Arrondissement 1

             According to the 2009 census 17,614 people live in arrondissement 1, the central district of Paris. Of those residents 77.8% of them were born there and 9.7% are non-European immigrants.  This district has the smallest population but it's full of life.  Of the 70 million people that visit Paris each year I would assume that a large number of them go through this district because of the Louvre.  

Hotel Londres Saint-Honores

If you want to stay in this district for a more reasonable price I would suggest staying at the Hotel Londres Saint-Honore on 13, Rue Saint Roch, a two star hotel, and it costs €139-159 per night for a double room.  It’s walking distance from the Louvre, the Opera house and attractions in neighboring districts. 

There also happens to be a Carrefour express not far from the hotel where you can find all of your grocery needs:

A Dozen Eggs	€2,60
A Liter of Milk	€1,34
p/kg rib-eye steak	€20,50

Tourist Spots:
I spent at least six hours at the Louvre and I still think I’ve only seen 2/3 or less of the museum.  The museum can seem somewhat daunting because of its size and usually has a long line to get in.  However, if you are short on time and there is a long line to enter through the pyramid in the courtyard you can enter at the Arch de Triomphe du Carrousel mall entrance.  Just walk into the mall and skip the lines.  If art doesn’t particularly interest you or you only have a few minutes to see the highlights I would suggest doing a Mona Lisa dash and to also stop and see the Venus di Milo.  Even though you might want to rush through it you might find yourself getting caught up in the amazing sights.  

The Courtyard of the Louvre 

Amazing Architectural Finds:

The Arch de Triomphe du Carrousel was built in 1806 to commemorate Napoleon's victories.  It lines up perfectly with the larger Arch de Triomphe de l'Etoile at the top of the Champs Elysees in the 8th Arrondissement.  It is just one of the amazing examples of symetrey throughout the streets of Paris.  

Arch de Triomphe du Carrousell

Today's Business Shout out! 

Jimmy Choo!  This well known brand name for bags, accessories and especially shoes only has two shops in Paris and one of them is in district 1!  So if that sounds like your cup of tea I suggest you check it out on 376, Rue Saint-Honores. 

The Most Interesting Thing I Found:

Booksellers along the Seine river have been a tradition in Paris for hundreds of years. Today they are housed in metal green boxes along the river that open up into their shops from around noon until sundown everyday except holidays and during bad weather.  They sell old, used and collectible books, movies and artwork.  They are part of Parisian history and help give this city the exciting character that me and millions of others love.  

I hope you enjoyed your tour of Arrondissement 1! Au Revoir!