Here we are in the Metro - the Paris subway. We tried to by a two-day pass, but then
had trouble using it. There are beggars in the subway system - don't give them money.
They try their best to look really really down-and-out. This is as good a place as any
to give some safety advice. Groups of gypsy kids may surround you and try to rob you - just
shout at them. Don't get into the situation where you are alone without anyone near.
Don't stand around clearly lost and looking at a map - big tip off to any thieves that
says "I am a big dumb tourist - please rob me". The musicians (one is shown against
the right wall here) all have to audition and be licensed by the city.
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Here is the street scene we encountered on our way up the steep hill to
Sacre-Coeur (it's in the background).
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We took the Metro to the Montmartre District and Sacre Coeur.
After the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, it was proposed to construct a church to the Sacred Heart
on the butte Montmartre. The plans for the new basilica called for an edifice of Romano-Byzantine style, and the first stone was laid in 1875.
Completed in 1914, it was not consecrated until 1919 after World War I had ended.
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You have a steep walk up several streets to reach Sacre Coeur. Then you have many steps
to climb to reach the Basilique level.
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Stained glass viewed from within the Basilique.
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Looking back the way we came. I am going to mention that in Paris they have public
pay toilets, so plan on having some coin Euros in your pocket in case of emergency ...
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