My first trip to Paris was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells. As I walked past the bustling crowds, the air was filled with the chatter of French and English. The pigeons fluttered around, searching for scraps, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of fresh pastries. It was a sensory overload, but in the best way possible. I was there with my family, and the Eiffel Tower, looming in the distance, cast a long shadow over us. The iconic landmark seemed to watch us as we savored every moment of this Parisian adventure.
I couldn’t resist the allure of a Nutella crepe, and as I took my first bite, the Eiffel Tower stood before me in all its glory. It was unlike any building I had ever seen. I noticed that the metal structure resembled an X-ray, each piece meticulously assembled to create this architectural masterpiece. We planned to explore the expansive view from the top of the tower later that day.
Navigating the City of Love: Tips for a Safe and Memorable Trip
Paris, a popular tourist destination, can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, these tips will help you have a safe and exciting time in the City of Lights.
Conquering the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is a must-see for any visitor to Paris, despite its popularity. Its beauty is undeniable, both from afar and up close. We were ready to ascend to the top via elevator, but my sister, eager to conquer the endless flights of stairs, insisted on walking. I highly recommend taking the elevator; it saves time and energy, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking panorama sooner. However, the effort was worth it. From the summit, we gazed upon the city’s vibrant tapestry of ancient architecture and vibrant colors. The sun reflected off the buildings, casting a warm glow on the city below. We even enjoyed a celebratory champagne at the tower’s top bar.
Savor the Flavors of Paris
My top tip for experiencing Paris: explore as many restaurants as possible! My family and I stumbled upon La Favorite, a charming restaurant situated on a picturesque street corner opposite a lively market. The vibrant pink flowers and the glowing LED sign made it hard to miss. We were greeted warmly, and the staff offered to translate the menu into English, which was incredibly helpful. We chose a table outside, enjoying the warm sunshine and the bustling energy of the market. We decided to order drinks and a light snack, a charcuterie board, to hold us over until dinner. The cheese, salami, and various breads were a delightful mix of flavors, and the food was devoured in an instant. It was the perfect Parisian afternoon.
A Quick Cafe and Essential Phrases
A common courtesy in Paris is to always purchase something before using a cafe or restaurant’s restroom. It’s considered disrespectful to the staff and owner. If you need to use the bathroom but can’t find a public one, simply walk into a cafe, stand at the bar, and ask for a “quick cafe.” This typically costs just one Euro and gives you access to the bathroom while showing your respect. Plus, you’ll get a quick coffee to boost your energy for the rest of the day.
Learning a few key French phrases can make your journey smoother, especially when ordering at restaurants. Here are some useful phrases: “Je voudrais de l’eau” (I would like some water), “Apportez moi la carte, si vous plait” (please bring me the menu), “Merci” (Thank you), “Je prends/Je voudrias” (I would like, followed by what you want to order), and the all-important “Ou est les toilets” (Where is the bathroom?).
During our trip, we made an effort to use these French phrases and discovered that waiters and tour guides were more welcoming to us than to Americans who assumed everyone spoke English. A little effort goes a long way!
The Metro: A Fast and Efficient Way to Explore
While walking is a great way to discover the city, the Metro is an efficient way to get around, especially if you have a specific destination in mind. Stepping onto the Metro is an exciting experience, with the rumbling trains and the squealing brakes adding to the thrill. The color-coded maps with open and closed circles clearly indicate routes and stops. Even if you happen to board the wrong train, just hop off at the next stop and cross the platform to catch the train going in the opposite direction. It’s all part of the adventure.
Hidden Gems and a Boat Tour
If you love exploring hidden gems, a boat tour is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. We cruised down the Seine River, taking in the breathtaking scenery. The sun glistened off the gold and metal structures, and the Eiffel Tower looked majestic from afar. We even learned that they are painting the Eiffel Tower gold in preparation for the 2024 Olympics.
Kodawari Ramen: A Delicious Secret
The best-kept secret in Paris, in my opinion, is Kodawari Ramen. This hidden gem serves some of the most delicious ramen I’ve ever tasted. Every night, we passed by the restaurant on our way back to the hotel, noticing the long line that stretched out the door. On our second to last night, we decided to give it a try. The restaurant’s unique fish market theme, with fake fish in coolers, gloves and bags hanging everywhere, and sound effects, created a truly immersive experience. The wait was worth it. Every ramen dish was a perfect blend of seafood flavors, eggs, and chicken. It was a culinary masterpiece.
A Farewell to Paris
Our last day in Paris was a whirlwind of taste testing. We sampled cappuccinos at different cafes and indulged in warm, delicious crepes. The chocolate and jelly oozing out of the sides was simply irresistible. The aroma of freshly baked crepes was a delightful way to end our Parisian adventure.
By the end of our trip, I was ready to pack my bags and move to Paris. Everything about the city captivated me. The morning we left, I tried to hide in the hotel because I didn’t want to leave. Paris has changed my perspective on America. Things that seem strange in the US, like having to pay for water or asking for permission to use a restroom, are considered normal in Paris. I embraced the European culture and cherish the memories of my Parisian adventure.
