Thursday, May 12, 2005

The city of lights – Paris.

Commenting on Keshi’s recent post, I decided to write up about the French city which bewitched me to no end.

No other city in Europe can match Paris' charm, glamour, beauty, and romanticism. The city is enriched with beautiful art, gothic monuments, ornate sculptures, mighty museums, sweeping avenues, grand esplanades, exquisite architecture and so much more that you have to actually be there to experience it.

Ever since I took up French as the third language in school, I wanted to visit Paris. The people in the textbook (the Vincent family), the places mentioned in it, the quaint black & white illustrations contained in it... all conjured up vivid images of a beautiful city full of enchanting sights to see.

And last year, I lived my dream when I visited Paris.

Paris is undoubtedly the city to fall in love with. It has lots to offer. Here are highlights of a few attractions that entranced me.

Place de la Concorde, the largest and the loveliest of the Parisian squares. For Paris’ streets which boasts buildings whose detailing shows the pride and care permeating Paris's architecture.

The majestic Arc de Triomph monument devoted to Napoleon's and his generals' greatest victories. Also called the city’s heart it provides a constant reminder of Paris' religious and royal past.

The Champs Elysees, arguably the most well known avenue in the world.

The magnificent Operas where performance meets symphonies in the most glamorous styles.

The mighty Louvre museum presents its treassures of best paintings, sculptures, antiques and arts. Lets not forget the famous masterpieces: the Venus of Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Mona Lisa of Leonard da Vinci, and so many others.

The gigantic Palace of Versailles which is said to be capable of housing 20,000 people at a time.

The Tuileries Gardens, Louvre Palace's gardens, one of the best places in Paris for a sunbath.

The overwhelming Notre Dame Cathedral and the famous Sacré-Coeur church.

A magical stroll and a cruise on the river Seine where even artists like Sisley, Turner, and Monet have been spell bounded.

The incomparable Eiffel Tower from where a bird's eye view will leave you breathless. The experience of touring the tower to its topmost floor is spectacular.

The variety of gastronomic options for every palate and pocket with thousands of cafés, bars and restaurants lined up at every Parisian street and boulevard.

The delight of shopping around place St-Germain-des-Prés for your favorite perfumes, cosmetics, accessories, books, antiques, gorgeous garments, artworks and souvenirs.

The magical visions of Paris at dusk as it turns into the City of Lights is truly a captivating dream to cherish forever.
Posted by Dewdrop :: 3:19 PM :: 10 Scribbles!

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