European exploits: Paris – the icons

Let’s start with the obvious.  As an international traveller from the other side of the globe, you can’t help but squeal a little when you see the Iron Lady.  It’s visible from almost everywhere in the city (except, as we found, the steps of Sacre Cœur).  And every vantage point has a different vista – and another photo opportunity!  We watched highly staged proposals in its shadow, the twinkling lights show on the hour, climbed (and then elevatored) to the top for stunning vistas, and took photo after photo whenever she majestically rose from the city streets.

Of course, not to be outdone, there are plenty of other iconic spots to explore including the Arc de Triomphe, Champs de Elysee, Sacre Cœur, the Moulin Rouge.  Every night we fell into bed, exhausted from walking up to 15km a day.

But what makes Paris, Paris for a traveller from little old Brisbane, are its street scenes. 

Brasseries and bistros on street corners with their inviting lights and alfresco seating (even in winter in the rain), patisseries with opulent pastries, boucheries, poissonneries, fruits et légumes, bon bons galore.  We were all kids in candy stores staring nose-pressed up against the windows.

Being such a cheese fiend myself, one of my must-dos in Paris was a fromagerie.  I researched ones that did tasting plates and spoke English, and despite the wait for Fromagerie Sanders to open after its long lunch (3.30pm?!), enjoyed a sample of its cheeses (and paste) for just €7!

Of course, a visit to France can not be complete for a tourist without consuming escargot (snails) and grenouille (frogs’ legs), the former tasting of garlic prawns and the latter, chicken – of course – but both were very palatable.

You can’t get around Paris without a ride, or many, on the Paris metro.  The iconic station entrances, both ‘common’, and art-nouveau, hide some surprises, including this 20000 Leagues under the Sea themed platform. 

Finally, Paris is not Paris without its infatuation with the carousel.  These whirling beauties are an important part of Parisian scenery, so much so that 30 permanent ones exist today in the city.  They were the first way the masses were able to ride a bicycle, drive a car or fly a plane.  For us, we were charmed by those at Sacre Cœur and the Eiffel Tower, but our money went on riding a quirky one in Charles Michels.