Paris: a fantasy comes to life.

My images of Paris were formed as a child, watching Saturday morning cartons showing colorful characters with heavy French accents dining at outdoor cafes alongside the many landmarks that Paris is famous for. So as we entered the city I was interested in learning just how much my perception would align with reality. And much to my delight.,the Paris we stepped into was everything I’d hoped for; from the Louvre, Arc de Triumph, Notre Dame, palace of Versailles, Pantheon, Eiffel Tower, and much more. The only diversion from my cartoon memories was the city teeming with tourists and locals all mingling together.. cafes populating every street corner filled with people, and even a few surprises between the cracks.

As wonderful as all these iconic landmarks were, perhaps what I’ll remember most about Paris is lounging in the unexpected luxurious public parks, listening to opera singers and performers practicing their art in public areas around the Louvre, Friday night dancing with the young locals along the Seine River, and hanging out with our Airbnb host who was quite an unforgettable character. Wonderful memories that I’m curious to see how Zhen will now capture as we relax on the train to Annecy.

Above right is Zhen hard at work on the bumpy train ride through the mountains.  Not the easiest of working conditions but I believe she captured Paris perfectly.