When I first started traveling seriously, I would research what I was going to do and see and then plan jammed packed days. It like I was worried I would be bored wherever I was.  Silly Flo. Bored is state of mind. You allow that to happen.  Now as I am older and more experienced, I am less inclined to plan stuff because I usually don’t end up doing what I had planned on doing in the first place.

I booked 5 nights in Paris, because I was at the mercy of availability of frequent flier seats. While Paris had gone on me, I had been so many times before that I wondering what I would do for the 6 days.  I booked a side trip to Luxembourg and some jewelry classes at L’Ecole  Van Cleef & Arpels.   But it was colder that I had anticipated and I was tired, so I skipped my trip to Luxembourg.  Instead I just wondered around the streets of Paris. Discovering new neighborhoods, and taking photos.

I was super excited by jewelry class. I LOVE gemstones. So I signed up for two courses, Discover the Gemstones and Recognize the Gemstones.  So great for anyone that loves gems. So informative and hands end. I was taught how to use proper jeweler tools. If you love gems, I highly recommend checking out their course offerings.  I am sure there will be more classes in my future. It’s very well taught.

I could not be in Paris and go do some cultural. The hotel recommend a Klimt exhibit, so off I went. I know of Gustav Klimt, his most famous piece of art is The Kiss.  The Atelier des Lumières  is a digital art museum. So the art is display on the walls, the floors, you.
It’s cool, but it could easily give you a headache.

After 3 weeks touring around, it was time for my final flight. I am so thankful for the check in agent at UA that ignored the fact my bags were grossly overweight. And for the fantastic flight crew for laughing at my “situation” as I struggled to get it all in the overhead bin. The best part? Seeing a familiar face, Claudie, who I had met 6 years before on flight from Brussels to Chicago.  But if you’ve ever meant Claudie, you would know she’s got a smile that you never forget!  I even trekked to the back of the plane, something I avoid doing at all costs, to see chat with during the flight. It turns out we will be neighbors here in Chicago! And Beth, another flight attendant and her friend, who was working the flight as well happens to love Champagne! It was like it was fate, United bringing me home and helping reunite with old friends and introducing me to new ones.

Stay tuned for the next adventure back Australia for graduation.