Notre Dame and the Jardins de Luxembourg

My first stop on the Paris tour was Notre Dame Cathedral. The metro stop is just across the street, so you walk out of the dark underground into the light of day facing the gorgeous church. Overall, however, Notre Dame was a bit of a letdown. First, there was tons of tourists – old women who had spent their whole lives saving to make the pilgrimage, couples out on a stroll in Paris who decided to duck in, and many who were determined to go because, well, that’s what one sees in Paris. Signs were plastered everywhere talking about the devotional candles for sale. Moreover, boxes of said candles littered the chapels carved into the sides of the cathedral. Still nominally in use as a Catholic church, Notre Dame still has services, but not does not demand silence inside. It was a nice sight, but it did not seem very authentic. For a contrast with another Cathedral, read my review of Sacré Coeur (soon to appear).

I took a quick stroll to the Jardins de Luxembourg and was overwhelmed with its natural beauty and tranquility (as opposed to Notre Dame’s artifice). Many Parisians were walking along the paths, playing with their children, jogging by the chateau, and above all making out on park benches. If a man and woman sit down at a bench together, chances are they won’t be going anywhere soon. City of Love, indeed. I drank a beer by the lovely pool and strolled along taking pictures of the statues, many of which celebrated Bacchus (Roman god of wine). Whenever I travel, I like to take time to sit in a park and collect my thoughts, especially after a long journey.
By the time I returned to my own neighborhood, everything had closed except the hotel restaurant. I ate a lovely ham and cheese omelet, salad, and chocolate ice cream, with a glass of wine, for 11.50€. Stay tuned for more Paris highlights!