Traveling home
The day was long, and everyone was exhausted.
When people describe the beauty of Paris, please do not assume that they are exaggerating. As I arrived after a six-hour flight across the Atlantic, I was indeed taken over with both emotion and awe. I was expecting the best, and I was given more. My body was tired, of course, but my heart and brain were ignited by the loving flame of France.
The Footsteps of Ernie Pyle journey began with an introduction to Parisian life, culture, and history. My passport was stamped, and my eyes were ready to witness the city of Paris. I didn’t even care too much about my exhaustion from the plane ride. I was set on being awake to see our first stop in the heart of Paris: Montmartre.
The excitement was eating away at our group when we arrived on our tour bus. Even the bus ride to our destination was something like a movie. Passing the Moulin Rouge in real life opened the door for my experience, putting the nail in the coffin for the rest of my time here in Paris.
Valerie, our Parisian native tour guide, gave us an insightful look at Montmartre.
“Welcome to the heart of Paris: Montmartre,” Valerie projected to our group in a thick French accent.
Getting off the bus and going straight to the Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre (the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Montmartre, Roman Catholic church, and minor basilica) was a breathtaking way to start a tour. On top of a large hill, the cathedral is in the heart of Paris, overlooking the entire city for miles. I quickly grabbed my phone to snap a stunning photo of the old city’s architecture. From rooftop gardens to buildings from yesteryear, my eyes could not believe the beauty.
“This place cannot be real,” I said to myself as I stood atop Paris.
After a long and winding walk through the cracked cobblestone streets of Montmartre, our group finally arrived at the main square Place du Tertre. This was my first taste of real Parisian life and a look into the culture. Rich in art history, this square has been used to sell paintings by local artists for decades. Witnessing the locals use their creativity for all to see was something special.
They were all friendly with me when I passed, nodding, smiling, and giving a “bonjour” as I viewed their lovely art. There is beauty behind meeting these regular people who are just trying to make a quick euro from selling their craft.
The day was quick. Too quick. But I was making sure to make every step I took on the Parisian streets last. Montmartre was the icebreaker of this week-long endeavor. A first-time experience I can never forget. I love Paris and hope to return one day to relive the awesome memories I have experienced, both with the group and personally.