Europe Planning - Paris 2011

Time to start planning for my trip to Europe. I like to start with Rick Steves books, because I get a nice layout of what I can see in the limited time that I have. The next trip to Paris is with a woman who has been a friend of mine since we were 18 and living in Pittsburgh.  Tina has decided to get her passport and take her vacation time...and just go.  This will be a lot of fun for both of us, and I'm proud and excited to be able to show Paris to her. Rick Steves' Paris 2011 Amazon Affiliate link. (I get a small commission) is my starting place.  I've purchased a new one each year that I travel because I normally write in them throughout the trip (keeping the old ones as a memoir reference guide) and use the new ones to confirm open hours, new ideas, and to make out a new route.  I want to be sure to include the wonderful chocolate shops, bistros, and cafes that are on the way from our apartment to an attraction. 

I spend a lot of time thinking about how to introduce Paris to Tina.  Tourist spots make an easy starting place, but I really enjoy all of the other yummy places to stop.  Sometimes these are sensory overload, but I am leaning towards a plan that just attacks her senses on a daily bases.  Mades for a good blog!