Solo in Paris: My First-Class Weekend Escape from NYC
Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you take alone. Craving a break from the hustle of New York City, I decided to treat myself to a weekend in Paris. Flying first class, staying in a world-class hotel, and dining at iconic restaurants, I discovered the magic of solo travel in the City of Light. Here’s how my luxurious escape unfolded and why I’m already dreaming of my next solo journey.
Solo in Paris: My First-Class Weekend Escape from NYC
The Flight: A First-Class Dream
My journey began at JFK Airport, where I boarded an Air France flight to Paris. First class was everything I’d imagined and more. The moment I stepped into the cabin, I was greeted by a spacious suite with a lie-flat seat, plush bedding, and a personal entertainment system loaded with the latest films. The service was impeccable—attentive without being intrusive. A glass of champagne welcomed me aboard, setting the tone for the luxury to come.
Dinner was a highlight: a multi-course meal featuring lobster thermidor, paired with a crisp Sancerre, and finished with a decadent chocolate soufflé. The flight felt less like a means to an end and more like part of the experience itself. By the time we landed at Charles de Gaulle, I was rested, refreshed, and ready to explore.
The Hotel: Elegance at the Ritz Paris
For my stay, I chose the iconic Ritz Paris, a hotel steeped in history and synonymous with luxury. Located in the heart of the city on Place Vendôme, it offered the perfect base for my weekend adventures. My suite was a vision of Parisian chic—high ceilings, antique furnishings, and a marble bathroom fit for royalty. The view? A stunning panorama of the city’s rooftops, with the Eiffel Tower glimmering in the distance.
Image Courtesy: Ritz Paris
What truly set the Ritz apart was its attention to detail. From the personalized welcome note to the nightly turndown service complete with macarons, every moment felt curated. I indulged in a treatment at the Ritz Club Spa, where a lavender-infused massage melted away any lingering travel fatigue. It was pure bliss.
Dining in Paris: A Culinary Journey
Paris is a food lover’s paradise, and I was determined to make the most of it. My first stop was Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant perched on the Eiffel Tower. Dining 400 feet above the city, I savored each bite of my seven-course tasting menu, which included delicacies like foie gras with fig compote and roasted pigeon with truffle sauce. The view was as breathtaking as the food, with the Seine River winding below and the city lights twinkling like stars.
Dining in Paris: A Culinary Journey
For a more intimate experience, I ventured to Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy bistro in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Here, the atmosphere was lively, and the menu was a celebration of classic French cuisine. I opted for the coq au vin, rich and hearty, paired with a glass of Burgundy. The bistro’s charm and the warmth of the staff made me feel like a local, even if just for an evening.
The Joy of Solo Exploration
Traveling alone in Paris was a revelation. I set my own rhythm, wandering cobblestone streets without a schedule. I lingered at the Musée d’Orsay, captivated by Monet’s water lilies, and strolled through Montmartre, where street artists sketched beneath Sacré-Cœur’s dome. A quiet moment in the Tuileries Garden, sipping espresso and people-watching, felt like a gift.
Solo travel also sparked unexpected connections. At a café in Le Marais, I chatted with a local baker who shared tips on the best patisseries. These interactions, born from the openness of traveling alone, added warmth and depth to my trip.
Why I’d Go Solo Again
This Parisian weekend was a love letter to independence. The first-class flight and luxurious stay at the Ritz Paris made it indulgent, but the freedom of solo travel made it transformative. I explored on my terms, discovered new sides of myself, and returned to NYC with a suitcase full of memories and a bolder spirit.
Paris is a city that embraces solo travelers with open arms. Its beauty, culture, and culinary scene are perfect for those seeking both adventure and reflection. If you’re hesitating to travel alone, take the leap—Paris is waiting, and so is the you you’ll discover along the way.
Solo in Paris: My First-Class Weekend Escape from NYC