Back in the ‘90s, I’d spent about two years studying at a Lycee in Paris. Although it’s been close to two decades to that beautiful era, I remember every bit of it like yesterday. I also remember having the time of my life- not knowing that soon I would be back on sail with my father to another location still foreign to my lips.
Finalement, after close to two decades, I’m back. Right at the portal of one of my best memories.
I’m starting my trip in Pari at 6me arrondissement that’s completely covered with hustle-bustle. It’s beautiful to see the world get back on its feet.
For people who’ve never visited Paris, the best experience is to take it one day at a time on foot. There is no other way to take in the humdrum of the city life, the coffee wafting through the Parisian cafes, the world discussions taking place at cafe terraces.
After walking for about 2 miles, I sat at Les Deux Amis, a bustling tapas bar in the Folie-Mericourt district. It’s a great place to spot some of the best Parisian filmmakers and artists. Not to miss a delicious wine list and tapas that remind one of Madrid’s neighborhoods.
I took this moment to sit by myself and soak in as much as I could- sipping espresso into my veins. Well, I still had a long way to go. After spending a couple of days in Paris, I looked for something quieter. Bordeaux wasn’t too far and presented itself as a sunny opportunity when I found just the perfect place to stay.
Bordeaux was a beautiful song. My hosts lent me their cycle and suggested a stunning route to get the most out of the heady region. As much as I wish I could describe the stupor I was engulfed in- this is something one can only experience for themselves.
The route had everything Bordeaux had to offer- the Place de la Bourse, the Bordeaux quayside and timeless magnificence bordering the Garonne. I finally parked next to the river’s grandeur and spent some time taking it all in.
Just about, there were cafes abundant at the Rue Sainte Catherine. I could feel my legs give out so I sat at a cozy cafe terrace with a forgotten name but food to die for.
It was tough to go back home towards the end of all this.
It was like my soul had always belonged, and I was finally back home, even if for a short while, I was home