Our two weeks in Paris flew by much too quickly. By the time we left we were zipping around the city using the metro and strolling with confidence through many different neighbourhoods. Every place we have been has felt alien at first but then has become a second home (in a way). To survive on the road we have found it crucial to put aside initial feelings of frustration with the unfamiliarity of a new city because we know by the time a few days have gone by, it will be replaced by the thrill and wonder of having 'discovered' a new place to enjoy. The pleasant surprises that come with traveling far out weigh all the head-scratching and confusion that a new language, culture, or system bring. The best part we have found is meeting local people who want to share their home or love for their city or country with us. Bumping into other travelers has helped us create new connections. We already know where we are going to stay in such far off places as Melbourne because of friendly people we have encountered over breakfast or in a pub or cafe.
We will never forget Paris. It was a wonderful experience in so many ways for all of us. We all had different favourites and every day had highlights. Celebrating my fiftieth birthday on Montmarte (the hilltop neighbourhood of Van Gogh and Picasso that overlooks Paris) by dining at a streetside table while watching portrait artists at work was a personal high for me and something I will never forget. We felt like we soaked up everything we could in our brief time here but now it is time to move on.
Paris - they know how to enjoy life here!
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