[Journal] Smitten with the City

One of the many beautiful streets of Paris.

It’s official. I am completely head-over-heels in love with Paris. The sun has just risen on my first official day in the city and first day of class. Last night, I arrived at the apartment-hotel the entire class is staying at around 10:30 p.m. Our taxi driver was the absolute best. 

I rode shotgun, struck up a conversation, and learned about his life and experience around the city. I learned he's originally from Lebanon, is French-Lebanese, and lives just outside Paris. As he drove, he pointed out little landmarks, the divide of the city and suburbs, and upcoming changes Paris would experience in 2020 (expanding city limits). Despite claiming he doesn’t know Paris well and avoids it because it’s noisy, he spoke of the city with warmth and love. Paris, according to him, was not a dangerous city, but a melting pot of different peoples and culture where everyone is welcome. Sure there are pickpockets, but the people are otherwise peaceful. He even mentioned that Paris was no Texas. At the end of the ride, he dropped us off with a gentleman's wink and a quirky “don’t forget me.” 

"Paris, according to him, was not a dangerous city, but a melting pot of different peoples and culture where everyone is welcome."

After settling in, I headed out in search of food with two classmates I had met on the plane (it turns out, there were several of us on the same flight!). Our immediate street was mostly dark and deserted, but we were not deterred - just ravenous after the long flight. Continuing our journey south towards the Bastille market, we saw a brightly lit alleyway and what appeared to be many people walking from shop to shop. Oh the streets were beautiful, vibrant and alive, and its inhabitant even more so. As someone who appreciates street photography, I wanted to capture the locals spilling out of the brightly colored, dimly-lit bars. 

In this little alley, we found a delicious crepe store bustling with locals speaking French. Two of us ordered a freshly-made, savory jambon, mozza, and tomata crepe, and another one of us, a panini. It was divine, taking in the street scene while munching on warm food. I could not have asked for a better first evening out in Paris.

                               

Until next time,

Sherry