Lay of the land { Paris Diaries }

I am staying at the Sofitel hotel on the right bank, sandwiched between the 1st and the 8th arrondissement. There is a high concentration of top shopping temptations around me, but more importantly I am also just a stone through away from the gardens and sights, including the Eiffel Tower, which I see every time I go out for a walk. This is a great area to stay if this is your first time in Paris (because all the sights are close by), or if you enjoy a bit of luxury.

Being alone means I am doing a lot of quiet people watching.Two things are becoming very apparent – 1) there are a lot of Parisians in spandex running and jogging; this is not something I had noticed before. 2) Parisians and their kids dress so well and look so much calmer and happier than back home.

While hanging out in the Jardin des Tuileries yesterday, I couldn’t stop thinking about my kids. Note to self – if you are trying not to miss your kids, don’t go to a big garden that has lots of kids. Among other things here, there is a sail boat pond, an outdoor trampoline thingie, a carousel, and a really nice playground. A good snack or coffee is an easy reach away at one of the many outdoor cafes. And lot of green chairs to lounge on and people watch.

For my dinner, I had plans to eat somewhere on Rue Montorguiel. When trying to decide where to eat in Paris, I think it helps not just to have specific restaurant recommendations but also suggestions of some very lively streets with a bunch of eating options. This street is one of them. I had an outdoor table at Bianco and loved my pizza with pesto, fresh ricotta, roasted eggplants, and fried zucchini flowers, with a glass of red lambrusco.

I have a coffee table book idea for anyone who might be looking to fund a new idea – A photo book full of uncleared Parisian Bistro tables and chairs after the guests have departed. What do you think? They really are an artsy sight.

I haven’t traveled alone like this before. It feels strange to only have myself to think about. It is also really easy to over consume coffee and wine because really what else is there to do with all this people watching and walking around. ha!

Leaving you with a few pictures. If you see my kids, give them a squeeze for me please because I desperately miss them. Thanks D. Je t’aime.