An Olympic fête in Paris

The city of lights and love has Olympic fever and our arrival was easy. Our hotel, My Maison, in the 1st Arrondissement is a sensational location and accommodation. It is on a street filled with bistros and we chose Au Pied de Cochon by for our first of many delicious meals in Paris.

Unfortunately, our rooftop opening ceremonies dinner location was canceled due to the inclement weather but we were not stymied. Along with many other locals and Olympic fans, we headed to the Seine with hopes of an up close view of the barge parade of athletes. Our QR codes did not allow us to get to the banks of the river which had been free-ticketed to local residents only. The overwhelming police presence, the metal fencing and the pouring rain helped make the decision to take refuge in the nearest bistro, Cafe des Art at the river and the close to the back of the Louvre. We grabbed a table with a view of a TV and glimpses of activity of some of the performances on nearby bridges. We stayed dry, fed and cheered along with the other international fans at the bistro.

Paris is a city that offers art, history, monuments, food and lots of Olympic sports. Oddly, the combination of rain and security enforcement makes the city seems eerily empty. Many shops were closed and the streets were mostly car free. We purchased some delicious pastries at the oldest pastry shop in the city, Stohrer’s, before heading to the Olympic flame, located in the Tuileries. The flame, shaped like a hot air balloon, is located where the world’s first hot air balloon flight took place. We passed the Louvre and its famous IM Pei pyramid and glimpsed the Eiffel Tower on our way to lunch at a cozy and delicious spot, Juveniles.

Our first event, Israel vs Paraguay Men’s football was at Parc de Princes Stadium. Our seats were fantastic as was the crowd.

After, the match, we explored the Trocadero area taking in a magical view of the Eiffel Tower. Ending the evening people watching from Carette with outstanding hot chocolate.

Paris always delivers with love.