Slightly Lonely Tourist in Paris
Hello DL. I've been in Paris for a week and I have 1 week more to go. I know you always have good suggestions. I have done tons of the touristy things (except I just haven't bothered to wait in line at the Eiffel tower or Arc - I did a quick visit). My favorite thing was actually seeing the two Concordes that were about 40 min away at the older airport / museum... of all things. There was also an interesting preserved mansion / museum I liked (Nissim de Camondo). But, to be honest I am feeling a bit alone at this point. I think 5-6 days is okay but thinking about this going to 14 starts to get a little depressing. There's only so much small talk I can make with the concierges....or salespeople (I went to the Galleries Lafayette and spent an *absurd* amount on a shirt - possibly because the salesgay was really nice to me but also because I liked the shirt). And wtf is with the gays here - do they not exist??
Anyway, this is a real post - here's me in my room... well my computer that is. It is the Ritz Place Vendome. If you have suggestions of what to do (beyond the typical things) or want to join for brunch on Sunday, the €150 is on me (but be warned, the buffet is not worth it... there is literally a finger sandwich and a bread station for 1/3 of it). DL has always been there in my hour of need for so many topics...so here's another one. Oh, I did have a friend visit over the weekend which was nice, but the place he picked was closed & we had a really gross dinner. It's almost easier being alone & picking things often times - but not always.
by Anonymous | reply 128 | November 15, 2019 8:29 PM
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I managed to screw up my link...
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 1 | November 13, 2019 1:57 AM
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Woops I screwed up my link.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 2 | November 13, 2019 1:59 AM
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There’s already been a thread on this OP. Would it have killed you to have done a search first before you posted this? I mean really? What’s wrong with having a little consideration for others and doing a search first? Would it really have been that hard? Would it?
by Anonymous | reply 3 | November 13, 2019 2:10 AM
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I spent two weeks in Florence a few years ago, and also got a little bored, endless Renaissance art. You might want to go on some day trips. Take a train to Amiens and see the largest and finest French cathedral there. Or take a train to Fontainebleau, and explore the royal palace there, it’s much less crowded than Versailles, and really spectacular in its own right. Your accommodations look lovely at least.
by Anonymous | reply 4 | November 13, 2019 2:11 AM
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Would it have killed you to have at least posted a picture or link OP? Would it? I mean would that have really been so hard? Would it? Why don’t you try to think more of others next time before you post? What's your problem? I mean really, what's your damn problem?
by Anonymous | reply 5 | November 13, 2019 2:11 AM
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OP, you need to get hit the town, the bars, grindr, meet some French guys to take you around. I'd just be luxuriating at the Ritz, getting massages, going to the gym, and hitting up the nightlife. You could take some quick trips to other places - go to London for a few days via train. It's like an hour. Shame on you for being on DL!
by Anonymous | reply 6 | November 13, 2019 2:24 AM
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I googled friendly gay bars in Paris and this was the first option - I'm bored
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 7 | November 13, 2019 2:29 AM
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I was there for two weeks by myself a couple of years ago and loved it. I was hesitant but I took those bus tours and I really enjoyed the scenery on the way there as well as the destination. Have you been to Monet's house? I'm forgetting names but the Monet exhibit that has the lily ponds on all four walls. One day I just went to the park and fed the ducks and pigeons. Walk slowly through the Louvre - that can take days. Have you found those little hidden indoor mall/galleries that have tons of cute little shops. There's at least a dozen of them. Don't bother going down to Marseille. It's pretty dull. And there are lots of castle tours or just take a bus/train to somewhere just for the scenery. I was just in Nice for two weeks and that got a little dull. If you're up to it, go down there for a couple of days and take quick trips to the little towns like Eze and St. Paul de Vence. They're the ones you see in pictures and are ridiculously charming.
by Anonymous | reply 8 | November 13, 2019 2:45 AM
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OP I don't feel sorry for you one damn bit. You come on here wanting us to feel sorry for you. I'm sure you're just a big whore that knows what to do. Don't come crying around here with those big crocodile tears either. Get out there and present hole.
by Anonymous | reply 9 | November 13, 2019 2:47 AM
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Versailles is good OP, and takes up a full day.
by Anonymous | reply 10 | November 13, 2019 2:56 AM
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Versailles and the Louvre plus the D’Orsay museum.
by Anonymous | reply 11 | November 13, 2019 3:04 AM
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I was in Paris this past May and wanted to see Atelier des Lumières but didn't get a chance.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 12 | November 13, 2019 3:05 AM
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Hire a escort silly. Both for the companionship for activities, and the nice sex afterwards.
In truth I admire you reaching out, and if I was in Paris I'd meet you for dinner.
by Anonymous | reply 13 | November 13, 2019 3:09 AM
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I was going to post the same things as r13.
by Anonymous | reply 14 | November 13, 2019 3:15 AM
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Go to the flea market and Pere Lachaise! That’s what I’d do if I went back. Also the movies are fun.
by Anonymous | reply 15 | November 13, 2019 3:19 AM
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Pere Lachaise on the weekend is a must. Chartres is close by train.
by Anonymous | reply 16 | November 13, 2019 3:24 AM
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You're in Paris. Get a gigolo and hit the town = You will have a good time and never want to leave.
by Anonymous | reply 17 | November 13, 2019 3:28 AM
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Loads of day trips listed online, some others: Mont Saint-Michel, Loire Valley, Chateau de Chantilly, Reims.
by Anonymous | reply 18 | November 13, 2019 3:31 AM
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As R9 suggested, orifice d'exposition!
Paris has a number of artist house museums, such as the Gustave Moreau Museum, or the Musee Bourdelle. There is also the Nissim de Camondo Museum, which is a sumptuous house filled with 18th Century treasures.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 19 | November 13, 2019 3:31 AM
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Here's the Musée Bourdelle
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 20 | November 13, 2019 3:32 AM
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Rodin's house s a museum, a charming little house is devoted to Picasso, and if you don't see the catacombs, you'll regret it. Also, get a hooker to show you around. Make sure he know which fork to use.
by Anonymous | reply 21 | November 13, 2019 3:42 AM
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Airbnb Experiences sound ideal for what you want OP
They are generally 2-4 hours, small groups and interesting-- like a cheese tour of the 6th lead by an English speaking cheese shop owner or a an afternoon of antiquing, that sort of thing.
See attached link, I'm sure you'll find something.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 22 | November 13, 2019 3:48 AM
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The Picasso Museum in Le Marais is wonderful. Small and not too busy.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 23 | November 13, 2019 3:50 AM
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If you want to get a glimpse of a less grandiose part of Paris that still has its charm, go visit Belleville, which seems somewhat less hectic than the rest of the city. It has a reputation as a bad area because of all the immigrants but it really ain't bad, and I think pickpockets are worse in the more touristy parts of the city. Lots of businesses run by asians (including chinese prostitutes), reminds me of a more picturesque version of Queens. Located on a hill so offers nice views of the rest of Paris, and from there you can take a nice walk up to the Parc des Butte Chaumont. From the Parc des Butte Chaumont I took a walk over to the Goutte d'Or (which is the neighborhood where that guy climbed that apartment building like Spiderman to save that child hanging from a balcony). Now that is a scary-looking area at night!
by Anonymous | reply 24 | November 13, 2019 3:52 AM
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If you take day tours (maybe there are gay day tours to coin a phrase), you might meet some people to have dinner with or go clubbing....just googled and found a nice one! Pricey but you don't seem to be broke judging by where you're staying.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 25 | November 13, 2019 3:54 AM
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Yeah, no one really needs more than 5-7 days in Paris (7 is definitely pushing it). As others have said, if you’ve never been to London then take the Eurostar and spend a few days. It only takes about 2 hours to get there. If you’ve already booked and paid for your accommodations to be in Paris the whole time, then you need to start taking day trips to other parts of France (you can still do a day trip on the Eurostar to London).
by Anonymous | reply 26 | November 13, 2019 3:57 AM
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Usually you can check out of hotels no problem even if you paid in advance. They will likely refund your money. You can always find a hotel wherever you go, sometimes very good last minute deals.
by Anonymous | reply 27 | November 13, 2019 4:07 AM
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Hop on the TGV to south France. See some Roman aqueducts. Le Palais des Papes. Nîmes.
by Anonymous | reply 28 | November 13, 2019 4:09 AM
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If you're into things White Russian, go to Sainte-Genevieve-de-Bois where Nureyev is buried. Also, the Collection 1900 of how a Belle Epoque courtesan lived which is a-top Maxim's, the restaurant. It's an Art Nouveau Museum. Attend a ballet or opera performance at the Bastille or Garnier.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 29 | November 13, 2019 4:10 AM
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Also, Paris is full of gay men. Go to some bathhouse, use Grindr, go to the Bear's Den for some good time with hairy men... There are many options.
by Anonymous | reply 30 | November 13, 2019 4:11 AM
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The Sainte Chapelle is pretty much a “must” in Paris.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 31 | November 13, 2019 4:17 AM
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La Sainte Chapelle is on the same little island as Notre Dame. It is stunningly beautiful and very peaceful. Take the train to Monet's house at Giverny--unless it's too late in the year and it's closed, but you can check that. About an hour or less by train--much nicer than a bus ride. You can see Monet's paintings of his lily ponds at the Jeu de Paume in Paris and then see the real thing in Giverny.
by Anonymous | reply 32 | November 13, 2019 4:24 AM
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I know Sacre Coeur is new but because Parisians actually use it, it is one of the most magical places I've ever been.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 33 | November 13, 2019 4:25 AM
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I was there last year at this time OP and did start feeling a little lonely after the first week. I then turned on Grindr and met a few nice guys. It made my evenings much easier.
by Anonymous | reply 35 | November 13, 2019 4:28 AM
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fly to madrid, barcelona, and rome
by Anonymous | reply 36 | November 13, 2019 4:31 AM
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This is one of my favorite bistros that's near you. There are tables outside which is great for breakfast or lunch and people watching.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 37 | November 13, 2019 4:41 AM
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Reims is also well worth visiting. The best cathedral in France and home to many Champagne houses. And only an hour away by train!
by Anonymous | reply 38 | November 13, 2019 4:45 AM
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I’m with you, OP. Paris is kind of a “dead” place, like a marbled mausoleum.
And the for the good food the restaurants either either high brow and extremely expensive or you have to go to farmers markets. Apart from patties, there isn’t low price/mid price French food in Paris. My favourite food city in France is Toulouse.
After you’ve done the museums, how much time can a person really people watch!
by Anonymous | reply 39 | November 13, 2019 4:45 AM
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Take the TGV to Lyon. Visit the old part of town (vieux Lyon), tour the traboules, eat at a bouchon, like Cafe du Nain or Le Cafe du Jura.
by Anonymous | reply 41 | November 13, 2019 4:51 AM
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OP. I know a lot of tourists debate whether to bring or leave their laptops when they travel. Why made you bring yours and do you just leave it about in your hotel room when you go out? Is hotel wifi in Paris good? The main reason I'd bring mine is to watch movies and tv, never the same on a phone or tablet no matter what people say.
by Anonymous | reply 42 | November 13, 2019 5:00 AM
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And OP, as a solo traveller myself, day trips are the best way to go. Especially now the days are getting shorter, your two weeks will be up in no time. And many are cheap, too.
by Anonymous | reply 43 | November 13, 2019 5:36 AM
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Bordeaux is supposed to be a wonderful city, with lots of wine connections, might be worth a couple of days.
by Anonymous | reply 44 | November 13, 2019 8:01 AM
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Austin is quite enjoyable.
by Anonymous | reply 45 | November 13, 2019 9:20 AM
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Well? What have you decided?
by Anonymous | reply 46 | November 13, 2019 9:25 AM
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Lots of good suggestions here OP. Please let us know what you end up doing, either mid-way next week or after you get back. Have fun!
by Anonymous | reply 47 | November 13, 2019 10:29 AM
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[quote]The main reason I'd bring mine is to watch movies and tv,
I can't imagine travelling to Paris, or anywhere for that matter, and sitting in my hotel room watching movies/TV on my laptop. For me, it gives a whole to meaning to what's the fucking point.
by Anonymous | reply 48 | November 13, 2019 10:37 AM
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[R48] Exactly. And asking for suggestions here instead of the concierge. Also, before you travel, you should have made a list of things, a plan. Book interesting restaurants, excursions.... You remind me of those families who travel together and they spend all their time on their phones and the first question when they get to a place is "What's the password?" Do not travel, please. Stay home. Save money or, better yet, donate it to a good and caring organization. Someone just called you a whore, but I just think you are pathetic. Joyeux Noël, motherfucker.
by Anonymous | reply 49 | November 13, 2019 10:45 AM
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Thanks for all the replies / suggestions. I am looking into many of them. There were a few I saw a few already. Part of the reason it is such a long trip is for work...and then I added my own personal days, but the work days were much shorter than I thought so I saw some things already & have been a tourist for a long time. Anyway, this is a really good list of suggestions. I'll let you know what happens.
by Anonymous | reply 50 | November 13, 2019 10:45 AM
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I can't imagine booking a 14 night stay anywhere without doing any research beforehand.
by Anonymous | reply 51 | November 13, 2019 10:47 AM
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OP you are interested in aircraft- how about a trip to Ermenonville Forest just outside Paris site of a memorial to the crash of Turkish Airlines Flight 981 which killed 346 people.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 52 | November 13, 2019 10:48 AM
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How about a day trip to London on the Eurostar.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 53 | November 13, 2019 10:52 AM
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OP cruise the Tuileries in the evening you might get lucky.
by Anonymous | reply 54 | November 13, 2019 11:00 AM
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Don't believe the hype that Parisians are rude. They're not. Cunt Americans who move to France and then behave like fucking nightmares give the French a bad name; I speak from knowledge.
by Anonymous | reply 55 | November 13, 2019 11:29 AM
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OP, I envy you. I've always wanted to go to France but I am intimidated by the language (I don't speak any French) and by the reputation of the French being rude and mean to tourists. Have you had any issues?
by Anonymous | reply 57 | November 13, 2019 12:31 PM
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Looks like you will miss Bougelais Nouveau Day on Nov 21. That's a fun day in Paris to go out and have steak frites and a couple of glasses of wine.
by Anonymous | reply 58 | November 13, 2019 4:04 PM
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Get yourself to Le Depot and get some yummy French baguette.
by Anonymous | reply 59 | November 13, 2019 4:06 PM
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Do you know how many tourists go to France without being able to speak French r57?
If you want to go, go! Life will be over one day, live it as much as you can while you have it.
by Anonymous | reply 60 | November 13, 2019 4:07 PM
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Musée d'Orsay
The Van Gogh's alone are magical. Go to the Impressionist floor. I will never forget the afternoon I spent there.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 62 | November 13, 2019 4:23 PM
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[quote]Looks like you will miss Bougelais Nouveau Day on Nov 21.
Oh, ma cherie!
by Anonymous | reply 63 | November 13, 2019 4:35 PM
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Go eat your feelings at La Pâtisserie du Meurice par Cédric Grolet., It's down the street from you.
by Anonymous | reply 64 | November 13, 2019 5:02 PM
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Another vote for the Rodin Museum-on of my favorite places. Also, another vote for The Bear's Den!
by Anonymous | reply 65 | November 13, 2019 5:27 PM
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OP, I'm offering a little help. To anybody, really. If you just want maybe three or four easy to pronounce things to 'cold' say to somebody to get their attention, I'll spell it out phonetically [it's how I have a small working vocabulary of Tagalog]. I believe that if you can at least get somebody's attention, they'll be inclined to assist you.
by Anonymous | reply 66 | November 13, 2019 5:32 PM
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Screw London- go to Amsterdam for a king or two. High sped train right to center of city. Much better gay scene. And totally different atmosphere. And easier, more diverse dining options. Take a breather from the hassle and attitude of Paris.
by Anonymous | reply 67 | November 13, 2019 5:51 PM
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Amsterdam is a fucking shithole.
by Anonymous | reply 68 | November 13, 2019 5:53 PM
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OP, I understand the loneliness you feel after a lot of time somewhere, even a place as grand as Paris. The suggestions of places to go/things to do sound great but they don't really address the loneliness part. I was once in Paris alone, not necessarily lonely, when I took a canal tour. I ended up at a table with a group of people (different nationalities) and started talking to them. Because the tour is about 2.5 hours long we had a fun time and decided to go for coffees afterwards. Stop in a bar in the afternoon and have a beer. I don't think you'll meet people in cafes as they are usually there to meet friends, not make new ones. Shakespeare & Co. is a great bookstore, which is always a great place to chat someone up and you can go for a coffee anywhere in the area. Good luck. If I were in Paris I'd certainly meet up with you!
by Anonymous | reply 69 | November 13, 2019 6:04 PM
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OP, I went through a period where I traveled frequently for work and found myself in foreign countries for long stretches, mostly on my own. I did walking tours in most cities, which were interesting and allowed me to have some company among people with similar interests. I'd take organized day trips out of the city on the weekend, and got to see a lot of places I might have missed, and it was nice to have people to chat with. Versailles would be great for that. Also after sightseeing all day I'd be tired and hungry, so I'd take advantage of my nice hotel, order in room service and watch a movie (or porn).
by Anonymous | reply 70 | November 13, 2019 6:38 PM
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[quote]And wtf is with the gays here - do they not exist??
You must not have been to the Marais.
When I was young and shy and too timid to approach anyone, I always enjoyed vacationing in Paris because the guys in the bars there were a lot friendlier than the guys in New York. I never had to wait long after entering a bar before some guy had started chatting me up. My favorite bar was Quetzal but I've read it's not that great a place anymore.
by Anonymous | reply 71 | November 13, 2019 6:55 PM
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OP, I love you! That is the first thing I want to tell you. Also, I can have lunch with you next week, at 12:05 sharp.
by Anonymous | reply 72 | November 13, 2019 7:00 PM
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Go to this concert on Sunday - the one at 11 am. Thomas Enhco (young pianist) is first cousin to Orlando Bloom. They even look alike a bit. And the pianist might be family.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 73 | November 13, 2019 7:04 PM
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If you like Impressionnism, Le Havre has a very good museum called MuMa. As for Le Havre, well...
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 74 | November 13, 2019 7:14 PM
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OP, it's been years since I've been in Paris, so I have no tips on where to go. But I do identify with the loneliness and boredom that pops up on solo travel. It's like the thing that can't be admitted. So you were brave to bring it up here. And it must feel especially weird to have these feelings crop up in a place most people are dying to go to or re-visit. I feel ya, and I hope you're OK and that some of these ideas are appealing to you and workable. I had similar ennui in a much-lauded spot in Mexico: I felt overwhelmed and over-stimulated a few days into a two-week planned stay. Everything and everyone annoyed me, even though people were perfectly lovely, the food was delicious, and there were many places to walk, shop, and people watch. I learned that I get almost more satisfaction out of planning and anticipating a trip than I do from actually being there and because of that I need to keep stays shorter. I also build in more time between trips, if possible. Bonne chance and I hope the rest of your stay is magnifique!!!!
by Anonymous | reply 75 | November 13, 2019 7:14 PM
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R71 - the Marais is dead. Never was a huge scene anyway. But most of the bars are gone and the Marais is now throughly straight, touristy and filled with boutique shopping. Paris is NOT a city you go to for gay life. IMO, it was never that great but at least in the 90s the Marais was definitely a gayborhood with gay bars and a gay hotel.
by Anonymous | reply 76 | November 13, 2019 7:17 PM
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That was a beautiful post, R75. I also plan short trips because I know I can only take in so much. My longest trip was 10 days! And near the end I was going crazy.
by Anonymous | reply 77 | November 13, 2019 7:18 PM
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R76 The death of rue Quincampoix was horrible. Not only do they have shitty bars in place of gay bars, they're full of beaufs! (our equivalent to flyovers) It's truly horrible.
by Anonymous | reply 78 | November 13, 2019 7:21 PM
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This guy is doing a concert next Thursday, if you're still around.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 79 | November 13, 2019 7:24 PM
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OP, did you finally get lucky tonight??
by Anonymous | reply 80 | November 13, 2019 7:24 PM
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Go to a Polanski protest! You'll meet people!
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 81 | November 13, 2019 7:34 PM
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Musée d'Orsay. Sainte Chapelle. They are mentioned above, but underscoring the recommendation is appropriate.
The flea market is a trip through France's past. I thought it a worthy stop last time I was in Paris.
by Anonymous | reply 82 | November 13, 2019 7:39 PM
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Be careful at the flea market. I was gaybashed by a group of swarthy vendors.
by Anonymous | reply 83 | November 13, 2019 7:45 PM
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There is a Hemingway tour - places he lived, ate and yes went to church. And also look for the spots that the French Resistance put up a fight against the Nazis - and most were killed. Small plaques in memory of them are around the city. Napoleon's tomb is pretty cool and that place is filled with French History. Keep humming Do You Hear the People Sing while walking the streets and you will find your way.
by Anonymous | reply 84 | November 13, 2019 8:49 PM
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I'm shocked that no one has recommended getting in touch with Dame Olivia. She should be dying for company.
by Anonymous | reply 85 | November 13, 2019 11:07 PM
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I'm shocked no one has recommended getting in touch with Dame Olivia. She might be free for a cocktail.
by Anonymous | reply 86 | November 13, 2019 11:08 PM
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Hi Everyone,
I read everything. I put many of your suggestions (that I haven't done) in a word doc & then had to map them out, figure out timings, and then sort out what I could do. As most vacations / work trips, everything is a jigsaw puzzle. Museums and other attractions are open on certain days/times and you have to factor in travel time, and so on... I've already done quite a bit last week (D’Orsay was mentioned a lot & I went last week) I also saw the architecture museum across from the Eiffel tower which was a great break from the crowds & you can see a lot of Notre Dame there too (casts of special parts of it way before the fire). I was at the Louvre today. The Greek section was really great. It's too big to take in more than a few hours without going crazy, IMO.
I loved the Van Gogh museum so much in Amsterdam (as for the city - it didn't quite gel with me like Paris or even Edinburgh -- but I love Scotland in general). I am not a big art person, but that is the best museum of art I have ever been to. The Van Gogh in the D’Orsay is nice but nowhere near his work in Amsterdam. I saw the Picasso museum in Le Marais & was a bit let down that they only had 1 painting from the blue period in the whole place. I took a day to see Versailles and the gardens. The crowds were crazy in the palace. It was fine - over-touristed beyond belief (I think it sets a new record every year).
Tomorrow, I am meeting the guy in the post by R25 for a 90 min tour (for $200 - that's like hooker prices). I'll let you know how it goes. As for "real" hookers - I am not horny in that way. I'd rather go to dinner or have a drink with someone nice than get laid. I am only in my early 40s but that is just how I am. Nobody on Grindr understands that.
I found out Anna Wintour stays here and I got some hilarious inside dish about her. She is basically like the movie... that's the most I should probably post. But I understand her personality now. If you do what she says - she loves you. If you deviate 1 iota, she will murder your ass. The reason I get it is because if I want a wakeup call at 7:15, don't call me at 7:10 - and that's also one of her pet peeves, for example....at a hotel charging $1500-15,000 a night, get it right! (I moved to a smaller / cheaper room because I became sick last week and do not want to fly with my ears like this but can't keep paying the rates here.) This hotel has had problems with the phone, the shower, the mattresses, the motion sensors constantly clicking in my ceiling... it's crazy for a hotel like this. I don't get it. I stay at a particular Hyatt for $150/night without these issues. The laundry prices are so insane... $20 for a t-shirt. Might as well buy a new one.
by Anonymous | reply 87 | November 14, 2019 12:58 AM
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R8 - I don't think I'll be able to fit Monet's house in but I saw the marmottan today and will see musee l'orangerie tomorrow, before my gay tour.
Grindr is totally dead. I am not sure if it is my pic(s) or what. Maybe 5 guys talked to me... it's also an area with not so many gay people, maybe?
I did some extensive shopping at Galleries Lafayette, les printemps, and the insane boutiques by my hotel (Gucci, Brioni, Tom Ford, etc...) and I bought a few things at Gucci but I don't think I want to shop anymore, flea market or Gucci. I bought a Louis Vouitton shirt that I kind of love & doesn't have LVLVLVLVLV all over it like every other brand (and even them). What is with all the label whoring? Anyway, I can't wear that. I can post a pic of the shirt if you won't judge too harshly my taste... it just looked cool to me.
I'm avoiding airbnb experiences after a very bad one in the past , r22 - it's a long story - I don't think they are that great. It's made up of a lot of people who shouldn't be in the tourism industry (very hipstery) cobbling together "experiences" at a cost of $5 and charging $80 - and if you review them anything less than a 5/5, they go ballistic.
I did go to one Paris bath house on two occasions. Friday night and Sunday afternoon. I hooked up with one guy who I didn't realize he was a cum dump until later - but of course I used a condom. Again though, I am not super horny. I was more curious than anything. Nobody else in there was attractive to me except another American who was way out of my league anyway. It's 100% naked here which is a bit weird too.
Anyway, thanks again for all of your posts - I am super tired - it's almost 3 am and I am just about to go to bed (I said that at 11). Sorry if I skipped over your post in my reply - I did read every one and appreciate it. Someone come to brunch w/ me Sunday though, seriously. I've read DL since 2010 so I'll pay it back. Actually, the brunch here is so overrated but maybe somewhere else would be better. Bonne nuit!
by Anonymous | reply 88 | November 14, 2019 12:58 AM
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OP.. Just a suggestion, there is an AirB&B service that caters to the LGBTQ community. The rooms and homes are beautifully decorated and some of the reviews also have mentioned the guests had a really great experience as the host would be very helpful with the cool little places to go in town and even join you for drinks and some will invite you to parties and introduce you to their friends. Not saying that happens every time but it is a least a great way to get a start on making social connections. Check out the properties on Mister B&B in Paris. Even though it may not be your thing, check it out anyway. Your list of things you have done is fantastic. I often travel there on business but I'm on vacation this month and won't be there. I would have joined you if I could. Enjoy the rest of your trip!
by Anonymous | reply 89 | November 14, 2019 1:13 AM
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You... OP... are a short story.
Related, sorta. I love the idea and reality of traveling alone. I love my spouse, but traveling with him is always stressful. Traveling alone, I am free, feel free in ways unmatched anywhere else. A couple years ago I went to Copenhagen for work... a week there alone... a day at the end walking the city alone. Stopped in Iceland a couple days. Got the time change wrong, the late spring light meant that 3:00am seemed like morning. I thought it was morning. I walked through the cold and completely empty city - alone, silent. Silence is the language that God speaks. Alone is privilege for some.
by Anonymous | reply 90 | November 14, 2019 1:52 AM
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I loved Musee d'Orsay! I also went to the Rodin Musee and honestly I enjoyed both a lot more than I did the Louvre. OP, I would endorse a day trip to Giverny to see Monet's estate. Also a day trip to Versailles. It is so vast. And you'll see the Petite Trianon and all the rest of Marie Antoinette's residences. You should look into going to Omaha Beach WW II Memorial if you can. It's about a 3-4 hour trip one way.
If you stay in Paris I second the suggestion of going to the Pere Lachaise cemetery. Everyone who is anyone is buried there. And the Paris Flea Markets a re legendary. They're a must.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 91 | November 14, 2019 2:15 AM
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Hey, don't forget to stop by Napoleon's Tomb. Very impressive.
by Anonymous | reply 92 | November 14, 2019 2:15 AM
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The entrance of the Saint-Ouen flea market is abit dodgy - the day I came, drug dealers were being chased left and right by the gendarmes. For excitement you can always fake a heart attack and call an ambulance. When I was there, my sister in law had an 'episode' at a restaurant and an ambulance had to be called. Christ the guys were stunning - tall & muscular, straight out of Tom of Finland. My nieces and I still talk about them to this day.
by Anonymous | reply 93 | November 14, 2019 2:28 AM
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OP, are you still in Paris. Take a literary tour. Never done it but it looks intriguing. Plus, the others likely to join such a tour could be good company for you.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 94 | November 14, 2019 4:05 AM
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OP, maybe you need new clothes. Do some shopping. Flirt with the shopbottoms.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 95 | November 14, 2019 4:08 AM
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Or, OP, you could do what I do when I’m lonely. Eat ice cream. Yes, in Paris!
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 96 | November 14, 2019 4:10 AM
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Hey, OP, if none of that helps, go see a shrink. These docs speak your language.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 97 | November 14, 2019 4:13 AM
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Go to an outdoor cafe and put ketchup on snails, buy a painting from a guy outside painting and get a suit made out of burlap sacks
by Anonymous | reply 98 | November 14, 2019 4:20 AM
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You've done a lot of good Paris stuff, OP. I'd like to see the Louis Vuitton item you bought. I bought an LV item as a souvenir, from the Champs Elysees store. The prices were cheaper in France than the US. I'd love to have some good pastry (patisserie) in France.
by Anonymous | reply 99 | November 14, 2019 5:29 AM
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That particular Ritz was renovated 5 or 6 years ago. Imagine what it was like then!
by Anonymous | reply 100 | November 14, 2019 5:37 AM
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Walk down the Rue St. Denis .
by Anonymous | reply 101 | November 14, 2019 5:41 AM
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I went last fall. Some of the best days were spent just walking around a certain neighborhood or place. It's such an interesting city and people watching is fun. Perhaps have a day to walk about and see what adventure can be found.
Also, a drink on the Seine on a pretty day is lovely.
by Anonymous | reply 102 | November 14, 2019 5:43 AM
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[quote]Walk down the Rue St. Denis .
Walk down Rue St. Denis without tripping over une pute every 5 meters.
by Anonymous | reply 103 | November 14, 2019 5:51 AM
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Find an old guillotine.
Put your head in it
Pay a key fob selling Muslim 5.00 to pull the chord.
by Anonymous | reply 104 | November 14, 2019 5:55 AM
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Have a drink and listen to music sitting on one of the barge bars parked on the Seine.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 105 | November 14, 2019 5:59 AM
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One of the art events of the century is taking place at the Louvre currently.
The Leonardo Da Vinci exhibit.
Sounds like you are a fool if you are in Paris now and have not obtained tickets for this once-in-a-life time exhibition.
I will be in Paris in 2/20 and I already have booked my tickets with the Louvre.
by Anonymous | reply 106 | November 14, 2019 6:13 AM
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For the people suggesting major tourist sites like the Musee D’Orsay and the Louvre, I think OP knows about them, FFS.
by Anonymous | reply 107 | November 14, 2019 6:50 AM
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I never spend more than a week in Europe, and am ready to come home by the end of it. Less is more and can be better appreciated.
by Anonymous | reply 108 | November 14, 2019 7:06 AM
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Hang out with the Gypsies.
by Anonymous | reply 109 | November 14, 2019 8:46 AM
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A side trip might be good. You can go close - Reims, Versailles, Rennes - or even a side trip to Amsterdam, Antwerp or Cologne.
And Cafe Cox is a nice lively gay bar. The Marais isn't exacly Pere Lachaise. Live a little.
by Anonymous | reply 110 | November 14, 2019 9:14 AM
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The Ritz looks nice, but the pricing looks exploitive. I’d feel ripped off. I spent a lot of time there during my year living in Paris, and belonged to their health club in the years just before it closed for remodeling. It was nice, but even then it felt overpriced and overrated. Since the reopening, it looks like a really poor value proposition. I would feel bad spending 3-5k euro per day for a room there. I think you can do better for that money. I’d be curious to know if the food is truly memorable or merely meager and fussy and overhandled. I wonder what the room service charges are. You can have a lot better time elsewhere in the City and not feel exploited. I really do hope your time in France is memorable, though.
by Anonymous | reply 111 | November 14, 2019 9:27 AM
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Have you tried there French fries ?
by Anonymous | reply 112 | November 14, 2019 10:13 AM
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R39 Thank God. I thought I'm the only one who felt that way about Paris. Was there for 5 days last year, and after doing all the touristy things, walking everywhere around the city, taking the Métro, eating some okay food, doing some shopping, and taking many photos of the scenery, I couldn't wait to be done. I went to London and found it so much more energizing and not boring at all. Paris feels sleepy and very politely quiet - which is fantastic if you live there - but just...I'm not sure, too quiet for a holiday.
Not the first time to either city, either. I sometimes wonder how some of the most enigmatic screen legends that hail from the City of Lights find it so enigmatic.
OP, I second day trips. I wouldn't bother going outside of France (well, maybe Belgium), but you don't have that much time left to hop all over Europe, don't you think? Stay in the country but visit a few cities, maybe 2 days return in Belgium for a change of scenery, et voilà !
Funny how it almost sounds like we're trying to talk you through a hardship lol but I feel ya.
by Anonymous | reply 113 | November 14, 2019 10:36 AM
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R111 - you're right. The first time I stayed here, I was so blown away (and upgraded from an executive single room to a junior suite) I had to come back. Then this time, the price was much higher AND I had more problems with the room that a Hyatt / Marriott wouldn't have had. Quite odd... and frustrating at this price. Work pays for part but I went over the budget & am doing it for holiday, so I am not getting it paid in full. It's okay - I don't have kids & don't live extravagantly so I can do this once every 2-3 years maybe.
I'm headed to Musée de l'Orangerie & then the "gay tour" that R25 found. I was last in that museum as a teenager in 1995... and I wonder how that will feel now to revisit it. I visited "Hotel California" (real name) where my parents' took us way back then. The same Italian restaurant is still right nearby to it with the same red awning. It was so weird to see it still there. The hotel no longer had the 80s fabulous neon colors... but it was vaguely how I remembered it (everything seemed smaller)
The concierges are great and have given tons of recommendations. The demographic here is just different than Le Ritz Conciergerie.... much more diverse & also can count money. There's one really nice one who totally gets that I am not one of the Middle Eastern billionaires and I like doing normal things, so I have to always find him since he has the best suggestions.
There were some great posts here I wanted to call out but it was getting to be a formatting mess to have all these R quotes - but please know I read them all & thank you!
by Anonymous | reply 114 | November 14, 2019 12:11 PM
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Oh R99 - Here you go. Now I feel like one of the ladies at breakfast with a Fendi blouse on with the FF buttons and gigantic Chanel necklaces with Louboutin shoes.
I kind of stuck out in my REI flannel and Banana Republic jeans... so I splurged. I think it looks kinda cool. And it fits my (apparently) fat American ass unlike the "Large" sizes in every other brand. I'm XXL at Jules (popular Gap-like store here)
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 115 | November 14, 2019 12:19 PM
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OP, I am the arbiter of all things fashionable and I approve of your purchase. May I ask what you do for a living that affords you such luxury?
by Anonymous | reply 116 | November 14, 2019 12:47 PM
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Nice shirt, R115, not a bunch of LV logos on it (which is good). The collar detail is something I've never seen before.
by Anonymous | reply 117 | November 14, 2019 5:46 PM
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Thanks for saying you liked the shirt (thought it would be a disaster on here). I'm a lawyer but I also inherited some money (not millions) in my 20s which helped a lot (no school loans, no car loan, down payment covered, etc). I can't really lie and pretend just being a lawyer is everything. I don't do this more than once every few years.
Anyway, the tour with the guy (r25 found) was great. I never paid that much for a tour before, but I was so lucky he was really really smart (good knowledge of history, all the neighborhoods, and so much more). He's a teacher, I think it says that in his profile too. We saw Notre Dame. I know someone above was joking but ... see below. You can see it - just kinda sad looking with all the lights off. The guide told me the findings are still inconclusive - it wasn't due to the workers.
There's really good Jewish food there too - even though a lot of it is gone now. NYC has some good delis left like Sarges and 2nd ave & the one we went to (more of a bakery) was really good (except they charged €8.30 for ONE gefilte fish - oy vey). Unfortunately, most of the community is leaving due to increasing problems... (won't derail with this but you know what's going on in Paris). It was actually worth the price which I never ever thought it would be (especially considering the website probably takes a big cut). I could've brought 7 more people, he said, so then it's really worth it... but this was fun - more of a conversation than a "tour" which is a new thing. He also spoke completely perfect English.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 118 | November 14, 2019 8:19 PM
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r25 here: Hope you come back and talk about how your tour went with the guide I found. Unless it's too "private." Waiting breathlessly (kidding).
by Anonymous | reply 119 | November 14, 2019 8:20 PM
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I think we posted at the same time. It was totally worth it & great. See above.
by Anonymous | reply 120 | November 14, 2019 8:24 PM
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Thanks for checking back, OP. Would you recommend the Ritz hotel? Do you think it was worth the price? Or would you go elsewhere, next time? TIA.
by Anonymous | reply 121 | November 14, 2019 8:59 PM
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I don't think it's worth the price after 3-4 days, when the magic wears off. And even then, it's only worth it if you go when it's super unpopular (not any of the fashion weeks or during a high tourist period). Then, yeah, it's pretty amazing because you'll probably get upgraded and you'll have something totally unique to this hotel. If you stay too long, you start to see the flaws & the veneer over what could seriously just be a Marriott - and that they are missing things that basic hotels like the Wynn or Bellagio have (only the Princess Diana / Imperial suite has a steam shower out of 143 rooms. In the Bellagio, they all do in the suites... just for an example). As tacky as that may make me sound, we're in a society now where you can't tell imitation apart from reality anymore. Yes, the shower heads here are gold plated and the paint is actually gold. The curtains probably are 50 lbs of silk. Walking on the carpet feels like you're walking on memory foam. Still, after a few days, all these little things don't make a difference at this kind of price. But, if you did it for 3-4 nights and got an upgrade, it's something for once in a lifetime. To stay here as long as I did was just dumb really. Also, I have had to hop from one hotel to the next since Oct 16 and I am now up to 7 hotels. I am exhausted with the whole process & didn't want to do it yet again here. There are even more expensive places here too. I think that SATC episode finale was at a place that costs a lot more than here. The George V is more, depending on the room. I kind of like the people here though.
by Anonymous | reply 122 | November 14, 2019 9:13 PM
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What about the French toast ?
by Anonymous | reply 123 | November 14, 2019 10:26 PM
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Go to the Yellow Vest 1-year anniversary, 53rd demonstration on saturday 11/16 and sunday 11/17, we'll pay a tribute to our 25 mutilated, 12 dead, 3000 imprisoned, 18000 arrested... Or stay in your hotel because we'll make sure that there is nothing else to do in a paralyzed city... Welcome to France, but you are seriously wasting your money trying to live a romantic dream that does not exist...
by Anonymous | reply 124 | November 15, 2019 1:26 AM
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R124 "The only real revolution is of the cell, everything else is a prison revolt." Marquis de Sade in the play Marat/Sade
by Anonymous | reply 125 | November 15, 2019 3:12 AM
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So, OP, have you fled to Normandy yet?
by Anonymous | reply 126 | November 15, 2019 8:24 PM
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Go to this museum, you'll enjoy it.
Offsite Linkby Anonymous | reply 127 | November 15, 2019 8:27 PM
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r25 again: So glad your guide worked out so well! Honestly, I just googled "gay day tours Paris" and his site popped up first. Now this makes me want to go to Paris so I could take his tour. Enjoy the rest of your trip! Bon voyage!
by Anonymous | reply 128 | November 15, 2019 8:29 PM
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