Paris Blitz

This was my third 24 hour trip to Paris. As is easy to do with Paris, I came up with a game plan for my solo visit. I picked a decent 3 star hotel that would be walking distance to most major attractions - Hotel de Vaneau St. Germain in the 7th district. I decided to go to Musee d'Orsay, because I had never been and because I wanted to do something cultural before succumbing to the shopping. The museum was as described - amazing and full of famous works. My favorites were all of Toulouse La Trec's works the Whistler painting of the old woman in the rocker and the Renoir collection - I think I prefer Renoir to Monet - this I just found out.

Right before I arrived, I checked facebook and saw that a very good friend from Uganda, Sarah, was in town. This was an even bigger deal, because she lives in Australia. We met for a long lovely lunch near the Museum. It was great to catch up, drink some wine and for a moment have a partner in Paris.

At Sarah's suggestions, I headed over to Rue du Passy for some shopping. I was able to get a few French tailored items without breaking the bank. I snapped a few shots of the Eiffel Tour just as it was lit up -- never gets old to gaze at that amazing structure.

Exhausted, I headed for dinner near my hotel. It was recommended on Trip Advisor - Midi Vins, but it was a disappointment. The atmosphere was nice and it was jam packed with locals, but the food was meh.

In the morning I thought about running to Le Grande Epicerie, the food hall of the great La Bon Marche, which wasn't too far away. But I was just too tired. Instead I grabbed a croissant and a coffee at the place on the corner. As people walked by with fresh baguettes tucked under their arms, my mouth and brain struggled to comprehend the amazing light crispy pastry I was imbibing. Ah Paris, even briefly, you never disappoint!