Paris in 50 mm

I’d visited Paris once before but almost 20 years ago. It was on my first trip to Europe back in my early 20s and my first time in a country that doesn’t speak one of my native languages. It hadn’t left me with a great overall impression. Sure, I’d appreciated the beauty of the city, but the people had made me feel like an un-welcomed American. Having lived in a European capital for almost ten years now, I’d been wanting to go back for a while to see it from a different perspective and compare it to what I now know better, meaning European life.  

I arrived in Paris with such curiosity and high expectations and I left in love and not disappointed. This time around, the city has left me feeling satiated yet longing for more. 

It’s comparable to Rome with its romantic tree-lined boulevards, cafès and people enjoying themselves, winding river with a pointy island in the middle and many historical bridges linking the two parts of the city, admirable architecture, and all of it lighting up even more beautifully at sunset with its warm street lamps. 

Nevertheless, Paris seemed even prettier than Rome. It could be because I’ve grown familiar with the Eternal City. But this time around comparing it to Romans instead of to overly friendly Americans, the people were kind and polite. The city clean and the public transport more extensive and efficient. The veggie and fruit stands shone with fresh crisp produce. The daily bread ritual encouraged me to do the same. Then, the sun hid behind the clouds and the rain arrived. 

These are my images of some of the things that demanded my attention in my lengthy walks around probably the most photogenic city in the world.