Decided to visit the Notre Dame by foot today but it was also time for a hair update. We found a salon on the way and both got the Paris look to take us through to our next destination.
The weather was colder and windier with some showers ( not good for new hairdos!). We walked for many kilometres past shops, hospitals and more shops until we stopped at a cafe for espressos. Here we were given the wrong directions to get to the Notre Dame and walked a kilometre in the other direction and then had to retrace our steps.
We had a lovely lunch in a quaint cafe and we have noticed that bread is always provided with meals, although there is never butter or oil served with it, and the bread is like a sourdough and generally served in a bucket-like tin. Also when drinks are served there is usually a bowl of nuts or chips to accompany them. Espressos are the norm and a glass of water is often served with the coffee. We have morphed into Parisians and enjoy our espressos very much.
When we reached Notre Dame it started to rain and we had to take cover in the crypt. Once the weather eased we went up and joined the short queue(because of the rain) to enter the cathedral. We lit a candle wishing all family members good health. It is a beautiful building and by the time we exited the weather had cleared so we could walk completely around the building and admire it’s many intricate details.
The long walk home involved dodging rain and wind and debris (smashing down onto the footpath in front of us…..hurricane Gonzalo remnants!) and we decided to buy some local wares to enjoy in the comfort of our apartment and enjoy the glittering tower. One thing we have not mentioned yet that is definitely worth doing so is the shower in our little apartment. While the cabin itself is very small and pokey, the shower rose lights up when you turn it on and proceeds to change colour as you shower. It’s perfect disco light backing for people like Michele who likes to sing in the shower!
Au revoir Paris! Next stop Amsterdam! The Parisians keep warning us not to smoke too much!