April 26, 2010

Wandering in Paris

The Paris Metro. Reliable and functional.
I like knowing that I can move about the city, quickly and easily (most of the time). It serves its purpose.

But my favorite way to see Paris is to wander. Sometimes with a map, sometimes aimlessly, always with my camera in hand.
Because down there in the Metro tunnels you can't savor the sights and sounds of the markets or explore the quirky shops and little alleyways or ensconce yourself in a café for several hours while you take in the street life.

To me, Paris is best explored on foot. With little or no destination in mind. Just wandering.










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19 comments:

The Duchess said...

Lovely photos! Looks like you had great weather. No better place to wander on foot than Paris, I agree!

Paul said...

What beautiful pictures! They really make me nostalgic. And I quite agree with you. When I spent a summer in Paris, I was amazed to find what a foot-friendly city it was. Staying in the 14th, most of the city was a very reasonable walk away, and no matter where I was going, the walk was quite lovely. I've never seen a city that was so lovely just to walk around.

Andi said...

I totally agree, I love just wandering around the city with no destination in mind and with camera in hand!

Jean Z. said...

LouLou -- Wonderful pictures. I wish I could visit Paris. I've only gotten as close as London, but like you, I believe the best way to see a city is to get lost in it. Forget following the tourists; follow the little old man who really knows the city.

aimee said...

mmmm...a glass of kir in a paris cafe.

Half Baked said...

Wow gorgeous photos! I'm completely jealous right now!

Emm said...

Wonderful pictures, thanks, and what wonderful wandering you're doing. What are the pinky-red rounds in the picture with flowers? Looks like peonies in bud--c'est possible?

Betty Carlson said...

It looks like you are having gorgeous weather. Who wouldn't want to avoid the metro with blue skies like those?

Gourmantic said...

Great photo story! Makes me want to return and bask in the springtime weather.

deedee said...

I love Paris. Your wonderful photos have me longing for a visit there. Enjoy your wandering!

Unknown said...

What a perfect week for you to have been in Paris :) Great weather and happier people.

Mlle Paradis said...

me saying ditto on all the pictures. especially the very last with the stripes and the gleamy olives. merci!

Jennifer said...

Duchess
We couldn't have asked for better weather. It was heavenly!

Paul
Sounds like you had a very good visit. Paris is the perfect place to just wander around.

Andi
Moi aussi!

WHTTC
You must get there one of these days. You will love it.

aimee
Spending an hour with un petit kir or some rosé at the café is a wonderful way to soak up the atmosphere.

Half Baked
Glad you like the photos and sorry you're jealous!

Emm
Yes, they are peonies. Aren't they amazing?

Betty
We had a lot of rides on the Metro but walked. And walked. And walked.
It was wonderful!

Gourmantic
So far I've had perfect weather every time I've visited Paris in the spring.

Meredith
Thanks! It is such a special city.

Lindsey
It was perfect. (except for our friend's brother-in-law having an almost heart attack and having to call the SAMU and the pompiers one morning to get him to the hospital for some help) :)
Next time I head up there we should get together for some coffee.

Mlle Paradis
I love that one as well.

Le Blog de Madame Campbell said...

I love your photos of Paris and they will entice my students to continue in their study of French!

Jennifer said...

Mme Campbell
Thank you! My high school French teacher inspired me so I think it is important to inspire others!

Anonymous said...

hey i see you found my appartment (3rd photo from the bottom). come on in!

Jennifer said...

Maria
Thanks for the invitation. Next time I'll be stopping by! :)

HP said...

Hi Loulou, I saw your blog featured by David Lebovitz and started reading several of your posts.

Loved the one about Wandering in Paris. I love to walk all over Paris. I usually do about 10 miles a day. It is my favorite thing. Thank you for recommending it.

This last trip, several people stopped me to ask directions. Amazingly I was able to advise them.

Jennifer said...

HP
It is one of the best walking cities, hands down.
I'm impressed that you're able to give directions. I still get hopelessly turned around!