Les Passages: Lumineux, mysterieux, adventureux

Of all of the many amazing nooks that Madame Brault has opened our senses to on this trip, my personal favorite is the collection of what is called "The Passageways."  Created between buildings in sort of alleyways, these covered passageways became a haven of bustling shops, and sometimes prostitution in the 19th century.  There were some 200+ passageways in their time, and only some 30 or so remain today. They are becoming more attractive to tourists that are looking for something off the beaten path, and are mostly frequented by locals or those looking for specialty items.  Some still house shops (mostly couture and high-end fashion for the wealthy that want a secretive and private shopping experience) while others lay dormant or in the midst of renovations.  They are spectacular with their combination of natural and artificial light, and shimmer like diamonds in the rough of Parisian antiquity with their gilded decor. 

 One certainly feels privileged to find them, as they are more easily stumbled upon than found when looked for, and exits feeling as though they have just been a part of a well kept secret---eager to tell a friend, but apprehensive about sharing their clandestine treasure.