Post #5: Paris, Day 1

Today was absolutely incredible! How we fit so much in to one day is a mystery that I am not sure can be solved. First, we Slept in by accident (12 hrs total... we may have been tired). Then, we had to quickly discover the key to the Parisian metro system (a feat, mind you), before catching a FREE walking tour by NewParis.com (part of New Europe tours). The tour was 3.5 hours long, but well worth it. It started at the fountain de Saint Michel and finished with lunch at a local cafe. A. MAZ.ING! We were introduced to so much history, and given tips for things we wouldn't have otherwise known.

Afterwards, we caught the metro to Montmartre (a city within Paris, it seemed) after the recommendation of our tour guide. Montmartre is a great little art district with a lot of history on the side. We were able to enjoy mass at Basilique Du Sacre-Cceur De Montmartre the Sanctuaire De L'Adoration Eucharistique Et De La Misericorde Divine (no pictures were allowed on the inside... but we have some of the outside.) We also rubbed saint Peter's right foot for blessing and stole a weeding picture of a new bride. Afterwards, we had dinner and enjoyed a very busy Montmartre square. The evening was warm, but not hot, and everyone seemed very friendly and lively. After dinner was perhaps the best ice cream that we have ever tasted, followed by a metro to the Eiffel tower. We were able to cap off the evening with a very romantic light show from the Tower, and although it had turned chilly, we went home happy. We can't wait to see what tomorrow brings; Best day EVER!

Drew and Nicole

Post #4: Lunch in Paris

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After a 3 1/3 hr walking tour we deserved a break. Delicious!

Our arrival: metros are crazy!

In spite of the fact that British Airways worked tirelessly to make our plane ride comfortable, that 8 hours might has well have been labelled torture. But the real piece of work was navigating the metro from Charles de Gayle to the Bastille (where are room is). Never before have I seen so many people in one place at one time sprinting in completely random and different directions. It's a wonder that they don't need a full medical staff on campus to accommodate collisions.

Nevertheless, we made it to our room safe and sound, with only minimal detouring due to bad direction following. Benjamin (our host) speaks impeccable English, and has provided us with a comfortable - but quite Spartan - room. Our first course of action is to immediately fill our bellies. Though there were nearly 20 restaurants within a stones throw of our room, Benjamin steers us in the direction of Chef Paul's.

As you can see, we really hated our dinner. Especially the part where we were right on the street while eating, totally immersed in French culture and cuisine. We were left pretty tired though, so now it is off to bed, with more adventures to follow tomorrow.

Drew and Nicole

Post #2: Welcome to Miami

So we are currently waiting to board our first transatlantic flight here in Miami, FL. It it PACKED! Although, we are not on a 747 for this particular crossing... I was a little disappointed.

Also, Drew tried to talk me into a $600 upgrade... I'm still shocked that Mr. I-need-a-crowbar-to-open-my-wallet was trying to talk me INTO spending money.

Okay, they're calling our row. Wish us jolly trip to merry ol' England!

Post Number One: Pre-Europe

Alright everyone, this is the start of our European blog. Hopefully, through this venue, you will be able to share in the our trip along with us in real time. Rather than waiting till the end of the journey to hear everything (and have us possibly forgetting things), you can check in at your leisure, and get the entire experience, complete with pictures and commentary. When we return, we cannot wait to share everything with you all in person! Until then, we hope you enjoy,
Drew