DAY 2: The Parisian phallus

We checked into our apartment located literally about 2-3 blocks from the Eiffel Tower. Say what you want, but it is beautiful and huge.
It was nice to have it as a focal icon while walking about keeping us oriented. After dropping our junk, we hit the tower. They charge you for each level you ascend, so we stopped at two, which has the best view anyway. It was FUCKING cold, but great nonetheless. This picture is a view of the Seine. I opted to walk down the stairs instead of taking the lift. The combo of jetlag, rain and lack of food made for a tumultuous climb down, which never seemed to end.

We then hit the Rue Cler, which was also about 3 blocks from the apartment. A prime shopping area-similar to the Farmer's Market with fresh Fromagerie, fish monger and vegetable stands. Oh yes, and I must not forget the Brasseries! We ate at a nicoise-specialty place which was tasty-I even scarffed the anchovies. Pity to anyone who had to pack in the coffin-like euro-elevator with me that day.

After stocking up on food for the apartment, we attempted to get our 3rd Cafe Au Lait for the day. The term "to go" isn't embraced in Europe, nor is BMF coffee ("big-mother fucking" in case you weren't familiar with that acronym). They stuck the espresso in a little plastic cup and cut a hole in a bar coaster, which I guess was to serve as a hot sleeve. Um, no..it didn't work.