Cafe des 2 Moulins, Montmatre, Paris

When my friend told me the cafe where the movie Amelie took place is in the area of Montmatre, I had to ask for getting in for a cafe and at least see the real scene.  The place was very crowded with movie fans taking photos at every corner.  The drink and food were naturally getting the least attention, though they weren't bad.

Montmatre (Paris hill), Paris, France

Was told not to visit here years ago due to the safety issue.  Now I was told not to go to Opera and Lafayette area on the same reason, but then this area is safe.  This place has been a cradle for a number of artists and most of all, it reminded me of some movies like Moulin Rouge and Amelie.

Domaine de Lintillac, Rue St. Augustin, Paris

So happy to visit this shop once again.  Came here at 1:40pm and it's still very crowded.  Got their lunch deal Euros 13.50 for either a starter with main course or main course with dessert.  Naturally I took the starter pate with veggie and the main course pan fried duck breast.  So good that I had to get a dessert to finish the meal.

Paris in April

Hotel Best Western Louvre Opera, Paris, France

Over the past 15 years, I have tried quite a no. of hotels in Paris around the Opera/Louvre area.  At this recent visit, I still chose this area and glad to find this one in between Opera Ave. and St. Anne Street (the Japanese town).  The location is very good in the centre within easy walk to Louvre, Rue St. Honore and Rivoli, and north to Opera/Lafayette.  Besides, it's in a quiet street behind such a busy street as Opera Ave. and St. Anne.  All the staff here are very friendly and helpful.  This hotel will be my preferred choice in my future visits in Paris.

Trattoria, Al Gazebo, Venice, Italy

Often think that in a trip there would be a half and half chance for trying some lousy restaurants but there are times we can get some nice restaurants.  This place is the latter one, especially they didn't have such funny hidden charges.  The food is nice too - al dente pasta in a nice tomato sauce, juicy tender grilled pork chop and fresh squid in deep fried.  This kind of 2 course set lunch is just Euros 13.

San Marco, Venice, Italy

Another tourist stop.  *remarks: one of the below photos shows a tower tilted...