The air smelled like freshly baked bread and cigarette smoke, which sounds like a stereotypical description of the French capital, however it is nothing but accurate. The July heat was stronger than I anticipated, so if you’re planning a summer excursion to Paris, pack lightly. It truly felt as though I was stepping out of my daily routine and into a new journey of both self discovery, and experiencing my future aspirations, when in reality, I was stepping off the plane in Beauvais airport.

The airport only had two terminals which may feel claustrophobic to some, but for me having the world feel that much smaller made the journey feel that much easier. The passport control line went by fast, speeding up my excitement while also kick starting my nerves, I was pointed in the direction of 6 big buses, each one waiting to take the 1 hour and 20 minute journey into the fashion capital of the world- however for me, I was heading somewhere more on the outskirts, although still as fashionable. Stepping off my airport shuttle bus for the first time, I was overwhelmed by the slow pace and friendly town of Courbevoie. 6 miles outside of the bustling city of Paris, lies a little suburban town, known as the Parisian business district, Filled with tall buildings, a wee shopping mall and the best bakeries I think I’ll ever get the opportunity to go too. Luckily for me, my new home for the next month was only 5 minutes away from my bus stop and metro station, so I wasn’t dragging my overfilled suitcase all around the town. 

The feeling of stepping into my temporary home was like that of no other. I was hit with warm air, even hotter than the sweltering sun outside due to the lack of aircon, and submerged in the smell of fresh linen. From the overwhelming to exhilarating realisation that you’re alone in a place you’ve never had the chance to explore, is a feeling I’ll never forget. The Juliette balcony overlooking La Grande Arche, the open living room where I knew I’d spend my nights reading my magazines and completing my sudoku, and the bed with the bright blue sheets and no headboard, which would be mine for the next 31 days. 

Stepping through the doors of the metro for the first time felt like walking into a new world, The juxtaposition of the quiet life in Courbevoie main square, and the rush of everyone scrambling through the station trying to find the right platform, locals rolling their eyes and casually jumping off the escalator and tourists trying to buy the correct tickets at the machines to avoid the metro fines- which were not as severe as i was told prior to my trip. The trains themselves permeated the air with sounds of the accordion. Although Paris is known for its pick pocketing on the metro, to me the metro felt peaceful and a place where everyone from every background came together. Laughing as the gentleman with the saxophone dances his way through every carriage.

Arriving in the city itself, it was teeming with people. From tourists stopping at every postcard stand and walking with google maps out in front of them, to Parisians leisurely strolling down the back streets that those not local wouldn’t dare take at risk of getting lost. Luckily for me, wearing headphones and being by myself gave the impression I’m nothing but a local, not worth the street scammers time- I even got the French menu rather than the English in a restaurant. I felt like I fit right in.

Paris is one of these places I’d recommend everyone go to at least once. Although I’ve painted the image there’s a divide between locals and tourists, I never had any bad experiences and I made friends that will last a lifetime. The city is fast moving, loud and filled with sights and places everyone must see. The Eiffel tower, a classic city landmark, demonstrates the power of good architecture, The Arc de Triomphe is a stunning viewpoint over the capital filled with history, Galeries Lafayette where although I can’t afford a thing, I got a really lovely smoothie. The French capital has something for everyone. 

I believe everyone should get on the plane to self discovery, no matter where or when you go- mieux vaut tard que jamais.

My recommendations:

Courbevoie is on metro line 1, at the first stop, La Defense. There’s a building with steps where you can sit and enjoy a steak from La Brigade.

Paris is well connected with transport, The easiest form is the metro. The best place for 12€ steak, chips and wine is Bistrot Victoires, it’s by Jardin du Palais Royal, so you can enjoy a walk after your meal. If you want a night out, swing down to Le Caveau de la huchette for a jazz night.

When exploring go to either Montmartre to see the local artists and find the man in the striped shirt who plays the accordion with a black cat on his shoulder, he is the epitome of France, or Le Marais, filled with fancy boutiques and cute cafes.