The fastest and most direct way out from the city centre via the metro. The station connects directly to a shopping mall. We rode the escalators up, and the consulted a map to orient ourselves. The Grande Arche towards the west.

Just north of the Grande Arche, the modernist architecture of La Defense shows up in the office boxes.

The Centre of New Industries and Technologies (CNIT) is formed in concrete, taking a more organic shape enclosing amphitheatres and exhibition spaces.

Looking to the south is the Le Dome, with an Imax theatre in the sphere.

Continuing east are buildings in various shapes, all in glass.

The Christmas market was a special venue in December.

I’m not sure if the carousel is permanent, but the red sculpture behind it must be.

Turning north and walking down the hill, was a cylinder in front of a building. I wonder if it had a function.

After our meeting, we rode the metro back to Rue de Richelieu. The hotel clerk suggested that we try out Au Petit Riche, a classic restaurant with a history back to the 1800s.

This was a good work day in Paris: modernity in the day, traditional cuisine in the evening.