Ever since I was a little girl growing up in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Paris was a shimmering beacon in my imagination. The Eiffel Tower stood tall in my dreams, promising romance and adventure, fueled by countless movies and books. I held onto this dream through school, college, and right into adulthood, never wavering even as life bestowed responsibilities like marriage and career upon me. And this Spring Break, on a pause from teaching and writing, my husband Sebastian and I finally made it to Paris.
As a lifelong Disney enthusiast, our journey naturally began at Disneyland Paris. We settled into Disney’s Sequoia Lodge, a charming hotel that gave off the vibes of a cozy forest adventure. Despite an initial hiccup with our luggage, we adapted quickly, grabbing essentials from our backpacks and treating ourselves to new Disney gear—hello, adorable Stitch jersey and matching ears! Our adventurous spirit led us first to Walt Disney Studios Park, where the Avengers Assemble: Flight Force coaster had us screaming with joy. We dove into the Avengers Campus, a world brimming with excitement and heroism.
Dining at Bistrot Chez Rémy was an enchanting experience, capturing the essence of French cuisine and the delightful world of “Ratatouille.” Every inch of the place, from oversized dinner plates to wine bottles, demanded a photo op. Our evening ended perfectly at Disney’s Hotel New York—The Art of Marvel, where we sipped on craft cocktails at the chic Skyline Bar, basking in the beauty of superhero art come to life.
Our next day in the main Disneyland Park was nothing short of magical. Seeing Sleeping Beauty’s Castle brought tears to my eyes—Aurora meeting Aurora’s castle! I celebrated with champagne in front of that fairytale edifice, feeling every bit the royalty I had imagined in my childhood. The Galerie de la Belle au Bois Dormant stunned us with its mesmerizing tapestries and stained glass, while the animatronic dragon beneath the castle added a thrilling touch of whimsy. By night, I felt like a true Disney princess, donning my Snow White-inspired attire and experiencing the My Royal Dream transformation at the Disneyland Hotel.
Our adventure then extended into the heart of Paris. Staying at the vibrant Moxy Paris Bastille, we immersed ourselves in the city’s cultural and historical riches, from the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle to the Louvre. Strolling along the Champs-Élysées, I gifted myself a small bottle of Chanel perfume, savoring the elegant Parisian charm. Nights were spent speakeasy hunting, uncovering hidden gems like Moonshiner and L’Épicier, where inventive cocktails and atmospheric vibes transported us to another era.
We traversed the scenic streets, fueled by pastries and laughter, inspired by everyday acts of kindness like the crepe shop owner’s generosity. It was these moments—beyond the iconic sights—that made me feel truly connected to Paris. Reflecting on this magical journey, it’s heartwarming to realize dreams do come true with love, hope, and a little bit of pixie dust. Paris, in all its splendor and warmth, will always be waiting for our return.
What’s your Disney dream adventure? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the magic alive together! 🚀✨
Source: Aurora Dominguez
