Paris - The Louvre

Traveled from Munich to Paris last night - booked into a small Best Western (Hotel De Waha) in an Asian section of Paris.

This morning we started the day with a trip to the Louvre and beat the crowds. There was no problem getting close to the Mona Lisa, and, surprisingly, photos were allowed - even flash. And that was everywhere in the museum. Another surprise was free admission for under 18s.

The three main attractions were the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and Winged Victory which we digested by noon. Heavy rain was forecast so we went to the Eiffel Tower - right to the top and watched the rain advance in waves.

We have a 2 day pass on an open toppped bus so we can get off and on at any of its 10 or so stops.

Tomorrow it's more culture and history.