October 21, 2025
Photos and Text by Donna Pace Baker
The Winchester-Clark County Chamber of Commerce just wrapped up an unforgettable trip to France, and while the entire experience was splendid, the best part was without a doubt the new friendships made, the fun with old friends, and—of course—the food!
This trip was extra special because we connected with a fantastic group from all over. We had 8 friends join us from Frankfort, 5 from Illinois, 2 from Texas, and the Winchester area posse. It was incredible to see people from all these different places come together and bond over shared experiences. Whether it was exploring the streets of Paris, discovering hidden gems in the French countryside, or just enjoying a meal together, the friendships that were formed made the trip that much more memorable.
One of the highlights was having my sweet friend Nathalie, who lives in Nice, join us there for dinner. Her warmth, kindness, and the way she shared her love for France with us was authentic and natural. It was such a treat to have a local guide us through the experience, and her hospitality really made the evenings unforgettable.
And of course, the food! Every meal was a feast for the senses -flaky croissants in the morning, rich cheeses, savory French dishes, and, of course, the wine! Every bite was an experience, and sharing these moments with such a lovely group of people made the flavors even more unforgettable.
From catching up with old friends to making new connections, this trip was a reminder of the power of community, whether near or far. We couldn’t have asked for a better group to share this adventure. Through organizations like the Winchester Clark County Chamber of Commerce, international travel builds connections that foster business development, tourism, and cultural exchange, making each visit to places like France a chance to broaden Kentucky’s global footprint.
To everyone who joined us from Winchester, Frankfort, Illinois, Texas, and beyond—thank you for the laughter, the memories, and the moments we’ll treasure forever. Until next time, Bonsoir France!
