Strolling Through The Streets of Paris

You cannot properly experience Paris without seeing just a little bit of its history through the vast collections of art unveiled in the Louvre.  Whether you are into Greek mythology or something from the Rembrandt collection, the Louvre is a must see when in Paris. The architecture alone is breathtaking, but a stroll inside the ancient residence of kings and emperors of France is well worthwhile. Set a few days aside as there is a vast collection of artwork that must be seen.


Glass Pyramid at the Louvre Museum

The Eiffel Tower is described as a wrought iron lattice tower but personally I like to describe it as a tower of pure brilliance and beauty. It might seem like a daunting task to climb all those stairs but before you’ve even realized it, you’re already on the 1st level and if the stairs or the view haven’t yet caught your breathe then carry on to the second level where you will witness pure magic with one of the most mesmerizing views of the city.

View from the second level of the Eiffel Tower

Sacré-Cœur, the sacred heart within Montmartre is undeniably beautiful and the whiz of
craftsmanship is reminiscent of citadel like construction from the Medieval Era. The sanctuary stands like a white pearl on the hill of Montmartre, sharing a significant resemblance with that of the Taj Mahal in India. The main entry is arched and has within it two large doors. The inside of the church is a self-portrait of the talents and abilities of the architect. In wet weather, the calcite contained in the stone acts like a bleacher to give the church a white appearance.



Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre

Towering over the diverse neighbourhood of Montmartre you will fall in love with the panoramic views from the Sacré-Cœur but to truly experience the artistic atmosphere you will need to climb some stairs particularly if you want to capture the perfect postcard photo and don’t be afraid to ditch the map and find yourself dwindling in the one of the most historic and stimulating neighbourhoods in Paris.

View of Paris from Sacré-Cœur

Delville Wood, a memorial site to honour the South African soldiers that have fallen on the battlefields, sacrificing their lives to better the lives of the country folk. A shiver skittered down my spine as I left the graveyard knowing that the ground was a constant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of every single soldier. The only surviving hornbeam tree can be found nearby. On closer inspection one can see that the trunk is embossed with debris of metal artillery. The war may be over but the scars, pain and hardship last forever.

The World War I and II museum rooms were filled with the most comprehensive collection of artifacts on display.  To witness the preservation of elements from the war played such a pivotal role in understanding to some extent the various degrees of war life. Yes, there are millions of books to read and better our understanding but to walk in an actual bunker and stroll in trenches amongst the forest to see the aftermath of war is not something you can find in a book, it’s something that you have to experience in real life. I now understand why millions of people all over the world flock to Paris, it is simply inspirational.

 

Falling In Love With Paris

One of the bridges crossing the Seine river in Lille, France

Paris, the city of lights offers something for everyone from shopping malls to beautiful beaux arts architecture that astonishes for days, picturesque cafes on almost every street corner with the most tantalizing pastries, countless bridges crossing the Seine pleading for twilight strolls and secret glimpses. The ubiquitous violin stroking you back to the days one could only read in a Jane Austen’s novel. How could you not fall in love?  What stands out to me when I look back on my travels are not the celebrated cenotaphs and galleries, rather it is wandering through the cobblestone roads; listening to street performers and watching local painters create their masterpiece.

The square in Lille houses a variety of humanity but you still seem to find your own little place in which you can enjoy amidst the majestic statues, fountains and various shops. We lost ourselves in frantic photograph sessions and then we strolled down the street to a local patisserie located just off the corner of Rue du Cure Saint-Etienne, called Meert, although I like to call it Le Magnifique. Dark wood panelling, soft cushion booths, counters filled with cakes, pastries and delicacies that I could only have dreamt of. I had to stop myself from screaming with joy.  It was truly so much more than I could ever describe, definitely a fairytale alive in the 21^st century.