March to April 2023, we embarked on an unforgettable journey across Europe, filled with breathtaking sights, indulgent café moments, small unexpected challenges, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From the fairytale-like streets of Eze to the glamour of Monaco, the stunning beaches of Cannes, the history of Paris, and the magic of Disneyland, every stop had something special to offer.
Eze: A Fairytale Village in the Hills
Our stay in Eze felt like stepping into a medieval dream. This picturesque village, perched high above the Mediterranean, was a maze of winding cobblestone streets, stone buildings adorned with vibrant flowers, and panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. Walking through its tiny pathways felt like going back in time, and every corner was postcard-worthy.
The highlight of Eze wasn’t just the stunning scenery—it was the peacefulness. Unlike the more tourist-heavy cities, Eze had an almost spiritual serenity to it. We enjoyed quiet moments sipping coffee at a small café, watching the sun slowly set over the sea, turning the sky into shades of orange and pink. It was the perfect start to our adventure.
Monaco: A Conference & A Taxi Treasure Hunt
Next up was Monaco, where I attended the Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress (AMWC). The conference was incredible, filled with world-class speakers, innovative treatments, and the kind of networking opportunities that make a trip worthwhile. But Monaco came with an unexpected challenge—transportation.
Here’s the funny thing: Ubers don’t exist in Monaco. Taxis will take you into Monaco, but they won’t come back for you. That meant that after the conference or dinner, I had to walk to an invisible border to find a taxi that could actually take me back. Imagine me, dressed for a professional event, casually strolling across a “border” just to catch a ride. It was a logistical headache but an adventure nonetheless!
Despite this, Monaco was as glamorous as you’d expect, yachts bigger than some apartment buildings, luxurious casinos, and streets that looked like something out of a James Bond film.
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco: A Royal Fairytale
Nestled high on Le Rocher (The Rock of Monaco), the Prince’s Palace is a stunning sight, overlooking the Mediterranean with breathtaking views. It’s still the official residence of the Grimaldi family, and walking through its courtyards felt like stepping into a royal fairytale. We arrived just in time to see the Changing of the Guard, a ceremony filled with pomp and precision that made us feel like we were witnessing history in motion.
Beyond the grandeur, the palace also gave us a glimpse into Monaco’s rich past. The state apartments were lavishly decorated, with intricate frescoes and golden chandeliers that screamed old-world royalty. It was incredible to stand in a place where generations of monarchs have lived, ruling one of the most glamorous places on Earth.
The Casino de Monte-Carlo: A Slice of James Bond’s World
Monaco’s Casino de Monte-Carlo is more than just a casino, it’s a symbol of luxury, elegance, and high-stakes glamour. Walking up to the entrance felt surreal, like stepping straight into a James Bond film. The building itself was breathtaking, with its Belle Époque architecture, golden accents, and an atmosphere that made you want to wear a tuxedo just to fit in.
Inside, the chandeliers sparkled, and the gaming rooms were filled with people placing bets at opulent tables. While we didn’t go full high roller, we did try our luck on a few games, just for the experience. The casino wasn’t just about gambling, it was about the ambiance, the history, and the sheer luxury of being in one of the most famous gaming halls in the world.
Between the royal charm of the Prince’s Palace and the glitz of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco was a world of contrasts, where history meets extravagance, and every street feels like it belongs in a movie.
Cannes: Sun, Sand & A Need for Speed
After Monaco, we made our way to Cannes, home of the world-famous film festival and some of the most stunning beaches on the French Riviera. The weather was perfect, and we spent time soaking up the sun, walking along the Promenade de la Croisette, and watching the waves roll in.
But the beach wasn’t even the most exciting part of Cannes. That title goes to our Ferrari experience! There’s something surreal about sitting behind the wheel of a Ferrari, feeling the power of the engine, and driving through the streets of one of the most glamorous places in the world. For a brief moment, we felt like movie stars, until, of course, reality hit, and we had to return the car.
Sun-Soaked Afternoons in Cannes
One of the most memorable and relaxing moments of our trip was simply sitting at a seaside restaurant in Cannes, soaking in the golden Mediterranean sun. My sister-in-law and I found the perfect spot along the Promenade de la Croisette, where the sea stretched endlessly before us, shimmering under the afternoon light.
With a chilled glass of rosé in hand (because when in France, right?), we indulged in a leisurely lunch of fresh seafood, crisp salads, and the kind of crusty baguettes that only the French seem to master. The breeze carried the scent of the ocean, and we could hear the gentle hum of people strolling by, mixed with the distant sound of waves rolling onto the shore.
It was one of those moments where time slowed down. No rushing, no stress just good food, great company, and the pure joy of being in one of the most beautiful places in the world. It was the epitome of the French art de vivre, where even a simple meal becomes an experience to be savored.
Paris: Art, Romance & A Moving Dinner
Ah, Paris—the city of lights, love, and unexpected disappointments (more on that in a second). We did all the classic tourist musts:
- The Louvre – Home to the world’s most famous painting, the Mona Lisa. The kids were beyond excited to see her—until they got up close and realized she’s about the size of an A4 sheet and surrounded by a massive crowd. “That’s it?” was the general reaction. Still, seeing the Louvre itself was a breathtaking experience.
The Eiffel Tower – Magical both during the day and at night when it sparkles. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, it’s a sight that never gets old.
Arc de Triomphe – Climbing to the top gave us the most stunning panoramic views of the Champs-Élysées.
Notre-Dame Cathedral – Though still under restoration, the gothic beauty of Notre-Dame was mesmerizing.
One of our best experiences in Paris was something completely unexpected, Bustronomy. Imagine sitting in a luxury double-decker bus, enjoying a full-course gourmet dinner while the bus drives through the streets of Paris, passing all the major landmarks. It was a Michelin-level meal with a moving view, and hands down, one of the most unique dining experiences we’ve ever had.
Disneyland Paris: The Grand Finale
We saved the best for last, at least according to the kids—Disneyland Paris! After all the culture and history, they were ready for some magic. From riding Space Mountain to meeting their favorite characters, it was pure joy. The fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s Castle
A Trip to Remember
Our journey through Eze, Monaco, Cannes, and Paris was nothing short of magical. From wandering through the storybook streets of Eze to experiencing the glitz and grandeur of Monaco, soaking up the sun in Cannes, and indulging in Parisian culture, history, and fine dining, every moment was filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Of course, no trip is without its quirks, navigating Monaco’s taxi situation, the kids’ hilarious disappointment at the size of the Mona Lisa, and the pure thrill of racing through Cannes in a Ferrari, but those little moments made the trip even more special. And ending it all at Disneyland Paris, watching the kids’ faces light up with joy, was the perfect grand finale.
Travel isn’t just about seeing places, it’s about the experiences, the unexpected detours, the people you meet, and the stories you collect along the way. This trip was filled with all of that and more, and I can’t wait for our next adventure!
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