Sanity Check: Weekend in Paris

You might be happy to know that I'm about to wrap up the "Weekend in Paris" series I've got going here. After today, only one more post about Paris. I promise! Okay, so let's see, where were we? Ah... I believe we were here...

We were headed toward the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées, where there are tons of restaurants, shops and hotels, on our way to see the Arc de Triomphe. It's a beautiful walk, but I'm guessing it would have been slightly more enjoyable had it not been raining and very cold. Never mind the weather though... we braved it so we could see the sights. We passed this beautiful fountain along the way. When we got a little closer, we could see that the water was freezing upon impact on one side...

Here you can see the Paris La Grande Roue (a.k.a. Paris Ferris Wheel). We didn't ride it because of inclement weather, but I understand the views of city are magnificent under good weather conditions.

There were loads of street vendors selling all kinds of goods such as candy...

handmade bags...

You name it!

This is the Grand Palais, which houses temporary exhibitions from around the world. Here's a closer view of the statue outside the Grand Palais...

We're getting closer to our destination!

Aren't the decorations beautiful?

The streets were bustling with activity, even with the nasty weather.

We stopped at this familiar store to purchase a couple of warm winter scarves for the boys. I guess I should call them "mufflers" if they're for boys, since "scarves" sounds a bit feminine. Whatever! This Gap Store was HUGE too... three levels!

We didn't go here, but I thought the building was beautifully decorated. Click on it for a closer view.

We ate lunch here, enjoying pizza in a warm, dry, festive atmosphere.

Here it is... the Arc de Triomphe, one of the most famous landmarks in Paris. It stands in the center of the Place de l'Étoile, at the end of the Champs-Élysées.

Twelve avenues radiate from around the arch, therefore it's a very prominent feature. The arch commemorates Napoleon's victories.

This picture gives you an idea of just how large the Arc de Triomphe is!

This is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which lies beneath the arch.

We climbed the spiral staircase to the top of the arch. We got our fair share of exercise in the process.

One of the many spectacular views of the city from the top of the Arc de Triomphe...