Inspired by Marilyn Z Tomlins

Apr 12, 2023

Best Time to Visit Paris: Discover the Perfect Season for Your Dream Vacation

Paris, the City of Lights, is a dream destination for many travelers. From its romantic streets and world-famous landmarks to its delicious cuisine and vibrant arts scene, there’s always something to see and do. But when is the best time to visit Paris? In this guide, we will explore the different seasons, weather patterns, and events to help you decide on the perfect time for your Parisian adventure.

Seasons and Weather in Paris

Paris has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, each offering its unique charm.

1. Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time to visit Paris as the weather is mild and the city comes alive with blossoming flowers. Temperatures range from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C) during the day, with occasional rainfall.
2. Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C). Warm, sunny days are perfect for outdoor activities, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.
3. Autumn (September to November): The fall season brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Daytime temperatures vary between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C), and the crowds start to thin out.
4. Winter (December to February): Winter in Paris can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C). However, the city looks magical with holiday lights and decorations, and there are fewer tourists.

Best Time for Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities

The best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities in Paris is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and the city is not as crowded as during the peak summer months. Additionally, you’ll be able to experience the beautiful spring blooms or autumn foliage.

Best Time for Budget Travelers

If you’re looking to save money on your trip, consider visiting Paris during the off-peak season of winter (December to February), excluding the holidays. Although the weather is colder, you can enjoy lower prices on accommodations and attractions, as well as fewer tourists. Make sure to pack warm clothing and be prepared for occasional snow or rain.

Special Events and Festivals in Paris

Paris hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, so consider planning your trip around one of these special occasions:

1. Paris Fashion Week (February/March and September/October): A prestigious event showcasing the latest trends from top designers.
2. French Open (May/June): A world-famous tennis tournament held at Roland Garros.
3. Bastille Day (July 14): A national holiday with fireworks, military parades, and celebrations.
4. Nuit Blanche (October): An annual all-night arts festival featuring installations, performances, and exhibitions throughout the city.
5. Christmas Markets (December): Traditional markets selling crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats.

Best Time to Experience Parisian Cuisine

Paris is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and there is no bad time to indulge in the city’s culinary delights. However, visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) might provide a more relaxed atmosphere for dining out, as restaurants tend to be less crowded. Additionally, you might want to consider participating in one of Paris’s food festivals, such as Taste of Paris in May, where you can sample dishes from renowned chefs and local artisans.

Family-Friendly Activities in Paris

For families traveling with children, the best time to visit Paris is during the warmer months of late spring, summer, or early autumn. This will ensure pleasant weather for outdoor activities such as visiting amusement parks, exploring parks and gardens, or taking a boat ride along the Seine River. Summer holidays also mean that many attractions cater to families with special events and workshops. Some popular family-friendly attractions in Paris include the Jardin d’Acclimatation, Disneyland Paris, and Parc Asterix.

Tips for Navigating Paris Public Transportation

No matter when you visit Paris, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the city’s public transportation system. The Paris Métro is an efficient and reliable way to get around, and buses and trams also serve the city. Purchase a Navigo card or a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel on public transport during your stay. Keep in mind that the Métro tends to be more crowded during peak tourist seasons and rush hours. To avoid the crowds, consider traveling during off-peak hours or exploring the city by bike using the Vélib’ bike-sharing system.

Final Take

In conclusion, the best time to visit France depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and events. Whether you’re seeking mild temperatures and fewer tourists or planning your trip around a specific event, the City of Lights offers a unique experience for every traveler. Keep in mind that shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, while winter is the best choice for budget travelers. No matter when you choose to visit, Paris will captivate you with its charm, history, and beauty. Bon voyage!

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Apr 3, 2023

Having sex in public in France is against the law

In the peaceful town of Cherbourg, nestled in the scenic landscape of France, a strange event unfolded on a quiet Sunday morning, the 25th of June. What is typically a serene day, with only a few residents taking leisurely strolls or attending church, took an unusual turn when a young couple began indulging in explicit acts of intimacy just outside the town hall.

The couple, both in their early twenties and scantily clad, seemed to have little regard for the time and place as they began their passionate encounter around 8 o’clock that morning. The quaint, cobblestone streets of Cherbourg, usually quiet and largely empty on Sunday mornings, were suddenly the backdrop for this unexpected spectacle.

Social Media: A Modern Town Crier

It so happened that an onlooker, surprised by the events unfolding, decided to capture the moment on camera. This observer quickly shared the video on various social media platforms, including Facebook. Within hours, the clip amassed over 100,000 views, stirring quite the online controversy.

As word spread and the video circulated rapidly among online communities, an array of responses were elicited. Some viewers were shocked, while others were amused. The debate about public propriety, decency, and the right to privacy in the age of smartphones and social media was reignited.

However, Facebook promptly removed the video due to its explicit content, but by that time, the local police had already gotten wind of the situation.

The Law Intervenes: The Cost of Public Indiscretion

Public intimacy, as it turns out, is a criminal offense in France. Upon witnessing the video, the police initiated their investigation and soon identified the amorous couple. Despite their claims of having no recollection of the event, likely due to intoxication, the evidence was undeniable.

Upon being alerted by their friends to the video circulating on social media, the pair confessed their lack of memory regarding their scandalous actions. They now face potential charges for their public indiscretion, which could include a year in prison and a fine of up to 15,000 euros ($17,200, £13,300) each.

In addition to the couple, the person who filmed and distributed the video may face potential legal ramifications. The prosecutor will make a final decision on the charges to be filed.

France: A Nation Celebrating Diversity and Tolerance

This event, while shocking, should not overshadow the overall societal atmosphere in France. France is known for its respect for diversity and personal freedoms, including a strong tradition of support for LGBTQ+ rights. It is worth noting that France was the first country to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness, back in 1981, and it has consistently voted in favor of LGBTQ+ rights at the United Nations.

Moreover, France is home to numerous pride events, LGBTQ+ festivals, and has a thriving queer nightlife, particularly in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. The country’s policies on anti-discrimination laws, same-sex marriage, and adoption rights for same-sex couples further cement its position as an LGBTQ+ friendly nation.

The Takeaway: A Cautionary Tale

This peculiar incident in Cherbourg serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of public displays of affection, especially of an intimate nature. Not only is such conduct a violation of the law, but in the age of smartphones and social media, the repercussions can be immediate and widespread.

In conclusion, while France is generally a tolerant nation that embraces diversity and individual freedom, it is also a country with firm laws governing public decorum and behavior. Respect for these rules is essential for maintaining the peace and harmony of its towns and cities.

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Mar 17, 2023

PARIS’S CONCIERGERIE …. AND PARIS’S OLDEST CLOCK …

Locals often overlook it, but tourists never miss the chance to capture a photo in front of it. I’m referring to Paris’s oldest timepiece, installed in 1370. Remarkably, after 643 years, it continues to keep accurate time and chimes melodiously each hour.

Paris’s oldest clock was mounted on the northeast corner of the Palais de Justice’s façade on Boulevard du Palais, situated on Ile de la Cité, one of the two islands on the River Seine in central Paris. The clock was the brainchild of John the Good, King of France from 1350 until his death in 1364 in London at the age of 45. Besides the clock, he also established the Franc, but that’s another tale.

Historical records reveal that the clock’s purpose was to help Parisians regulate their daily affairs, both day and night.

Over its 643-year history, the clock has undergone several restorations. The initial restorations took place in 1418 and 1472. In 1585, sculptor Germain Pilon added two sculptures representing Justice and Law on either side of the clock. The clock faced damage during the Revolution, necessitating another restoration in 1849. The timekeeping mechanism was also replaced during this period, and it still functions accurately today, 164 years later.

The most recent restoration occurred in 2012, just in time for the summer tourist season. The clock now boasts a striking blue and gold appearance, with the longer hand resembling an arrow and the shorter one adorned with a fleur-de-lis.

The clock’s restoration was part of a larger renovation project for the Palais de Justice, which includes the Sainte-Chapelle chapel and the Conciergerie. The Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned before her execution at the current Place de la Concorde, was once home to French monarchs. The first French king to reside there was Clovis in the 6th century.

The royal residence was later called Palais de la Cité, with Charles V, John the Good’s son, being the last French king to live there before relocating to the Louvre in 1358. The Louvre was later replaced by the Palace of Versailles due to its cold and drafty conditions.

In 1391, a section of the palace was converted into a prison, while another part became the seat of Paris’s parliament. The prison remained in operation until 1914 when it was designated as a historical monument. Among its most famous prisoners were Marie Antoinette and Robespierre.

The Conciergerie was known for its harsh conditions, housing several hundred prisoners in unsanitary and overcrowded cells during the Reign of Terror. Those sentenced to death were allowed a final feast before their execution.

The Conciergerie is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and tickets cost 8.50€ ($11/£7). If you visit before Monday, February 25, you can also enjoy the temporary exhibition Rêve de Monuments, featuring paintings of real and imaginary castles and chapels.

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Mar 15, 2023

MURDER OF XAVIER BALIGANT … STILL REMAINS UNSOLVED …

Two years ago today – July 19, 2011 – Belgian Xavier Balignant, 29, was shot to death. Mr Baligant, divorced, was driving home to the town of Pont-à-Celles in Belgium after a camping holiday in the Ardèche department of the French region of Rhône-Alpes.

Malvaux rest area

The Incident at Malvaux Rest Area

When Mr. Baligant was nearing the town of Colombey-les-Belles beyond which the motorway was free, he pulled up in the Malvaux rest area. At around 2 a.m. an employee of the motorway operating company APRR heard shots and later found the lifeless body of Mr. Baligant lying in front of the toilet in the Malvaux rest area.

Investigation and Possible Links

Today the investigators believe that another vehicle had pulled up in the rest area at the same time as Mr. Baligant and an attempted carjacking had resulted. There has been speculation in the British media that Mr Baligant’s murderer was also that of Iraqi-born Saad Al-Hilli, 50, his wife Iqbal, 47 and her mother Suhalia 74, and that of Frenchman Sylvain Mollier, 45, on a lay-by close to the town of Chevaline in the Upper Savoy (Haute Savoie) region of France on September 5, 2012.

Mr Saad Al-Hilli

APRR’s Motorways and CCTV Footage

APRR employs 3,870 people who are responsible for approximately 1,430 miles (2,300 kilometers) of motorways and its cameras film on average 23,400 vehicles daily. Their cameras transmit its footage ‘live’ to the Ops Room (Operational Room) of the motorway police (C.R.S. 30) in the town of Chaumont. The question is: how come that after 2 years the APRR’s cameras have not yet ‘talked’.

Challenges with CCTV Footage

Despite the presence of cameras at the Malvaux rest area and along the A31, there are still no clear leads in the case. One possibility is that the cameras may have been switched off or malfunctioning at the time of the incident. Another possibility is that the killer or killers used the numerous small adjoining roads to avoid detection by the cameras.

Local Truckers and Illegal Activity

Truck drivers in the area have reported witnessing illegal activity on the small roads in the border region. However, they tend to avoid getting involved, making it difficult for law enforcement to gather reliable information from witnesses.

Lack of Progress in the Investigation

Despite the available technology and resources, the investigation into Xavier Baligant’s murder has not led to any arrests or significant progress. The case remains unsolved, leaving his family and friends searching for answers and closure.

Future Prospects for the Case

As time passes, the chances of solving the case may diminish. However, new evidence or leads could potentially emerge, leading to a breakthrough in the investigation. It is crucial for law enforcement to continue exploring any leads and for the public to remain vigilant and report any relevant information to help solve this tragic case.

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Mar 14, 2023

ZORBA THE GREEK … BOUBOULINA … LILA KEDROVA … A GRAVE IN PARIS’S RUSSIAN CEMETERY

Lila Kedrova, a Russian-born actress, is best remembered for her role as Bouboulina, or Dame Hortense, in the 1964 film “Zorba the Greek.” Directed by Cypriot filmmaker Michael Cacoyannis, the movie is based on the novel by Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis. Kedrova co-starred alongside Anthony Quinn, Alan Bates, and Irene Papas, and her portrayal of Bouboulina earned her an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 1964.

Kedrova’s Life and Career

Lila Kedrova was born on October 9, 1918, in Saint Petersburg (then Petrograd), Russia. Her parents, Nikolai Nikolayevich and Sofia Gladkaya Kedrova, were both singers and composers. After the 1917 Russian Revolution, the family left Russia for Berlin in 1922 and then moved to Paris in 1928. In Paris, Kedrova began her acting career, taking on small roles in stage plays. Her breakout role came in 1964 when Cacoyannis offered her the part of Dame Hortense in “Zorba the Greek.” Kedrova later reprised the role in a musical adaptation of the movie, winning a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award in 1983.

Kedrova’s Final Years and Resting Place

Lila Kedrova passed away on February 16, 2000, in Ontario, Canada, after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and pneumonia. She was 72 years old. Her ashes were brought to Paris and interred at the Russian cemetery in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois, alongside her family members.

Visiting Kedrova’s Grave

If you’re in Paris or France and wish to visit the Russian cemetery where Lila Kedrova is buried, you can take the RERC metro line towards Dourdon la Fôret or Saint-Martin d’Etampes and get off at Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois. From there, take the 104 bus to the cemetery, alighting at the Piscine stop. The cemetery is a short walk from there and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Kedrova’s grave is under the name Elisabeth Nikolayevna Kedrova, and its number is 411.

The young Kedrova

Zorba the Greek: The Film and the Book

“Zorba the Greek” is a story about a young Greek writer who goes to Crete to reopen a disused lignite mine. On his journey, he meets Alexis Zorba, a peasant and former miner. The movie, featuring memorable music by Mikis Theodorakis, showcases the relationship between the writer and Zorba, with the latter teaching the former about life and love. The film has become a classic, and if you haven’t seen it, it’s worth watching or reading the novel by Nikos Kazantzakis, which was first published in English in 1953.

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Mar 13, 2023

Haunted Versailles … The day Marie-Antoinette’s ghost returned to Versailles …

Two English spinsters, Charlotte Anne Moberley and Eleanor Jourdain, claim to have experienced a time slip while visiting the Palace of Versailles in August 1901. They detailed their experiences in a book called “An Adventure,” which was published in 1911.

An Ordinary Day at Versailles

Moberley and Jourdain visited Versailles on a sultry August day, initially touring the palace before embarking on a walk to the Petit Trianon. As they wandered the grounds, they grew increasingly lost and disoriented, eventually coming upon a scene that seemed out of place and time.

Stepping Back in Time

The two women reported seeing old-fashioned buildings, farming equipment, and people dressed in clothing from a different era. Among these figures was a woman sketching trees, whom Moberley and Jourdain later identified as Marie-Antoinette. The women believed they had stepped back in time to October 5, 1789 – the day the King and Queen were taken from Versailles to be imprisoned in Paris.

Research and Ridicule

Moberley and Jourdain spent ten years researching the events and people they had encountered during their time slip. Despite their thorough investigation and academic credentials, their story was met with skepticism and ridicule. To this day, the debate continues over whether the two women fabricated their story or truly experienced a phenomenon known as a time slip.

The Time Slip Controversy

While some believe that time slips are possible, others dismiss the notion as pure fantasy. The story of Moberley and Jourdain remains a fascinating and enduring mystery, with believers and skeptics alike continuing to debate the validity of their extraordinary claims.

The Petit Trianon and Marie-Antoinette

The Petit Trianon is a small chateau located on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. It was initially built for King Louis XV’s mistress, Madame de Pompadour, between 1762 and 1768. However, Madame de Pompadour died before she could take residence, and her successor, Madame du Barry, moved in. When Louis XVI ascended to the throne in 1774, he gifted the chateau to his wife, Marie-Antoinette, for her personal use. The Petit Trianon became a sanctuary for Marie-Antoinette, where she could escape the formalities and pressures of court life.

The Legacy of the Time Slip Story

The story of Moberley and Jourdain’s alleged time slip at Versailles has captivated readers for over a century. Their book, “An Adventure,” has been republished several times and continues to be the subject of fascination and debate. The tale has inspired numerous articles, discussions, and even works of fiction, exploring the possibility of time slips and the enigmatic life of Marie-Antoinette.

The Science of Time Slips

While time slips, as described by Moberley and Jourdain, remain a subject of controversy and skepticism, the concept has piqued the interest of scientists and researchers. Some speculate that time slips could be related to quantum mechanics or theories of parallel universes. However, the scientific community has yet to provide any definitive evidence supporting the existence of time slips.

Visiting Versailles Today

For those who visit the Palace of Versailles and the Petit Trianon today, the story of Moberley and Jourdain’s time slip adds an element of intrigue to an already fascinating historical site. While it is unlikely that visitors will encounter Marie-Antoinette sitting on a low seat and sketching trees, the tale adds a layer of mystique to the beautiful gardens and opulent chateau, inviting visitors to ponder the mysteries of time and history.

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Mar 11, 2023

30 billion cigarette butts … on France’s sidewalks … each year … now butt bins

The issue of cigarette butt litter is a significant problem in many countries, including France. Each year, an estimated 30 billion cigarette butts are thrown onto sidewalks, parks, and beaches in France alone. In Paris, half a million butts are discarded on sidewalks annually, covering 9 square kilometers or filling 25 public transport buses.

To address this issue, the mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoë, announced plans to install 10,000 special butt bins throughout the city in an effort to encourage smokers to dispose of their cigarette butts properly. Additionally, he requested an increase in the fine for littering with cigarette butts, which is currently set at €35, to €68.

Parisian officials also worked with local mayors to identify the areas most affected by cigarette butt pollution and have installed the butt bins in those locations. To finance this initiative, cigarette companies were called upon to contribute financially.

It’s worth noting that smoking in public places was banned in France five years ago, but the ban did not extend to streets, parks, and beaches. Despite the ban, the issue of cigarette butt litter remains a significant problem in many parts of the world.

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Mar 7, 2023

Chevaline …the forgotten victim … Sylvain Mollier … Xavier Baligant killing … so similar …

The Chevaline massacre, which occurred in a beautiful and tranquil area of France, has left many shocked and saddened. The incident involved the shooting of four people, including a cyclist named Sylvain Mollier, who was overlooked by the media. Updates on the investigation have revealed new details and speculation about the case.

Sylvain Mollier – An Innocent Bystander

Sylvain Mollier, a 45-year-old local man, father of three and cycling enthusiast, was on his normal bike ride when he came across the massacre of the Al-Hilli family. He became an eyewitness to the tragedy and had five bullets in his body, including one in his head. Sadly, he had no chance of survival. His companion became worried when he did not return from his bike ride and went to the police, who later confirmed his death. Mollier was an employee with the company Crezus, which supplies equipment to nuclear power plants. The latest update reveals a troubling point that he also worked for the nuclear industry.

New Witness and Investigation

Philippe D, along with two friends, drove up the mountain road to camp and came across the RAF man descending the road on his bike. The RAF man was perturbed and in a panic and tried to tell them about the bodies inside and outside a car. The three drove back up the road with the RAF man, and after seeing what had happened, Philippe D drove back down to get a signal for his mobile and summoned assistance. They were later taken to the spot to re-enact their movements. The investigation is being handled by the Ministry of Defense, not the Ministry of Interior, ensuring secrecy.

The Murder Weapon

The gun used in the shooting was a Czech-made CZ50 7.65 mm, 8 rounds magazine capacity gun. It was manufactured in the 1940s and used by the Czech police, but considered too light for the Czech army. The gun used in this shooting was an ‘old’ model, leading to speculation about the identity of the perpetrator.

Timeline and other details

Update on the investigation

The investigation into the Chevaline murders has been frustrating for both French and British investigators, as they have not disclosed any information about their progress. Lieutenant Colonel Vinnemann, one of the investigators from the Gendarmerie, explained that they need to match or add to the information they have. The investigators’ silence has led to journalists seeking out any possible source of information, including the Mayor of Chevaline, who expressed some degree of discontent over the probing.

In the first hours after the shooting, more maps had to be taken out and studied to establish whether the lieu of the crime fell in the community of Chevaline or Doussard. Chevaline is 2 kms (1.2 miles) south of Doussard, and the investigation was for the gendarmes as the Al-Hillis were murdered in a community of fewer than 20,000 souls. The Gendarmerie hierarchy of this case includes Colonel Bertrand François, head of the Upper Savoy gendarmerie, and Lieutenant Colonel Benoît Vinnemann, head of the local Annecy gendarmerie.

Update: Monday, October 22, 2012

Eric Devouassoux, the prosecutor leading the investigation, said on Monday that tests on a motorcycle found near the crime scene revealed no traces of DNA.

This has led investigators to conclude that it may have been stolen and abandoned by the killer or killers. The motorcycle was found a few miles from the murder site in a forest car park.

Investigators have not yet identified any suspects or motives for the attack.

Meanwhile, the little girl, Zainab al-Hilli, has been discharged from the hospital and is said to be doing well. She is now in the care of her maternal aunt and uncle, who live in Surrey, England.

Update: Wednesday, November 7, 2012

The investigation into the Chevaline killings has taken a new turn with the arrest of a former police officer in France.

The suspect, named as 48-year-old Eric Devouassoux, was detained by French police at his home in the town of Menthon-Saint-Bernard, near Annecy. He is reported to have previously worked as a municipal police officer in the town of Talloires, which is near to the murder scene.

According to media reports, Devouassoux was previously questioned by police in the days after the murders and gave a DNA sample, but he was not considered a suspect at that time. However, investigators reportedly became interested in him again after he was discovered to have purchased a number of weapons just weeks before the attack.

It is not yet clear what role, if any, Devouassoux may have played in the killings, and he has not been formally charged with any crime. He is currently being held in custody while police continue their investigation.

Update: Monday, February 18, 2013

The investigation into the Chevaline murders has taken another twist with the release of a police sketch of a possible suspect. The sketch, based on the recollections of a British cyclist who was near the scene at the time of the attack, shows a man with a trimmed beard and a helmet. The cyclist has said that he saw the man cycling up the hill away from the murder scene shortly after the attack.

French police have released the sketch in the hope of jogging people’s memories and getting new information about the case. They have also launched a new appeal for witnesses, offering a reward of €10,000 ($13,500) for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the case.

Meanwhile, investigators have reportedly traced the serial numbers of the two guns used in the attack to a shop in Switzerland. The shop owner has said that he sold the guns legally to a man from the French region of Haute-Savoie in 2008, but he could not remember the man’s name. The guns were reportedly modified after purchase to increase their firepower.

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Mar 5, 2023

Attention: Film and documentary producers: WW2 French serial killer … proposal for one-off dramatized documentary …

This proposal is for a one-off dramatized television documentary based on the true-crime book ‘Die in Paris’ by Marilyn Z. Tomlins, published in the U.K. by Ravencrest Books Ltd. The documentary will focus on the life and crimes of Dr Marcel Petiot, a French serial killer who was active during WW2.

Dr Marcel Petiot was one of the 20th Century’s most notorious – and prolific – murderers. He remains France’s most prolific killer to this day, having killed at least 26 people, with estimates suggesting that he may have killed as many as 200.

The Crimes

Petiot’s crimes were horrific and his methodology chilling. He charmed and lured people in with the promise of an escape route from Nazi-occupied France, only to murder them through intense violence followed by incineration and incarceration in quicklime.

The Killer

Was Petiot mentally ill? Signs of his illness, if spotted when he was still a child, might have been reacted to more effectively. However, in early 20th Century rural France, his unchecked illness was fomented by circumstances and environment. His guile and the ineptitude of law enforcement officers allowed his early crimes to go unpunished, as later, so many of his crimes would go almost unnoticed. The war provided him with camouflage and opportunity, and without it, his crimes may have been less in number and would have come to light sooner.

The Documentary

Treatment Knowing the story of Marcel Petiot, the writer of ‘Die in Paris’, is confident that it lends itself to a filmed documentary treatment. Petiot’s physical attractiveness and the location of the murders in the Champs-Elysées/Étoile district with the Eiffel Tower visible at the end of Rue le Sueur add to the intrigue of the story.

Political Message

In addition to being a tale of sheer horror, Petiot’s story carries a political message. It highlights the consequences of a nation’s failure to resist aggression from another nation and the dangers of capitulating to an enemy. It also provides an opportunity to debate capital punishment.

French Perspective

The life and crimes of similar characters such as Crippen, Bundy, and Jack the Ripper have been examined at length in TV documentaries and on the big screen. However, the life and crimes of Dr Marcel Petiot have not been as widely discussed, mainly because the French still struggle to come to terms with their collaboration with Hitler and his Nazis during WW2. This reluctance to speak about Petiot has made it difficult to research him, with the last books about him in English being published 36 years ago.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a dramatized television documentary on the life and crimes of Dr Marcel Petiot would provide a fascinating insight into the darkest depths of the human condition. With the right balance of scientific objectivity and dramatic flair, this documentary has the potential to captivate audiences of all demographics.

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Mar 3, 2023

TOWN OF ARRAS IN FRANCE’S PAS DE CALAIS REGION TOPS FOR WW 1 & 2 SITES …

Arras is a charming town located in the northern region of France that was the site of fierce fighting during both World War I and World War II. With a wealth of war memorials and historical sites, it has become a popular destination for visitors interested in exploring this significant period in history.

Location and Transportation

Arras is situated 182 kilometers (113 miles) northeast of Paris, 110 kilometers (68 miles) from the English Channel, and 152 kilometers (94 miles) from Brussels, the capital of Belgium. The town is easily accessible by train, with a journey time of approximately 50 minutes from Paris. Visitors can purchase a return ticket for around €40 in advance from the railway’s website or from ticket machines at the station.

Arras May 2015 – town hall 1

Arras Town Hall – and tourist office. (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

Exploring the War Memorials and Cemeteries

Arras is a must-visit destination for war memorial and cemetery buffs. The town is home to the Arras British Forces Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers from the United Kingdom, South Africa, and New Zealand who fell in and around Arras between the spring of 1916 and August 7, 1918, are commemorated. The cemetery is also the final resting place for soldiers of Jewish faith, whose tombstones are engraved with the Star of David.

The Arras Memorial, located behind the cemetery, commemorates the 35,000 soldiers who have no known grave. The memorial is open to visitors who want to pay their respects to the soldiers who fell during this significant period in history.

Used for digging the tunnels (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

Skeleton of one of the vermin – a rat. (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

Historical Sites to Visit

Visitors to Arras should make time to visit the Vauban Citadel. Constructed between 1667 and 1672, the Citadel houses a chapel and memorial for the 218 Resisters who were executed by the Germans from 1940 to 1944 during World War II. The chapel is particularly noteworthy, featuring an icon-style painting of an armed WWI soldier and the French and European Union flags.

The Wellington Quarry Memorial, also known as Carrière Wellington, is another popular attraction. The Memorial is located beneath the town and features a network of tunnels and bunkers constructed by the New Zealand Tunnelling Company, which was tasked with providing shelters for soldiers during WWI. Visitors must wear an army steel helmet during the visit, as the tunnels are dark and can be claustrophobic. The visit takes approximately two hours and includes a guided tour.

Arras May 2015 Citadel – 1

Resisters shot by the Germans in WW2 (copyright Mairlyn Z.Tomlins)

Chapel in the Citadel (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

An armed soldier behind the altar (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

Inside the chapel (Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

To get to the memorial – the le Mur des Fusillés – you need to walk on after the chapel and continue through a short tunnel.

Memorial plaque (cc Marilyn Z. Tomlins)

British Forces tombs (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

The Arras Memorial (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

A tomb for one of the British soldiers who fell here (cc Marilyn Z Tomlins)

Arras May 2015 Wellington Memorial – 3

Flags of the countries who had died in the Battle of Arras at the Wellington Quarry Memorial

WW1 helmet as can be seen at WW1 exhibition (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

Cakes in the window of an Arras bakery (cc Marilyn Z Tomlins)

Resisters shot here by the Germans in WW2 (cc Marilyn Z.Tomlins)

Arras May 2015 Hotel les 3 Luppars

Visiting Arras

Arras is a popular destination for visitors interested in exploring the significant period of history that unfolded in this region. With a wealth of war memorials, historical sites, and cultural attractions, the town offers something for everyone. Visitors can easily explore the town on foot or take advantage of the free bus service, which runs throughout the town.

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