Paris
By Jessica Long
n preparation for our move to London from Rhode Island, my fiancé and I set one defining goal for our year abroad. Beyond making the most of our time in London – meeting new people, experiencing British culture, balancing the life of a tourist with that of a Londoner – we set a goal to visit a new country each month. Although this would be a bold mission back in the States, it seemed more than feasible while living in the UK. We got a slow start in the beginning while trying to focus on settling into our new city, however we have found ourselves on track over the course of these past few months. In February we went to Ireland for a long weekend, March it was Amsterdam, and now, in April, we have just returned from a five day trip to Pairs.
Last week, my fiancé’s parents came to visit us in London, to see our new home and spoil us silly with fancy food and parental chivalry. After three days with them in London, we all embarked for a five day trip to Paris to experience yet another culture. Taking the Chunnel through the English Channel, we arrived in Paris easier and quicker than I ever considered possible. I had been to Paris twice before this trip, once to compete at a horseshow and once for a dizzyingly hectic high school senior class trip – 7 countries in 10 days! Due to the busy schedules during both past visits, this trip was the first time I was able to appreciate the Parisian flair that is labeled as like no other. The seats at the cafes lining the streets with all eyes facing the road, staring and surveying, took some time to get accustomed to. At first I questioned the appeal of endlessly watching passer-bys, but eventually this was replaced with my awe for the leisurely setting and infinite lattes and wines.
Beyond the drinks came the cheeses, the quiche, and the crepes, along with other French vendors, which captivated the senses along the busy, bustling streets. Spending time amongst the never-ending lines and touring crowds visiting Versailles, The Louvre, Eifel Tower, Notre Dame, and Rue de les Champs our list of attractions was lengthy and fulfilling. Each day was divided between tourist sites and walks along the Seine or relaxing at a brasserie. A bit of shopping and a touch of simple sunshine added greater pleasure to our time in Paris.
The week was long and jam-packed with activity, yet short in reference to time as it was over as quickly as it began. Returning to London a few days ago, we had just two final days with my fiancé’s parents before having to say goodbye. It was wonderful to see them and it further confirmed my excitement for becoming a part of their family. We spent Easter together in London, attending a church service at Westminster Abbey, and enjoying a few final meals of indulgence and fits of laughter.
Tomorrow we will all return to work and regular routines, with fond memories of the pictures that need developing and the stories that need recording. My fiancé’s parents have left for Rhode Island and here we wait, for our next visitor to check in to our private bed and breakfast. One of my best friends from high school arrives at the end of the week. In the meantime, we will relax. Taking full advantage of our spacious balcony and the sunny London weekend, today we will put our feet up and do nothing - perhaps a little BBQ, some reading and writing, and in general, some much needed down time.
n preparation for our move to London from Rhode Island, my fiancé and I set one defining goal for our year abroad. Beyond making the most of our time in London – meeting new people, experiencing British culture, balancing the life of a tourist with that of a Londoner – we set a goal to visit a new country each month. Although this would be a bold mission back in the States, it seemed more than feasible while living in the UK. We got a slow start in the beginning while trying to focus on settling into our new city, however we have found ourselves on track over the course of these past few months. In February we went to Ireland for a long weekend, March it was Amsterdam, and now, in April, we have just returned from a five day trip to Pairs.
Last week, my fiancé’s parents came to visit us in London, to see our new home and spoil us silly with fancy food and parental chivalry. After three days with them in London, we all embarked for a five day trip to Paris to experience yet another culture. Taking the Chunnel through the English Channel, we arrived in Paris easier and quicker than I ever considered possible. I had been to Paris twice before this trip, once to compete at a horseshow and once for a dizzyingly hectic high school senior class trip – 7 countries in 10 days! Due to the busy schedules during both past visits, this trip was the first time I was able to appreciate the Parisian flair that is labeled as like no other. The seats at the cafes lining the streets with all eyes facing the road, staring and surveying, took some time to get accustomed to. At first I questioned the appeal of endlessly watching passer-bys, but eventually this was replaced with my awe for the leisurely setting and infinite lattes and wines.
Beyond the drinks came the cheeses, the quiche, and the crepes, along with other French vendors, which captivated the senses along the busy, bustling streets. Spending time amongst the never-ending lines and touring crowds visiting Versailles, The Louvre, Eifel Tower, Notre Dame, and Rue de les Champs our list of attractions was lengthy and fulfilling. Each day was divided between tourist sites and walks along the Seine or relaxing at a brasserie. A bit of shopping and a touch of simple sunshine added greater pleasure to our time in Paris.
The week was long and jam-packed with activity, yet short in reference to time as it was over as quickly as it began. Returning to London a few days ago, we had just two final days with my fiancé’s parents before having to say goodbye. It was wonderful to see them and it further confirmed my excitement for becoming a part of their family. We spent Easter together in London, attending a church service at Westminster Abbey, and enjoying a few final meals of indulgence and fits of laughter.
Tomorrow we will all return to work and regular routines, with fond memories of the pictures that need developing and the stories that need recording. My fiancé’s parents have left for Rhode Island and here we wait, for our next visitor to check in to our private bed and breakfast. One of my best friends from high school arrives at the end of the week. In the meantime, we will relax. Taking full advantage of our spacious balcony and the sunny London weekend, today we will put our feet up and do nothing - perhaps a little BBQ, some reading and writing, and in general, some much needed down time.
