Something New in Paris: Institut du Monde Arabe
Bonjour,
It’s Wednesday morning in Paris, and we have a new experience to share with you. We have tried on several occasions to visit the Institute of the Arab World which is directly across the river from us. It has been under restoration, but yesterday, we found it open. It is not a museum about the Muslim faith, but rather a total look at the Arab world. Bernie lived and worked for two years in Jordan, 1977-79, and is always interested in relating back to that unique experience.
The relics were as much about Judaism and early Christianity as they were about the Muslim faith. We were disappointed overall in the museum but glad that we have finally seen it. It’s a huge, very modern building with lots of wasted space.
However, the terrace view on the top floor was magnificent and made the visit worth our time and investment. Bernie got some panoramic shots of the islands of Paris. It’s hard to imagine “islands” if you haven’t been here, but these photos will help with that.
Our walk back home produced some interesting pictures of Parisians enjoying the fabulous weather.
Earlier in the day, we went back in pursuit of the park we couldn’t find on Monday only to discover that we had indeed found it, just didn’t realize it. We were put off by a sign that read Private Residence.
The rest of the sign reads that pedestrians are authorized to use the garden when it’s open. So we did. The roses are very much past their prime but you can see beyond the immediate to how lovely they were a month or so ago. This little spot is hidden away and used for weddings and parties in the spring.
Our lunch consisted of another new but disappointing venture at the popular “Breakfast in America” Café. The omelet was one of the worst we’ve had in Paris. I think they are more noted for the huge servings of pancakes and French toast which we generally avoid. The owner has become quite famous with his bestselling book so he must be doing something right. Oh well, we’ve been there and done that now.
Only two days until my two grandchildren arrive, ages 13 and 10. I am beyond excited to show them Bernie’s hometown.
That’s it for now. Have a bonne journée (good day)!
L & B
June 14, 2017 @ 9:47 am
Another interesting post from Paris! Agree with you about Monde Arabe (terrace & my favourite thing is their exterior tiles …). Merci and have a great day L&B.
June 14, 2017 @ 2:27 pm
Your photo showing the sign with info about Pauline Roland made me want to find out more about her…she was put on trial for her socialism, feminism and “debauchery” (couldn’t come up with anything better, I guess!) and subsequently, served 7 months in prison! Quite the activist!! Thanks for today’s pics… inspired me to do a little research!
June 14, 2017 @ 2:41 pm
Very interesting. Thanks for sharing.
June 14, 2017 @ 8:36 pm
That garden is one of my favourite little Paris secrets !… It took me a few goes to find it initially but when I was there last year the roses were in full bloom and it was amazing !… It’s always a lovely quiet spot to rest weary legs after a day of walking… I finished reading Pancakes in Paris and it sounds like the read was more interesting than the experience !… He certainly did have many obstacles in his way in setting it all up… Disappointing re the omelette… Perhaps the obstacles and challenges are still presenting ! Look forward to tomorrow’s post !
June 14, 2017 @ 11:14 pm
I always wonder why people want to be naked in the sun. When we went to Lido, from Venice, the beaches there were nude too. Oh well. This Florida girl will just complain about how my figure has changed and shows in in my bathing suit!
The pictures of the islands are great. Don’t you love the water traffic too? I have to wonder where the first “village” was. And, I just can’t begin to imagine how so much was built, so beautifully, with so little.
It’s hot here. I hope next week is perfect for all of you.
June 15, 2017 @ 5:55 am
Thanks, Barbara! Paris originally started on the island of Ile de la Cité and was called Lutece, I think, if memory serves me right. I need to research it again.
June 14, 2017 @ 11:19 pm
I’m sorry you were disappointed in the Monde Arabe! It probably depends on the particular exhibits they happen to have on display. Loved the new jardin. We will add it to our list.