Almost everyone lives 'outside of Paris'

The City of Light, the capital of France, occupies an area of approximately 33.6 square miles (86.92 square kilometers). An article in a publication in 2009 quoted a writer who said he was born "outside of Paris."

He later confessed it was New York City. His response indicates liberties have definitely been taken with the use of those three words.

The phrase evokes a certain feeling. And truthfully, "Outside of Paris" encompasses the rest of the world. We join thousands, maybe millions, who find the phrase as intriguing, romantic and as adventuresome as a Humphrey Bogart/Ingrid Bergman movie.

We have visited Paris and thoroughly enjoyed the stay. Lifetime residents of the USA, we shamelessly claim we live "outside of Paris."

San Francisco called the Paris of the West

The City by the Bay

Alcatraz Island forms the backdrop for an

afternoon of sailing on San Francisco Bay.

Wellknown spot located across from the

Hyde-Beach streets cablecar turnaround

in the Fisherman's Wharf area.

Timed exposure of a cable car while zooming

a handheld Nikon 18-200 lens.

A musician practices his trade in a doorway

just down from the TransAmerica building

before a nighttime gig.