I was fortunate enough to have been able to spend the last 5 days in Paris. These are my impressions and observations.
I went to the Louvre, d'Orsay and the Montmartre museums. All on different days. Both the Louvre and the d'Orsay required timed entries. I had first of the day entries to both. I would estimate there were 100 people in line. At the Louvre, I followed the signs to the Mona Lisa. There were maybe 5 people in front of the painting. (no selfies!).The rest of the museum was practically empty. The d'Orsay had more visitors, but then it is so much smaller, it may have just seemed that way. I could stand and stare at any painting for as long as I wanted and not be in anyone's way. Degas' Little Dancer and I were all alone.
I saw 2 other people in the Montmartre museum. I pretty much had the place to myself. It was great!
It was both wonderful and overwhelming. So much to see. How should I spend my time? (How would you?) The proverbial kid in the candy shop. At 72, I eventually gave out physically and mentally, and had to quit.
Paris, itself, was very busy. Lots of traffic in the main streets. The sidewalks were not very crowded. The cafes were maybe 30% full. My hotel, an old standby, the Grand Hotel des Balcons, did not have many guests. They only had 2 floors open. They told me there would be no problem with a late check out as they did not need the room.
Everyone that I encountered was very nice to me. Very friendly. I have never had such joyous waitstaff.
It is my impression, that underneath the joy, is apprehension. Are we going to make it? Could the virus come back? I keep thinking of the look on the desk clerk at the hotel as she pointed to the filled key box and told me I could check out whenever I wished.
I know I was immensely lucky to be in the right place at the right time. And for those that wish to know: I don't feel it is any more dangerous in Amsterdam, where I live, than Paris. I'm careful. Parisians are careful. Benefit vrs Risk.