13th Arrondissement: Parc de Choisy and Tang Frères

The 13th arrondissement is home to Paris' China town. The neighborhood is inexpensive for Paris and pleasant for a stroll! We started in Choisy Park.

Parc de Choisy: Tourist Attraction

Parc de Choisy is located close to China town, on Avenue de Choisy. The park includes beautiful greenery and playgrounds, and has been located here since 1937. 

 This is the view from the entrance of the park. 

 There were ping pong tables near the playground that looked like a great time! 

Bibliothèque nationale de France: Interesting Site

Our next stop down the road was the national library: Bibliothèque nationale de France. The library's collection originated in 1368 at the royal library in the Louvre. Now, it is one of the largest libraries in the world. There is an associated digital library by the name of Gallica.

Skyscrapers: Architectural Object

This district, unlike most in Paris, has several skyscrapers. These modern tall buildings are not seen throughout most of Paris, and stand out obviously in areas where there are several. We saw many throughout our visit to the 13th.

 The tall modern buildings contrast with classic parisian architecture and styles. 

 Though some of this district is modern, we did find some lovely details typical of Paris. I thought the Lion and detail on this door was spectacular. 

 This drinking fountain clearly not like the rest of Paris. The bright red color and dragon detailing represented the Chinatown location well. 

 Tang Frères: Commercial Business

Tang Frères is the largest Chinese supermarket chain west of China. We had heard interesting things and wanted to check it out!

 Outside of the store, vendors have set up their own asian markets, selling eggs and various produce.

Inside the store, we found a large selection of asian sauces. 

There were also a large selection of interesting produce! 

 I have never seen so many different kinds of ramen!

Hotel des Beaux Arts: Two Star Hotel

Hotel des Beaux Arts is a cute two star hotel close to Parc de Choisy, with double rooms starting at 59 Euros!

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/13th_arrondissement_of_Paris

http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parc_de_Choisy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibliothèque_nationale_de_France

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tang_Frères