Dual Louvre Adventures Unveiled

By June Ramli

In a whirlwind adventure, I recently had the privilege of exploring two iconic Louvre museums within a span of just two days—first in Paris and then in Abu Dhabi.

Louvre Paris – Nov 19: A Dash of Chaos and Culture

Arriving at the Louvre Paris on a bustling Sunday, my initial excitement was met with a hiccup as my press ticket, intended for my hotel, mysteriously vanished.
Despite the setback, a mad dash from Sacre Coeur at Montmartre ensued.

The entrance revealed a sizable crowd eager to delve into the cultural treasure trove.
Encountering a less-than-friendly staff member named Anais, my predicament softened through the understanding colleague who granted me access.

However, an additional exhibit fee awaited inside.
Undeterred, I paid the 15 Euro fee, delving into the vast museum for the fourth time in five years.
The museum’s grandeur, teeming with artefacts, justified its popularity among locals and international visitors alike.

The Mona Lisa’s room, though crowded, reflected heightened security.
After a persistent effort, a selfie with the famed portrait was achieved, albeit with some disappointment.
The journey continued to my favourite room, adorned with statues offering a serene retreat.

A surprise tumbler from the Coke purchase became an unexpected museum keepsake.
Verdict: Louvre Paris remains a captivating experience, beckoning a return.

Louvre Abu Dhabi – A Quieter Oasis

On a stopover to Abu Dhabi, I seized the chance to explore its sister museum.
Opting for an Uber due to time constraints, I was welcomed by complimentary media access, courtesy of a helpful staff member.

Unlike its Parisian counterpart, the Louvre Abu Dhabi boasted a more serene atmosphere, surrounded by water features.
Exhibits, while fewer, showcased a distinct emphasis on Southeast Asian art, contrasting with the European-centric displays in Paris.

A missed invitation to a press briefing left a gap in insights, but interactions with visitors revealed diverse opinions.
Lunch at the museum’s sea-surrounded cafe, though scenic, exposed construction in the vicinity.
A chance encounter introduced me to the museum’s park, left unexplored.
Charging ports came at a price, a stark contrast to free options in Paris.

Taxis, while metered, posed discomfort due to perceived rudeness.
A single gift shop, with steep prices, deterred purchases.

The overall experience prompted a definitive decision against a return visit but left room for further exploration of Abu Dhabi’s attractions.
To me, the dual Louvre experience offered a fascinating dichotomy—Paris, bustling with history and crowds, and Abu Dhabi, a quieter oasis with its unique charm.

Read more about the writer’s experience at the Louvre in Abu Dhabi here.