Okay, so let’s talk about my recent trip to Paris. I’ve always wanted to go, and I finally made it happen. I booked my flight and started doing some research on what to expect, how to get around, and all that jazz.
First off, I decided to go during the shoulder season. I read online that it’s less crowded than the peak summer months and the weather’s still pretty decent. I figured it was a good balance, and honestly, it turned out to be a great decision. I was aiming for early October.
When I landed at Charles de Gaulle airport, I was a little overwhelmed. It’s huge! I wasn’t sure about the best way to get to the city center, but I saw signs for the RER train. It seemed like the most popular option, and it was pretty straightforward. I bought a ticket, hopped on, and made my way to my hotel.
Getting around Paris
Once I settled in, I started exploring. And let me tell you, Paris is a walking city! I mean, I knew it would involve a lot of walking, but I ended up walking way more than I anticipated. Good thing I took the advice I saw online and brought comfortable shoes. My feet were still killing me by the end of each day, but it could have been worse!
I did use the Metro a few times, too. It’s super convenient, but I heard some stories about pickpockets. I was extra cautious with my bag, especially in crowded stations. It’s like what I watched on a video, a girl recommended keeping your bag close and being aware of your surroundings. Better to be safe than sorry, right?
Sightseeing and stuff
Of course, I hit up all the major tourist spots. The Eiffel Tower was amazing, even though there were tons of people. I saw someone say to go early to avoid the crowds. But it was a bit difficult for me to get out the door in the morning. I also visited the Louvre, walked along the Seine, and checked out Notre Dame. It’s still under construction, but it was impressive nonetheless.
- The Eiffel Tower: I went in the afternoon, and yeah, it was crowded. But the view from the top was incredible!
- The Louvre: So. Much. Art. I spent hours there and barely scratched the surface.
- River Cruise: I took a boat tour along the Seine. It was a nice, relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.
One thing I really enjoyed was just wandering around different neighborhoods. I stumbled upon some charming little cafes and shops. Oh, and the food! I had some amazing pastries and tried some classic French dishes. I even had a picnic in a park one day with some cheese, bread, and wine. It was so much fun!
Some things I learned
I tried to learn a few basic French phrases before I went, and I think it helped a little. Even just saying “Bonjour” and “Merci” seemed to be appreciated. I also noticed that people dressed pretty nicely, especially in the evenings. I felt a bit underdressed a couple of times in my touristy clothes. Next time, I’ll pack a few nicer outfits.
Overall, my trip to Paris was fantastic. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. It’s a beautiful city with so much to see and do. It’s like a local shared, the most important thing is to just enjoy the city and its vibe. I can’t wait to go back someday!
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, I hope my little adventure helps you out. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, be mindful of your belongings, and try to learn a little French. And most importantly, have fun!
