I think everyone who visits Paris should check out the Louvre – meet Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and all that. But once you had your fill of classical art, you should definitely head over to Musee d’Orsay for a pleasurable and more enjoyable day with the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists! Seeing the works of these 19th-century artists (Claude Monet, Paul Cezanne, Mary Cassatt, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir to name a few) with their expressive brushstrokes – and in the case of Vincent Van Gogh, very emotional swirls – was a very moving moment for me. I felt their souls transcend and peek through their art. It’s like meeting them in person and getting to know them intimately. And I wondered – will I be able to leave this kind of legacy?

I didn’t actually go in the Louvre Museum during my recent visit. (I had the pleasure of meeting Mona Lisa once before.) But I did explore the shops in the Carrousel du Louvre and I hung out in the Tuileries Gardens. One thing I’d like to mention – I hate the Louvre Metro stop. Lots of aggressive gypsies asking for donations. A few even followed me for a while and grabbed my arm to get my attention. Scary!

part of the Louvre Palace as seen from the Tuileries Gardens

Tuileries Gardens with Musee d'Orsay in the background

Tuileries Gardens

My cousin took me to Bois de Boulogne, a large park (which used to be a royal hunting ground in the Middle Ages) along the edge of the 16th arrondissement. Very interesting place! Lining the main entrance roads (even during the day) are transvestites and sleazy girls, half-naked and waiting for business. Obviously one of Paris’ red-light districts! Beyond that, I enjoyed a tranquil walk along the park’s lake.

Bois de Boulogne

Bois de Boulogne

Villa Santos-Dumont is this quiant village-like street in the 15th arrondisement which supposedly inspired some of the famous modern artists.

Villa Santos-Dumont

Rue Santos-Dumont

Here are a few more photos to share:

Notre Dame Cathedral

Passy Cemetery

On my next post, I’ll be sharing photos from Puces St. Ouen – the mother of all flea markets! See you then! (If you missed my first post about my recent visit to Paris, go here.)