After arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport, the trip away from home for our Study Abroad adventure truly struck home. This trip had been the culmination of months of planning for us—five girls who were just beginning to forge friendships and were about to embark on our first journey outside Europe together. Our group consisted of Sara, Julia, Anne, Erin, and me. We had become close friends during my freshman year of college by living in the same dormitory and spending countless nights talking about life or dancing to songs playing on the radio when we couldn’t sleep, no matter how hard we tried. Now, halfway through our senior year, with college just around the corner, we decided to visit Paris. The purpose was to show each other how much we valued our friendship.
After arriving at the airport, we took the train further into Paris. As I looked out the window at the green landscape whirling past me, the old excitement returned as anticipation for the week ahead settled in. We had planned a day filled with quintessential Parisian activities: walking along the Seine, sitting in a cozy café observing the world go by, and strolling through the Musée d’Orsay to savor its treasure trove of art, delightfully unspoilt by time. I was eagerly looking forward to checking off the remaining items on my Paris to-do list.
We arrived at our quaint yet charming hotel located at Lutis' Curruid, an area bustling with students and delightful cafés. Overwhelmed by jet lag, we checked in quickly and immediately headed out without bothering to collect our bags. Wandering through the area's winding alleys, we discovered famous pâtisseries offering macarons in every hue and beautiful tarts of all kinds. We bought a selection of chocolate and bread and enjoyed a leisurely lunch in the Luxembourg Gardens, clinking glasses of rosé under the shade of a chestnut tree. It was particularly charming to watch the elegantly dressed Parisians strolling hand in hand past the marble fountains.
The next few days passed in a convivial whirlwind of activities. Wine flowed freely as we celebrated new friendships and enjoyed the city’s vibrant atmosphere. One evening, we threw coins into the Trevi Fountain with wishes of returning to this city of lovers. The last day was the highlight of our trip, with a magical evening spent sipping wine on a dinner cruise along the Seine. The experience was simply delightful, feeling as though we were on top of the world, watching the illuminated monuments and the beautiful cityscape.
As the airplane began its journey back, I was exhausted but couldn’t help reminiscing about our trip—about the moments Sara and I played house like Mona Lisa subjects, the enchanting spots along the banks of the Seine at night, and the many glasses of red wine shared. Each photo taken during our trip brought back memories of that wonderful week when five friends had the chance to explore Paris with their cameras, creating fabulous moments and trying new experiences. Each participant contributed to this adventure, capturing their personal "Walks in Paris" (date). No matter where life takes us after graduation next month, Paris will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Please allow me to begin by introducing the best known and well-loved landmarks in Paris before we delve into the different sights. Before leaving, be sure to visit the celebrated Eiffel Tower, Paris' most famous symbolic structure and one of the world's most popular tourist attractions. Ascend to its three sky-viewing platforms by stairs or elevator, and from here you will be able to enjoy rare, panoramic vistas of the vast metropolis beneath you. Gaze across the twisted loops of the River Seine; be amazed at the far-off ridges of Montmartre and the Arc de Triomphe; and spy on streets, roads, and freeways all busily carrying their traffic below, four hundred meters in fact.
Next, visit the Louvre Museum, which claims to be the world's largest art museum, set along the Seine. Walk through over 600 halls and literally thousands upon thousands of aisles to appreciate hundreds of thousands of works of art that reflect mankind's ideas and inventions down through 5,000 years of history. Naturally, no visit to the museum would be complete without seeing its top exhibit: the Mona Lisa (or Lady with a Little Dog) by Leonardo da Vinci. This masterpiece is not the only icon on display here; you will also find other famous works such as the vast Wedding at Cana, the mysterious Lady with an Ermine, and the statue The Winged Victory of Samothrace on show.
Leaning back, Notre-Dame Cathedral is situated on Île de la Cité in the Seine. This Gothic-style Catholic cathedral, an incredible construction of over 850 years old, includes rose windows of stained glass, flying buttresses, and eerie gargoyles. The entire massive Gothic architecture of the interior church is suffused with a feeling of spiritual ambiance; the spire offers a panoramic view over Paris. Another wonder nearby is the Gothic chapel Sainte-Chapelle, with its splendid stained-glass windows casting a rainbow of hues into the chamber above.
Between such landmarks as the legendary Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is full of buildings that amaze you with their architectural skill. Having climbed lookout towers, walked among museums of swirling artistry, and encountered history face to face during our stay in one of the most lovely and ancient cities on earth, there is still much to explore and discover in this enchanting city.
The city is a dream come true for anyone with a passion for food. Be it the cozy bakeries selling cut-to-order croissants and warm baguettes or the quaint bistros offering steaming French meals, Paris is a culinary paradise.
Breakfast on croissants, which is always a definite must-do when in Paris, means a visit to a boulangerie in the local neighborhood. Get up early and stand in the line going all around the block to buy a warm, crumbly croissant slathered with butter and accompanied by a cup of coffee with milk. Bliss! Depending on the crispiness of the croissant, it will be perfect for breakfast while you go out and about in the city.
Before or after lunch, feel free to grab a quick bite in any bakery or café. A typical Parisian lunch is comfortable and satisfying, with options like a ham and cheese sandwich or quiche Lorraine, a dish consisting of a slice of egg custard, bacon, onion, and cheese baked in pastry. These dishes may look rather small, but they provide the energy required to get through a day of shopping or art-viewing.
Finally, before night falls, head to a popular French bistro where you should enjoy classic French cuisine. Some specialties include boeuf bourguignon, a beef stew cooked with red wine, and coq au vin, chicken braised in red wine. Use all your senses to savor every part of the meal: smell the fresh herbs and spices, taste the juicy and tender flavors in every morsel, and listen to the lively conversations around you as you continue the dinner into the late hours.
Last but not least, even if you are already bloated from dinner, you must, you have to eat dessert! There are two foods unique to Paris that should not be missed: macarons, those cute little cookies filled with sweet ganache, and tarte tatin, an upside-down tart with deliciously caramelized apples. Just one or two will transport you to a ‘food for the gods’ dimension.
From the early morning cup of coffee to the late evening meal, and not to mention dessert or the last orders for any kind of sweets, Paris is indeed a treasure trove of delicacies for the gourmet tourist. So, if you are a food lover, let me recommend you the most mouth-watering and unforgettable meals you are going to taste!
Paris is renowned for being a shopping capital with a plethora of shops focused on high fashion, retro styles, and exclusive boutiques, alongside numerous markets. One of the premier shopping destinations is the famous Champs-Élysées Avenue; this is luxury shopping at its very best. On the cast-iron balconies, you'll find glossy flagship stores of renowned French fashion brands like Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton, showcasing their collections in the windows. Personal shoppers are available to cater to your every whim as you explore the exquisite collections of Parisian fashion and trinkets.
The Le Marais district offers an unconventional approach to Parisian fashion. Here, students purchasing affordable clothes from well-known labels mingle with stylish independent concept stores and innovative designers. The slender, stone-paved streets are filled with clothing and accessories ranging from punk-inspired unisex t-shirts to flowing bohemian dresses and handcrafted leather jackets and bags. Drop by chic ‘shop-in-shops’ to converse with business owners and discover unique clothes and accessories not found elsewhere. Take a coffee break at a local café, observe the passers-by, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Le Marais.
Paris is dedicated to presenting the best of luxury and elegance. Even if haute couture is a bit too expensive for the average shopper, visiting the legendary department stores of Paris is a must. The Galeries Lafayette is historic and offers a glimpse into the city's fashion history, housed under a magnificent glass dome. Shop multiple floors of designer collections and gourmet food emporiums, or enjoy a spectacular view from the roof. Printemps and Le Bon Marché are equally exquisite, offering personalized fragrances and tailored suits, with ten-floor facades reflecting every new theme.
No shopping spree is complete without exploring a few vintage or antique shops. Sundays are ideal for visiting the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, an old flea market in Paris. With more than a thousand vendors, you can find everything from LV cases and silk scarves with logos to vintage jewelry and unique items of uncertain origin. The market is a treasure trove of items, and a full day spent browsing will reward you with remarkable finds within its 7.3-acre expanse. Though it may seem daunting to locate these pieces, a keen sense of fashion and some time spent searching will eventually lead to great discoveries.
From high-end designer clothes and fashion boutiques to department stores, second-hand shops, and flea markets, Paris offers an unparalleled and unique shopping experience. Visitors will leave with iconic products and cherished memories of their splendid shopping spree.
Paris boasts a rich and diverse heritage for cultural tourism, featuring an array of museums, galleries, theaters, and cinemas. Among the most renowned is the Musée d'Orsay, located in a picturesque railway station near the Seine. The tall ceilings of this museum elegantly showcase masterpieces from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements, including works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Cézanne. Exploring the large galleries offers an up-close and personal experience with these masters of light and color.
Equally captivating is the Centre Pompidou, a futuristic building that itself is a piece of art. It houses Europe’s largest collection of modern art, featuring works by Matisse, Picasso, and a host of other contemporary artists. For a quintessential Parisian cultural experience, attending an opera or ballet at the magnificent Neo-Baroque Palais Garnier is a must. Since 1875, this multi-tiered theater has hosted performances by some of the most famous composers, directors, and dancers, with its Chagall-painted auditorium and splendid Grand Foyer staircase.
In addition to museums and performing arts, Paris is renowned for its cinema theaters, such as Le Champo in the Latin Quarter. Here, you can enjoy classic films or independent movies, and then sip wine at their bar. Wander through local districts to discover independent repertory cinemas, many of which are housed in their original Art Deco and Modernist buildings. Although these cinemas have recently been upgraded with digital projection and seating, they still retain their old-world Parisian charm.
While Paris is known for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, its cultural richness becomes most vivid through its artistic and historical experiences. Whether wandering through the sophistication of French Impressionism, marveling at avant-garde masterpieces, listening to the breathtaking melodies of opera, or immersing yourself in the ambiance of an old cinema hall, Paris offers a profound cultural journey. The city invites you to explore and soak in its multiple layers of cultural references.
After spending days exploring Paris and its many attractions, it's essential to unwind with a day at the spa. Leading hotels such as Le Meurice and Four Seasons George V offer luxurious spas that provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city. These spas offer soothing massages, refreshing facials, and relaxing body treatments in serene environments. Indulge in aromatherapy or an anti-aging caviar facial to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Once you've pampered yourself at the spa, take a leisurely stroll through some of Paris's impressive parks and gardens. On the Left Bank, Luxembourg Gardens provides a lush green retreat with its lawns, rose gardens, beds of azaleas, and paved paths. Spend a few moments sitting by the main fountain or beneath blooming flowers, and watch children play with wooden boats on the water.
Another beautiful option is the Jardin des Tuileries, located near the Louvre Museum. Here, you can relax on a reclining chair beside the rectangular pools and enjoy a sandwich from a nearby café. The garden's tree-lined promenades and sculptures by Auguste Rodin offer a serene setting for a leisurely walk.
Paris is abundant in wellness options, and if you're looking to incorporate relaxation into your itinerary, there are plenty of opportunities. From world-class spas to scenic parks and gardens, Paris offers the perfect combination of luxury and tranquility. Spend a relaxing day at a spa, then explore the Luxembourg Gardens with a book or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. Allow yourself to unwind and experience the stress-melting magic of Paris – the City of Lights.
Literally translated as the "City of Lights," Paris continues to dazzle long after the sun sets. From glamorous cabarets to stylish and intimate bars, the city's nightlife is as iconic as the Eiffel Tower itself. Begin your evening with a scenic dinner cruise on the River Seine. As you sail past Paris's beautiful landmarks, savor the finest French wines and gourmet cuisine beneath the stars.
Next, head to the Latin Quarter, a vibrant neighborhood and home to the student population of Sorbonne University. Enjoy craft cocktails at lively gastropubs, and attend performances by renowned jazz or rock musicians in hidden basement venues that seem to spring from the alleyways. Alternatively, sit with locals and tourists alike at historic cafés near the Saint-Michel fountain, soaking in the bohemian atmosphere over mulled wine or traditional coffee and cakes.
As the evening progresses, drive north via the A1 highway to Montmartre to explore its nightlife. Visit the famous Moulin Rouge with its iconic red windmill or catch a spectacular dance show featuring the Moulin Rouge can-can, complete with feathers, impressive leg lifts, and champagne. Modern venues like La Cigale host rock and pop concerts, and stylish nightclubs keep the music and dancing going until the early morning hours. Montmartre's nightlife is an intriguing and playful spectacle that can be enjoyed well into the night.
Whether you're in love, dancing through vibrant neighborhoods, visiting cabarets, or simply exploring the city's nighttime charm, Paris offers unforgettable nights that will linger in your memory forever.
Looking at the Charles de Gaulle airport while waiting for my flight to be called, I wish I could have a little more time in the magical world of Paris. I still recall my time spent here over the past two weeks as something I will cherish all through my lifetime. To bask in the twinkling lights as I walked hand in hand with the one I loved on the Champs-Élysées, to gaze at the grand Arc de Triomphe painted in golden hues during dusk – these are the thoughts that make me feel grateful for being alive.
I still remember the grandeur of the Versailles Palace, with its magnificent Hall of Mirrors, glass surfaces, and chandeliers, and gardens stretching as far as the eye could see. The greatest thrill was when I closed my eyes and envisioned the grand balls held in this castle many moons ago, where ladies floated in their crinoline gowns to the tunes of a softly playing orchestra. What dramas these walls have witnessed!
But Paris is not Paris without tasting its exquisite foods and wines, rated among the best in the world. How could I forget the first encounter with a crispy layered croissant enjoyed in Montmartre's open-air cafes? Or the romantic crepes, saturated with tender Nutella, bought from a street vendor near the Seine? And the chance to spend an evening indulging in five outstanding dishes created by a Michelin-starred chef, each paired with superb French wines? My taste buds will surely miss these delicacies!
As the boarding call for my flight starts, I let out a silent ‘sigh’ and look back at the charming City of Light through the airport walls. This is not farewell, my sweet Paris, but rather ‘see you later.’ I am certain you will see me soon to start making new, wonderful memories together.