At first I was disappointed that Roland Garros dans la ville had decamped from the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville over to the Champ de Mars – because it’s less convenient for me to pop through the square, watch a little tennis, and then be on my way. After spending a couple of hours there on Monday, though, I’ve changed my mind. The greenspace is really lovely, and the backdrop couldn’t be more spectacular.
Scene: two women arrive and unfurl their scarves from around their necks, spread them out on the lawn, and have a seat. There is the distinctive sound of a cork popping. A little while later they rise, brush off some loose grass, retie their scarves with a chic, effortless flourish, and are on their way. Lesson learned: all you need for a French picnic is a beautiful scarf and a bottle of champagne.
billgillislive 