Social Climber

Historic Parisian Stairway Goes Up For Auction

A piece of stairway from the Eiffel Tower is expected to fetch up to $30,000 at a Paris auction this month. The 4.5 metre-high segment, which weighs in at 700 kilograms, is part of stairs climbed in pre-elevator times by Gustave Eiffel on March 31, 1889, to hoist the French flag at an altitude of 300 metres. The entire staircase was auctioned in 1983.

FOOTNOTE: Climb-it change.

Sent To Coventry

Tractor Attracter Has The Charm Factor

So you reckon that your traffic woes are bad? Like Deborah Gamble, you can take comfort from this story. Hundreds of frustrated drivers found themselves stuck in long queues as a German man towed a caravan behind his tractor on a 1100 kilometre pilgrimage from his hometown, all the way to Britain. Wolfgang Mueller, 65, drove his restored 1963 Massey Ferguson 35 at an average speed of 20 miles per hour to Coventry, where it was built. Parisians had best beware – Mr Mueller wants to photograph his tractor in front of the Eiffel Tower on his way home to Germany.

Eiffel Towel

Forget Scooby-Doo, Go For `Scuba Do’ In Paris

Want to see the Eiffel Tower through water? Now’s your chance – if you’re really quick. Until Sunday 10 June, would-be scuba divers can take the plunge with a practice dip in a pool beneath the most famous monument in Paris. A dozen professional scuba instructors are offering free one-on-one lessons in the heated, above-ground pool at the foot of the tower as part of an initiative to promote the sport among Parisians and visitors. Lessons last about 30 minutes and include a how-to demonstration and safety lecture, as well as the swim. Wetsuits and scuba gear are provided. And, oh yes, you get a biodegradable towel as well.