I had an innate desire to travel the world for years. I often visited Rome in my dreams. When I separated from my husband of nearly twelve years, I planned my first trip abroad. Solo. It was so exhilarating that I booked my next trip solo as well, to one of the most romantic cities in the world. Paris. A trip marrying the love of exploration and running, as my itinerary included a marathon my final day.
I am in utter love of Paris and will most certainly return! I spent the first few days exploring the city while enjoying the gorgeous Spring weather and partaking in a bit of shopping. It is Paris, you know:-) I planned on making it to The Louvre, but was told I’d be disappointed I couldn’t spend more than a few hours, so till next time when I return…
Day 1
I selected an overnight travel itinerary to arrive in Paris early Thursday morning. On the first leg of my flight, a very chatty gentleman was seated across the aisle from me. He only took a breath once when the beverage cart was parked in between us. About two hours into the flight I put my headphones on and remarked for my need to enjoy a twenty-minute catnap. Didn’t stop him.
My excitement for solitude on my next flight was quickly dampened when I saw that he was seated in the same row on this enormous plane. Really? OK, perhaps the buffer passenger seated between us could serve as a distraction. No such luck – that seat was one of two vacancies on the entire flight. I further set boundaries and demonstrated my need for personal time by placing blinders over my eyes, inserting headphones into my ears, and pulling a blanket over my head. His incessant talking continued.
I continued to set boundaries and again conveyed my desire to sleep. His timeout never lasted more than 30 seconds at a time before his chatter directed to me began again. By that point I could only laugh as he talked through my layers (gheez).
Arc De Triomphe
Arc de Triomphe (interior view)
The universe gifted me with the most magnificent two-hours of sleep of my life as soon as I checked into my hotel directly across from the Arc de Triomphe. I then enjoyed a lovely dinner with an old friend.
Days 2 & 3
Eiffel Tower
The bottoms of my feet were on fire from walking countless miles through Paris…enjoying its architecture and beauty. Everyone I met was so friendly and courteous.
Peace Memorial
Beautiful high doors and archways, so ornately designed. Simply gorgeous.
Grand Palais: large historic site, exhibition hall and museum complex
The best way to describe Paris is as a blend of what we experience in a large American city (hustle & bustle during the day) with the culture, old architecture and the love of life of Italians. The French truly do believe that Americans are nuts, as they view our culture as one that ‘lives to work’ vs. ‘work to live.’ They sincerely value their time and choose to spend it with friends & family. They ‘work to live’ so they may enjoy the pleasures of life, whether beauty or love. I could feel love in the air and witnessed significant amounts of romantic canoodling. Couples and entire families sat in decadently floral parks enjoying one another’s time.
Florists are almost as abundant as the corner patissiers (bakeries)! The number of amazing restaurants far outnumbered both, with locals who enjoyed outside dining even in cool temps. Parisians may spend several hours with multiple meal courses over lively, engaging conversation and much laughter. The French truly enjoy the company they keep as much as their fine wine.
Paris is beautifully fashioned! I enjoyed strolling along the Champs Elysees. Most men and women are dressed en vogue as they carefully don their designer attire, down to the gorgeous shoes. Although, I still don’t understand the skinny jeans on men thing. Just sayin…
Street Performers
Street Performer
While hitting the pavement, I also accomplished significant window-shopping. I found the most perfect bedroom set, a few amazing paintings and a sculpture that I must have. Yes, aside from fashion, this city is all about beauty and design.
So what have I learned thus far?