In Greek mythology, the Champs Elysées was the place of the underworld where virtuous souls dwelled.
Today, the Champs Elysées retains its reputation as “the most beautiful avenue in the world”, but is shunned by Parisians.
What did I see on the Champs Elysées?
I didn’t see Jean-Paul Belmondo or Jean Seberg. Even the Herald Tribune has lost its name. It’s now called the International New York Times.
But I did see sports stores, jewelry stores and watchmakers. I saw a little Turtle, a bicycle cab. I saw people on foot, in cars, on bicycles, on scooters. I saw tourists with backpacks, children led by their teacher and fashionistas in full make-up.
And then I saw the famous Ladurée boutique, at number 75. Their macaroons, often imitated, rarely equalled, are the gourmet emblem of the house. Their flavors follow the seasons and launch the sweet fashions of the moment. I tasted my favorite, the orange blossom.
