More photos

I miss Paris! Here are some photos from a number of random spots. More photos from my trip to the South of France to follow soon...

Paris Tour Guide

Now that I have completed the MBA, I am taking an intensive French language course. It's a lot of work but I'm really excited about it as one of my life goals is to become fully bilingual.

When I'm not reviewing French grammar, I'm touring Paris with my Ivey friends. Last week, I hosted five friends and this week I have four more people here. It's busy and I truly feel like a tour guide. But hey, at least we're having fun - and the wine is cheap and the crepes are delicious! Photos to follow soon.

The DaVinci Code

One of the great things about living in Paris is the ability to be "on the set". I read the DaVinci Code on the weekend and took a guided walking tour of the key spots mentioned in the book, such as the Louvre, St. Sulpice and St. Germain de Pres. Yesterday I wandered over to the theatre to buy tickets to see the world premiere of this controversial movie. I was not surprised to see hundreds of protestors trying to block the entrance. Once again, riot police were everywhere. The movie was VO version originale, (mostly English, a little Italian) with French subtitles. The French (and possibly Catholic) audience booed some parts of the film, as the story was not credible or perhaps just too controversial. I could tell that the character Fache (the French actor) was very popular as they cheered for him the most. Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou were fantastic in their leading roles. In my view, Ron Howard really brought the book to life. I am concerned that this movie sends a terrible message to the masses and worry about the future impact on the Catholic Church.

The Spiral Staircase to Heaven...

After a long climb up a small, spiral staircase, we were rewarded with a spectacular view of Copenhagen. Our Saviour's Church is more than 250 years old and is a masterpiece of baroque architecture.

More Denmark

Copenhagen

Danish Design

My weekend in Denmark exceeded my expectations on a number of levels. I was impressed with the advanced use of technology - from the driverless subways to the rows of wind turbines generating energy. I was inspired by the Danish design that went into making the city look so sleek and modern. And the airport felt like a furniture showroom, with it's stylish luggage carts, potlights and hardwood floors, stainless steel tables, skylights...





Sean and Nat, (our gracious hosts are originally from Ottawa)introduced us to the local wildlife - or their Danish friends. They took the time to share information about the culture and to walk us all around the best of Copenhagen. It appeared that every Dane owned a bike and that running was the most popular activity. I felt very comfortable in this vibrant city until I attempted to jay-walk a quiet street with no cars approaching in either direction. Apparently, jay-walking is unacceptable...