Thoughts on Leaving Paris

I've had a few more meals other than those I discussed in great detail. I had some outstanding gnocchi at Le Petite Cour and some excellent duck at Le Comptoir but, enough is enough about food.

As I was strolling back to the hotel after a late dinner, it struck me that I was experiencing the reason I love Paris. Walking through the labyrinth of streets in old Paris, I took notice that, even at midnight the cafes were full. The chatter was constant and the laughter was musical. I had to walk in the street because the sidewalks were clogged with dinner tables and it was a joy. I turned down the Rue de Seine toward the river and suddenly there was a peaceful quiet. The shops were all closed and only a few couples strolled along with me. I made my way along the Quai Voltaire and across the Seine on Pont Royal. Crossing the Quai Louvre, I wandered along the pathway between the Louve and the Jardin DES Tuileries. I noticed a small group of men sharing a bottle of wine. There were two women having a cigarette. There was a young couple kissing under a street light. There was a larger group of young people laughing and drinking. The city was peaceful yet full of life. I smiled as I crossed Rivoli and turned into the hotel. Yes, this walk reminder me of why I love Paris.

I thought about this hotel and the way I spent these last few days. The hotel was nice. It was in a perfect location and I loved the spa, but, overall it was a total waste of money. For my next visit I'll find a nice little apartment in a neighborhood where the real Paris lives. The people in hotels like this one visit Paris but their spirit never leaves Omaha (or wherever they visit from). In the neighborhoods you can feel the heartbeat of the city. Also, I'll spend more time. It's not good for me to cram too much into too little. I need a day or two between each gourmet experience. Some time to recover. So, when I talk to you about my trip next year, or the next, remind me to plan a relaxed time.

Mahalo nui loa for enduring my ramblings. Now it's off to England and the Cotswolds.