European Adventure: Really getting into it..

...if only I could sleep! Haven't adjusted time so well so a sleepless night and heading off for breakfast before sunrise! Patisseries open early!

The lack of crowds and daybreak made perfect photo opportunities:

Then curiosity took us to new places. The Sorbonne and Pantheon were always going to appeal, but so many other treasures to see! Colleges of all levels and a student community environment. Warmed my heart!

Off to the Catacombs - a planned visit. Approx 6 million Parisienne skeletal remains fill the tunnels under Paris where stone for the buildings had been quarried. Cemeteries had no room, so in 18th century they were stacked in the void, where they remain. Mainly skulls and femurs visible. Fascinating! We respected requests, and the departed so took no photographs. The image won't easily be forgotten.

A leisurely stroll around the area before heading to Tour Eiffel by Metro. The weather can change quickly, so to see the tower shrouded in fog although sonewhat unexpected was not unusual . Also not previously experienced was the security around the area. Significant building works are underway. We decided to walk along the river because we really are enjoying the gentle immersion in the lifestyle that this permits. Stop here and there for a coffee or Tarte des fruits and of course the daily baguette.

A planned visit to Musee D'Orsay was abandoned because we just didn't feel like it. We want to soak up outside experience while weather permits. Instead we ambled home for a rest before going out again to St Michel area for dinner and to explore Eglise de St Julien de la pauvre. Decided against staying for evening concert after wandering through the Marché du Noël. Too tired!