Friday, November 18, 2011

Bicycling in Paris

 Photos courtesy of Oh, Happy Day

I have always loved the idea of bicycling as a means of transportation in European cities.  I toyed around with the idea of renting a bike from the university when I lived in Leeds but ultimately decided the city's hills would be too much for my out-of-shape thighs.  This post from the blog Oh, Happy Day has made me think I was missing out on a fantastic means of exploring one's city.  And wouldn't Paris be an amazing city to explore?!  Just thinking about coasting past monuments like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame makes my skin tingle!  The post's explanation of Paris's bike rental system sounds as though bicycling would be an easy and interactive way of enjoying the Parisian sites.  I would, however, make one alteration to this scenario.  Flowers are very well and all, but that bike basket looks like the perfect means of toting a baguette and some cheese.  Or some pastries.  Food trumps flowers every time in my book.



P.S. When the lease was up on their San Francisco apartment, the couple behind Oh, Happy Day decided to pack up their two young sons and move to France for the year.  How cool is that?   I love reading about their perspective on Parisian life

8 comments:

Ashley said...

That first picture is breath-taking. Ah, if only ...

o said...

God, what I would love to go to Paris!

John McLendon said...

Having been to Paris three times: I can safely say I'd never bike there due to the fact that the traffic system is HORRIBLE, and I am sure I'd be killed by some psycho driver. It does sound idyllic though in theory. Baguette, cheese, and wine for me too!

Diana said...

Ash: I know, it was my favourite of the bunch!

Diana said...

O: I actually wasn't overly impressed by Paris when I went several years ago. But I think that's because I was comparing it to London, and that's not fair to any city. I'd love to go again and gain a second opinion.

Diana said...

John, I don't remember much about the traffic, but I was a pedestrian using public transport. But it definitely puts a damper on bicycling.

Hotly Spiced said...

What beautiful images. I would love to cycle around France but would probably steer clear of the cities.

his little lady said...

i'm so obsessed with that first picture that i just had to pin it on pinterest. obsessing. this is out of a dream!
xo TJ