Silly Little Country

Random Passing Thoughts on Paris

1) Never have I seen such a density of people standing around thoughtlessly on the sidewalk or in various other places, apparently obliviously obstructing those trying to get somewhere. I do not think this was malicious, just some self-absorption of the guilty parties.

2) No culture I am aware of has done a better job with straight lines. Stand at the Louvre Entrance and look for the Arch de Triomphe. Stand at the steps of the Palais de Chaillot and look under the Eiffel Tower. Stand on the bridge by the Place de la Concorde and check the National Assembly and The Madeleine. Just stunning!!

3) No doubt (well, I hope, some doubt) this is attributable to the CAP, and I hate to say it, but the food in the shops and markets is wonderful.

4) "La Campagne" was represented in some markets in town the week we were there; one of the entertainers at one of the markets, promoting itself as from 'la campagne', was a performer doing Edith Piaf songs. Huh? Edith Piaf and la campagne? Nope, I do not think so. That was a city girl.

5) Ohhh patisseries. We under-consumed this year - but what a treat to find every few blocks some great source of a beautiful fruit pastry.

6) While the Edith Piaf stuff I mentioned above was inappropriately placed, it is really great hearing those songs.

7) I walked likely ten to fifteen miles a day while aggressively engaged in our tourism. It was SO easy to do - such a beautiful city, and so small. As has been said brilliantly, "Paris est tout petit pour ceux qui s'aiment comme nous d'un aussi grand amour". (Children of Paradise)

8) More to come

posted by Alan Adamson @ 7:47 AM