2021 - June - Paris welcomes us again - Part 1

Finally: After having to cancel our trips to France twice in 2020 due to Corona, we finally set off this time. Of course, we are not alone here, as the French also like to travel in their own country. However, due to the pandemic, there are much fewer tourists from abroad than in previous years. This is perfect for us, as we can now visit destinations that would otherwise be hopelessly overcrowded. Our journey begins in Paris. We really love the city, but sometimes we hate it too. The traffic is the problem. It's always noisy and somehow exhausting. Even the endless (!) walking and going up and down stairs when changing from one metro station to another makes you doubt your love for the metropolis. And anyone who has ever had to change trains in Paris knows exactly what I mean. There is not just one main train station, but various train stations scattered throughout the city. Coming from Germany, for example, you arrive at Gare de l'Est (East station) and would have to go to Gare de Lyon to get to Avignon. That's about 4 to 5 km depending on the route. We don't just walk that, at least not us. And that's why the taxi business between the various train stations is thriving so well. Equally unfamiliar is the fact that the platform is only announced shortly before the train departs. That means everyone rushes to the train at the same time (of course without any corona distance). The saying fits again: Different countries, different customs. Since we are talking about traffic in Paris, here's a tip: If you stay in the city for a few days, get yourself the weekly ticket. You need a passport photo when you first get it. The card is valid for 10 years and can be recharged. However, the week here means Monday to Sunday. So you can't start using it on Sunday. But then you can ride unlimited with all public transport. And your ticket is also valid for trips you don't expect: For example, you can take the funicular up to Montmartre and the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur standing on it. In normal years, this absolute tourist magnet is always very crowded. We were lucky and there was a pleasant atmosphere. From up here, you have a wonderful view over the city. But you have an even better view from the dome of the cathedral. However, you have to climb 292 steps up narrow spiral staircases and pay 7 euros. Of course, I have uploaded photos from above with the view. Can you spot the Eiffel Tower in the distance? And something for puzzle lovers: How was the photo of the crooked house taken? It was taken very close to the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur. If you know, you can write to me. For the descent from Montmartre, you can take different paths. We liked the shady one next to the funicular the best.