After taking the Metro for the first two months in Paris when we were in the 15th, I am now commuting to work via bus. Which is nice for a few reasons. First of all, bus stops in Paris have electronic signs that tell you exactly when to expect the next bus. Having stood for anywhere up to 40 minutes in DC waiting for the effing 11Y to show up, this is a huge step towards modernity. And then, of course, traveling above ground is a huge improvement to descending into the lower depths of the city with millions of other morning commuters. A few fun facts about the Métro: it was first opened in 1900 during the World's Fair, and is today the second busiest rapid transit system in Europe (behind Moscow), carrying over 4 million people every day. The Châtelet station is the largest underground station in the world. Who knew? Anyway, above ground is better. If you take a look at the route 63 map below, I get on the bus at the Jean Nicot -Église Américaine station, ride across the bridge with a pretty fab view of the Eiffel tower on the left, pass by the Flame of Liberty monument (actual-size Statue of Liberty flame and unofficial Princess Di memorial), and get off at last stop (Porte de la Muette). The whole trip door to door takes about 30 minutes. Even on a rainy cold February day, the commute home is an incredible end to any day at work, no matter how crappy it may have been (note to concerned readers: it's not crappy, but it's also a job, so it's bound to be crappy sometimes). When I'm really lucky, we drive over the bridge on the hour when the tower puts on its version of a twinkly Vegas light show.
1 Comment
Janene
2/19/2014 02:54:41 pm
I think the Paris metro during rush hour was the only time I have ever really been afraid of being trampled to death.
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorBecause why not get married and move to Paris to really kick off your thirties? Archives
December 2016
|