Travel Bug

I thought that traveling over the last few weeks would taunt me to write down everything that I have seen and experienced. Like how an apple dangling from a tree begs to be picked, I figured I wouldn't be able to resist the urge to document every moment. I have learned, however, that it has done the exact opposite. While I do feel inspired, I have yet to find time, motivation, or willingness to sit down and write about it. The task is daunting and overwhelming because each day is filled to the brim with memorable moments. Where do I even start? We flew into France about 3 weeks ago and I barely remember what we did. It was simply a blur of trains, planes, and walking tours. Even so, I have finally found the time and a cold, rainy day to accompany it. So, let me attempt to paint the picture I had of France as well as Monet did. 

The brisk wind brushed my hair back as Rosemary and I walked the crowded streets of Paris. The reality that I was in a different country still hadn't quite hit me, but giddiness of exploring a new area, in a place that rarely spoke English, was building in my chest making my steps that much more determined. My pace was about twice that of Rosemary's, but that was probably because my luggage was left behind at the airport... not by choice. Pushing the stress of not having my luggage out of my mind, we finally arrived at the very first hostel I have ever stayed at. Orange awnings acted as a shining beacon after the long flight and extensive amount of stairs we had to climb. Checking in I remember glancing around at the homey atmosphere, drinking in the quaint reception area with stairs leading down to the common area. The place seemed quiet, but it was late afternoon on a Tuesday. After we checked in and stored our luggage, we began walking the streets of Paris, getting an idea of the area we would call home for about 5 nights. 

Paris is definitely something else. It is magical, romantic, and extravagant all in one. Everyone sits outside at restaurants regardless of the weather, although that is probably because everyone smokes. Buildings look old and robust, however according to a walking tour we did the city is fairly newly constructed due to the rebellious personality that accompanies all of the French. That point was driven home when Rosemary and I walked through a protest and weren't able to use public transportation for one of the days we were there. Flowers line the streets as well, giving Paris its traditional and stereotypical romantic essence. Most of the flowers were, however, fake because nothing had bloomed yet. It was still magical all the same. My first impression of Paris was definitely a good one, but I have to say it lives up to its stereotypes. From being romantic, to being dirty, Paris seems to uphold both the good and bad qualities it is known for. 

More than a few things stick out to me when I think of Paris and the things that we did. One of which was the artwork scattered throughout the city. I was able to get up close and personal with some of Van Gough, Monet, and Manet's work and nothing compares to the actual paintings no matter who tells you different. The textures these artists used with different brush techniques and different painting styles is remarkable. Even if art isn't an interest of yours, any of the art museums are worthwhile. We never were able to make it into the Louvre, but we did walk around the building and into the courtyard which houses the glass Pyramid. Again, very much worth it. I have been told that inside the Louvre is very overwhelming without a plan in place. It is the largest art collection in the world, so I can only imagine how easily someone can get lost in the collections. Another highlight of Paris includes the Pere Lachaise Cemetery. This Cemetery houses about one million souls with 70,000 head stones. It is MASSIVE. Of the million souls, Jim Morrison, Gertrude Stein, and Oscar Wilde are buried there along with other famous writers and musicians. Rosemary and I listened to Rick Steve's audio walking tour and it was fascinating to say the least. Stepping into the Cemetery is like stepping into another town with how large it is and how different it is to its surroundings. I could talk endlessly about other tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame, but those two held my attention throughout our stent in Paris. 

Paris nightlife is something else entirely. Steering away from the tourist attraction buzz, Paris has so many fun spots for food, wine, and an amazing time. Not to mention places are open insanely late. Unlike the U.S. where places stay open until about 0100 on a weekday, we closed a Paris bar at 0300. Then proceeded to stay up until around 0600. How we had the energy for that is beyond me. I can tell you that Rosemary is the only reason I was a person the next day. There's nothing like being awoken to a coffee and a still-drunk bestie yelling "WHAT'S UP BITCH" after 4 hours of sleep to really start the day. To be fair, I did tell her that regardless of the time if she brought me coffee in the morning I wouldn't put up a fight. We did end up going to some museums that day, but I'm not sure how much I actually was able to appreciate it. 

I'm sure I can think of about a million stories to tell you about Paris, but I will start with that. It's a basic structure of some of the things we did there, with potential to elaborate in a different post. Like I said previously, this is just the beginning. We were only there for 4 days and I am on week 3... so keep your eyes peeled for some more updates and definitely pictures to come.
​Until then, stay in mind, stay in touch, and travel!