Bonsoir!

Well, here we are. Bonsoir!

Arrived safely in Paris, to a balmy 34 degrees. We rode the RER train from the CDG airport this afternoon. Which was anything but pleasant, unless you enjoy riding in a moving sauna, We endured stiflingly hot temperatures in the railcar, packed with passengers, and no A/C. Glad to soon reach our final stop, where we found our hotel quite easily, dropped our bags and set off to eat and explore.

The Royal Magda Etoile is true to European size, but perfectly located just a 3-minute walk to Arc d'Triomphe, the Metro and the Big Bus Tour stop. And with today's high temperatures, we quite welcomed the air-conditioning in this comfy little hotel.

Eating took place at a French restaurant close by, where some of us delved into fancy crepe entrees, and the rest of us settled for burgers and French fries. We sat outside while we ate, and watched the French go by. Lots of mopeds and skinny ladies in high heels. The local side streets are cobblestone - the high-heels ladies strut amazingly well over these uneven surfaces - and the buildings are four to five stories high with unique architecture, and these adorable little iron railing balconies.

Exploring began at the Arc, painted gold in the setting sun, and from there we jumped on the Metro to head to the Eiffel Tower.

It was pretty busy here by the Tower... tourists and crowds mulling around. And too many pushy street sellers and stinky trash. But we watched the Tower light up as dusk set in, and did several reality checks to take in its view again and again, reminding ourselves that, yes, yes!, we are really here!

Bonsoir!