April 17, 2003 - page 3

My first stop was a natural, the Eiffel Tower.  The nighttime view from the second deck was extraordinary, and I was able to take it all in properly after recovering from the climb.  (Who wants to pay twice as much to take the lift?)  It was one of those rare occasions when a world-famous symbol with a larger-than-life image actually lives up to expectations. 
 
The view from the tower is nearly matched by that atop the Arc de Triomphe, built on the orders of Napoleon and positioned at the intersection of 15 major boulevards, the most famous being the Champs-Elysees.  I’d venture to say that while Notre Dame Cathedral was my favorite part of the trip, the visit to the Arc was a close second, both for the view and for the many notable moments in history – highs and lows alike – that have converged there.  Victorious allied troops marched underneath after World War I, much like occupying German forces did during World War II.