As a frenchman who spent almost all his life in Paris, but who finally decided to move very, very far away from a country plagued by "manifestations et greves" (demonstrations and strikes), I only spend a few days from time to time and enjoy the beautiful city, yes it is magnificent, the girls and boys have a unique french touch and the cuisine is wonderful and not necessarily expensive.

As a typical Parisian, I never visit anything, alone. So If you plan to come again to Paris, I'd be delighted to accompany you in museums, Tour Eiffel, and of course restaurants, just let me know if that sounds good to you? I am 59 (old balls as I call myself), not too stupid, and appreciate good company.

Hello, as a native-born Parisian, I was thinking : why not form a group of eunuchs, chemical castrated and intact males (and females) and spend together a few hours (or days) visiting Paris ? please let me know what you think of the idea ? we certainly have a lot to share, visit, food, and compare our lives and peoccupation, that would be fun, I am sure.

(for information : I still have my balls, but begun a chemical castration recently)

I did 3 semesters at the Sorbonne and love Paris and yes, I even love the French!!

erikboy (imported) wrote: Tue Apr 06, 2010 5:03 am I would suggest to visit Maison Fournaise and have a Creme Brule if you like sweets or wine.

And If you can, visit Paris in May.

E.

PS. When I was there, I didn't know much about the place as I was brought to this place. I felt that I had been there before, despite I was first time in Paris. That feeling was strong and I couldn't get it out of my head. Until almost before we left I recognized, that this place must have been a scenery of an old painting I had seen long time ago.

Erikboy sounds like a great suggestion, thank you.

Maybe you have lived there before. When I visit Quebec City I have such a connection with the city. I feel more alive there than anywhere else. Energies from a previous life perhaps.

I will be in Paris in May. I will visit the gardens and try to figure out how to capture all the beauty with my camera.

binky69 (imported) wrote: Tue Apr 06, 2010 6:58 pm I'll second the Chateau de Versailles - really amazing and an easy train ride from Paris on the RER (suburban commuter train).

If you like the Impressionists, then the Musée d'Orsay is a must. The building alone (a former train station) is worth the visit.

Musée Marmottan also has a great collection of Impressionists, especially Monet.

You'll have a fantastic time. It's an amazing city - my favorite place in the world. And you'll never run out of things to see.

Bon voyage!

Thank you for the suggestions. I will visit the Musee d'Orsay. I will be staying in the 1st arrondissement so I am close to the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay. Any restaurant suggestions?

Milkman (imported) wrote: Wed Apr 07, 2010 3:55 am I did 3 semesters at the Sorbonne and love Paris and yes, I even love the French!!

That must have been an incredible experience.

I will look forward to experiencing the culture. I may even speak a little french in my attempt to enjoy the people. I try to familiarize myself with the culture before I arrive out of respect.

Be careful where you keep your money and documents, there are many thieves, especially in tourist areas.

Have a nice trip!

asphalt-cowboy (imported) wrote: Wed Apr 07, 2010 3:37 pm Be careful where you keep your money and documents, there are many thieves, especially in tourist areas.

Have a nice trip!

I am ordering a special wallet that fits under my pants. If anyone reaches down my pants I guess they deserve a little cash.

You have to spend some time walking around Le Marais - especially on a Sunday afternoon when all the boys are out.

Another interesting museum is in Le Marais as well, the Musee Carnavalet, which depicts the history of the city of Paris. You like wine? Le Musee de Vin (www.museeduvinparis.com/en/) was really interesting and even offered tastings the day I was there.

A few restaurant suggestions...

Le Petit Picard

42 Rue St Croix de la Bretonnerie, 4th

Metro: Hôtel de Ville

This cozy gay-themed restaurant in the heart of the trendy Marais neighborhood proves that hip doesn't have to be synonymous with overpriced. In a neo-kitsch setting (Greco-roman statues and bold colors abound), one can procure a very decent lunch menu that includes starter, main course, dessert, and a 1/4 bottle of wine for approx. $18-$30. Le Petit Picard has been noted for its generous portions and cheerful service.

www.amazonial.fr

L'Amazonial

This fun restaurant organizes all kinds of events like bingo, drag shows and cabaret.

3, Rue Des Lavandieres Ste Opportune, 1st

Metro to Chatelet-Les Halles

www.chezpaul.com

Chez Paul

13, Rue de Charonne, 11th

A traditional French bistro with excellent food. Small place so good idea to book a table if you're going for dinner.

www.quick.fr

Quick

A French fast food chain all over - good baguette sandwiches, good pastries and coffee too. Easy way to have a decent lunch for cheap.

Berthillon

www.berthillon.fr

31 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Ile, 4th

Incredible ice cream parlor.

Grande Epicerie De Paris

www.lagrandeepicerie.fr

38 Rue de Sèvres, 7th

Big food hall - part of Le Bon Marche department store - great place to buy French food products to bring home.

Thank you all for your suggestions, good advice and support.