Walk Two - Montparnasse

I take individuals and small groups on literary walks around St. Germain and Montparnasse. Each lasts about 2 1/2 hours, and concludes with a light lunch in our apartment, in the building formerly the home of Sylvia Beach, proprietor of the original Shakespeare and Company bookshop.

The cost for walks is €150 for individuals, €100 per person for groups up to ten persons, then by arrangement thereafter. All prices include lunch.

 

 

  1. Boulevard de Montparnasse
    Classic avenue, rebuilt by Baron Haussmann in mid-19th century. Site of art schools, literary cafés, dance halls, cabarets where Man Ray, Tristan Tzara and Surrealists met.

  2. Statue of Honoré de Balzac by Auguste Rodin
    Walks commence at this statue of the noted novelist, a milestone in modern sculpture.

  3. Famous Literary Cafés
    The Rotonde, Dôme, Select and Coupole, patronised by Man Ray, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso and numerous others. Rue Delambre, former home of artists Modigliani, Foujita, Gauguin, dancer Isadora Duncan.

  4. Luxembourg Gardens
    Gardens of Maria de Medicis’ former palace. Today the Senate. Associations with Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, William Faulkner etc.

  5. Place de l'Odéon
    Odéon Theatre, dating from time of Marie Antoinette. Site of tempestuous meetings during 1968 student revolution.

Walk One

 

Testimonials

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“ John had an incredible depth of knowledge on Hemingway. He has given us a true sense of what it was like to walk in his footsteps and experience his life as it may have been in Paris.  His expertise extended far further into the history, art and architecture of Paris.  A fantastic experience.  'Exceptional' would be an understatement.”

J and K, New York City

“What worked was John's articulate, knowledgeable and detail-oriented talk, and his obvious passion for these literary larger-than-life characters that history has given us. We also appreciated John's love of Paris; how he integrated the history, architecture, politics and other artistic and social dynamics with the focus of the tour. We especially liked his humour and frankness, and of course, his favourite coffee shop.”

CBK, New Orleans

“John Baxter’s walking tour was the unqualified highlight of my recent trip to Paris. I thought I was old friends with the sixth arrondissement, but John re-introduced me and made me fall in love with it all over again”

Patrick McGiligan - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

“I just wanted to thank you for a terrific day. I really enjoyed the walk and learning so much more about Paris and the characters who had lived there. Thanks for an informative and insightful experience. ”

K.F. Sydney, Australia

“Our time with you was the high point of our Paris visit: exercise, history, culture, wine, cheese, good conversation, camaraderie. ”

J and P. Q. Auckland, NZ

“Having visited Paris many times and read all the books about the great authors of the first half of the 20th century, I thought I was well-versed. Then I accompanied John Baxter on a walk through St Germaine, and he opened windows onto the lives, works and haunts of Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Harry Crosby, John dos Passos and Co, and brought their magical world to life. John is a wise and charming guide,  and a wander through Paris in his company is highly recommended. ”

Larry W., Sydney, Australia

“John, our walk on Friday was a huge success for each of us. You took us to amazing places which we would have passed unnoticed without you. Your funny, revealing, and often surprising account of the Paris you so obviously love drew us closer too. The wonderful lunch in your home was the perfect tonic after our labors. When the new books hit the street, we'll be all over them.”

Sharon, Larry, Mary & Glenn, San Francisco, Cal

“A heart-felt “thank you” for the wonderful walking tour of Montparnasse, the fascinating stories and conversation, and the delicious luncheon at your beautiful apartment.  How wonderful to be able to live in the midst of history, walk in the steps of such literary giants and artists, and step out on your balcony for not only a lovely street view, but also a fabulous view of Montmartre and Sacre Coeur.  Cheri and I will talk fondly about the experience for the rest of our lives.  ”

Linda B. Boston, Mass.