The Dordogne was the hidden gem of the trip, replete with beautiful landscapes, stunning limestone outcroppings, verdant river valleys, and fairy-tale villages. But also bittersweet in that we knew the trip was coming to an end.

At first, Provence was a letdown. My perhaps idealized memories winning out over the post-Covid realities. But over the two weeks we spent there, new and previous gems unfolded to reveal the heart of the region.

Terrifying heights and thrilling adventures at every turn. Fears weren’t necessarily conquered but at least stared at right in the face.

Two geographically close cities that, turns out, couldn't have been more opposite. Our next week took us to a dual-adventure of Beaune in Bourgogne and Colmar in Alsace.

Sancerre, Val de Loire. Sleepy vineyard town that taught us so much more than French. Time slowed down, sunsets were magical, and we were reminded of the sweetness that comes with resting our bones in a singe place.

Dramatic cliffs and rock formations, emerald-hued waters, medieval villages, galettes, Butter with a capital B, Kir Breton, and a relatively calm introduction to getting around in France.   

This trip felt far off… until it didn’t. Staring down at 7 days from takeoff, I’m ready to call my planning process, and plan, done. Or am I?

Nearly 45 years ago my dad concocted his Paris Plan to keep me away from a boyfriend. I almost didn’t come back. Now, in retirement, I’m creating my very own Paris Plan.