Paris ... Madrid

Sun 16 Apr

Easing down on our Paris explorations we headed to our nearby metro station and got distracted by a huge group of runners participating in a Colour Run for charity - not a marathon this time but a fun run along the banks of the Seine. We then headed down to the Marais area for: 1) a nostalgic look at the Hôtel de Nice where we stayed in 1998; 2) to find an ATM to get some more Euros without a fee; and, 3) to explore the shops in this area. Stephanie still had to find gifts.

Part of the Colour Run

Excentric cyclist outside the Hotel de Ville

We found that this area was different from other parts of Paris. There weren't a lot open being Easter Sunday, but the most popular were food outlets especially those selling felafels. We also walked around the large open are in front of Notre Dame that was filled with people. Others, still trying to get into this area had to go through a security bag check first. This is something we found with all the museums and other attractions in the city.

By the time we got back to the Eiffel Tower and the Village de Pâques, it was time for dinner which was Caribbean food from one of the stalls. A stroll along the riverside (still showing traces of colour from the Colour Run) ended our last full day in Paris.
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Mon 17 Apr

Packed our bags and waited for Sam to see us out of the apartment and collect the keys at 12:00. Took the train to CDG then there was much sitting around at the airport before our easyJet flight (it was ok but wouldn't rave) at 17:55. Two hours later we were in Madrid taking a taxi at a proverbial* breakneck speed to the city for a set price of €30. (* I say proverbial, but I can't think of a proverb with "breakneck" in it - any help?)

"Just push. It will fit."

Jorge met us and showed us into the apartment near the city centre at Calle de Esparteros. We later walked down to Plaza Major and found some tapas and beer for dinner.

A refreshing beer in warm Madrid