Paris, France Review

If you don't like Paris, there's something wrong with you.  The city is beyond beautiful, great for walking, eating, people watching, museums and shopping.  It's changed dramatically since I started going there in 1980, but it's still Paris with all its splendor.  Wear comfortable shoes, but not American sneakers, and walk, walk, walk.  You may feel like a frump, but you will even in uncomfortable shoes because Parisians carry themselves with confidence and know what to do with a scarf.

My favorite location is the 6th arrondisement, where we generally stay in a small, 3-star hotel to savor the flavor of France.  I particularly like the Odeon area and that Metro stop is convenient.  Bring a good, detailed map and Metro map as you'll enjoy having that when trying to find your way around.  Pick up a crepe and keep walking, then stop for an Orangina or black coffee to get the feel of the city.  Don't miss the fabulous museums and the parks.  Plan a day that makes sense by maybe visiting one sight in the morning (early for the Eiffel Tower to avoid lines) and then relax and roam around in the afternoon.  Or save a museum for a rainy day.

The smaller bistros are my favorite, informal and warm.  I'm not a fan of the overly done up, fancier places.  Have a food dictionary so you're not at a disadvantage though it's easy to familiarize yourself with the names in French.  Hotels will call a taxi for you, as will a restaurant, but you can't hail taxis on the street.  You must go to a taxi stand.

The city is magical.  Understand the personality of the various arrondisements.  Some are more interesting and tourist-friendly than others.  Visit Versailles and Giverny if you have time.  Paris can keep you busy for a week so don't rush through.  It's a city where relaxing is exciting.  They'll drink at lunch and you may find yourself doing that too.

Ah, we'll always have Paris!