Spend A Day In Montmartre When In Paris

September 6, 2008

by Todd Gibson

Mention a trip to France and Paris is the first thing that comes to mind for most people. Indeed, it is difficult to think of another city in the world that out does the cuisine, history and culture of Paris. What is really fascinating, however, is the fact Paris is really is a sum of its parts.

As an amazing contrast to the area beneath it, the white Sacre Coeur Basilica sits atop Montmartre as a cherry sits upon a sinfully delicious dessert. Home to everything that has stereotyped Paris over the years, this section of the city is not to be skipped over.

I fully realize that if it is your first time in Paris you are going to spend a bunch of time seeing the big attractions. Still, the daily life of Paris is much more interesting. In Montmartre, you will feel like you are stepping back in time.

Montmartre watches over the (once scandalous) Moulin Rouge; the dark streets of Pigalle (Pig Alley to many war veterans); and the Paris scene that was once the subject of many great works of art. While it’s true that this area is a weird mix of souvenir stands and suspicious street clowns, it is worth a saunter.

With great artists such as Dali, Picasso, van Gogh and Monet having called the area home, there is a serious business these days of trying to sell every tourist junk trinkets to memorialize the times of those people. Try to look past it.

Montmartre is actually a pretty large area. If you want to avoid the people hocking everything under the sun, try to stay near the bottom of the hill. Here you will find a more authentic experience and taste of the neighborhood.

It can be easy to get overwhelmed by the mimes and what have you. Ignore them. Take a moment off to the side to realize you are walking through history. Look around and take in the home where a poor Picasso painted a masterpiece or two.

There are certain places in the world where the entire area is the attraction instead of specific buildings. Montmartre is one such place. Yes, you can check out the Moulin Rouge, but stroll the area to get a much bigger experience.

Montmartre should be taken as it is in all its wonderful gaudiness. Bold, daring, and dying to be appreciated by the outside world, this part of Paris is what the city of lights is all about. Take a dip into the garish Parisian nightlife by walking through the one section of the town that dares to show some skin.

About the Author:

Looking for unique gifts for men? Try Nomad Journals for fishing, travel, bird watching, camping, hiking and so much more at NomadJournals.com.

Article Source: http://www.ezineonair.com

Share and Enjoy: