DAY 2 - PARIS

Barge Simpatico

Staying on the Seine below the Eiffel Tower meant that we could make an early start this morning and be amongst the first tourists in line to go up the tower and see the amazing vistas of Paris. It was quite windy and cold but fortunately it was still clear enough to get a good view.

A relaxed Mark after climbing the Eiffel Tower and savouring the delights of the Seine

We then took a tour on the riverboat, Bateau Mouches, for an hour cruise to get our bearings. I thought I was feeling pretty mellow and relaxed but it only took a few minutes of over-active amateur photographers jumping up and blocking the view of the polite, thoughtful hordes  behind them that I was imagining throwing several people overboard, particularly if they couldn't swim! Despite being peak tourist season, I think Paris copes well and we haven't felt overwhelmed at all ..until then. Mark has persuaded me to venture out on the tourist route tomorrow.

Bob, the owner of the boat, suggested that we try Rue Cler for meals and for general shopping. So we headed up there for lunch today and it was wonderful to see all the fresh fruit, fromageries, the boulangeries, flower stalls - so we are now well set up for the week. He has left us drawers of guide books so that we can be well informed about each arrondissement (sections of Paris) for eating, walking etc.



Rue Cler




At about 6 we went for a twilight walk up the Left Bank to Boulevard Saint - Germain ( of Where do you go to my Lovely? fame ) and then over the bridge and down the Right Bank home. As well as, excellent exercise, we had a feast of sculptures, ornate bridges and the spectacle of the Place de Concorde, the Tuilerie Gardens and the activity on the river, including several wedding parties.




Twilight walk



Tomorrow we plan to go to the local Sunday markets in Boulevard Grenelle and discover more facets of Paris - we are referring to all the notes you've all given us - thank you, but where to start?

M&M