The more you travel the smaller the world becomes

Many people have noticed the small Eiffel tower necklace I always wear. I asked for it as a Christmas present in 2009 because my favorite designer on Project Runway (I’m unhealthily obsessed with tv competition shows, nbd) wore a much larger statement piece of the Parisian landmark. I don’t put too much effort into outfits so the necklace just became a staple and I’ve worn it ever since. I researched the history of the statue, learned it’s origin as an entrance gate to the World’s fair (which led to a longstanding desire to experience the 2015 World Expo in Italy), and understood why the French disliked the monstrous metal structure in the center of their short, flat, pristine, stone capital. Although I never was intrigued by the French culture specifically, my necklace evolved to become a personal motif of my desire to travel and experience the history and unique traditions saturated through Europe and Asia.

Then I landed in Paris, and within a few hours, I fell in love. The train system was so comprehensive, you can get anywhere in the city for under two bucks. The streets and sidewalks were rarely strewn with litter and often sported bike/pedestrian separation lines. Joe and I sat in a park when we first arrived and watched children actually playing tag and soccer and parents sitting watching them or conversing with other caretakers. Throughout the hour we relaxed in the cool summer breeze (which was much appreciated after a month without a moment below 90F), I could count on one hand the number of cell phones we saw being intently stared at or tapped on. Talk about refreshing.

Not only are the streets spotless, the buildings themselves are downright impeccable. My friend, Kandasi (it’s a small world when you get to have wine in Paris with someone you haven’t seen since 3rd grade), explained that there are strict codes about the cleanliness of every building facade, and it shows how much the French love and respect their city.

Thanks to Ai-Lien (roommate reunion!), we saw the Louvre, all the beautiful cathedrals, the Tech History Museum (one of my favorite stops) and got to climb to the top of the Arc de Triumph! I went to the Modern Art Museum and Picasso museum, while Joe wandered around Napoleon’s garden, Rodin statues, and the Catacombs. We joined a free walking tour - one point during which Owen Wilson biked by and stopped to listen to our tour guide until he got called out and hurried away. 

Of course we ate at least one new pastry every day, tried foie gras, kir (white wine with a dash of blackcurrant liqueur), pate, crepes, and shared a baguette, french cheese, and french wine to finish our week under the Eiffel Tower. I never thought I would love Paris as much as I did but so far, it has been the only city I could see myself settling in for more than a week.