Day 118
This morning we took a short flight from London to Paris. Paris: Paul’s favorite city in the world. That’s probably why it’s our 11th time here. He loves the sidewalk cafes, the small restaurants, the extensive shopping, the markets, museums, and especially the wine. Perhaps there’s a shorter list of what he doesn’t like, although that list is shrinking since fewer restaurants are filled with smoke and I’ve only seen one sidewalk doggie pile of poo since we’ve arrived. Now there are even fewer disadvantages.
For many years Paul has wanted to spend some time living here. We’re maxing out the country’s allowed visitation time of three months. One summer we rented an apartment in Passy, and this time we are staying for three months in Montemarte. Paul does extensive research before deciding on a neighborhood, and this choice is a fantastic location. Outside our window is a view of Sacre Coeur, the hilly cobble-stoned streets are lined with cute little shops, cafes, and restaurants are steps from our front door. It’s one of the quaintest, most vibrant neighborhoods in Paris.
Our apartment is located on one of the larger streets in Montemart. Down the center there is a large boulevard which has two bike lanes, and a center part lined with benches. Today there was a huge flea market taking place in the large there, with dozens of tiny stalls.
Here are the views from our window.
On our first evening we walked up to the church and then had a delicious meal at a little restaurant where the waiters in suspenders sing while they bustle about the tables.
Cali knew the songs and could join in with the crowd, while the rest of us just soaked up a quintessential French evening. Really, it was the perfect way to spend our first night in Paris.
