My packed-to-the-gills  American Airlines flight out of New York, full of passengers, arrived at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport a few minutes ahead of schedule today at 11:00 a.m.   We met a few other travelers in the airport and were whisked into the city center via the RER train.  Despite my jet-lag,   I reacquainted myself with some old and familiar friends by walking through the Latin Quarter.

I am reminded that Paris is a big city full of hustle and bustle.  The restaurants are crowded and the streets are full.  Our tour officially starts tomorrow so  I am taking it easy today, getting our travelers checked into the hotel St. Pierre and making preparations for the week ahead.    To be honest, the hotel could use some updating.   However, it is extremely well-located, it is very clean, the staff is especially friendly, and it is comfortable.  I have researched many hotels in this area.  Nothing matches the HSP in terms of value, location, and convenience.  Plus, some of the rooms even have a nice view of the Eiffel Tower.

After I get some of my paperwork done, I take a few travelers on a quick tour of Paris.    But before we grab a quick bite to eat at the Moose Sports Bar around the corner.   Most restaurants are filled with tourists, especially in the Latin Quarter.  But believe it or not, this Canadian spot is crammed with locals.  Parisians find the place to be a novelty and predominate here.

But boy, did that burger and beer taste good.  It’s my last bit of “American” food for the rest of the week.  It was 20 euros apiece for our meal with a shared bottle of wine and a few drinks.

At 9:15 at night is is still bright outside.  The sun will not set until about 10:15 p.m. tonight.  Four of us stroll down through the buzzing rue Buci.   The gelato shops and crepe stands have long lines.  We walk down Boulevard St. Michel to rue de la Huchette.  Our Louisiana guest is reminded of a Bourbon Street  atmosphere.    We wind up at Shakespeare and Company  where we gaze at the Cathedral of Notre Dame and mingle in the bookstore.  At 10:30, as the very last bit of sunlight fades, so do we.  It’s “a wrap” for our first day in Paris.