Pulling one bag behind me and tightening the strap of the camera bag on my shoulder, I stepped out of the metro. Until I walked out of the station, most things felt similar to other metro stations I’ve been to. Stairs reaching the subtle brightness of the day also brought chills close to the exit of Bastille station. The exit leads you to a pretty square, and in every direction, you’ll first notice a cafe. Bastille area was the first time for me and the youthful joy of this place was instantly evident.
Bastille then and now
History of Bastille tells a different story. This neighbourhood held a massive fortress functioning as a prison for Paris. During the French Revolution, this was the first place where commoners triumphed over the dominance of political leaders. Rage and determination of the citizens brought the prison down to ashes and marking victory the same spot proudly holds a tall pillar with golden cupid. What remains unchanged is the energy and celebration of commoners in Bastille.
The entire stretch from the Bastille metro station to our hotel was lined with cafes and patisseries. I peeped in just to choose the first stop for refuelling. French-looking was the criteria – long glass windows to watch the world go by, few tables neatly placed outside and warm lights inside, elegant facade, and fancy canopy. There were so many! Neighbouring them were also Japanese, Indian and Mexican restaurants but I didn’t bother to check them out. I had to do justice to my cravings for French experience.
France feels like a new adventure in each city and every time we visit this elegant country. Our stories from visit to Lyon and Grenoble were very different to Paris. Sit with your cuppa and read that one (it’s a wee bit longer!) and share how was your experience of France?
