Paris

---

A city of contrasts. Unbelievably extravagant buildings, with fantastic statues, and ornamentation. Dog droppings on the pavement.
A superb public transport system, in the Metro, and RER train networks. But you are in danger of being run down when crossing the road - even when on a pedestrian crossing, with a green light.
Incredible cathedrals - we visited Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, and Saint Chappele. Rampant consumerism along the Champs Elysees.
At Notre Dame, you can climb the towers, all the way to the top, and pretend to be one of the gargoyles. The Louvre has too much stuff, and is absolutely huge. The Eiffel Tower is ridiculously tall. I went no higher than the second level, feeling rather uncomfortable at the prospect of the final lift ride to the top.
A magical place to visit.

---