do in paris: in Paris, experience the magic of architecture
In the eyes of 1965, Paris was an artistic collection of six great film masters. In the eyes of 2015, Paris is the fragmented memory of traversing this city for the third time.
I’ve been fascinated with traveling for some time now, having visited many places, but I’ve always had a special fondness for this foreign land that I first visited.
In 2009, I began my journey of traveling abroad, with Paris as my first destination. It was my first flight of more than ten hours, my first arrival in a foreign country. In the unfamiliar city, historic buildings quietly whispered their stories, while the clear streets continuously flowed with brilliant colors. That was my first glimpse of Paris. The city unfolded in its most passionate and vibrant form after being bathed in sunlight, it was ecstatic.
During my honeymoon trip in 2013, I once again started from here without hesitation. It was a time when the hot summer had not yet begun, waiting for the joy of everything about to bloom after the revival of all things. The city was shrouded in a state of eager anticipation before the carnival, it was exhilarating.
In the early period of the 2015 Spring Festival, when I was hesitating among a pile of travel destinations, I thought of this city once again—Paris. I had never seen you in winter, under the dappled light spots and less dazzling scenery, are you still as beautiful as ever?
In fact, in this bitterly cold season, it feels as though I can touch the very marrow of Paris—cold and quiet, yet with a touch of noble elegance. When the sky is overcast, the buildings seem to embody the weight of years; when light rain drizzles down, the streets appear to echo with chanson melodies; when the sun makes an appearance, people can’t help but smile.
Hemingway’s famous line may have been repeated to the point of cliché, but that world-opening revelation experienced in youth will inevitably leave its mark on your heart.
So this winter, my mother and I once again set foot on this wonderful land together to experience the breath of winter.
Since I didn’t want to use my annual leave, I decided to take a spontaneous trip during the seven days of the Spring Festival holiday. This was my third time visiting Paris, and my mother’s second. So we revisited places we had been to before, like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, while also adding some new attractions that particularly interested me, such as the Sewer Museum and the Saint-Ouen flea market.
Some familiar sights and common scenes to begin with.
We need to see the world outside.
I’m not the type of person who travels spontaneously; I make relatively thorough preparations for every trip. I choose to share my experiences and memories mainly to create a record for myself, so that when my memory isn’t as detailed, I can still recall the beauty of those moments. At the same time, if I can provide some more personalized help to those who need references, that would be even better. For this trip, like always, I chose to rent a car for self-driving. The international driver’s license I obtained through Zhongcheng International IDD-HK has been really useful. I’m glad I got it for 20 years at once, which is very convenient.
When I came to Notre Dame Cathedral 2 years ago, it happened to be the 850th anniversary celebration. Huge blue KT boards were set up across the entire square, and you had to walk through a long corridor to see the church behind.
Now, the temporary commemorative structures have been removed, and the entire square is once again filled with pigeons and tourists watching them.
Since we had done our homework, we bought the museum pass here first.
At this moment, looking across the river, we saw our lovely destination.
Looking at the picture, there was only a sparse and not very long queue, but I still waited for more than half an hour. Finally, I entered the building. First, I climbed small steps about two or three stories high and arrived at a hall with a beautiful and deep dome, where clock tower tickets and souvenirs are sold.
For places that I love too much, my feelings are always complicated. Every time I have the opportunity to get close, I’m afraid that too much reverence will make it difficult to let go.
I always feel that if I could act more indifferent during reunions and encounters, then when it’s time to turn away and say goodbye, perhaps it wouldn’t be so heartbreaking.
But later, I realized that each casual walk only makes the scenery more familiar, the streets clearer, and even walking around becomes increasingly clear-headed without getting lost. You become familiar with this small path, familiar with the next corner, and the smell of bread from which subway station. You remember that handmade fabric shop on the corner that never opens until the afternoon, the painter at which market stall always wears a sour expression, the elderly gentleman who always has his fixed seat at the surrounding restaurants, and the salesperson in the luxury store who speaks exceptionally fluent English for a living…
It’s not necessary to leave something behind or take something away.
Because those fragmented scenes always condense into dimensions of memory, gradually growing richer, repeatedly filling the gaps in the streets, and refining into a complete city map in the mind. The concrete images gathered through various senses create a colorful Paris. Perhaps every time you miss it, you cannot physically arrive there at will, but wherever your heart goes, the door to anywhere can open.
So it’s better to cherish every moment of meeting with it, measure the land you eagerly anticipate with your footsteps, hold the most detailed gaze, and exhaust all your vibrant energy.
Live up to what you love, fear not the future.
If reprinted, please indicate the source:https://www.nhtour.com/travel-blogs/do-in-paris-in-paris-experience-the-magic-of-architecture/
Related recommendations
-
Visiting Pompeii, Italy: Frozen in Tragic Beauty
You can still see their appearance, the way they looked in the last second before they disappeared – residents, kettles, bread, city walls… Country: Italy Location: Southern Italy Best travel time: March to May, September to November Pompeii, also translated as “Pompei”, on August 24, 79 AD, this once-glorious ancient Roman city was instantly buried deep underground by the suddenly erupting ash from Mount Vesuvius. It wasn’t until 1748, when a farmer accidentally discovered a metal chest filled with gold and silver jewelry and ancient coins while turning soil in his vineyard, that the ancient city of Pompeii, the second largest city in the ancient Roman Empire, bustling with merchants, full of material desires and extremely luxurious, gradually reappeared before the world’s eyes. The ancient city of Pompeii preserves a large number of architectural remains and cultural artifacts from the ancient Roman Empire period, and is known as the most famous ancient city ruins in the world. Because it was buried by volcanic ash, the streets and houses in the ancient city are relatively well-preserved. The ruins of the dwellings stir one’s emotions and set the imagination wandering. The amphitheater could accommodate the entire population of Pompeii. Mount Vesuvius is…
-
Chaoyang Tourism: In-depth Travel Guide to Chaoyang City 2025
I. Must-Visit Attractions Nature and Culture Integration 1. Phoenix Mountain – Core Highlights: National 4A-level scenic area, famous mountain in western Liaoning, features ancient building complexes such as Lingxiao Pagoda and Moyun Pagoda, hiking trails through primeval forests, spring flower viewing and autumn foliage appreciation. – Special Experiences: Take a sightseeing bus directly to the core area (open 06:00-18:00 in summer), climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city, the glass skywalk and cliff swing at the summit are perfect for photo opportunities. – Tips: It’s recommended to bring sunscreen, light rain gear, and mosquito repellent as there are many mosquitoes in summer. 2. Chaoyang North Pagoda Museum – Cultural Value: Based on the Chaoyang North Pagoda, a national key cultural relic protection unit, it displays Buddhist cultural relics from the Northern Wei to Liao Dynasties. The museum’s treasure, the “Jieyang Ding,” weighs 58 tons and symbolizes the city’s history. – In-depth Experience: The night light show (20:00-20:30) complements the thousand-year-old pagoda. Nearby Murong Street offers antique shopping and intangible cultural heritage handicrafts. 3. Qingfeng Ridge – Nature and Red Culture: Primitive canyon landforms, filming location of the TV series “China Land”, hike to explore the ruins…
-
Zhoukou Travel Guide: 10 places worth visiting in Zhoukou
On the vast Yudong Plain, Zhoukou, this ancient and vibrant city, is like a dazzling pearl, exuding a unique charm. It is not only one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization, boasting a profound historical and cultural heritage, but also has numerous tourist attractions that make people reluctant to leave. Next, I will recommend some must – visit places in Zhoukou. 1、Taihao Mausoleum Taihao Mausoleum is located within the China Taihao Fuxi Ancestral Holy Land Tourist Area in Huaiyang District, Zhoukou City. It is a national 5A – level scenic spot, the mausoleum and temple of Taihao Fuxi, the “first of the Three Sovereigns”, and also one of the eighteen famous mausoleums in China. The existing buildings were first built in the first year of Zhengtong in the Ming Dynasty (1436 AD), and are divided into three imperial cities: the inner city, the outer city, and the Forbidden City. The buildings here are magnificent, with ancient cypresses reaching the sky and numerous steles, everywhere showing a strong sense of history. The Fuxi Cultural Tourism Festival from the second day to the third day of the second lunar month every year attracts tourists from all over the country to come here…
-
American Tourist Destinations: Avoid the crowds at these 10 American attractions, rural hot spots are good places worth visiting in the United States
At the intersection of North Lumpkin Street and East Washington Street in downtown Athens, Georgia, locals are admiring the “Hot Corner” mural. Nothing can ruin a trip faster than encountering crowds of people and falling into tourist traps. When planning vacations, many tourists consider the most popular or perennially popular destinations, only to find that others have the same idea. Thus, their journeys are filled with waiting in lines or searching for restaurants that offer affordable dishes for locals. However, there are many overlooked destinations within the United States that offer equally rich activities, cuisine, history, and cultural experiences—just without the crowds and high prices. To help travelers decide on their next hidden gem to visit, travel experts from Wander, a luxury vacation rental platform, have released a list of the top 10 most overlooked destinations in the United States. In May of this year, the experts analyzed data from Google searches, TripAdvisor, Instagram, and Numbeo, combined with lists from media outlets such as CNN and Yahoo, to select America’s hidden gems. Specifically, the team analyzed the number of restaurants, museums, landmarks, and other venues, as well as factors like safety and cleanliness. From the art and culture of Bentonville,…
-
great vacation spots: 20 most beautiful places in the world
The 20 Most Photogenic Places in the World When it comes to travel, you might be a complete city lover, someone who craves the tranquility of vast rural landscapes, or somewhere in between. Whatever the case, one thing is certain: you’ll want to visit a captivating place. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, here are 20 extremely photogenic destinations that are so beautiful you won’t believe your eyes. Milford Sound, New Zealand If beautiful scenery (and impressive photos) are your top priority for travel, then New Zealand is your perfect choice. Here you’ll find spectacular coral reefs, mountains, and waterfalls, with surprises awaiting no matter which island you’re on. However, if you can make it to the South Island, Milford Sound is a must-visit destination. This fjord is stunningly beautiful; when your friends see the photos you took during your vacation, they’ll think you used Photoshop to edit them. Big Sur, United States For those looking for a little excitement, this is a perfect road trip. The coast of California is one of the most impressive road sections in the world, but it’s also known for its unpredictable road conditions. However, if you can endure the winding…
-
Mount Tai Travel Guide: Preparations for Mount Tai Travel
Here is a Mount Tai travel guide for your reference: Preparation – Documents: Carry valid documents such as ID card. – Clothing: Prepare comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight sportswear. Large temperature difference at the summit, bring warm outerwear such as thin down jackets or windbreakers. – Items: Hiking stick, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, power bank, camera, flashlight, etc. – Tickets: Follow the “Mount Tai Scenic Area” WeChat official account, book tickets online in advance. Transportation Guide – External Transportation: Take high-speed rail to Tai’an Station, or train to Taishan Station. From Tai’an Station to Hongmen, Tianwai Village and other places, taxi takes about 20-30 minutes, or you can take bus No. 37 or the “Tai’an High-speed Rail Station – Mount Tai Scenic Area” tourist direct bus. – Internal Transportation: There are four hiking routes. Hongmen Tourist Route is the classic hiking route; Tianwai Village Tourist Route allows taking a vehicle into the mountain, saving effort; East Imperial Route has outstanding natural landscapes; Taohuayu Tourist Route is suitable for self-driving tourists, can enjoy beautiful scenery such as Colorful Stone Stream. Accommodation Arrangements – At the foot of the mountain: If planning to climb Mount Tai at night, you can choose to stay…
-
tropical paradise: 10 Must-Eat Dishes in Hainan!
–The sunshine at 18° north latitude, sprinkling over the blue sea and coconut forests, also nourishes Hainan’s most alluring flavors! From the eyebrow-droppingly fresh seafood hot pot to the heart-warming sweet coconut bua, Hainan’s culinary world hides countless irresistible “secret weapons”. Today’s Headline exclusively presents the ultimate guide to Hainan cuisine, taking you to unlock the tropical flavors on your taste buds. Just follow along and eat! -I. Must-try signature dishes in Hainan: A soulful collision of freshness and sweetness 1. Wenchang Chicken: The first of Hainan’s four famous dishes, the white-cut preparation maximally preserves the tenderness of the chicken. Dipped in mixed sauce and green lime juice, one bite will captivate your soul. Wenchang Chicken 2. Coconut Chicken Hot Pot: Freshly cut young coconut as the soup base, Wenchang chicken cooked for 5 minutes and ready to eat. The soup is clear and sweet, the meat is smooth and tender, served with a special dipping sauce. You’ll want to drink every last drop of the soup. Coconut Chicken Hot Pot 3. Dongshan Goat: The “mystery goat without gamy smell” from Dongshan Ridge in Wanning. It can be braised, cooked in coconut juice, or used in hot pot. The meat…
-
Tanzhe Temple Ticket: One-day Zen Journey to Tanzhe Temple and Jietai Temple
Tour Highlights Tanzhe Temple: A 1700-year-old ancient temple with the saying “First there was Tanzhe Temple, then there was Beijing City” Jietai Temple: The largest Buddhist ordination platform in the country, with the wonder of five famous pine trees Transportation Guide Self-driving: West Sixth Ring Road → Tanzhe Temple (1 hour) → Jietai Temple (15-minute drive) Public Transportation: Take Metro Line S1 to Shichang Station, then transfer to Bus 931 (for Tanzhe Temple) / Bus 948 (for Jietai Temple) Ticket Information Tanzhe Temple 50 yuan | Jietai Temple 45 yuan | Combined ticket 80 yuan (online purchase 2 hours in advance) Must-See Attractions Tanzhe Temple ✔️ “Imperial Tree” (1300-year-old ginkgo tree, beautiful autumn colors) ✔️ Stone Fish Blessing (touch the fish body to pray for health) ✔️ Liubei Pavilion with winding water channels for floating wine cups Jietai Temple ✔️ The largest ordination platform in the country (you can walk around the platform three times for blessings) ✔️ “Moving Pine” (If you move one branch, the whole tree shakes) ✔️ Thousand Buddha Pavilion reconstruction ruins Vegetarian Food Recommendations Tanzhe Temple “Jiafu Guesthouse”: Arhat’s Delight + Vegetarian Ham Jietai Temple “Jietai Courtyard”: Elm Seed Rice + Homemade Tofu Practical Tips There…
-
curacao: contemporary classic cocktail recipes
Spirits and Bartender Illustrated Originally published 2022-04-05 Cocktail recipes have always been a focus of “Bartender Illustrated”. Our 2018 article “Index of Various Cocktails” had nearly one million views! Starting from November 2021, we’ve added a new column to introduce the recommended cocktail recipes published by the International Bartenders Association (IBA), hoping to help novice bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts! We have reached the fifth installment of the IBA (International Bartenders Association) recipe series on contemporary classic cocktails. Today we’ll discuss several cocktails that are well-known both in China and worldwide, as well as some that may appear simple in terms of ingredients but are very drinkable. Many enthusiasts in their early stages believe that cocktails with more ingredients taste better, but in reality, adding more ingredients brings higher instability, and what you might get is a cocktail of indeterminate character. NO.19 Long Island Ice Tea This cocktail is considered one of the most well-known cocktails in China. It originated in Long Island, USA, and became popular worldwide in the 1990s. Although it looks like a cup of tea, it has a high alcohol content, especially since it’s mixed with multiple base spirits. Friends with average alcohol tolerance might get drunk…
-
indonesia kuta beach: Indonesia’s top ten tourist attractions
Indonesia, a country located in Southeast Asia, has attracted countless tourists with its rich natural resources and unique culture. Indonesia has beautiful beaches, charming islands, unique wildlife, and vibrant cities, if you are planning a self-guided tour or short-term study trip, Indonesia’s top ten popular tourist attractions should not be missed 10. Bogor Bogor, located on the island of Java in Indonesia, is famous for its pleasant weather and relaxing charm. This city is a center of various historical treasures. People can spend plenty of time outdoors, enjoying Indonesia’s most beautiful scenery. 9. Medan Medan is the capital of North Sumatra Province in Indonesia, a prosperous city and the center of commercial and economic activities in the region. From the magnificent Maimun Palace to the Great Mosque of Medan, the city is a beautiful blend of Islamic and European architecture. The city also offers a glimpse into royal heritage, providing visitors with an excellent cultural experience. 8. Nusa Dua Nusa Dua is an area located in the southern part of Bali, Indonesia. Nusa Dua is translated as “two islands”—although they are actually small raised capes, they are famous for their beaches such as Geger Beach, luxury resorts, and an 18-hole…
English 
Español 
日本語 
한국어 
Português (AO90) 
Русский 
ไทย 
繁體中文 
简体中文 
اردو 
Français 
العربية