DAY 6 : PARIS

What better way to start the day than with fresh pastries, bagettes and fruit from the local market. Bob, our expert forager and specialty source, did an early morning reconnoitre and brought back a feast that set us up for the day.

Traditional fresh French breakfast

Mark and I walked to Rodin's Garden and Museum, which was originally the Hotel de Biron, built in the 18th century. It has had a varied history of being a convent and Rodin's Paris residence, saving it from demolition. It converted into a museum in 1919 with Rodin bequeathing much of his marble and bronze statues to establish it. It is a very peaceful space - gorgeous chateau - like home - and gardens filled with sculptures. The museum is not cluttered but has just enough of his work to satisfy the visit.

The Thinker by Rodin at the Musee Rodin

 

The former Hotel Biron now Musee Rodin

 

We met Julie and Bob at a restaurant near the Eiffel Tower. It is a favourite of theirs and our first fine dining experience in Paris. A  delicious experience with such care to every detail.

 

 

Fine dining at Au Bon Accueil

 

Rum Baba

 

 

Mark and I made a quick trip out to Montmartre and Sacre- Coeur Cathedral, managing multiple changes on the Metro excellently with no stress!  There was lots of life in the underground including a large band playing rousing Russian music.

Lively buskers in the Metro

 

  Montmartre was the bohemian artists' quarter in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Unfortunately we didn't see much of its charm today as it was full of tourists and tourist paraphernalia. We caught the funicular to the Sacre-Coeur Cathedral, built as a memorial for the 58,000 French soldiers, killed in the Franco-Prussian War  (1870-71) and finished in 1923. It is an impressive landmark and can be seen from the centre of Paris.

Sacre-Coeur Cathedral

We have enjoyed our walks - across the Pont des Artes, the pedestrian bridge where lovers attach locks, with their names inscribed, to the wire netting.

Pont des Artes with Ile de la Cite in the background

Lovers' locks

 It is very safe to walk around at night with families and friends (and tourists!) enjoying the ambience.

Along the Seine at night

M&M
29/8/12
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