Eiffel Tower

We visited the Eiffel Tower in January during our friend Rachel’s visit, and learned that the top portion is closed every January for maintenance. Since Brian had never been to the top, I figured we would pop up for a return visit. Of course, being winter in Paris, it was gray and cloudy. The wind kicked up significantly, which buffeted the tower and elevator as we reached the pinnacle. But it was still fascinating to see the views, and marvel at the engineering of the structure.

We took the elevator back down to the second level, but we were feeling energetic so we opted for the stairs the rest of the way down. We hadn’t had much of a sunset, but the dark was offset by the atmospheric tower lighting. I hadn’t visited the first level before and the holiday lights were lovely, and Pere Noel had a real beard and very fashionable suit. Tres chic! There is even an event space which I am sure has been used for weddings (very chapel-like) but that evening was set up for a candlelight concert. Who knew?

 

~Lucy

 

The sun briefly appeared and shone on Invalides

Lucy close to the edge

Eiffel's "apartment" I spared you the wax versions of Edison and Eiffel

The christmas globe on the 1st floor

The elevator has a mock driver showing how they used to be operated 

View from below

Light show in the garden

Wide angle lenses are fun

What it looks and sounds like on the hour at night, it was a bit windy out.