The Seine et Paris Plages

The Seine, Paris' romantic waterway--and probably most widely-known river throughout the world, 

runs 482 miles from Source-Seine near Dijon 

through Paris all the way into the English Channel 

near Le Havre and Honfleur. 

The average depth runs about 9 1/2 meters 

and periodic flooding creates great concern
regarding Paris' many artworks stored underground.

It is said that Joan of Arc's ashes were thrown into the Seine from Rouen.

And every summer since 2002, the Paris Plages 

brings truckloads of sand to its banks:

instant beach fun for city dwellers.

Thirty seven bridges span the Seine in Paris alone.

Some people have their favorites in the city.

Mine happens to be whichever one I'm on.

We sometimes take a walk to our Bir Hakim Bridge 

(formerly the Pont de Passy) with friends

--at just the right time--

to share a bottle of bubbly and the hourly evening shimmering lights of the Eiffel Tower.

There is nothing like strolling the banks of the Seine

with its cobblestone walkways and docked boats often used as hotel rooms,

perusing the local book- and art- sellers like in the shot above.

This year the Paris Plages begins July 20 

and runs for four weeks. 

For more information, see the Mairie de Paris website

which also shares a panoramique of photos.

Last one in the poo.....no, skip that part! 

(Photo copyright: Kirsten Steen)