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School Tour to Paris

Tuesday 21st October began in a flurry of excitement and bleary eyes. It wasn’t your typical early start—this was 1am! Students, teachers, and parents gathered outside St. Nathy’s in the stillness of the October night, loading bags into the bus bound for Dublin Airport. Despite the hour, there was a buzz of anticipation that not even the lack of sleep could dull. We were heading to Paris—the City of Light, of fashion, art, and unforgettable experiences. 

After a smooth flight, we landed in Paris and were greeted by our wonderful coach driver Ivan from “Aventura Travel”. He truly went above and beyond for us during the trip, always ensuring everything ran like clockwork—a remarkable feat in a city as busy as Paris! Kudos to him for manoeuvring that bus around the Arc de Triomphe roundabout! Our hearts were in our mouths as apparently EVERYONE had “la priorité”! 

Our first stop was the world-famous Champs-Élysées, where we enjoyed a well-deserved brunch. As we strolled along the grand boulevard, the designer boutiques gleamed in the morning light—a shopper’s paradise. Mouth-watering shop displays tempted us at every turn, showing luxurious designer brands and exquisite shop facades. Even window-shopping felt glamorous here. The scaffolding on one of the buildings was designed to look like a giant Louis Vuitton suitcase. Some students snapped photos outside “Yves Saint Laurent” and “Chanel” while others sampled buttery croissants from the patisseries that dotted the avenue while others sampled crêpes from street vendors around the Arc de Triomphe.  

Re-energised, we boarded our bus again and started our 1hr 30m guided tour of Paris, courtesy of Joe Walsh Travel. Our guide brought the city’s history to life as we passed magnificent landmarks: L’Arc de Triomphe, la Place de la Concorde, le Grand Opéra, the boulevards that have inspired artists, poets, and dreamers for centuries. Every corner of Paris seemed steeped in history and romance. He told us about Napoléon and the Panthéon, the beheadings on the Place de la Concorde during “la Révolution Française” and the dreaded guillotine!   

Our next stop was the Eiffel Tower, “La Tour Eiffel,” the symbol of Parisian elegance. As soon as it came into view, a ripple of excitement spread through the bus. Cameras clicked, gasps filled the air, and before long, we were climbing its famous steps (well, truth be told, most of us took the lift as time was not on our side!) From the top, the panoramic view of Paris stretched as far as the eye could see—a breathtaking mosaic of rooftops, bridges, and boulevards. It was a moment that will remain etched in everyone’s memory or as we say in French class “gravé dans ma mémoire,” a handy phrase for those opting to do the “Récit” question in the Leaving Cert French exam next June. “Ce moment restera gravé dans ma mémoire!” 

Dinner that evening was at the elegant Restaurant Monte Carlo, just off the Champs Elysées, where we enjoyed a delicious French meal and the chance to rest our weary legs. But the day was not over yet. Next came “la cerise sur le gâteau”, the cherry on the cake, and one of the trip’s undisputed highlights—a Bateaux Mouches cruise along the River Seine. As night descended, we drifted past illuminated bridges and monuments, the city glowing like a jewel, with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background. A cruise on the River Seine is one of the smarter ways to see Paris. It was, without a doubt, 70 minutes of pure magic—a fitting end to our first day in Paris and a well-deserved rest for our weary feet.      

By the time we reached the “Dream Castle Hotel” exhaustion had set in. Some students and teachers had been awake for nearly 48 hours, having not gotten to bed on Monday night! There wasn’t a sound in the corridors that night—everyone succumbed to a deep, well-earned sleep. Not a creature was stirring, not even Mickey Mouse! 

Day two dawned bright and early, and any lingering tiredness vanished the moment we saw the breakfast buffet awaiting us. The spread was a feast fit for royalty: rows upon rows of freshly baked baguettes, croissants, pains au chocolat, Danish pastries, cinnamon rolls, fruit, cereals, cold meats, cheeses, salads (yes, salads!), fried potatoes, sausages, bacon and even porridge. To top it off there were endless cups of rich Parisian coffee, lattes, hot chocolates and any number of juices. We had the perfect fuel for the day ahead. 

With mounting anticipation, we boarded the coach for the short ten-minute journey to Disneyland Paris. The atmosphere was electric. From the moment we passed through the gates, we were transported into a world of wonder. The rollercoasters drew screams of excitement, the parades filled the “streets” with music and colour, and for a day, teenagers became children again. Laughter echoed through the park as students darted from ride to ride, posing with Disney characters and sampling every treat in sight. It was a day of excitement and nostalgia—a reminder that magic is very real if you know where to look.  A note for those doing the LC French exam, the word for a roller coaster is “a Russian mountain” / “une montagne russe.” Our wonderful driver brought us safely home to the “Dream Castle Hotel,” where once again everyone drifted off to slumberland still humming Disney tunes. 

Our third day began with another royal breakfast before setting off for a day steeped in culture and history. Our first destination was the Palais de Versailles / Palace of Versailles, once home to King Louis XIV, the “Sun King,” and one of France’s most magnificent architectural treasures. Inside, we explored the “Grand Appartements”, the dazzling “Galerie des Glaces” / “Hall of Mirrors”, and Marie-Antoinette’s boudoirs. Every gilded ceiling and crystal chandelier whispered stories of royal splendour. Although the famous gardens were closed due to inclement weather, we could still admire their manicured symmetrical lawns from inside the palace, an awe-inspiring sight through the panoramic windows of the Hall of Mirrors. 

After lunch, we shifted from royal elegance to sporting glory with a visit to the “Stade de France”, the country’s national stadium. A behind-the-scenes tour took us through the players’ changing rooms, the VIP stands, and even to the edge of the pitch itself. Standing in the same tunnels where world-class athletes and performers had walked was an unforgettable experience. The sheer scale of the stadium left everyone in awe. Our guide was excellent and told lots of anecdotes about the famous stadium. Did you know that when Madonna played there in 2008, she requested that all the walls backstage in the stadium be painted pink? Plus, she had all the toilet seats replaced with gold ones! We did wonder what they did with the toilet seats after her concerts? Also, every football player must wear their ID badge on arrival through the Team doors, even Cristiano Ronaldo! On one occasion he had to wait two hours because he had not brought his ID and rules are rules, even for him.  Of course, our guide did inform us that Stade de France made one exception and that was for Zinedine Zidane, their golden boy! And considering he scored two goals in the World Cup Final against Brazil in 2006, he can do whatever he wants as he is their king. 

Of course, no trip to France would be complete without indulging in one of its most beloved culinary traditions:  les crêpes. That evening, we dined at “La Cabane Gourmande”, a crêperie in the heart of Paris, where we were treated to a veritable feast of both savoury and sweet creations. From gooey cheese and ham galettes to Nutella-filled delights, each bite was heaven. It was unanimous—10/10 for flavour and atmosphere! Plus, the owner mingled freely and chatted with the students. He really could not have done any more for us. He complimented us on how well behaved the students were and how good their French was as they excitedly chatted to him. 

Back at the hotel, the mood was bittersweet. We were exhausted but content, a little sad that our final night had arrived. Some students made the most of the hotel facilities, taking a dip in the pool or challenging friends in the games room. Others gathered in the foyer for one last chat, just taking it all in and sipping on coffees, lattes or ordering pizzas, some even passed around a treasured packet of Barry’s Tea for a taste of Ireland, so they could make a cuppa back in their rooms that night. Irish hospitality was alive and well in Paris! Earl Grey just does not compare! Well done to the LC student who thought to take the teabags!  As lights went out, we could not help but feel grateful for the memories we had already made. 

Our final morning arrived all too soon. After breakfast, we packed our bags and boarded the coach, waving a fond farewell to our beautiful hotel. Though sad to leave, we still had a day full of Parisian wonders ahead. 

Our first stop was the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station overlooking the Seine. Inside, we were surrounded by masterpieces from the world’s greatest Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters. Students marvelled at works by Monet, Manet, Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh, and Rodin. The museum’s light-filled galleries and elegant sculptures provided a fitting reminder of the artistic soul of Paris. This might be an appropriate time to say that no one from St. Nathy’s was involved in the Louvre hoist! That we can be sure of! We had no access to ladders, angle grinders and the like……and we were across the Seine in Le Musée d’Orsay! 

Next, we made our way to the historic district of Montmartre, famous for its cobbled streets, bohemian charm, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica perched high on the hill. Here, students had free time to explore, shop, and soak in the atmosphere. The Place du Tertre buzzed with life, artists sketching portraits, musicians playing accordion tunes, and cafés spilling onto the pavements. Many of us could not resist having our caricatures drawn or purchasing last-minute souvenirs—berets, keyrings, magnets, and jerseys were all popular choices! 

Of course, the climb up to Sacré-Cœur tested everyone’s stamina. Some tackled the hundreds of steps with determination, while others—perhaps running low on caffeine and energy—opted for the cable car/ téléphérique. Either way, the view from the top made every effort worthwhile. Paris stretched out below in all its glory, a breathtaking panoramic view. 

Those who did the guided tour heard how the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur was completed in 1914 and stands as both a religious monument and a symbol of hope. It was built after the Franco-Prussian War and was intended as a gesture of faith and unity for the people of France. Its dazzling white stone and Romano-Byzantine architecture make it one of the most striking landmarks in the city, drawing millions of visitors each year. We were proud to be a cog in the wheel of those millions of visitors. 

Before we knew it, it was time to say goodbye. Suitcases had to be reopened and reorganised to make room for all the shopping—souvenirs, clothes, and of course, a few French treats. As we boarded the coach one last time, there was a mix of tiredness and contentment. Paris had given us four days of unforgettable memories. 

Our journey to the airport was filled with chatter and laughter as we reminisced about our favourite moments: the Eiffel Tower’s twinkling lights, the thrill of Disneyland, the grandeur of Versailles, and that magical cruise along the Seine. Every part of the trip had offered something special, something uniquely Parisian. 

As we reached Beauvais Airport, the rain began to pour, but not even the downpour could dampen our spirits. After all, a rainy day is no match for a sunny disposition. We were heading home tired, a little heavier from the pastries and crêpes, but richer in experiences and memories that last a lifetime. 

Back in Ireland, we were met once again by O’Hara coaches and our reliable driver, Adam O’Hara, who ensured we all arrived safely home.  

Looking back, our school tour to Paris was more than just a trip—it was an experience that bonded us as a group and opened our eyes to art, history, and culture in the most exciting way imaginable. Every detail, from the carefully planned itinerary to the dedication of our guides contributed to its success. Our students did our school proud, displaying exemplary behaviour and timekeeping throughout—a real credit to everyone involved. 

We returned home with hearts full, cameras bursting with photos, and minds richer for the experience. It was, without a doubt, a trip of a lifetime.