Wrapping Up Mom and Dad's Visit

Luggage weighing a bit more than their arrival. They hopped in a cab by 7:30 a.m. And scooted down Boulevard de Grenelle. Moving further away from me. Destination, Charles de Gaulle airport.

My parents’ visit was beyond great. We not only ticked off everything on their must do list. But snuck a few extras in there too.

Our last day together was spent visiting, learning, and tasting sparkling wine in Champagne. A slick one hour and ten minute train ride from Gare de l’Est. And a short walk into town. Brought us to our first destination.

Founded on Champagne’s inventor, Dom Pérignon, Moët et Chandon is the largest of all houses in Epernay. Epernay is the closest town to Paris in the Champagne region. After an hour tour of the grounds, cellars, and history we finally tasted. True Champagne. In Champagne.

Most houses – synonymous with wineries – shut down for a two hour lunch. Heading into the heart of Epernay we found a great outdoor café to eat. A bit rosé Champagne in the hot sun set our meal just right.

We capped the day with another visit – tour and tasting – at Mercier. The story was similar to that of Moët et Chandon. But the drinks were better, and cheaper. We picked up a few souvenirs here.

We arrived back to Paris in the early evening. Perfect for one more dinner. Transporting ourselves to the Latin Quarter – one more neighborhood for Mom and Dad to experience. We settled on some Vietnamese. A great place with a nice patio that caught a bit of a breeze.

A quick metro ride back to the hotel neatly wrapped up their visit. They were off to pack for their early morning cab ride.

Visits like these are always too fast. I miss them dearly.