Sunday June 6, 2010 - Versailles

We were on the bus by 8:45 headed for Versailles, and the Palace of Versailles. The sky was a little threatening as we got on the bus, but by the time we had driven only a short distance we were in a heavy downpour. During the rainstorm we had a brief worship service – as it was Sunday – complete with choir music presented by those on the bus – we really sounded pretty good. Unfortunately some had forgotten their umbrellas, but that was quickly remedied as we arrived at Versailles. There we were met by the Umbrella Salesmen who sold anyone who needed one, a Palace of Versailles Umbrella for a mere 5 Euros. Anyway, by the time we unloaded from the bus and gathered just inside the grounds it stopped raining long enough to get a group picture (a gift from Rostad). Lidia was shocked at the number of busses already at the Palace, but we were able to get in at our allocated time. The crowds inside the Palace were incredible, but we managed to go from room to room and get some pictures along the way. The whole palace is one ornately decorated room after another. We even got to view the bedroom of the King, and that of the Queen, and all agreed that it was he who visited her not the reverse as she had – by far the nicer room.

From the actual palace we proceeded into the gardens. We had seen them from the windows of the Palace, but being out in the gardens was an amazing experience. There were fountains and statues (including one contributed to by our travelers), and many plants arranged in stunning gardens surrounded by grass areas. The whole extent of the gardens was bigger than what we had time to explore, though some did find a maze hidden in the side gardens well down the garden path. These pictures help to give a visual representation of our experience.

Back in the bus by 12:15, we headed to Mont Martre which is the bohemian or artistic centre of Paris. This area radiates out from the Sacred Coeur Churchand is accessed by a funicular or many stairs. The Church overlooks the city of Paris, and the views from the top were fantastic. Here we stopped and had a lunch – some with wine – of course, and spent a bit of time exploring the area and appreciating the many artists who are present to sell and commission their art. You could get your portrait drawn while you pose if you like.

We almost all walked down the stairs from the top, and made our way to the bus for our return to the hotel. On the way we spotted the famos Moulin Rouge. Some took the time to catch up on communication with family, or to go shopping at a local flea market while others had a drink or spent relaxing time in their rooms. This evening we left the hotel at 9 PM for a twilight cruise on the Seine River – to view the ‘City of Lights’. Then took the Metro back to our hotel.