WHEN VISITING PARIS, tourists overlook a genuine Parisienne place: Ile de Saint Louis. She is like a romantic French village frozen in the 17th. century that fell in the pumping heart of Paris. Admittedly, Île de Saint Louis is not a place for just everyone; but you will reverence this place if....
» You adore the feeling of a small town.
» You are capable to perceive beauty in a historic environment.
» You want to savor fine meals at sidewalk cafes in a romantic place.
» You want to integrate, to live, and to experience the same life locals live.
performers at pont saint louis. This bridge connects Île de Saint Louis with her sister-island Île de la Cité. The place offers street performers who artists in their own right. They entertain you as you nibble on another Paris tradition: Berthillon. It is a top-notch quality ice cream in a myriad of colors and flavors. Many places sell Berthillon Ice Cream, but if authenticity is in your agenda, go to 31, rue St Louis-en-l'Île.
french food. Considering this is a tiny island, there is a large number of restaurants. Several are concentrated near bridge Pont Saint Louis above. I have eaten more than once in all of them, and I have a word of caution. Although they serve quality food, their prices are not costly, but expensive. The good news is that there are few places where you savor fabulous food without breaking your budget. Find a local guy ~or two~ to tell you where to find good food for a reasonable price in Île de Saint Louis.
la cave du franc pinot. A charming place hosting jazz players quite often in a building dating back to 17th. century. Pleasantly, it is almost never overflowing with tourists. I emphatically recommend to NOT show up with paraphernalia tourists carry, AND do not be loud. Parisiennes consider loudness distasteful, and disrespectful to others. North Americans trash their reputation, and that of others, but being loud.
laissez-faire. It is a verbal expression that denotes an opposition to governmental interference in economic matters beyond a minimum necessary. French people adopted the financial term to represent a "Let people do as they choose" [...as long as they do not disturb other people, I may add]. Île de Saint Louis is where to see it in action.
rivière seine. One of Paris' attractions is the river that surrounds the island. You can not claim that you have visited Paris unless you have been in close contact with this river, and leisurely walked along some of its bridges.
...and within a short distance.
centre georges pompidou. It is a modern Art Museum with unique architecture, and expanses of the outdoor structures are fascinating. There is no need to spend a fortune if you get past the entrance. You will find modern art, a gift shop worth visiting, a large Book Store with nearly all titles on fine art, and a free ground-floor exhibit.
notre dame cathedral. This is an impressive place where the world-known movie "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" comes from. If your physical condition allows, walk up to the top of the spiral stairs where you will hold your breath contemplating a stunning view of Paris. As you marvel at the impressive Hunchback of Notre Dame Bell and the famous Gargoyles of Notre Dame, you feel that you have been transported centuries back in time.
eiffel tower is such healthy walk 3 miles away or so, but you may use transportation. I will let you discover why this is a must-visit place. One mile from Eiffel Tower there is another French people's pride: arc de triomphe. It is the second largest triumphal arch commissioned by Napoleon in 1806. Then, a short walk and your eyes get filled with the splendor of the chic, elegant, and stylish avenue des champs élysées.
Even if visiting Paris for a few days, you are presented with unforgettable experiences and fascinating memories to bring back home all embbeded in your heart and mind without you going broke. Your pictures and your stories will have everyone back home fascinated hearing you telling them about.
Remember that ~when visiting Paris~ the wisest starting point is at Île de Saint Louis.
About Author Mr. George Josserme
This author sensibly gives travelers what they need to know in advance. His knowledge and common sense excel in the related article following.
