Today I finally made it to Paris. It’s been almost exactly four years since I’ve been here, and I’ve spent most of those four years dreaming about coming back.
I spent the day just wandering around and enjoying the city, getting familiar with the metro, and scoping out places I’d like to return to. (I walked 9 miles today, and since about 5 hours of the day was spent on trains, I think that’s pretty impressive.) I didn’t do anything particularly exciting or special, but it was an amazing day.
I know many people who don’t enjoy Paris and don’t understand why people get so excited to go there. I’m not going to try to dispute any of their reasons – because I don’t think I’ll be able to – but I will explain why I love the city and why it means so much to me.
Paris is a city of learning
Not only is the city filled with history and museums, it has one of the most worldly cultures I’ve ever experienced. Everywhere you go are people who speak different languages than you (especially if you don’t speak French) and it requires adapting and is endlessly interesting.
Paris was my first experience abroad
This was the city that first introduced me to international travel, and it’s entirely possible that’s why it holds such a special place in my heart. I made memories here that will never be replaced, and that leaves an impression.
Paris makes me happy
I believe that you should never ignore something that makes you happy. Something about being in Paris and just experiencing the city makes me completely giddy, and I have accepted that.
I don’t know if other people feel this way about Paris (or other cities), but I’m pretty sure I’m going to spend the rest of my life longing to fully experience this city – three days will never be enough.
