Paris

We were on our layover between Amsterdam and Spain when we spent a single afternoon in Paris. For anyone who’s been to this city before, you know that beautiful, well constructed 19th century buildings line the streets, and are still in impeccable condition for their age. The coffee is over-priced, and the tourists stand out like sore thumbs. Locals walking about and minding their business generally look very good, and that their lifestyle is potentially (probably) healthy. Fresh produce markets can be found conveniently except in tourist destinations. And most cafes have cute little chalkboards placed perfectly outside their entrances, with daily specials written immaculately.

No detail is overlooked in Paris. Those who have previously visited know this.

I’ve been there at least one day in each of the last three summers, which of course at this point makes me a foregone expert. And truth be told, if I only had one day next summer to go out and spend in one of the most well known cities in the world, it sure as hell wouldn’t be Paris.

It’s not the Paris of old like in the movies. In my personal experience, the idea that Paris is the epicenter of romance and French kissing is far more exotic than what one can reasonably expect to see when visiting. Residents there, as most people throughout the world, are simply trying to ‘live their lives’, or just ‘get ahead’ with hard work. You know, make a decent living.

There is really nothing that special about Paris, other than the feeling I got that living there seems way cooler than visiting. The French fries are recognizable, seeing the iconic images in person provides only a momentary rush, and photo-ops are in full supply. Other than that, prepare to shell out a mint for dinner for two.

But what do I know, maybe I’ve overlooked something. If you’re an American who has never been to Europe, you’ll probably love the place. Or hate it.

Keep the faith.