Discovering Paris: exploration & sightseeing.

While waiting for my course to begin in April, I've had a few weeks in Paris, spent exploring the city, it's attractions and making some new friends.

Since I'm on a budget until my course begins, I've gone to explore the area and streets near where I'm staying. The thing I love most about Paris so far is that it's incredibly walkable. I have spent hours walking from one end of the city to the other and there is always something new to look at and enjoy, the architecture never fails to impress, the people are lively and great food is around every corner.

The first two attractions I went to visit, were the Arc de Triumph & Eiffel Tower.

The Arc de Triumph stands tall at the heart of Place Charles de Gaulle, a striking reminder of France’s history and grandeur. Up close, the intricate carvings and massive arch feel almost overwhelming, each detail telling a story of resilience and triumph. At sunset, the monument glows in warm golden light, and at night, it stands illuminated against the Parisian sky, timeless, proud, and impossible to ignore.

Ever since I arrived in Paris, the Eiffel Tower has been a constant in the background, peeking through streets, appearing at the end of boulevards, always reminding me I’m here, that I've made it. Seeing it up close, though, is something else entirely. At night, when it lights up and sparkles, it’s pure magic. I stood there for what felt like forever, just taking it in. It’s one of those sights that lives up to the hype, no matter how many times you see it in photos.

The Eiffel Tower is just as breathtaking in person as you'd hope, standing beneath it, looking up at the intricate ironwork, it’s easy to get lost in the moment. But while soaking in the view, it’s good to stay aware. Around the base, especially near the main roads leading to the tower, groups of people with clipboards will approach, asking you to sign a ‘petition.’ It seems harmless, but the moment you engage, they’ll pressure you for a donation. Worse, they often move in groups, quickly surrounding you, making it harder to step away. It can be overwhelming, one moment you’re admiring one of the most beautiful sights in the world, and the next, you’re caught in a swarm of outstretched hands and insistent voices. The best approach is to keep walking, avoid eye contact, and firmly say ‘no.’ It’s a small hassle, but as long as you stay alert, it won’t take away from the magic of seeing this Parisian icon in all its glory.

After about a week into my stay, I took the metro to see some more of the city's iconic sights, each one a gem nestled within its vibrant streets. First, I found myself at the majestic Notre Dame, its towering spires reaching into the sky, and the intricate details of its gothic architecture never failing to impress. Just a short walk away, I stood before Saint-Chapelle, its striking exterior with soaring pointed arches and delicate stonework immediately drawing my eye. Although I've heard about and seen posts on social media about the beauty of their interiors, I came ill prepared for the long lines and tickets required on this day, so will be returning in the future.

As I continued through the winding streets, I finally arrived at the Pantheon, a grand neoclassical building that feels both solemn and awe-inspiring. Each step between these landmarks revealed a little more of Paris's rich history and architectural beauty, and walking between them, I couldn’t help but marvel at how each monument told a different yet equally captivating story of the city.

Coming from a small town like Darwin, where the pace is slower and the surroundings simpler, it's exciting to be surrounded by such a bustling city full of life and history at every corner. The contrast between the two is striking, Darwin feels like a close-knit community, while Paris feels like an endless adventure waiting to be explored.

Thanks for following along!

There is still so much to see, learn and experience, and I can't wait to share the rest of my adventures with you!

Until next time, from Willoh.