As Christmas approaches this year, I am taken back by nostalgia. Suddenly, I’m in December 2009 in Paris, France. This was my first step in France and ever since, I have promised to explore it completely.
Here is a selection of my photographs from Paris, during my Christmas weekend there; four years ago. I hope it makes you hang that wishful stocking for Santa Claus.
As I walked through the streets, these homes kept me warmNow you see why you’re supposed to expect Santa Claus?I couldn’t ignore the lovely signage across the roads (days before Google Maps)Parisian trafficI cannot resist the well-aligned trees as I walked through the streets for hoursAs we approached Sacre Coeur, an overcast day set inThe first glimpse of Sacre CoeurLe magnifique!The view of Paris from Sacre CoeurWhile I stood facing Paris and Sacre Coeur on my back. I saw artists (and random spectators) buskingWhile we were on our way out…As we reached the well-synchronised Champs-elyseesThe road seemed cycle-friendly until……Night saw the better magic. Walking through these streets changed me.Louis Vuitton showroom!Even though the Arc de Triomphe looks stunning during the day, do not forget to walk underneath at nightThe next day starts rather sacred with a visit to the Notre DameThe intricate work on the doors are worth a momentI am still to get over these!While discovering Notre DameThe Indian-connect
Hold your breath…
This is my first view of the Eiffel Tower. I froze in time and change over swept me. I will not forget the feeling of being still as I did when I felt this.Les Invalides from the top of the Eiffel TowerAs I walked away from the tower of Love, I kept drawing back towards it…The George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. aka the Ferris Wheel in Paris (while you’re trying to divert yourself from the very beautiful Eiffel Tower)The Concorde ObeliskThe Obelisk on Place de la Concorde
The Louvre allows restricted photography. These are snippets from there and once you’re there, it is difficult to let go of…
Three Graces from the Greek mythologyVenus de Milo (Statue of Venus) at the LouvreWhile I was departing from the Louvre, I realised how much I had loved. Even though this was my second trip to the Museum in two days, I know I can stay there forever.The Swiss-France highway. Still trying to recover…
Merrie Christmas!
P.S> Where are you spending your Christmas this year?
I have been a travel and culture independent journalist. My bylines have appeared in many publications worldwide including National Geographic Traveller India, Lonely Planet Magazine India, The Indian Express and World Travel Magazine. A fellow of Media Ambassadors India-Germany 2019 program by Robert Bosch Stiftung and Centre for Media Competence, University of Tübingen. Currently, I am the photo editor for RoundGlass Sustain, a wildlife and conservation e-publication. I live in India.
What memories. Paris is one of my most loved cities. I have already been there twice in 2 consecutive yrs. :) The streets, the music, the art, the street musicians, the feel in the air. In Love with Paris!
It’s beautiful and breath-taking, awe-inspiring and frankly, a little unreal…how everyone keeps to their lane in traffic!
And even though the city is so busy, there is always enough time to stand and stare.
What memories. Paris is one of my most loved cities. I have already been there twice in 2 consecutive yrs. :) The streets, the music, the art, the street musicians, the feel in the air. In Love with Paris!
Truly, as if Paris is held together only by love!
Your photos made me feel quite nostalgic :) I adore Paris and would love to go back again soon :)
So yes, the Paris-love seldom dies.