Paris

Paris in the spring.

I went to Paris in May of 1998 for SGML/XML Europe. This was my first trip to continental Europe and I quite enjoyed it. After the conference, Deb and I had a short vacation in Paris before I trundled off to see my folks in England. Above, a panoramic shot of Paris from the steps of Sacre Coeur.

Travel tips for Paris

Bring your cellphone. Oh, it won't work, but you'll feel so gauche if you're the only one without one.
Bring your rollerblades. Everyone else is on them.
Don't forget your ATM card. You're gonna need it.
Remember, there are some places where public displays of affection are frowned upon. Paris isn't one of them.
Bring your appetite. Morning, noon, and night, the food is delicious.

1. Wandering Around Paris

Sacre Coeur

Cafe

Book Sellers on the Siene

The Eiffel Tower

Thinker by Rodin

Place de St. Michelle

Les Invalides

Notre Dame

The gargoyles at Notre Dame are really delightful. The front face was completely obscured by scaffolding. C'est la vie.

Gargoyle

Notre Dame

Gargoyle

St. Chapelle

There is no possible way to express the beauty of the stained glass at St. Chapelle. To say these pictures don't do it justice is an absurd understatement.

St. Chapelle

Chartre

What St. Chapelle has in stained glass, Chartre has in scale. Massive. Powerful. Stunning.