The Ultimate Neighborhood in Paris
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by: ToddGibson
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Word Count: 405
Montmartre is an easy enclave to locate. Just look for the white Sacre Coeur Basilica on the top of the hill overseeing the area. Montmartre is considered one of the best areas to spend time in because is has a little of everything Parisian.
While most tourists can do without seeing the Eiffel Tower (and paying to visit each level) missing Montmartre would be a lot like missing the Coliseum when visiting Rome. One last windmill left upon the infamous hill seems to tell of a time long past while hinting at the beginnings of a new future.
Montmartre watches over the (once scandalous) Moulin Rouge; the dark streets of Pigalle (Pig Alley to many war veterans); and the Paris scene that was once the subject of many great works of art. While it's true that this area is a weird mix of souvenir stands and suspicious street clowns, it is worth a saunter.
As often happens with places where famous people once where, Montmartre has a lively collection of businesses trying to sell the past. Junk memorializing van Gogh, Monet and Picasso are to be found everywhere you turn. Ignore it.
Montmartre is actually a pretty large area. If you want to avoid the people hocking everything under the sun, try to stay near the bottom of the hill. Here you will find a more authentic experience and taste of the neighborhood.
Monet. Picasso. van Gogh. When you walk the streets of Montmartre, you are walking through hallowed ground. Do not let the riff raff distract you from that fact. Get off the main paths and consider what is really around you.
There are certain places in the world where the entire area is the attraction instead of specific buildings. Montmartre is one such place. Yes, you can check out the Moulin Rouge, but stroll the area to get a much bigger experience.
Paris is not the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. It is the quirky, eccentric neighborhoods. Montmartre is one such area and one you will never forget. If you travel to Paris, missing it would be a sin.
About the Author
Todd Gibson writes about trekking to and fro for NomadJournals.com - makers of rugged journals that make great unique holiday gifts for people who have everything.
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