My very gracious host Joël welcomed me at the airport. He just kinda took my hand and took control. Went and bought tickets for us to hop on the RER (to get from the airport to the city’s center), the Métro (to get around the city) and the SCNF (to go from Paris to Orléans). So, our first stop: the 18ème arrondissement to go get my friend Philippe.
The 18ème arrondissement seems to be the home of Black Paris’ center. Sure, I’ve met people of color who live in different parts of the city, but there were many places here where I saw almost nothing but Black, Indian and Arab people on the streets. Philippe arrived from London the day before, so we went to pick him up and make our way through Paris to Orléans. Near his hotel was this enormous open air market (that I’ve since found out is one of the world’s largest). I wish I could have spent more time there, but the crowds were already getting hyped for all the New Years Eve celebrations that were bound to occur throughout the city. We were getting our asses outta there.
Wow these pictures are great… I am so glad that you finally posting about this trip… I cannot wait to hear more of it… Thanks for the memories and I hope that the traveling bug has bitten you deep… I can see you now having your pre-packed valise de voyage next to your door just waiting to be picked up and away to god knows where.
philippe