for the Bible verses. It was your typical over 2-hour mass. And when you’re standing the whole time, it seems much longer. And when the children behind you keep hitting you and their parents not doing anything about it; that makes it even longer. I don’t know why you would take your young children. Little Mario did not make me happy. Especially when he was playing video games during the silent prayers. Let’s just say, if it wasn’t Easter and if I didn’t have a conscious, little Mario would have been kicked back. Very hard.

Okay sorry to ruin the spirit of Easter, but that was how my morning went. But it was a beautiful service, if only I could understand it. And it was nice to see the Pope again. We should just be friends now. Once the service was over he rode around the square in the Pope-mobile! I was really excited. There was a path aligned throughout the crowd, and we were right by one of the barricades! He stood on top of this jeep thing and went all around the crowd. I was surprised because he wasn’t even in a bulletproof case or anything with protection. He was just there. I definitely give him props. He seems so cool.

The jeep actually was driving kind of fast, and I could his head speeding through the crowds. They were also projecting everything on the screens. He got closer and closer, and everyone was anticipating when he would turn our corner. I could see him coming, and I wanted to take a picture and a video, since we were so close! I got both my camera and my phone ready, but it just did not happen. When he passed he faced our side for like 3 seconds so I couldn’t get a picture of his face, and then my video started after he passed. So that was a bummer. But I was like 5 feet away from Papa Francesco! It was awesome! It was definitely worth the wait, and even enduring little Mario.

The best picture I could get.

 The Pope was even kissing babies as the passed through as people would literally lift their babies up to him. He even blessed a disabled boy, and it almost moved me to tears.  After he rode around he gave a blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s. It lasted about 20 minutes or less. And then it was all over. Everyone was in Easter spirits, so it was nice.

Leaving the Vatican wasn’t as crazy as I expected, and we got out without any problems. Not compared to when I left during the election. We ate at a local restaurant as the crowd died down, and I got spaghetti for the first time since I’ve been in Rome. I don’t know why it took me so long. But it was really good! I really want some meatballs, but I really don’t think that’s a thing here.  I basically did nothing the rest of the day because I was still jet-lagged.

Spaghetti

The Monday after Easter is a holiday known as Pasquetta, where Easter Sunday is Pasqua. Typically families go and have a picnic and still celebrate. It was a really nice day, but I needed a rest from the whole crazy week of Spring Break, so I’m glad we had that holiday. The only thing I did was go to the grocery store, because I had no food. Chocolate eggs are a popular thing around Easter time, and they sell them everywhere. They can be small, to almost big 20 pound eggs! I’ve seen some huge ones! And if they’re handmade they’re decorated all nice. But they can get really pricey. I saw one egg for almost 80 euro, which is over 100 dollars. I bought a medium-sized one for 2 euro at the grocery store. It even had a surprise inside, which was a little toy gun. But it was tasty! And it took me about 3 days to finish.

Of course through all the eggs I couldn’t forget the real reason for Easter. Jesus of course! I’m so blessed to be experiencing so much. I know I keep saying this, but I really am so thankful for all of these things happening in my life.

Disneyland Paris!

Disneyland Paris. How can I put such a magical day into words? Just that, it was magical.

If you know me, you know that I love anything Disney. And that Disneyland is practically my second home since I live so close. And Chapman might as well just be Disneyland University. So Disneyland Paris was just like going home (okay maybe that’s taking it a bit too far). There are people worse than me I swear.

Before I left for Italy, I half-jokingly kept saying I was going to go to Disneyland Paris, not knowing how the heck I would get there. My goal is to visit every Disneyland in the world. So now I have 3 out of 5 checked off my list.

One of the first weeks I was here, my new abroad friends and I were discussing where we wanted to travel to. I thought to myself, hey let’s just throw out the idea, and I said Disneyland Paris. The fates aligned and one of my new friends liked my idea. With the convenience of Spring Break, there we were, finding ourselves going to Disneyland Paris, and I literally could not be more excited.

First of all there are 2 parks: Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios. There is also the Disney Village, which is their Downtown Disney, right outside of both parks. They were celebrating their 20^th Anniversary so online they had discounted tickets for both parks. The price of that ticket to both parks was cheaper than one ticket to one park at Disneyland California. It could not have worked out more perfectly.

This was one of those days you go to Disneyland right when it opens and leave when it closes. Unfortunately they had terrible hours for a Friday. They were only open from 10 am to 8 pm. I’m so used to midnight closings at Disneyland. But that wasn’t going to ruin my day; we just had to do as much as we could. Sadly that meant we couldn’t get to everything, but I got all of the major/important things that I wanted to do. Plus it was a little crowded so the lines were a little longer than I would like.

Our Paris hotel was pretty far outside of the city, but so is Disneyland! We were only 2 train stops away. So convenient. The train stop literally drops you off at the entrance. Right as I saw the word Disney I just wanted to cry of happiness.

We started off at Disneyland, because that was the most important. The entrance was already nice, and different from Disneyland in California (which a lot of things were). The hotel went over the entrance, which then were some really nice gates.

Hotel above the entrance

Waiting to get in

 The tickets we bought online were in Italian since we bought them in Italy, so when we entered the lady told us “Buon giorno!” We were Italians for the day.

Right as I walked in I was basically in Heaven. I was back on Main Street! For the most part it was similar to Disneyland. There was a City Hall and the Emporium on the same corner. The street was aligned with the same kind of shops including a bakery and an ice cream parlor. Behind all of the stores there was a long hallway that connected them.

And as you walk down Main Street, the castle is right there staring you in the face. It was so perfect. It was probably the most magical castle I’ve ever seen (and I’ve been to real castles now). I hate to say it, but it might beat the original castle at Disneyland, which they are both Sleeping Beauty’s castle, so it really doesn’t make much sense. But it’s just so gorgeous!!! It’s adorned with gold and the towers are quite whimsical. Even the little field around it, complete with a waterfall, nothing could beat it. The pictures of the Paris castle on Pinterest don’t even compare.

The castle!

Complete with waterfall

We were there around 9:30 am, half an hour before they opened, so I got a big chocolate muffin and went on the hunt for Mickey Ears. They had all of the same ears and souvenirs for the most part. Some things said Paris on them. And of course they had a Ratatouille chef hat, something you would only find in Paris. A little disappointed by the limited choices, we decided to wait to see if we could find anything better.

It was time for the park to open, and the plan was to start at Space Mountain. Their Tomorrowland is called Discoveryland, and it included Space Mountain, Star Tours, the Buzz Lightyear ride, Captain EO, and Autopia.

Discoveryland

The ride was called Space Mountain 2: Mission 2, and for reasons I didn’t figure out until after riding it. It seemed like a space mission for sure. The shape of the building is the same as Disneyland, but the inside it completely different. But one thing I must say is that Disneyland Paris is so detailed, and everything is themed so well. So is the original Disneyland, but this one just takes it to the next level. The line of the ride was themed in space obviously. When getting on there were bars that go over your head, like those on an upside down roller coaster, which made me a little nervous. And of course we got the first row, so now it was going to be crazy since I had no idea what to expect.

Space Mountain

About to board

You start off easy, and then you get to the bottom of this hill and it stops you. And BAM! You’re shot into space! The whole dome was dark, and there were planets around you. And this ride was cah-razy! There were loops and corkscrews that you couldn’t even see coming since you were in the dark. There was one part that looked like you were going into a planet, but the magic of Disney fooled you. It was seriously so insane! It could almost be a ride at Six Flags. When it was over I had to shake off the post-coaster feeling. It was quite a ride to start off with.

That was the only Discoveryland ride we got to go on since we needed time for so many more things. But there was a big Wall-E and Eva that was so cute, so I obviously needed a picture. And I took many pictures. I’m sure you’ve already seen them on Facebook.

Wall-E and Eva

And I got really excited that there was a Pizza Planet

We made our way to Fantasyland. We had to go in the proper way through the castle. I still will never get over how fabulous that castle is. When you walk in it gets even more magical. It’s almost dome-like on the inside, but surrounded by magical tree shapes.

Inside the castle

Then there’s a staircase that leads you to a balcony that wraps around the dome shape looking down on the castle entrance. On the balcony there are parts that tell the story of Sleeping Beauty, such as the spinning wheel. There’s a big stain glass window that has the 3 fairies on it. Then you can walk outside to another balcony that overlooks Fantasyland.

From the inside balcony

View from the outside balcony

 For the most part Fantasyland has all of the same rides. And I had to take a picture lifting the Sword in the Stone of course.

Still on the search for Mickey Ears, every place had the same ones, so we opted for the Sorcerer Mickey ears. There was a pair that was special for Disneyland Paris, but it had a Mickey holding onto it, which was kind of weird. But I can still wear these when I go home.

The only ride we went on in Fantasyland was Peter Pan’s Flight, which is one of my faves at Disneyland. It was exactly the same, except the stars were only lights on the wall, and not coming out like the ones at Disneyland. And the characters spoke in French, which I kind of forgot that we were in France, so that caught me off guard.

It was actually kind of cool, because everyone who worked there spoke French, but they also spoke English. So it must be a requirement to work at Disneyland Paris. At least they accommodate for tourists like me. The ride instructions were in French, but then translated to English. Thank goodness. As much as I wish I could speak French, it’s just not going to happen.

In Fantasyland there was a place called Alice’s Curious Labyrinth, which was supposed to be the maze in Alice in Wonderland. I wanted to go in so badly, but the line was too darn long. So we decided to come back for it.

But we did make the Mad Tea Party

We made kept making our way around the park and came across Pirates of the Caribbean, so we obviously had to go on. First of all the workers’ costumes were the best. They were in full on fancy pirate getup with big hats with a feather and everything. Just the way Orlando Bloom had dressed in the movie.

The line was basically a ride in itself going through what seemed to look like a ship. But it was quite a ways to get to the actual ride. It was dark, and it seemed like you were outside in the night, just like the original Pirates ride.

It’s still the same boat concept, and the beginning is all slow and swampy. And there’s a restaurant in this one too! Instead of the Blue Bayou, this one is called the Blue Lagoon.

The ride starts by going up first, instead of a drop. It’s all kind of backwards from the California one. There are a bunch of skeletons and such in the beginning, and then towards the end there is the skeleton with gold, and then you go through the ship battle and the town of pirates. And all the pirates spoke French. The Yoho song was still in English though. Even the part of “No, no, no Carlos!” was in French, and she might have said “No Pierre!” I’m actually not sure if she said that, I’m just being stereotypical, but she definitely didn’t say Carlos. For the most part it was pretty much the same ride with a different layout, but it didn’t really follow a story. And no Johnny Depp in this one. And besides the fact it was all in French, and the pirates looked a little different.

And walking around we came upon the Genie’s magic lamp from Aladdin! I was pretty excited. It really looked like we were in Agraba. The stores looked like little markets, and behind the lamp there were fake apples and such. There was an indoor thing you walk in with window displays of the story of Aladdin. Disneyland Paris is really good at making these things come to life.

In Agraba

And Genie's lamp!

We continued our way through Adventureland to Indiana Jones. The one in California is so high tech with crazy special effects, so I expected the same from this ride. Definitely not what I expected. It was called Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril (instead of Temple of Doom).

It was basically only a little roller coaster that went around a temple. I expected to go inside somewhere, but it was all outside. You get in these little cart-looking things which make up the coaster. There were a lot of turns, a few drops, and one loop. It was actually kind of crazy and jerky, and then the loop just hits you. It wasn’t my favorite ride, but it was completely different than the one in California.

Basically the whole ride

getting on

Then we went to Thunder Mountain in Frontierland, which was quite the western town. And it is called Thunder Mesa instead of Thunder Mountain. But the ride was closed! It was broken down for some reason, and there was no way I was leaving Disneyland Paris without going on Thunder Mountain. So we’d have to come back.

 Instead we went to Haunted Mansion, which was actually called Phantom Manor. And it looked like a legit house! But haunted of course. It’s the same concept; you go in the long elevator with the stretching pictures. But the scary voice over was in French, so to me it really didn’t seem scary. Then you go through another hallway to get into your “Doom-buggy”. Then it just got a little creepy.

Phantom Manor

The whole concept of the ride followed a creepy bride. And in the first part there’s a bride in front of you blowing in the wind, but you can’t see her face. It follows the same rooms like the Madame Leota in her crystal ball and my favorite room with all of the ghosts dancing. But then you get to the cemetery part and it was like you were going through a cemetery town. There were scary skeletons everywhere. One of them moved like it was tipping his hat to you, but it was his whole head. I found it a little disturbing. It was no ordinary cemetery. And then at the end you see the bride who is now a skeleton. I really didn’t understand the whole thing. And there were no hitchhiking ghosts, nor did they show up in the mirror at the end. It was quite an interesting ride, thus proving the fact that I still never really like Haunted Mansion.

We ate lunch at the Hakuna Matata Café. I mean, how could you not eat at a place with that title? I had a kebab sandwich and it was delicious!! Definitely something different from what I’ve usually been eating. There were really no French food places. They were all burgers, fries, hot dogs, and most of the same stuff you would find at Disneyland California. And they eat their fries with Mayonnaise, which is completely different. And they did not have churros, and I was really sad. They did have crepes, but I didn’t get one.

Hakuna Matata Cafe

 We were halfway through the day so it was time to head across to Walt Disney Studios. It was kind of a random park. Like they threw all things that wouldn’t fit into Disneyland in this park.

The theme was supposed to be similar to Universal Studios with a movie-making theme. The entrance was like a big studio you walk through, and then you’re supposedly in Hollywood. It’s similar to the MGM Studios park at Disney World, if you have ever been. But it was pretty small.

Studio Entrance

Inside the studio entrance

"Hollywood"

First we went on Rockin Roller Coaster, which is an indoor roller coaster featuring Aerosmith. You enter this recording studio, and Aerosmith is recording in there (well on a screen). It was different from the one in Florida. In Florida their concept is that you’re late for the concert, so you have to get there really fast on this limo, which is the roller coaster. Then it’s inside with bright street signs like you’re in LA flashing by you. Well the Paris concept is that Aerosmith is testing some new technology or something. You get on the ride and it’s basically just an indoor roller coaster with more loops and corkscrews. There were no flashing signs or anything to make you think you’re somewhere else. I was a little disappointed, but it was still fun.

Rockin Roller Coaster

There was a Toy Story Land randomly, which I thought was pretty cool. It’s similar to Bug’s Land at California Adventure, just themed for Toy Story. The rides were probably more for the yougins. They had a toy soldier parachute ride and a Slinky Dog spinning ride.

The best was the RC Racer, which is what we went on. RC is the remote controlled car from Toy Story. It’s a big RC Racer and the track is a big U-shape. And then you ride back and forth until the car reaches the top and you’re completely vertical. It was fun! And definitely something original.

RC Racer

We went on Tower of Terror, which was exactly the same as the one in California, and is my favorite ride! Even the drop sequence was the same, so I already had it memorized.

Tower of Terror

Lastly we went on Crush’s Coaster, which is Finding Nemo themed. And it was probably one of the coolest rides! Ever.

When you get inside it looks kind of like a fishing port. Then you get in these big turtle shells, which is what the coaster is. I expected like a slow ride showing the story of Nemo. But no! It was a fast little coaster! It was supposed to be like you were riding the EAC with Crush. It went really fast, then you get in this bigger room and there are all these drops and turns, and at the same time your little turtle coaster shell is spinning. It was so much more fun than I expected.

Riding the turtle shell

We were pretty much done with all of the exciting stuff at Walt Disney Studios, and things started to close since they closed earlier. So we headed back over to Disneyland to try to get back on Thunder Mountain.

When we got there the line was so long! And without any fastpasses, so we had to wait. And let me say, some of these Europeans have no sense of personal space. When we were in line there was a family behind me, I’m not exactly sure where they were from, but they weren’t French. But they were all up on me while we were standing in line. I did not like it. Every time I tried to move away, they would just get closer. That was definitely one cultural difference I did not enjoy.

And while we’re on the topic of cultural differences, let me just say that these people are also very pushy. There is no sense of taking turns. It’s basically a free for all. For example, we tried to get a picture with a character. Usually at Disneyland there is a line you wait in, taking turns. Not here. People just made a close semi-circle crowding around the characters, and you have to push your way to get one picture. We decided to avoid that disaster, so unfortunately we didn’t even get a picture with Mickey.

Anyways, back to Thunder Mountain. Once we finally got in, it was the same type of ride. The whole ride is on an island in the middle of the river, so you go through a dark tunnel underwater to get to the outside part of the ride. It was very similar to the Disneyland one, just the track of it was set up differently. There was a goat, bats, and you go through the same rock slide thing. I’m glad we got to on it.

The island of Thunder Mesa

We only had about 2 hours left before the park closed, so we tried to get to the little things we missed, like Alice’s maze. So we jetted our way back to Fantasyland. When we got there we couldn’t get in because they were closing early to set up for the firework show. I was so devastated. Just more reason to come back. But there was an island thing with Skull Rock and the ship from Peter Pan, so we got to go in that which was pretty cool. It was seriously Neverland come to life.

Neverland

We were basically done for the day since we didn’t get the chance to get to some of the little things. So we went souvenir shopping and waited until the fireworks started. Their souvenirs were expensive as all things Disney are. But I had to buy a sweatshirt, because how could I not? I needed something to remember this magical day. Plus I really needed a zip up since I didn’t even bring one here.

It was time for the fireworks and we were by the castle front and center. I saw commercials for it and I was super excited! It’s called Disney Dreams, and for good reason. The whole thing is projected on the castle. The concept is Peter Pan themed (for some reason in Europe Peter Pan is a popular theme). Peter Pan’s shadow causes trouble and spills all of the magic out of the second star to the right. Then it goes through almost all of the Disney movies, where Peter’s shadow continues to follow. The language bounced between English and French. Nothing was ever translated, but one character would speak English, and the other would speak French. The Hunchback of Notre Dame part was all in French, and it was cool because the song Quasimodo sings was is French, and everyone was singing along.

But it was awesome!!! Literally the best show I’ve ever seen. Words can’t even describe it. It definitely beats Fanstamic and World of Color at Disneyland. And that’s saying a lot. I might have almost cried because it was so amazing. My emotions were all over the place, especially when it got to the Tangled part. So good. 

I tried to upload some video I took but this thing won't let me. But here's the video on youtube to give you an idea what it looks like. But it definitely does not compare to watching it in person.

It was the perfect end to a perfect day and I did not want to leave. We just kind of slowly made our way out. I just wanted to live in there. But sadly all good things must come to an end. After taking some more castle pictures we really did have to exit.

I tried to take a jumping picture. But this portrayed my happiness well.

To make it last a little longer we walked down the Disney Village, which wasn’t very big. Just a bunch of shops and restaurants. They had a World of Disney store, but also a Disney Store. I really didn’t understand. Those were basically the only stores. And all of the restaurants were American places, including a Planet Hollywood. It really did feel like I was back in the US for a second.

I was really sad to leave. I wish that day could have been a lot longer. It was just so perfect and magical. Disneyland Paris really exceeded my high expectations. I feel so lucky to have been able to visit, and I’ll never forget it.

Spring Break Part 2: Paris, France

Oh Paris. Definitely the city I miss the most. I now understand why it is the city of love, because I'm in love with it. Overall I was in Paris for 5 days. 2 of those were travel days, so really only 3 full days to enjoy it, which was not enough.

Also a disclaimer: I could only pack one coat so it looks like I'm wearing the same outfit in all of my pictures. I swear my outfits changed but it was so cold that was my only option.

With that said, I will try my best to put my Paris experience into words:

DAY 6
I was on my own for these next 2 days. My flight from London to Paris was supposed to leave at 9:30 am, so I had to get up pretty early to take the tube to Heathrow airport. Luckily it stops right in the terminal. First of all, Heathrow is huge and a little overwhelming, so I had to take it slow to figure out exactly where I was going. My flight was delayed by almost an hour, but it was a quick flight to Paris of about an hour and a half or less. I flew British Airways which was actually really nice. They even gave me a snack.

I was staying at a Marriott my first night since I was alone and the 'rents didn't want me somewhere sketchy. So thanks to my mom for getting me a free night. My plan was to take a cab from the airport to the hotel, because I kind of get anxiety when trying to figure out public transportation on my own in a foreign country. Luckily I looked up directions to the hotel, so I decided to just go for it and save some money and take the public transport. I'm a smart college student right?

It was actually pretty easy, and I made it to the hotel on my own. I think the London tube helped me prepare for Paris transportation, because it was just a little bit more complicated. Their metro system runs in zones, with Zone 1 being the center of Paris. My hotel was in Zone 2, which wasn't too bad. It was kind of in the middle of nothing, I think it was used more for business. I'm pretty sure I was the only tourist there. I asked the lady at the front desk if there was anywhere to go around there, and she said no. There was a big mall across the street, and that was about it.

I was running on about 2 hours of sleep, and I was hungry, so it was to the mall I went. They had a lot of the same stores like Zara, H&M, and Starbucks of course. In London and Paris there were just as many Starbucks, if not more, than there are in the US. I think Rome is the only city without Starbucks. I ended up eating at some small cafe. I went to order and I wasn't sure if the guy spoke English, so I told him the number I wanted and used my fingers. Turns out he did speak English. Awkward. I ended up getting a sandwich, and it came with a dessert. The sandwich came on this baguette thing, and the dessert was this chocolate-y mousse cake/pie thing. It was so tasty.

As a side note: the language barrier in France was pretty tough. At least I know a basic level of Italian to get around in Italy, but I have no experience with French. They speak a lot with their throat. And I would read something, but it would not be pronounced anywhere near what I thought. Especially the metro stops. But luckily most people spoke English, so it wasn't too much of a problem. Also, people would be walking down the street literally eating a baguette. I really just thought it was stereotype. But it's true. And even their sandwiches are served on baguettes. It was actually kind of awesome.

So back to my story. After I ate at the mall I just came back to the hotel and relaxed. My foot was still hurting from the last Saturday. And there was only one TV channel in English playing reality shows. So I had an eventful evening. But I did have a glorious sleep on a real bed and having a real shower. That Marriott was heavenly.

DAY 7
I woke up early on Wednesday and sadly had to check out of my hotel. My plan was to go to the Palace of Versailles that day. I left my luggage at the hotel so I didn't have to lug it around. I had to take the RER train, which is like their metro. It's literally just an underground train. Versailles was out in Zone 4 of the system, so it took a little while to get there. I had to transfer, and it got a little bit confusing. I had to ask a lady working there how to get to Versailles, and she told me to get on the next train. As I was riding I had my little metro map out to keep checking all of the stops to make sure I was going the right way.

So as it keeps going, it comes to a stop not in my direction of Versailles. So I immediately get off and the panic sinks in. There was no one around, and I couldn't figure out how to get back on and go the other way. Luckily there was a lady at a ticket booth and I asked her how to get to Versailles. Apparently Versailles is actually the name of the town, and not the actual palace. So the first lady must have thought I just meant the town. Luckily that stop was still walking distance to the palace though. Or I guess in French it's called a château. 

On my way there I stopped at a bakery and got a croissant, because I obviously had to. I just got a plain butter one, and it was delicious of course! I mean, it was no life-changing croissant. It was soft, flakey, and buttery. So I finally made it to the palace, and it was gorgeous!!! Even from the outside it looked incredible right as I turned the corner. 

Street View

There were SO many people there though. I think I got there maybe around 10 am. First I had to wait in line to buy my ticket, which took maybe half an hour. The line to get in was ridiculously long and curved around the whole front entrance. It took me over an hour just to get inside. I probably could have snuck in since I was alone, but my conscious just wouldn't allow it. There were actually a lot of Americans around, because I heard so many people speaking English. There was an American family behind me, and we ended up having a conversation. They were from Nevada, and I told them I went to Chapman in California. Apparently last year they were in Ireland and met another Chapman student that was abroad. That was kind of funny.

Just part of the line. 

Well after finally getting inside I got a map and my audio guide and I was on my way. The map honestly didn't even help much. And the audio guide helped within the palace as you walk around in each room, you just press whatever number it is and it explains its history. I didn't listen to all of them, because that would take way too long.

On the inside there were various apartments and halls to see, and the most popular Hall of Mirrors. It was actually pretty cool. It wasn't as magical as it looks on Pinterest, especially with all the people there. And there weren't as many mirrors in it as I thought. They just lined the walls, but the chandeliers were beautiful. The mirrors were supposed to double the lighting when the chandeliers and candles were lit.

Hall of Mirrors

I saw various bedrooms and drawing rooms, which were all gorgeous! With amazing paintings on the walls to the detailed ceilings, and even the furniture. And the beds were quite royal and looked pretty comfy. To be honest, after a while all of the rooms start looking the same, but they were all incredible!

A casual fireplace

A bedroom

After I finished the inside of the palace I go out to the gardens. If I wasn't alone my reaction would have been quite loud. But I was mind blown. The whole estate was HUGE!! As I looked out the land just went on and on. The size of the gardens made the palace seem so small. I seriously could not believe it. I had to use the map for the outside, and it told me that it was an hour walk from the palace to the end of the gardens. There was no way I was doing that, but that's just to give you an idea of how big it was.

That land in the distance? Still Versailles.

One side of the gardens

The palace far in the distance.

The ticket I bought included entrance to Marie Antoinette's estate and the Grand Trianon, which were both in the gardens. That was already a far walk from the palace. And keep in mind, my foot was still hurting from the past Saturday in London. You could rent bikes, a golf cart, or take tram around the gardens. Since they cost money my only option was to walk. I got to Marie Antoinette's estate, and it was like a mini-palace, and still so gorgeous. She was living the high life.

Her staircase

Her bedroom

Marie Antoinette

Then I made my way to the Grand Trianon, which was a little bigger than Marie Antoinette's estate, and what she modeled her estate after. It was also gorgeous. I don't think anything in the whole place wasn't gorgeous. I don't know a better word to describe it all.

Part of the Grand Trianon

Inside the Grand Trianon

After that my foot was killing me, so I decided it was time to head out. Plus I needed to head back before it got dark. I was there for about 3 hours or so, and I feel like there was even more to see than what I already had seen. After seeing Versailles I decided that I'm going to build my own mini-Versailles. It will be grand and just fabulous.

I hopped back on the train to get back to the Marriott to get my luggage. Since the Marriott was too expensive, I was staying at a cheap hotel the rest of the time with 3 other girls who I am abroad with, and they were meeting me there that night.

So it was a little ways back to the Marriott, and I had to do the same transfers. I still kept my handy metro map to make sure I was going the right way. And then all of sudden the train didn't stop and the one I needed, but went past it. And the panic comes again. I just was not having the best luck with this crazy system. So what I figured out was at one train stop, different trains go by going in different directions. There are multiple trains going through one stop, which is completely different than the metro that I am used to. The sign changes every time, and you have to make sure your stop is lit up on the next train. Definitely took some getting used to.

Well I finally made it back to the Marriott, and I was getting nervous, because I was losing daylight. I didn't want to travel to this other hotel alone in the dark. My original plan again was to take a taxi. I asked the lady at the front desk of the Marriott on how to get to this next hotel. I showed her the address and when she looked it up she looked at me like I was crazy. The hotel was really far. I asked her about a taxi, and she said it would be very expensive, possibly around 80 euros, which is over 100 dollars. The train stop for this hotel was in Zone 5 of the system, which is quite far outside of Paris, and she said it would take a little less than 2 hours by train to get there. I didn't want to pay for the taxi, but I didn't want to be alone at night. I had about 2 hours of daylight left.

My concern with taking the train was trying to find the hotel once I got off, because I had no clue. I thought maybe I could take a taxi from the station to the hotel so I don't get lost. She wasn't sure if that area even had taxis. But the stop was only 2 stops away from Disneyland Paris (one reason why we chose to stay there) and she said I could always go to Disneyland and find a taxi if I needed to. The nice lady printed me a map from the station to the hotel.  Since I already had a train ticket I just decided to go for it.

It did take a while, but I had to decide if I wanted to get off at the right stop and find my way, or just go straight to Disney to find a taxi to make sure I don't get lost. I just decided to get off at the right stop so I could save money, and hopefully I could find my way. I got off and I had no clue where the heck I was. It was a tiny station, for locals only it seemed like. I went outside and there were no street signs to help with the map I had. I didn't know which way was where. Luckily it was still light outside, and now it was time to start asking people. Unfortunately there weren't even that many people around, so I tried to ask a guy working at a book store. He didn't speak English. I was defeated. So I was just standing there, and this lady was staring at me, so I asked her if she spoke English. She said, "Yes, you look lost." THANK THE LORD! She knew exactly where my hotel was and guided me in the right direction. As I was walking I saw it in the distance. And you really couldn't miss it because it had a big sign, and was literally in the middle of no where. There were fields around it.

This was the hotel. Just imagine more fields around it. 

It was the most relieving feeling I've ever had. I mean, I was a long way from home to be on my own, and I found the places I needed, all without any taxis. I was really proud of myself. And I must say I think I underestimated myself. After checking in it was time to relax and wait for my other friends to get there, which they didn't get in until very late. But it was actually a decent hotel. Our room was basically 2 beds and a bunk bed, and a small bathroom. But for the price we paid it wasn't bad. Plus it was nice to not be in a hostel.

DAY 8
It was finally nice to not be alone in Paris, and the plan was to basically see the whole city for the day. We got kind of a late start since they got in really late. Getting into the city took about an hour since our hotel was pretty far.

We ate at a cafe, and I got crepes, because I had to. They were good, but again nothing life-changing. We started off at Notre Dame. It was incredible!! Okay let's be real, I was thinking of the Hunchback of Notre Dame the whole time. And it really did look like the movie, but way better! First of all, it was massive! Way bigger than I expected. The inside was just as amazing. And all of the stain glass windows were so beautiful. I was just in love with it. I might even like it more than St. Peter's. Notre Dame is just completely different. I don't really know how to describe why I liked it so much, but you'll just have to visit it to understand.

Notre Dame

The inside

Stain Glass

You can climb to the top, but unfortunately the line was way too long, so we had to skip it since we didn't really have time. So I'll definitely have to come back.

Then we made our way to the Louvre, which is one of the most famous museums. Even just walking there, I already loved Paris. Just the streets, the atmosphere, and basically everything I was falling in love. I understand why people love Paris now. Again, there's no way to explain it, you just have to experience it.

The Seine River

Just wandering

On our way to the Louvre we crossed the famous love-locks bridge! If you didn't know, it's this famous bridge where couples put a padlock on and throw the key in the river representing their everlasting love. So romantic, I know. Plus, it's all over Pinterest if you didn't know. But it was really cool! There were SO many locks, and they were all different. Some were really creative. I even saw a huge bike lock.

Love Locks!

 There was one guy selling locks on the bridge, which I thought there would be more, because you could make some serious dough in that market. We decided to get a lock, because you just have to. We all wrote our names on it and threw the keys in the river. It was pretty cool, and an awesome memory.

Our lock

We crossed the bridge and made it to the Louvre, which has the famous pyramid shape. And it was so pretty from the outside! We decided to go in, basically all I wanted to see was the Mona Lisa. And there were a lot of tourists, so it took a while.

Outside the Louvre

Inside the Louvre

 Once inside we follow the signs to the Mona Lisa, and after quite a ways, there she was. On a wall. All alone. It actually wasn't as exciting as you'd think, and that seems to be what everyone says. But at least I can say I saw the real Mona Lisa in my lifetime right? But there were a ton of people! She was basically in this glass case on a wall in a random room of other works of art. It really didn't feel like anything special. I mean, Google images will give you the same picture. But it was still cool to see.

The wall from a distance

The Mona Lisa up close

I was basically satisfied after that. Remember how I said I wasn't a museum person in London? Well the Louvre just kind of finalized that fact about myself. It is a huge and historical place, and I wish I could appreciate the art inside, but as much as I try, it just is not my thing. It is incredible to think of how much history everything inside holds, but I really don't get much feeling from it. We just kind of walked around, and I did see Venus de Milo, which is a famous statue. But I think one visit to the Louvre is enough for my lifetime, as sad as that is to say. I hope I didn't offend any art people out there, but I give you props.

Venus de Milo

After the Louvre the next stop was the Arc de Triomphe. It was straight down the street from the Louvre, but it was a very very long street. It was down  Champs-Élysées, which is a famous street, with lots of shopping. In the distance you could see the Eiffel Tower. It was just teasing me, because I was dying to see it still. We walked as quickly as we could since we were starting to lose daylight, and I still needed to see the Tower before the sun went down.

We finally got to the Arc and it was huge! I feel like I say that about every monument, but it was a lot bigger than I had imagined. There was a large band playing underneath, which was cool. We couldn't really cross the street to go under it, because it was a really busy circle. There were people on top of it, so I'll have to come back to go on that as well.

Arc de Triomphe

We just kind of saw it for a few minutes and then made our way to the Eiffel Tower. As we were getting closer and closer I got more and more excited. I don't even know why I was so excited, but come on it was the Eiffel Tower! And it was GIGANTIC! (as everything I talk about) I honestly couldn't believe I was at the Eiffel Tower. It still never has hit me. Just a famous monument, and I was here in Paris with the Eiffel Tower. Incredible.

EIFFEL TOWER!

We went around and took pictures in the grassy area, which I thought you could actually go on the grass, but it was fenced off. More lies. I took so many pictures of it they all kind of look the same obviously, since it didn't move anywhere. When it got dark the whole tower lit up and it was beautiful! It was even better than in the daylight. And every hour it sparkles with twinkling lights. It was just magical and so pretty!

At night!

When it sparkles!

Well I didn't go all the way to Paris just to stare at the Eiffel Tower, I was going to the top! There was actually a really long line, so it took a while. Oh and the weather was still really cold, especially at night. Not as cold as London, but not too far off. We got our ticket and headed for the elevator. You could take the stairs, but there was no way I was climbing that many stairs. We had to take one elevator to the base and then switch to get to the top. The elevator to the base went up one of the legs of the tower, so it was going diagonally. It kind of reminded me of the elevator in Willy Wonka (sideways and slantways). We got to the base, and it already seemed pretty high! I was starting to get a little nervous about getting to the very top.

View from the base

Still a long ways to go!

We took another elevator to the top, and it was crazy high!! I though it would kind of be like a balcony thing. But it was a caged-type thing, so I felt pretty safe, but still a little nervous to get close to the edge. And I'm not normally afraid of heights. But the view was amazing!!! And since it was nighttime the whole city was lit up. And it was snowing at the top, just so you know how cold it was. Looking back on it, it was such an amazing moment. Just to be in Paris on top of the Eiffel Tower, it had to be a dream. Things like this don't just happen. It was one of those moments that just made me realize how lucky I am to able to do this, and I will forever be grateful.

View from the top!

And there was a wine bar at the top. For only 12 euro (approximately $15.60) you could get a little glass of wine. Not worth it. But there was a couple who asked me to take their picture and they had their glasses, and it was so cute and romantic. So my future husband (Taylor Lautner?) should take note.

Bar at the top. 

After enjoying the moment and the scenery it was time to get back down to solid ground. I absolutely loved being on the tower, but I also love ground. I was just so happy after that, realizing it had all happened. Really that whole day was incredible going around Paris. It only took one day for me to love Paris.

Finishing off our day with the Eiffel Tower, we headed back to the hotel, because the next day we were going to DISNEYLAND PARIS!!

DAY 9
DISNEYLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So I'm saving a separate post for Disneyland, because it really deserves its own. And it was one of the best days. So just stayed tuned...

Just a little preview...

DAY 10
This was the last Saturday of Spring Break, and it was time to go back to Rome. And I was really sad, because I never want to leave Paris.

It was basically a travel-only day, so nothing too exciting happened. Out flight didn't leave til around 9 pm, but we couldn't really do anything since we had luggage with us.

We had to get to a bus station about an hour from the hotel in order to get to the airport. We just hung out at a mall across the street. And I got a macaron since I hadn't had one in Paris yet. They're really expensive for just the mini ones. But I just got one. The guy looked at me like I was crazy for only getting one. I got a caramel flavored one, and it was so tasty!! I had one in Rome a while ago, but this one was way better!

Me sad leaving Paris with my mini macaron

 Since we flew on a cheap airline the airport was basically in the boonies, so we had to take a shuttle there that took over an hour. Once we got there we were pretty early, so we just chilled out. There was another place with macarons, and they had the big ones. And they were cheaper than the mini one I paid for. So I just figured I should get it. How many times will you have a macaron in Paris in an airport? I got a chocolate one this time, and it was even better! It was almost like a brownie, but better.

Big macaron

We got back to Rome a little before midnight, and I didn't get back to my apartment until about 1 am. I had to get up early the next day, because it was Easter, and we were going to the mass at the Vatican.

Overall, I think Paris was my favorite city. I think I liked it a little more than London. There's just something about it that is so different, and I cannot even compare it to Rome. It is much cleaner, and surprisingly I encountered more nice people than Rome. So many people told me French people are so mean, but people I encountered were so nice. Maybe I was just lucky, but no one was very rude.

I really didn't expect to like Paris as much as I did. I do regret not having more time there though. There is so much to see, and I feel like I only scratched the surface. And I'm a little disappointed I didn't get to have real French cuisine, because I've heard it's the best food. And I wanted to try Ratatouille, yes partly because of the movie. I might have even tried escargot. We just really had no time, and we were always going, there was not really time for a nice sit-down meal. And I wish I bought more souvenirs. If I just had one more day, it would have been perfect. I'll definitely be coming back to Paris sometime in my life. Hopefully that time is sooner than I think.