Paris, always something to explore
Many places imbue excitement into a traveler’s mind for the very novelty of being in a place that is uncharted and wholly new to the senses. There are other places that no matter how many times you visit that one locale, the streets remain as enthralling, as invigorating, as the first time you glimpsed their mysterious wonders. Paris never ceases to be a member of the latter grouping of places I have visited.
My cousin once removed if you can say such a silly thing, generously permitted me to stay at her place in the 9th district of Paris, almost directly behind one of the most stunning and uproariously pious—contradictory but true—churches in all of Paris, La Madeleine. Close to her apartment are familiar sites such as La Place de la Concorde, les Tuileries, la Seine, l’Opera Garnier, and many others one would find on the “Places to See” list for Paris. Always nice to stay with someone in a well-placed location yet on an obscure street that maintains its non-touristy flair and local prices.
I accomplished seeing and doing five new things in Paris. Okay, it is not a record in light of the fact that I spent a week here, but I think it’s a good number for someone who has continued to return to the same spot year after year. Rue Cler, a charming street as per the suggestion of my stepdad who read about it in a travel book on Paris, Montorgueil, a pedestrian street with cafés and cute shops strewn along both sides, the Velibs, a Parisian network of bicycles one can purchase by the hour, St. Eustache, a plain but considerably admirable church in the 1st district, and the Rodin Museum, an amazing collection of works from one of the greatest sculptors in history, were all quite enlightening and culturally satisfying. I know that the next time I return to Paris in the spring, I will find another handful of favorites and undiscovered gems to enjoy.
Five Reasons I think Paris is one of the Greatest Cities in the World:
1. An endless network of perpendicular, parallel and angled streets tease the mind every time the foot hits the pavement or cobbled stones.
2. The historic part of Paris is massive, so you can spend hours and days and weeks exploring all that is eye-catching and inspiring before you even behold the modern eyesores of the outer districts and suburbs.
3. Bakeries abound, so there is never a lack of pastries and good bread to go around. In my mind, bakeries equal happiness, so where bakeries are plentiful, I am satisfied ☺ Really, though, it’s pretty great!
4. If its raining, you can go to some of the most exquisite museums in the West or you can sit at a café with outdoor seating, of which there is no lack, and take in just as much culture.
5. There are garbage bags and public toilets all over!
Three Reasons why Paris may leave a negative impression in your mind:
1. Gypsies, beggars and old men playing their accordions on the metro trains may affront you at every turn, so watch your bags and smile at the old accordion players even you don’t want to give them money. I do not understand why they think people enjoy accordion music in such a small and enclosed place.
2. The streets are dirty and may smell depending on where you are, but really, what big cities are not dirty and don’t smell?
3. Coffee at a café may cost more than $5 and will last 5 sips. A dollar or more for every sip. Yes, Paris is expensive.
In this day and age of international exchanges, it is easy to make friends in high school, college or even at work. Make plans to travel to places where you know someone or your friend knows someone with whom you can stay. This will save you a lot of money and will enrich your travel experience. If you do not know someone, try joining couchsurfing.com to find a host with whom to stay. Plan at least 2 weeks in advance, especially in big cities and during the summer. Couchsurfing is extremely reputable and enlivening. If neither option is appropriate for your itinerary, select a hostel with a kitchen. This will minimize food costs; making your own food is always cheaper than going out for a meal. Plus, it will give you a chance to see what the locals eat. Food culture is fascinating!
Comments