We have had glorious weather with brilliant sunshine and high 20s temperature. The city is warm and full of life.
We have covered a lot of ground in a few short days. We started strong with a hike up to Sacre Coeur to take in the full view of the city. We then walked down through the smaller streets to the Moulin Rouge. Going from saints to sinners in a few blocks. We took in more of the city views from the roof terrace of the Galleries Lafayette. I am not sure what is more stunning, the view of the city or the domed mosaic ceilings inside. We got a chuckle from all the ladies that were lunching in the high-end cafeteria on the 6th floor and all the kids were up on the 7th with their bags of McDonald's.
We scored a great deal on a city tour that allowed us to tour over two days. We rounded out the first day riding high above the fray and taking in all the big attractions. The only downside was that I had forgotten to charge my camera battery, so I ran out of juice just before we hit the Eiffel tower.
As we returned to our hotel neighbourhood, we realized that we were in the heart of the Gay Pride Parade route. The boys were out in full force with lots of music and very little clothing. I felt like I was on Church street. Happy Pride to all my Gay and Lesbian friends!!
We finished the night with a quick subway ride out to see the Eiffel Tower twinkle at 11pm. It was pretty, but not as special as I expected. Our CN Tower puts on a more impressive display.
On Sunday, we finished off the other tour bus routes and landed ourselves at the Hotel des Invalides. We strolled through the impressive grounds of the previous hospital. It is now a museum for military armory (not my thing really).
We had decided that the Louvre was too crowded and not needed, so we opted for the Musee Rodin and Musee d'Orsay instead. If you are a fan of sculpture, then the 1€ entrance fee to the gardens at the Rodin Museum is the best money ever spent. I can't believe it is that cheap. We went into the small indoor exhibit as well, which was nice, but not necessary. The only major work they have inside is "The Kiss".
The Musee d'Orsay was also fabulous. The Impressionist are all well represented with some very famous pieces included in the permanent collection.
We headed home to our hotel for a rest and dinner of cheese and bread - can't beat that! When in Paris...
We took it easier on Monday. We started with a quick walk through Notre Dame. Two things about churches in Paris amaze me; 1) the are free or by donation to enter, 2) despite the hundreds of signs asking people not to talk or use flash photography, everyone does. I am not a religious person, but I know enough to respect the rules. Sheeish, heathens!
We next took ourselves via metro to the Arc du Triomphe. It was more interesting than I thought. The carvings on the pillars were very intricate. Finally, we began our stroll down the Champs Elysees - shopping time! I felt a indescribable pulling sensation as I walk past shops. I guess the shopping craving never leave you. I snatched up a couple of cute tops in the spring sales!!
We treated ourselves to a lovely dinner in the Italian district. I had found in our guidebook a street with three recommended restaurants. When we arrived, one of them was full up with about 20 people outside. This was clearly a popular place. We opted for across the street and enjoyed a delicious set menu that didn't cost the national debt. I had known that Europe was going to be expensive compared to Africa and Asia, however when you see a small bottle of Coke for 4.5€ it really makes you gag.
We are off to the south now. My aunt Jane has picked us up in Paris and we will drive to her place in Province. I am looking forward to chilling out for a few days by her pool. Hopefully her broadband service will allow me to get caught up on my photos again.
Bonjour mes amies!
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