Biking in Versailles

We have had lots of guests over the last few weeks, which has given us an opportunity to get out and see the city. I went on a Fat Tire tour to Versailles with our good friend Robert. Not that I have a biased opinion or anything, but it is one of the best tours in France. Robert was here on business, but stayed the weekend to spend some more time with us. He is getting married to one of my best and oldest friends, Jill, in Puerto Rico this June. Can't wait for that wedding. 

Tour begins with a stop at the local market in Versailles. The basket came in handy.

Robert following the rest of the group through the grounds of Versailles. Not your average backyard.

Our market purchases with the Chateau in the background. Not the worst spot for a picnic.

In front of the Chateau. 

Check out the tourist to the left of Robert. Really? That is what you decided to wear today?

The gardens. Again, not your average backyard.

Sadie's Food Tour

Last week, I was able to join a group of gals for a food tour throughout the Latin Quarter. Sadie, who works at Fat Tire, is in the midst of starting her own tour company. We were there as guinea pigs along with one of her clients. We had a great time and were able to learn a few interesting facts about French cuisine and try a some new things. Sadie did a great job and I would highly recommend her tour.

 Picked up a loaf of bread at a famous boulangerie - Eric Kayser.

 Sadie (blue shorts) talking to the group.

 Fishies were not on our food tour menu.

 Cheese? Yes please.

The group enjoying some of our purchases.

SPRING FEVER

Spring is in the air, so Jack and I headed to the flower market yesterday. I went looking for herbs to plant in pots for our little stoop, but couldn't find the ones that I wanted and left empty handed. There are markets here for everything - furniture, clothes, food, wine, books, antiques, ets. So, we weren't surprised to stumble upon the flower market. It was the perfect time of year to go. 

Spring is kinda sorta here! 

Some other activities that we have enjoyed over the last couple of weeks have been:

Musee d'Orsay

Musee Marmottan Monet

Picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower (Champs de Mars)

Visiting the China town in Paris and making an Asian dish from our purchased ingredients

Bike ride through Paris

Dinner party with friends here at our apartment

Tapas date night

Several food based activities......just the way we like it!

REFUGE DES FONDUES

Last week we went to Refuge des Fondues (video gives you a good idea of the place). This special trip was due to the fact that the Berlin Fat Tire crew was in town. I have never been to this particular restaurant/tourist destination, but the Paris Fat Tire folks go a couple of times a year for special occasions. Refuge des Fondues is not a Joel Robuchon restaurant. This is a whole in the wall, all you can eat, write on the walls, drink wine out of a baby bottle & climb on the tables kind of joint. It was packed and we had to wait an hour outside, but once inside, I immediately knew why young American adults from across the globe would want to come here. We had a great time eating below average fondue, drinking wine out of a baby bottle (only way that I would - a glass is just too classy) and crammed in on the benches. I promise, it was a ton of fun. Yes, I would go back. 

 Some of our group enjoying the fondu and wine. 

I told you, the wine was literally served in baby bottles.