We came and courted you for a brief time,
Keen to explore your many charms we were told you possess;
Your physical assets we could see we found irresistible,
Qualities of your kindly soul your helpful denizens made us assess.
The Eiffel Tower proved to be as magnificent as its pictures had made us believe,
We learned of its role in advancement of science and visited the underground bunkers vast;
We marvelled at its elaborate elevator mechanisms and the general attention to detail,
Enjoyed the view from the top, shivering in the strong chilled breeze blowing past. 
The hunchback at the Notre Dame de Paris we could not locate,
The inner precincts were sombre, the performers outside nimble and smart;
The Luxor Obelisk took us back in time by a couple of millennia,
La Madeline and other structures held us spellbound, their architectural grandeur playing an important part.
The Louvre had us in enthrall as we waltzed through its corridors rich in cultural heritage,
Mona Lisa, Venus and a multitude of others conspired to keep us riveted, not to part;
The Egyptian Gallery left us simply awe-struck, the beauty of sculptures cast a spell,
Grateful to those who have had the vision to preserve such magnificent works of art.
The Arc de Triomphe reminded us of your brush with history,
Reminding us of India Gate in New Delhi and the modest Aayi Mandapam at Pondicherry;
The Champs-Elysees showcased the best that you have on offer,
International brands, famous buildings, wide-eyed tourists not in a hurry.
The tree-lined avenues were charming, so was a cruise down the Seine,
Public conveniences we found in good shape, the multi-modal transport system we enjoyed too;
Our hearts went out to the much hassled drivers crawling through your congested roads,
Those in Pondicherry who practice the art of aggressive driving could perhaps teach them a trick or two.
Visiting you only whetted our appetite to explore so many of your other attractions,
We wish you and your denizens a balanced and peaceful life, we do not grudge your modernity;
Even though you continue to revel in a materialistic life full of chutzpah and glamour,
You gifted Mother to us, spreading the message of universal brotherhood and spirituality.
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ashokbhatia 