A Double Date With Paris

Returning to the City of Light, Rick Steves takes a long stroll with the woman he loves

- Rick Steves

There's a spot in Paris where I like to share my macarons, on the Île Saint-Louis. Pulling the ribbon on the tiny box, gilded with tradition and a flair for good living, and sharing them here is the perfect start for a romantic afternoon with my favourite travel partner-my girlfriend and my favourite city.

Nibbling our pastel confections, we dangle our legs over the tip of the island that splits the River Seine and the city. Behind us towers Notre Dame, its rebuilding after a tragic fire a testimony to the city's commitment to its heritage. Ahead of us are bridges celebrating kings and emperors with medallions glinting in the morning sun.

Paris is a city for walking, hand in 5 hand, with just the right person. In a tiny park on the Île Saint-Louis, we listen as pétanque balls crack against each other and old-timers cackle. We share a Monet moment by a pond with water lilies where children push tiny boats with sticks.