Paris and Giverny in a day (2)

Our driver from Cityvision, Sayeed, arrived on time and it turned out we were his only passengers. He gave us a commentary as we drove through and out of Paris and it was also interesting to talk to him about his background and family; we really enjoyed his company.

Giverny was about a 75 minute drive. Usually longer, but in August much of the Paris traffic disappears because of the vacations. We did a short detour to see a couple of interesting old villages near to Giverny. Then he dropped us by the gardens and we arranged in 2 hours time. We were fast-tracked because of the wheelchair and because we had pre-booked.

The weather was dry but mostly cloudy. We were lead past some flower beds and over a road to the lake. The place was busy, but not so it was difficult to get around, and the paths were good for pushing the wheelchair. The water lilies were in flower but perhaps the lighting was not ideal to see them at their best. Nevertheless you could see the shapes that Monet depicted so brilliantly: the willows, the waterlily leaves and flowers, the reflections on the water surface, the bridge. Mum was thrilled to see it.

Then we crossed back over the road to see the rest of the garden. This was a series of borders, many of which were no accessible to walk through but all of which were utterly packed with shape and colour. It seemed that every plant was in flower at the same time! No name plaques - the plantings seemed to focus on presenting spectacular blocks of colour rather than being informative in any way. 

And the impression was truly spectacular. Almost everywhere you looked there was a photograph to be taken or a painting to be made.Two hours was only just long enough and we missed going into Monet's house and spending more than 10 minutes in the extensive paintings gallery.

Back in Paris we were dropped at our hotel and went out to a local restaurant to eat. The waiter made a big fuss of Mum, including kissing her but (according to Mark) called me 'Pappa' blasting my theory that I look younger than my brother.

After taking Mum back to the hotel, Mark insisted that Montmartre was within easy walking distance and, easily lead that I am, I agreed, forgetting that this represents the biggest hill for miles and about 2,000 steps. At the top, when I finally got there, there were people selling bottles of water from rucksacks. The view over Paris was fantastic.

(the lighting flatters Mark's hair colour)

It was buzzing with people enjoying the evening, just chilling or watching the street entertainers. The church, Sacre Coeur, was open and we went inside, no charge. Mark lit a candle for Dad and I lit one in memory of Jerry. When we came out it was dark and we descended and sat in a nearly bar for a drink and to watch the girls walking by. A great end to a great day.

I know you it's ridiculous to spend just one day in Paris/Giverny, but it was enough for Mum, and I don't think we could have used the time any better. Am sure I will return with C.