Alycia and Marty embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the 2024 Paris Paralympics, filled with excitement, inspiration, and a deep appreciation for the spirit of the Games. Their journey began at San Francisco International Airport, where they boarded a direct flight to Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris with Air France. After landing, the couple experienced the warm hospitality and exceptional service of the airport’s mobility assistance team, who efficiently escorted them from the plane to the Hertz rental car service, ensuring a smooth transition as they began their Parisian adventure.
Eager to dive into the sights and sounds of Paris, Alycia and Marty wasted no time in beginning their exploration. They wound their way through the charming countryside roads of Gousainville and Gonesse, gradually making their way to Saint-Denis to catch their first glimpse of the iconic Stade de France. As Marty navigated the roads of France, the couple soaked in the beautiful landscapes and historic architecture that lined their route. The anticipation of witnessing the Paralympics firsthand added an extra layer of excitement to their journey.
Their adventure continued with a scenic drive up to the hilltop of Montmartre, where they were greeted by breathtaking views of the city from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Standing on this historic hilltop, they took in the sweeping panorama of Paris, feeling the pulse of the city beneath them. This picturesque stop served as a perfect prelude to their next destination: their hotel near Place de la République.
After checking in, Alycia and Marty enjoyed a lovely dinner at Fluctuat, a local favorite that offered them a taste of Parisian cuisine. Energized by their meal, they rested up, preparing for the next day of adventures.
The following morning, they literally hit the ground running, or rather, rolling, as they pushed their wheelchairs along the scenic pathways of the Canal Saint-Martin. This route took them through the vibrant heart of Paris to the historic Place de la Bastille, a symbolic starting point for their day of exploration. It was the perfect way to blend their love for exercise with sightseeing, and it served as a wonderful warm-up for the French cuisine they were eager to enjoy.
The entire city was alive with the buzz of the Paralympics. Special road closures had been put in place to accommodate the events, and the local news outlets were broadcasting in front of the Paralympic symbol that adorned the Arc de Triomphe. Nearly every grand monument and iconic location in Paris seemed to be transformed into a celebration of athleticism, resilience, and the human spirit. The city was more than just a backdrop; it was a participant, with every street corner echoing the excitement of the Games.
Alycia and Marty’s carefully planned itinerary included visits to several of the key Paralympic venues. They explored the famed grounds of Roland Garros, where they watched the intense and thrilling matches of Wheelchair Tennis. They ventured to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, where Para Equestrian events unfolded against a backdrop of regal splendor, and marveled at the grace and agility of athletes at the Grand Palais during Para Fencing competitions. Each venue offered a unique experience, reflecting both the sport’s prestige and the spirit of the Paralympics.
As they made their way through the city, they rubbed shoulders with fellow spectators and sports enthusiasts. They met Willie Hernandez, the founder and owner of Performax wheelchairs, whose innovation has been instrumental in supporting athletes with disabilities. They also encountered gold medalists like Jason Tabansky, whose achievements in the Paralympics have inspired countless others. One of the highlights was meeting Mario Fahrasmane, a living legend whose presence added even more prestige to their experience. The camaraderie, shared passion, and mutual respect among everyone they met left a lasting impression on Alycia and Marty.
Their exploration of Paris was not limited to the Paralympic venues. With every opportunity, they sought to discover the accessibility and charm of the city itself. They visited the stunning Sainte-Chapelle, with its vibrant stained glass windows, and the historic Notre Dame, still resiliently standing despite recent challenges. The Hôtel de Ville, with its grand architecture, was another stop, as was the majestic Palace of Versailles and its expansive gardens, a marvel of French opulence and history. No visit to Paris would be complete without a trip to the Eiffel Tower, which they admired both from afar and up close, marveling at its engineering and cultural significance. They strolled through Place de la Concorde and soaked in the atmosphere of a city rich in history and vibrant with life.
Throughout their trip, Alycia and Marty were struck by how accessible Paris had become. While there were certainly challenges, they found the city to be increasingly accommodating, with numerous adaptations made in anticipation of the Paralympics. From accessible transportation options to the welcoming attitude of Parisians, their experience was largely positive and affirming.
The Paralympics themselves were a testament to the human spirit, resilience, and determination. Alycia and Marty celebrated the achievements of athletes like Dana Mathewson and cheered for Team USA, feeling a deep sense of pride and solidarity with the competitors. Every event they attended was filled with moments of triumph, skill, and emotion, as athletes pushed the boundaries of what is possible.
Reflecting on their journey, Alycia and Marty were filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness such an incredible event and to be part of a global celebration of inclusivity, diversity, and sportsmanship. They expressed their congratulations to all the Paralympians who attended this year’s games, celebrating the power of sport to bring people together and inspire positive change.
As they prepared to return home, Alycia and Marty couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for the future. The 2024 Paris Paralympics had been an extraordinary experience, and they looked forward to the next chapter in Los Angeles in 2028, when the Games would return to the United States. Until then, they carried with them the memories of a vibrant city, the inspiring athletes, and the powerful sense of community they had experienced in Paris.
Their adventure in Paris was more than just a trip; it was a journey of discovery, celebration, and connection. From navigating the bustling streets to enjoying moments of reflection at some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, Alycia and Marty embraced every experience with open hearts and a spirit of adventure. The city of lights, with its rich history and dynamic energy, had proven to be the perfect host for the Paralympics, and Alycia and Marty left with a profound appreciation for both Paris and the incredible athletes who had competed.
As they said their goodbyes to Paris, they were filled with excitement for what lay ahead, knowing that the spirit of the Paralympics would continue to inspire them in their advocacy for inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment. Until the next Games, they carried with them the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the unforgettable moments that made their Paris adventure truly extraordinary. Congratulations to all the Paralympians, and here’s to a future filled with even more opportunities to celebrate the triumph of the human spirit!