While there are many books on the Paris Metro - including some major books in French - none has really captured the magic of the world's best Metro and a major feature of the City. Many are bona fide history books or well written personal accounts by English-speaking visitors that lack illustrations. The present volume is a semi definitive work produced in collaboration with RATP and is a wonderful addition to Parisien guides. Semi- for the purist - refers to the fact that only 145 of the 300 stations are covered but these are probably the most relevant and are covered well. Each station organized by line (1-14) includes a location map, a potted history of the station, a small map of the area and some sights, restaurants etc. The authors have done an absolutely splendid job - at least based on the many Metro stations I am familiar with - to the extent that a read through this book is probably the next best thing to a Metro ticket. The book is well produced, nicely illustrated and printed, and has that European flair with a durable flexicover. A must for anyone visiting Paris - whether for the first time or the 100th. Great job Editions du Chene - any chance of a definitive Edition with all 300 stations?
The only official guide book to Paris using the Metro
The Paris Métro has 16 lines, 300 stations, runs for 214 kilometres, transports 4 million travelers per day. For the first time this guidebook reveals this wonderful network and its treasures.
For each Métro station there is a map of the neighborhood, the history of the station and the origins of its name. There is also a selection of addresses, cultural sites to visit, monuments to admire, restaurants, bistros, boutiques and unusual tips. The reader can stop at any station and always know what to do and see. It is a wonderful way to discover or re-discover Paris, above and below ground. At the front of the book is a fold-out map of the Métro.
A guidebook that everyone who visits Paris needs to have in their pocket!
No comments:
Post a Comment