It’s been a while again since the last update. I can’t believe how fast time has gone by. I have now been in Île de France (I’d love to say Paris but that really isn’t quite true at this stage) for a little over 5 weeks. When I say it like that it doesn’t seem like long at all and I have actually achieved quite a lot in a short space of time but more on daily life and struggles…
It’s been over a week since I landed in Paris lugging two large suitcases and an inconveniently large carry-on containing more than enough clothes and hopefully all the necessary documents I need to start my Parisienne life. The first week felt rather productive so I am trying hard to keep up the momentum of achieving something each day. I am fortunate to have many close friends in Paris and several of them have helped me out with places to stay…
A picture speaks a thousand words and these beautiful photos from my most recent trip this summer show why I will always love Paris. Paris is such a photogenic city, even on a grey day. Unfortunately, despite the heat most of my days spent there this summer were cloudy but Paris is a timeless city whatever the weather so what better way to capture it than in classic black and white? I hope you enjoy the images and that they…
Since the day I set foot in the catacombs of Paris and did a spot of research about the Parisian underground scene I have been fascinated by tales of what goes on deep in the labyrinth of alleys and dark cavities below the bustling surface of the city of lights. Last year I was intrigued when I discovered the story of how an elaborate secret cinema had been unearthed beneath the ancient buildings of the French capital. Today I have learnt more about the…
I promised that I would visit a château before leaving France, although not quite the one I had in mind, I can at least say that I kept my word. Today I visited a Fairytale Castle in the magical world of Disneyland Paris. Le Château de la belle du bois dormant, more simply known as Sleeping Beauty’s enchanted castle was the highlight of my day out (that, and the excellent company). Sadly, Mickey and I were not free at the…
Five Things Left to Do in Paris So here I am, down to my last five weeks in Paris and unlike at the end of my Erasmus when I had a strong feeling that I would be back as soon as possible for an extended stay, this time I know that I won’t be back so soon and that next time probably won’t be serious, more likely a brief fling with an old flame. To be sure to leave Paris…
Most Parisians are all too familiar with the underground network of tunnels that criss-cross for over 130 miles (214km) beneath the city, filled with stressed commuters, lively musicians and of course the sound of the metro and RER doors opening and closing for around 4.5 million passengers per day. It’s hard to believe that just metres away from all the hustle and bustle of life going on, both above and below ground, lies the eerie world of Les Catacombes de…
A love affair with Paris is not an easy one. At first glance, it’s almost impossible not to be seduced by its glamour, night-life, architecture, art and culture. But as with so many beautiful things, there is the danger of being swept off of one’s feet, caught up in a haze of romance, only to be left bitterly disappointed. This, for me, is a weekly occurrence. Perhaps the biggest challenge is having the energy and time to get the most…
Taking a vacation from the city can be as short and sweet as a day out beyond the peripherique to visit a neighbouring town or one of Ile de France’s once royal residences. After posting my recent thoughts about Parisian Parks I decided to make the most of a beautiful summer Sunday and the suggestion of some keen friends by visiting the Chateau de Vincennes and the quaint little town situated on the Bois de Vincennes. Being under 26, a visit of…
As the saying goes lightning never strikes twice in the same place… which makes taking photos pretty difficult! I was pondering this saying and what it might mean as I uploaded my video (unwatched at this point) of the impressive storm threatening to break for hours above Paris on Tuesday night. I had come to a few conclusions when I decided to watch back my snapshot – only to discover that lightning actually does srike twice in the same place!…