We are each the proud owner of a Navigo Passe.
“Oh, that’s nice,” you say. It was almost as bad as getting your driver’s license at the DMV, but once we finally got everything together, it was pain free.
It took us three tries this afternoon to get our Navigo pass. The first lady we talked to was absolutely convinced that we did NOT live here. I shook my head and told her twice we live on the Ile-de-France. “Where?” “Blvd. Magenta. We are students.” “Oh, well. You need a picture for the pass. Ask for a student pass.”
We go home, up seven flights of stairs, and back with a passport sized photo. Next kiosk, “Downstairs, please.” Damnit!
A forty-five minute wait later one of the transport personnel, Karl, asked us what we were there for once we were admitted into the waiting room. He told us that we needed an ID and a proof of residence. Back again to the apartment, up seven flights of stairs, eat a sandwich (because this is taking a lot of energy going up/down these friggin stairs!), and back for a third try. This time we brought every piece of paperwork they could possibly ask for – passport, passport photo, apartment contract, proof of work in France, USA income taxes, school admissions letter, etc. Thank goodness the train station is only two blocks away…
Back in line, maybe only twenty minutes this time. Karl recognized us. I was glad because he was telling the dude in front of us that he could NOT help him because he just showed up with a piece of paper with his name on it and he just had an “imaginary” ID card. Wow! So when Karl saw us and said, “So you’re back! You’ve got it?” “Yes, our apartment contract.” He smiled (!!!) and moved on to the next person.
When it came to our turn, I explained, “We just moved here a few days ago, we are students for the year.” She asked if we were 24 years old or younger because that would mean a student pass. “No.” Next she asked if we wanted the pass where the monthly fees were auto-withdrawn or to recharge the card at the first of the month; we chose the latter. We had our picture taken right there (wonders of wonders!) and she “gave” us the cards for free. So, since the first of the month falls on Saturday, we will charge up the pass and be able to do buses, metro, and bikes! Third time in the charm.
As for now, we are off to ride the metro to get some cheese!
K A C Johnson Books 