Tuesday, August 4, 2009

J'aime Paris



My final European adventure was spent in Paris - and it was, once again amazing. Or should I say, cool? ;)

It was a semi-solo trip...meaning I traveled there alone but ended meeting with friends I've met while staying in London.




I've decided travling by train is the way to go. So easy, no hassle, quick and painless. And, you don't have to wait in customs for and hour and a half upon returing home.

I decided to take a day off from BLC and left Thursday afternoon. I arrived in Paris and was met by Mathieu at the train station. It was great to have someone along who knew the city, helped with translating, and was completely understandable of all my touristy moments. (I acted like a two year old every time I saw a notable landmark - can we say goosebumps upon seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time?)


Highlights of Paris
  • Basically everything, ha, but more specifically...
  • Eiffel Tower at Night:  a fun light display, along with a nice lawn to sit out with my friend while drinking champagne makes for a very memorable night in Paris. 
  • Montmarte:  My hostel was located in the heart of this high part of the city. It was beautiful, dotted with bakeries and small cafe's. It was the perfect area, especially for someone traveling alone. If I had been staying in an area similar to where I stayed in Athens, I probably wouldn't have felt comfortable staying there!
  • Sacré Cœur:  A lovely cathedral that hosts wonderful views of the city. Though, watch out for men trying to make you wish bracelets. 
  • Champs-Elysées:  The road that takes you from the Arc de Triomphe to the Louvre, The beautiful day, along with good company made it a walk to remember. 
  • The Louvre:  It was amazing to see all the iconic pieces. But, as expected, the Mona Lisa didn't amaze me all that much. Perks:  I didn't have to wait in any lines.
  • I think the Musee d'Orsay would've been the biggest highlight for me, but unfortunately my sense of adventure and lack of phone credits caused me to miss the opportunity to see the works of VanGough, Monet, Manet, Renoir and Courbet. I suppose this gives me a legitimate excuse to visit Paris again. 
My time was very limited in Paris, but I'm so glad I decided to go. It was an amazing two days and I cannot wait to revisit the city again some day - hopefully sooner rather than later.