The 7th Woman

I’ve featured The 7th Woman before so I’ll keep it brief this time. I’ve managed to persuade Molay to tell us a bit about her fave (and mine!) city. I hope my Pumpkin is enjoying herself in Paris.

My Paris by Frédérique Molay

I am particularly attached to the fifth arrondissement, which is my paternal grandparents’ neighborhood. They lived Place Jussieu, in the apartment that serves as the setting of the climax in The 7th Woman. Not to be missed in the area are the Place de la Contrescarpe, the Rue Mouffetard, the Montagne-Sainte-Geneviève, and all around the Panthéon.

I love the sixth arrondissement as well and particularly the Luxembourg Gardens. When I was little, I pushed wooden boats in the water basins. I am very fond of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés, particularly the Rue Saint-André-des-Arts, the Rue de Buci, the Rue Bonaparte and its famous salon de thé Ladurée, which is known world over for its macaroons. I often stroll the Rue de Rennes and have lunch at the Trait d’Union, a brasserie that has delicious banana rolls and hot chocolate.

I truly love the first arrondissement too, and the Ile Saint-Louis. Then there is Ile de la Cité, with Notre Dame Cathedral, but also 36 Quai des Orfèvres, which is the criminal investigation division’s headquarters, and a key setting in the entire Nico Sirsky series. On the Pont Neuf, I go to the Taverne Henri IV, which is where Inspector Maigret, and his creator Simenon, went. On the magnificent Place Dauphine is Ma Salle à Manger, which serves delicious Southwestern French cooking in a deliciously friendly atmosphere. Back to the Ile Saint-Louis, you cannot miss Bertillon’s famous ice cream, which you can taste at the outside tables at Flore de l’Ile, enjoying an exceptional view.

The first arrondissement continues into the Palais Royal neighborhood, where you find the Rue Saint-Anne, with is Japanese restaurants. I recommend Higuma, which is the most typical of them all.

Often, when I need some air, I go to Montmartre and visit Sacré Coeur, or the Place des Vosges to see its art galleries, or the Madeleine and Opera, with its large department stores. Other times, I walk along the Seine and explore the bouquinistes.

And when in Paris, do not miss Versailles.

Some of these places I’ve visited and some not.  How about you? Here’s MY fave pic, taken by my friend.