19 Apr 2023
The private van could not get to us because of the Paris marathon, so our guide took us on an adventure trying to find a way across the marathon and through a couple of streets to the van. We've had private guides and tours before. This one was friendly, but a bit shy. She knew a great deal of information and was willing and eager to share any time we had questions. We did not get much time on the grounds - the marathon had us getting there a bit late and I believe the driver may have had some where to go because the guide explained that he was waiting and he drove back rather aggressively home to Paris. However, because of the long wait for lunch at one of the few restaurants at the property, we did not get to see much of the grounds - this was not the guide's fault, but a bit disappointing to wait 45+ minutes just to get food. Lines were long everywhere on the property. Overall, I think the guide was informative, helpful, and patient. The driver was hurried. Versailles was so crowded that it was a bit uncomfortable in some of the rooms that we passed by. Side notes: because this is an international tourist spot, please brace yourself for different cultures and norms. A french gentleman grabbed my husband's shoulder to move him out of the way when we were waiting in line. We were both retired military and prone to react but did not out of shock alone. We are relatively tall people 6+, so this has not happened to us on other trips or at home, however, sometimes the french have customs and courtesies that are different than our own. (pictures were too large, and didn't have time to resize before submitting review)