Lou Ellen Combs and husband Joe Holt’s recent trip to France was a dream come true for the couple combining Olympic sports with the rich culture and history of Paris. Traveling to Paris for the 2024 Olympics, Lou Ellen not only got to witness her favorite athlete, Rafael Nadal, in action at the Olympic games but also explored some of the city’s most iconic sights. Their journey was a vivid exploration of Parisian life, filled with unforgettable experiences.
Lou Ellen’s main reason for being in Paris was the 2024 Olympics. Although Joe and Lou Ellen didn’t attend the opening ceremony in person, they eagerly watched it on TV. Lou Ellen was a bit disappointed to miss seeing Rafael Nadal carry the Olympic torch in the ceremony, but her excitement soared when she got to see him play—not just once, but twice!
“It was my absolute dream come true!” Lou Ellen exclaimed after watching Nadal in both his doubles match and his first-round singles match. “I guessed right on what tickets to buy!”
The Olympic spirit was evident all over Paris, with signs, banners, and advertisements highlighting the games. However, this also meant there were many barricades and massive security measures in place, creating a unique atmosphere in the city.
After soaking in the Olympic excitement, Lou Ellen and Joe took some time to explore the city, starting with a classic, ultra-touristy activity—a boat ride on the Seine. Seated right at the front, they enjoyed views of Paris’s most iconic buildings and monuments.
The gentle glide along the river provided a perfect introduction to the city’s beauty, offering glimpses of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and other architectural marvels.
Their next stop was Notre Dame, a site rich with history and currently shrouded in scaffolding and cranes as it undergoes restoration. Despite the construction, the visit was memorable, particularly with the discovery of a small museum featuring the lost cities found underground when Notre Dame was built. The experience evoked memories of Greece, adding an unexpected layer of ancient history to the day.
Overwhelming Grandeur: A Day in Versailles
Lou Ellen dedicated an entire day to exploring Versailles, a symbol of French opulence and royal extravagance. The palace was a breathtaking display of wealth and power, taking three hours to tour fully. The massive gardens, dotted with fountains and statues, were equally impressive, extending the exploration into a full-day affair. The visit included tours of the Grand Trianon, noted for its pink marble, and the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette’s preferred, simpler retreat. Lou Ellen reflected on the misunderstood queen, appreciating her love for the countryside over the lavish Parisian lifestyle.
Art and Heat: Montmartre’s Charming Streets
Montmartre, the artists’ haven, was next on the itinerary. Lou Ellen was particularly excited to explore this area, which she believed her mother would have adored. Despite the 95-degree heat and the steep, hilly streets, the charm of Montmartre shone through.
The highlight was the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, with its pristine white exterior and stunning interior mosaics, leaving a lasting impression. Even though the heat made it a challenging day, the picturesque streets and the artistic ambiance of Montmartre were well worth the effort.
Contrasting Vibes: From Montmartre to Pigalle
After the tranquil beauty of Montmartre, Lou Ellen and Joe experienced the stark contrast of Pigalle, home to the famous Moulin Rouge. This neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and risqué shops, offered a glimpse into a different side of Paris. The juxtaposition of Montmartre’s artistic elegance with Pigalle’s bold and brash energy was striking, highlighting the diverse character of the city.
Dinner at Pink Mamma
The day concluded with a delightful dinner at Pink Mamma restaurant. Seated on the rooftop terrace, the prettiest part of the restaurant, Joe savored their specialty—a truffle pasta served in a copper pot. The meal was the perfect way to unwind after a day full of contrasts.
Since unsweetened iced tea is nonexistent in Paris (serving only a peach iced tea), Lou Ellen discovered her new favorite, a virgin mojito! Some drinks come with a flaming firework!
The couple enjoyed a baking class to learn how to make traditional French macarons.
From the serene Seine to the grandiosity of Versailles, the artistic streets of Montmartre, and the Olympic thrills, Lou Ellen and Joe’s journey held many facets of French culture and excitement.
