During these times of pandemic and self quarantine, it is nice to think about past trips taken, and dream of once again heading back to places such as Paris, where my sister Susan and I spent five days a year ago this past May. Susan's favorite part of the trip was just hanging out in cafes, drinking wine, and watching the crowds go by. This also seems to be the favorite activity of the Parisians, such as couple in the photograph on the left. Susan wants to return to Paris for her 80th birthday, which will be a year from this January. I have a sneaking suspicion that it might be a bit on the cool side hanging out in cafes that time of year, but on the other hand, I'll bet the museums are are a lot less crowded. As always, you have to take both the good and the bad when you travel.
My favorite part of Paris is the Rue Cler neighborhood. Rue Cler itself is a market street close to the Eiffel Tower, and is very popular with Americans. Another favorite neighborhood of mine is the Marais District, where Place des Vosges, seen in the photograph on the right, is located. The Marais used to be a swamp, but was turned into a neighborhood for the aristocracy by Henry IV. Place des Vosges was built in 1612, and features residences for both the king and the queen on opposite sides of the park. Although the king and queen never wound up living here, the aristocracy did, and this square was where nobles would meet to discuss the events of the day. Alexander Dumas lived here, too, and his apartment is now a museum. This is one of the most pleasant spots in Paris, and it is a pleasure just to sit here, relax, and watch the locals go about their daily lives. I wonder if it will be just as pleasant in January? Of course, as the British say, there is no inappropriate weather, just inappropriate clothing. Words to live by.
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