Part of our planning for trips includes family discussions about what “new” things we’re going to try on each trip. Since this is our third trip to Paris we have a pretty good idea of what we will see and do but a few considerations need to be made.
First, as the kids get older we do a quick review of the main activities: Louvre, d’Orsay, Eiffel tower, Seine River strolls; restaurants, transportation, etc. Any changes since 2014? A 3 and a 5 year old is quite different than an 18 month old but they’ve been on a couple trips since and are pretty good at long walks, playing at the park, and going to museums. One big consideration is whether we try a classical music concert at Sainte-Chapelle like we did in 2012. They’re pretty good, but classical music? At night? Without making a peep??
But there are a few things that we still haven’t tried. Top on this list regarding our Gothis and Middle Ages theme is the Cluny museum and their unicorn tapestry the kids love, especially our daughter. With a little bit of context we’re thinking this will be a great new activity for the family. We’re even excited about it! Other activities on the list include the Picasso Museum, which has been closed for renovations our last two trips. We’ve never made it up to Montmartre. We haven’t taken a river cruise to see the city from the water. And we haven’t really been on any tours.
The one main tour we’re considering now is Context Tours’ Notre Dame Tour: Paris Gothic Architecture tour. This would be in alignment with our 2018 Paris theme; i.e., trying to learn about something we didn’t previously give much attention to.
We’ve been considering Context Tours with their PhD experts for years now and this itinerary and subject matter is a perfect fit. It’s pricey but here’s the problem: No kids under 12 allowed. We do understand why this is the case but our kids have been on 4 hour tours before and if they act up we’ll separate from the group as to not disturb others! Sorry, says customer service woman. Rules are rules. If we want to do the tour we have to pay the private tour rates. Just us four and a guide. That’s maximum price for minimum adults.
We’re also considering a much more economical Montmartre tour. We’ll keep you posted.
talk soon,
Dan & Betsy
Family discussion topic: Family preferences on group versus private tours? Is the extra money worth the extra attention? When would a cheaper group get the job done?