I can't believe that despite the number of times I've been to Paris for work, this is the first time I've properly gone out and walked around.
The first time I've landed in Paris, I was awestruck by the architecture - how beautiful the streets were, how detailed each building was. However, as time went past, I got desensitized to it.
The buildings somehow started to look the same. Perhaps it's because I'm always in the same area, doing the same things, never getting out of my comfort zone.
Probably the best thing I've done before this trip was to jog to the Eiffel in an attempt to exercise, or have a nice picnic in the grass patch facing the Eiffel (while chasing vendors attempting to sell us touristy keychains).
However, I had colleagues this time round who dragged me out and I'm glad I did go out in the end. It was the first time I felt that Paris isn't so bad after all. It isn't just a massive tourist trap with pickpockets everywhere.
Try to imagine Chinatown in Singapore - but with pushy vendors trying to sell you things all the time. The whole place just felt so artificial and stifling. Paris is definitely beautiful, however what most people have is a over-romanticized version of it in their heads.
In fact, did you know that there's something termed the "Paris Syndrome"? It's the shock when travelers find out that Paris isn't what they expected it to be.
Well, nevertheless, it is still a beautiful place with a long history behind it. Once you look pass your expectations and see it for what it is, you'll be able to appreciate it more.
I have a love/hate relationship with the working attitudes of Parisians. They have a very "chill" and nonchalant attitude, which is what I really admire - compared to the overstressed and overworked Asians. (But at the same time, god bless you if you want to have issues sorted out fast.)
One thing I really love about Paris though, is the architecture of their old buildings - churches, museums, stations. Their churches and cathedrals especially - how something so majestic was built hundred of years ago amazes me.
This trip - I've visited the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Do not be fooled by the picture above, the interior is way bigger! Too bad pictures are not allowed.
(The inner loli in me is squealing whenever I see those gorgeous stained glass windows! I haven't gotten a chance to wear Lolita in Paris yet. Maybe my next trip?)
Another thing I love about Paris is the cheese and chocolate! I'm no cheese connoisseur (I grew up on cheesdale and cowhead cheese - LOL) but oh boy - the variety of cheeses in the supermarket nearby is amazing. I have yet to try blue cheese though.
Well, that's all for now! Hopefully I'll pick up the courage to walk around next time, without fearing the pickpockets and the language barrier...
