Street walkers in Paris

We went on a guided walking tour of the hidden secrets of Paris (thank you Peter & Lesley and Mark & Jilly). It was great and we would recommend it to anyone who wants to see a different side of this amazing city. Our guide was very knowledgeable and combined historical facts with local colour.

We walked through the expensive fashion district and historical areas as well as streets with a real local French feel, places where the locals went about their daily business.

Streets with local butchers and bakers, places that sell cheeses and chocolate shops and small cafes away from the tourists. We discovered narrow arcades and back lanes with dusty antique stores and small interesting shops. We also stopped outside the shop of the only umbrella repairer in Europe. Apparently he isn't there very often as he is now a bit of a celebrity.

The 3 hour tour took us in a winding route from the Place de la Concorde to the Pompidou Centre with a stop for a macaroon and a cheese tasting along the way. A bit of education, good company and gentle exercise, what more could we want!

Actually, when the tour ended we just happened to walk past a shoe shop that had a pair of boots with my name on them. How could I resist! So, education, company, exercise and a new pair of shoes ...... Just about a perfect day.