If I could describe Paris in one word, it would be pretty. It’s the word that kept coming to mind during my walks. I took the Eurostar from London St. Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, and I am so happy that I did. It was fast and convenient. I booked my train ride weeks in advance, and I recommend doing this because it saves money and seats fill up quickly. This was another solo adventure I embarked on. I was scared again. But, the truth is, you never know until you try. I was afraid of the unknown, but I felt ready to walk this path again. I simply let my heart guide the way.
Canal Saint-Martin
I stumbled upon this canal. It was calm, quiet, and peaceful. The sunshine and blue skies never left during my time in Paris. The weather was perfect.
The Louvre Pyramid, a large glass and metal structure, was fascinating to see in real life. I have always seen people visit this landmark, and it felt surreal to have been so close to it. There were so many people surrounding the Louvre. It was peaceful and heartwarming to see families and friends get together to sit under the radiating sun and feel the warmth on a rather cold day. I’ll never forget my time standing near the landmark and admiring it. The structure was pretty.
Louvre Pyramid
75001 Paris, France
I had no idea where I was walking, but I knew I would stumble across another exciting spot, and I did. I arrived at the Square Federico García Lorca, a city park. People were jogging, taking their morning strolls, walking their dogs, or simply relaxing. I remember standing there and listening to the water flow. It didn't feel like I was in a city anymore. All the noise went away. All I could think about was nothing. There was no thought in my mind. I felt relaxed. The park was pretty.
Square Federico García Lorca
75004 Paris, France
Darkness was nearing. It was the perfect time to see the Eiffel Tower. Even writing and saying “Eiffel Tower” out loud as I type feels crazy. It felt like a dream when seeing it in real life. It was glowing from a distance. I think it’s a perfect time to see the tower when it’s dark, but the darkness can be scary too, especially when you’re by yourself. I knew where I was going and I expected to see the tower, but I felt lost during my walk. However, I didn’t let anything stop me from going closer to this glowing light I was seeing. It was a beacon of light, a beacon of hope. I followed it, and because I did, I didn’t feel lost anymore. After trusting the light, I regained my hope and the path I was walking seemed brighter. The Eiffel Tower was pretty.
Eiffel Tower
75007 Paris, France
Don’t forget to see the Eiffel Tower during the day!
This is a view from Trocadéro Gardens.
75016 Paris, France
It was a dream to explore the capital and most populous city of France. I’ve heard people say that Paris is amazing, dreamy, and pretty. I agree with them. Paris is like no other place. Wherever you walk, you will stumble across things that will catch your eye. Whether it is the desserts, the landmarks, or the sparkling lights that may just appear, you will be drawn. I followed the shining light beaming from the Eiffel Tower, and once I had a good view and could really take everything in, I stood there looking at it for more than a while. I was standing there alone, but I had no ounce of loneliness in my mind and, most importantly, in my heart. At this time, I felt special. Even if no one was there to witness this kind of happiness I never expressed before, all that matters is that I knew I was experiencing something different. When underneath the glowing lights, I felt whole again. It was a feeling like no other. The truth is, I searched forever for a moment like this.
Shirley Cajamarca
Shirley is a junior at Steinhardt studying applied psychology. She loves eating bagels, ice cream, and fried plantains. She also enjoys spending time with her family.