Category: France

Paying our respects overlooking Omaha Beach.

The D-Day Experience was an immersive and personable museum. The exhibits focused on individuals incredible stories and the flight simulation gave you an inkling of how the paratroopers felt before jumping in D-Day.

Mont Saint-Michel, a tidal island, has a history dating back to the 8th century when it was established as a strategic fortification. By the 10th century, it became a renowned Benedictine abbey, attracting pilgrims from across Europe. During the French Revolution and until 1863, Mont Saint-Michel was repurposed as a prison, housing political prisoners, before…

The easternmost beach of the Normandy landings, Sword Beach, was between Juno Beach and the Orne River. The British 3rd Infantry Division was the main force to secure the beach, along with British Commandos and a detachment of Free French soldiers. Their objectives were to secure a beach-head, link up with the British paratroopers at…

Étretat, a small coastal town in Normandy, France, is famed for its stunning white chalk cliffs and natural arches, including the iconic “Falaise d’Aval” and “L’Arche.” The dramatic seascapes have inspired numerous artists and writers, such as Claude Monet and Guy de Maupassant.

Our journey brought us to Le Havre, a bustling port city on the Normandy coast. While exploring the harbor and waterfront, it was fascinating to reflect on its historical connections across the Atlantic. Havre de Grace, Maryland, was actually named in honor of Le Havre, France, as a tribute to General Lafayette’s assistance during the…

After a restful night in our petit château, we started our morning exploring Honfleur, a charming port town in Normandy. Its picturesque harbor, Vieux Bassin, is lined with 17th-century townhouses that have remained remarkably well preserved. The slate-fronted façades and cobblestone streets give the town a storybook feel, and it’s easy to see why artists…

Using the book “Road to War: Trip of a Lifetime” to plot our D-Day Normandy journey, our first stop brought us to Reims, a city layered with centuries of history and pivotal moments. Pronounced “Rance” (like France without the F), Reims immediately shows its importance in both ancient and modern times. Walking through the city,…