From the airport, we took the train into the central area of
Paris. Only a slight problem due to a strike, some trains were not running as before and others weren't running at all. Our train from the airport only ran a portion of its route and then was returning to the airport. Of course there were no signs or other information about this change. We nearly went BACK to the
airport, but luckily someone of the train told us we
need to change trains. We wandered and
found an information helper in an orange vest who walked us down three flights
of stairs (good for the light packing!), and got us on a train that was going to our destination. We
had very detailed instructions as to how to arrive, and were able to find our
AirB&B apartment without trouble. If
you would like to see photos of it, here is the link: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2159701.
If you don’t know about AirB&B, it is an internet-based
network of individual people who rent out a room, apartment or house for a day,
week or month. It is a worldwide
network, and much more personal than dealing with a hotel. We will have several
AirB&B stays during this trip.
Our host in Paris is a wonderful woman, Keltoum. Here is one of the notes that a guest who was there last month wrote: “Our stay in Paris was enhanced from the outset by our delightful French hostess, Keltoum, who made us feel right at home. In the heart of one of the most lively areas in Paris, Le Marais, our apartment was sound insulated and secure. The apartment was attractive, well appointed and with very comfortable beds. Keltoum was available to help with any queries and assisted us on the last day in looking after our luggage while we saw more of Paris before our late flight as well as arranging a taxi to the airport. Her love of Le Marais led us to some beautiful places we might have missed otherwise.” We agreed with these thoughts. Only one slight confusion as to when we were expected to arrive, but the AT&T phone saved the day, and we were able to make a phone call (with a little help form someone who told us which part of the number we needed to dial…no need for the country code). Five minutes later we got a call back and were able to come into the apartment.
We arrived, checking in and delighted in how lovely the
apartment was. A typical remodeled nice
Parisian apartment. We will be joined in the next couple of days
by a couple other of Dick’s colleague from National University, Ramon (with his
wife Sandra) and Mary Beth (and her daughter, Tina). By pooling our money, we got
this fantastic apartment 15 minutes from Notre Dame each paying less money than it
would have cost each couple to stay at the Paris Holiday Inn, where the conference is being
held. Patti thought it was just wrong to
go to Paris and stay at the Holiday Inn!
Although totally jet lagged and confused as to what time it
was, we couldn’t resist a stroll around the neighborhood, including walking
along the Seine River. We are REALLY in
Paris. We got a good taste, finding that
we really are within ten minutes of Notre Dame, saw the famous bridge where
lovers buy a paddle lock, lock it to the bridge with their name written on in,
and then throw the key into the river.
Not very environmentally-friendly, but pretty romantic. |
| Patti and Giant Orange Dog. |
We had slept very little on the plane and walked over 6 1/2 miles on our first day before bed totally called
out to us. It stays light until nearly 10:30, so we couldn’t stay up too late,
but fell into bed. Tomorrow, we
begin,…Paris beckons.
"There is no moment of delight in any pilgrimage like the
beginning of it.”
- Charles Dudley
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