Paris' No Walk Zone

Paris is swelling. Not bloating from heat. But billowing with people. Tourists.

There have always been parts of the city that I have avoided. Making sure I don’t get sucked into a load of gawking tour-bus rabble.

As we approach summer – the true European vacation season – I can tell that my no walk zone will expand. Quarantine even more of the most touristed city in the world.

The crowd that gathers at the foot of the Eiffel Tower is a good indicator of the tourist season. I usually walk past this point four or five times a week. Recently, I have noticed the increased activity.

Tourist – however – also bring some comfort. Knowing that you are not the only foreigner. Being able to find a fellow American. And surrounding yourself with novices. All help to dismantle isolation.

Crossing the Seine along with my elevated- métro line. Line number 6 – on Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Renamed (originally pont de Passy) to commemorate the battle fought by French forces in Bir-Hakeim, Libya. In 1942, against the Nazi Afrika Korps.

Making my way to the Natural History Museum in the 16th arrondissement.