BonjourParis

14th Arr

Paris -- 14th Arrondissement

Some think the 14th is the most exciting outer arrondissement in Paris. And for those who aren't dripping in jewels, or those who don't want to be part of the Montmartre village in the 18th, and for those who just want to be a part of the historical Montparnasse area, the 14th rules. Simone de Beauvoir, Jean Paul Sartre, Maupassant didn't only live and love her, but they're buried at the famous Montparnasse Cemetery (second only to Pere LeChaise). It is here in the 14th where you'll find three of Paris' most touristy restaurants: Le Dome (for it's exquisite fish); La Closerie des Lilas Cafe (for it's extraordinarily snooty waiters); and La Coupole Brasserie, which might just be one of the best dining rooms in all of France (the food is good, and there's also dancing!). For those who want to get down, and we mean down, head underground to the Catacombs to experience a creepy resting place for thousands of skulls; and the Vanves Flea Market is considered by many to be the most intoxicating. The spirit of Montparnasse, perhaps, came with the creativity of those who used to call these their stomping grounds -- Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, Henry Miller, Man Ray, Picasso, Klee, Chagall, de Beauvoir, Sartre and Maupassant, just to name a few -- but continues to thrive with the special Parisians who choose this area to be their home. For those who want to venture out from the very center of Paris, head here first.