Kelsey’s trip to France in celebration of her 40th birthday had been on the cards for nearly a year. We had an epic 10-day trip ahead of us that would see us spend a few nights in Paris at one of our dear friends’ apartments, before whisking through the French countryside to the Loire Valley. This adventure was beautifully planned.

The flight to Paris was smooth, and as I landed at Charles de Gaulle Airport, my excitement was palpable. However, after a 40-minute sobering search for my Uber driver (note to myself and others; just get the RER), I found that my French wasn’t as polished as I’d once hoped. I quickly bustled myself into a car, throwing my suitcases into the back as if they weighed nothing, as Abdel – who I got the sense didn’t appreciate my incoherent Franglais – drove me through the bustling streets of Paris to our charming apartment in Montmartre. I had made it. It was a cozy place with views of charming streets and balconies, adorned with floral arrangements and little restaurants.

That first night called for oysters and white wine – bien sûr – at neighbourhood restaurant, Perlouse, and an evening promenade to shake off the jet lag.

After bidding farewell to our little apartment, we embarked on the next leg of our journey — the enchanting Loire Valley via Versailles, which did not disappoint. Versailles had never looked so beautiful. The gold leaf was newly applied, and everything sparkled as the rain came down. Preparations for the Olympics had worked its magic on the palace, and the nearby Petit Trianon. We spent a full day here, wandering the gardens, sipping coffee, and marveling at the ornate detail of each molding.

Renting a car in Paris is no mean feat and once we’d figured out the logistics of moving our reservation from Hertz to Europcar (long story), we made our way through picturesque villages with their half-timbered houses and blooming gardens. Our accommodation for the next 4 nights was a charming bed and breakfast, Château de la Ruche, nestled amidst fields and forests where we woke up to the smell of freshly baked croissants each morning.

Exploring the Loire Valley was like stepping into a fairy tale. We visited stunning châteaux and gardens each with its own unique history and architectural grandeur. The peony festival offered a riot of colours, and we wandered through them, imagining life in these magnificent estates centuries ago. The old town of Le Mans on market day was a sight to behold, and a few antiques and a bottle of champagne were procured to mark the occasion.

In the evenings, we dined al fresco under the stars, savoring local delicacies like goat cheese from nearby farms and delicate pastries filled with fresh berries. The wines of the region, especially from Château de Minière, paired perfectly with our meals, adding another layer to our culinary journey.

Returning to Paris, we immersed ourselves in the magic of the city. We strolled along the banks of the Seine, marveling at the Notre Dame Cathedral, which is now almost restored, and the iconic Eiffel Tower that sparkled every evening. The Louvre Museum left us awestruck as it always does, and we spent hours getting lost in the city of lights, soaking in the art and history.

As our trip came to an end, we reflected on the memories we had created—the laughter, the shared experiences, and the deepening of our friendships. Kelsey’s 40th birthday celebration had indeed been a journey of discovery and joy, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the heart of France.

When it came time to board our various planes back home, we carried with us not just souvenirs and photographs, but a treasure trove of stories and experiences that would forever hold a special place in our hearts. France welcomed us with open arms, and we embraced its beauty, culture, and warmth wholeheartedly, promising to do it all again someday soon.

Photographer · JACQUELINE ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY
Film Lab · RICHARD PHOTO LAB
Accommodation · CHATEAU DE LA RUCHE
Vineyard · CHATEAU DE MINIERE

XOXO

Jacqueline Anne is an International Fine Art Photographer based between Halifax, Nova Scotia & the UK. She specializes in destination weddings, elopements and portraits. Inspired by love of all kinds, her images are elegant, artful & authentic.