Fumigation

We were all very excited to visit the Catacombs in Paris.  I had a great day planned.  After the catacombs we were going to have crepes by Monparnasse, walk through an old cemetery and head for Jardin Du Luxembourg.  We got up early, went on a long metro ride with even longer connections and arrived at the Catacombs on Tuesday morning.  The line was nearly non-existent so I was immediately concerned.  As we walked closer I knew something was wrong.  Small groups of people were milling around looking lost.  We then found a small notice posted by the entrance.  After months of study my French consists of how to order food and buy scarves, but I recognized the words ferme’ and fumigation….it wasn’t looking good.

Derek spoke with someone and learned that the ventilation system wasn’t working.  Later I did a quick Internet search and discovered the Catacombs had been closed on Sunday and it was doubtful they would open today or even later in the week.

 

Plan B, a quick check of the map, and back on the Metro to the The Arc de Triomphe

 When you come up from the metro this is what you see.  I could have watched the traffic for hours.
If you have ever thought Smart Cars were ridiculous (like I do) this traffic circle will make you appreciate them.

"T" is making a video of himself.

This was the first place where we encountered TONS of tourists...
all taking photos of each other with the Arc as the backdrop.

 

 
If you can't beat them...join them.



Looking down the Champs-Elysées toward the Louvre.

Panoramic skyline.

"J" really enjoyed the telescope.

The city is vast and compact.

"T" was pooped from the stairs.  LOTS of stairs to climb to the top.

 

 

 
These last two photo's aren't mine.  Some vantage points are best left to the professionals.