Describing Paris in words seems so inadequate; especially when so much was felt and experienced in ways I did not even expect. I could start at least by identifying some of the tastes and colors that were felt.
I can't describe it all, at least in one sitting, but will hit on a few high points and then continue on next time.
Overall
Amazing, gorgeous weather, spiritually uplifting and memorable in so many ways. Each passing minute felt like a gift. This was especially true when we spent time with our dear friends (Martijn knows Pieter since high school days...) from Holland, who took the train down to Paris for a family trip. Apart from the dinner (photo below) We were able to see them during the nights for late night chats over tea, on the balcony catching up on life.
These nights were unexpectedly a rekindling of a friendship of the best kind; one that doesn't need to much attention on a day to day basis; but just endures through time, places and life. We shared a lot and learned more than we probably expected. It was a unique opportunity to exchange our life lessons and I am so thankful we had this time together.
Walking perspectives
So many beautiful streets, shops, sidewalks, vistas, gardens, historic sites, museums, homes, cafes, bakeries, all nestled together from one place to the next. The continuation and extension of amazing places to see was just endless. It started with the adorable little boutique shops such as the one pictured above, that only specialized hot air balloons and music boxes. A few doors down (in the Quartier Latin) was the oldest restaurant in Paris, La Procope; the place Pieter and I visited when we were engaged back in 1994.
Art was everywhere, real art, and galleries as if every artist could have its own personal showroom for the world to see. Nothing like Soho where the grandness and vibe is connected with an artist for a few moments. Instead, it seems that Parisians appreciate all forms of art, even the doorways of buildings seemed elegant and striking.
People
Of course one of the most quintessential experiences is viewing the Parisians themselves. I was in awe of the splendor of the women in this city. Not that Pieter could truly notice what I was referring to; but I sensed that women, no matter the size, shape, color or background, were mostly (if not all) confident, tailored feminine, with an air of je ne sais quoi. (Okay hopefully my last and only cliche)
Not that there was a lot of makeup, fancy clothes or designer handbags, quite the opposite. I saw ladies who may have just been walking their dog, catching a smoke before their day started; or walking along just enjoying the art at a museum, but each of them had flair and style with a confidence I admired. It made their beauty shine from within as well as from the outside.
Diversity was everywhere, a rich tapestry of people from many countries, whether from Eastern Europe, Europe, Africa, Americas, everyone seemed to be there and it was not as distinct as NY or London where each group has their own subculture and can live amongst their own identities apart from everyone else. It felt like there was a closer knit community of French speaking people, and an acknowledgment that they all were connected somehow. I could be naive in this impression but it felt that way, and I liked the sense of respect no matter the color, background or nationality.
En fin...
Bon soir for now, I will add entries on food, art, history and shopping next time.
