Ma vie Parisienne

Guess who’s back!!

I know it has been a while, but after returning home from San Francisco, I just wanted to spend some time with my friends and family – who I had to miss for 18 weeks!! – catch up and recharge for my next adventure.

And now, I’m ready to go out and explore again!

Actually, it’s already been a month since I started my new journey. This time not on the other side of the world, but a bit closer to home – which doesn’t make it any less special, for sure!

This round, you can find me in “ddrrrrrr” ….. (drum ruffle) PARIS!!!

Yes, the city of love, the city of lights, fashion capital of the world, and a true paradise to food lovers!

This is not the first time I’m in Paris. I’ve visited the city a few times before, but just can’t get enough of it. I never forget the first time I saw the Eiffel tower, l’arc de triomph, Notre Dame, the Louvre or the view from the Sacre Coeur on top of Montmartre. It was something special, something magical, just love at first sight – or as the French say it: un coup de foudre! – No wonder they call it the city of love.

What I always loved about Paris is this cozy atmosphere that reigns over the capital. It doesn’t matter how the weather is, Paris will always have this warm-looking radiance. And with that being said, I was warmly welcomed my first week by one of nature’s many beautiful phenomenon’s, namely snow….. – I know, what an irony, right?!

Overnight, Paris changed into a real winter wonderland! It may haven’t been the nicest temperature – honestly, it was freezing cold! – but with my thick winter coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and boots, I was ready to conquer the frozen streets and discovered, yet again, the beauty underneath that thin layer of white dust. – Bucket list: a white Paris…..CHECK!

The main reason for Paris’ gracious character is its gorgeous and historical architecture that flows throughout the entire city. Behind every façade, at every corner, there lays a story, waiting to be told. A place with a rich and ancient history I am willing to discover!

But besides getting to know Paris on a historical level, I also want to be able to see the French capital as a real local, a “Parisienne” to be exact!

So far, I must say I’ve already managed to transform myself into a local in some situations. – Not that people actually believe me as my accent probably gives it away ;)

One thing I’ve learned – and definitely NOT something to look down for – is how to order a great coffee without having to spend the ridiculous amount of at least 7 euros!

When going to a café, you ask for “un café au comptoir”, meaning you’ll have your coffee at the counter. Sometimes they will even serve your drink in a paper to-go-cup, so you can decide whether to stay at the cafe or take it with you. When you want an Americano, don’t ask for “un café Americain”, but simply for “un café allongé”. It’s basically the same, but there are places that might charge you more for an Americano, just for the name. – Well, what can I say, crisis for everyone. – And the same counts for “un café au lait”. Ask for “un café noisette”, which is coffee with a bit of milk and just by saying the word “noisette” the milk is free!

Eiffel tower

L'arc de Triomphe

Snowy streets in Paris

( for more pictures check my gallery)

And so, I become a Parisienne a bit more every single day!

Up till now, Paris still surprises me every day with its good looks and special habits! There’s yet so much to do and see, and just like last time I’ll take you on this journey with me! So, hold on tight and enjoy the ride!!

Liefs

Bente