Lady Rentrée

Today is the first day of back-to-school, the annual rentrée scolaire. This larger-than-life sculpture represents Science. The "Bac S" or baccalauréat scientifique is the most revered course of pre-college study in France.

Graffiti row

A narrow passageway, both sides covered end to end in graffiti and tags.
A bicycle part with handlebars is mounted just above the gate.

Déli-Cieux

 Grab a tray from the cafeteria and head to the outside terrace for a 360° déli-cieux view.

 

 Printemps Department Store Haussmann

Leap of faith

 

 

Detail from quirky Left Bank restaurant, Roger La Grenouille ("Roger The Frog"). Anyone who believes that frogs’ legs taste like chicken can decide here, where both are served. Inside, what appears to be a portrait is a man with a napkin tucked under his chin.

 

Pique-nique en ville

With vacationers still away it's easy to find a quiet spot for a picnic in a city park, here, beneath a giant tree in Parc Monceau.

Parasols

Parasols, a quintessentially French fashion accessory from bygone days, outside a small shop just around the corner from the Picasso Museum.

Farewell aux plages

As August winds down so does Paris-Plages, the annual urban project that put a whole new spin on "stay-cation." 

Above: relaxing w/champagne and (free) city wi-fi

 

Below: members of a jazz trio take a break; a small bar w/potted palms has been set up as river boats cruise by in the background