Before embarking on my 10-day Europe trip, I had concerns and uncertainties. The language barrier topped the list, as I had limited knowledge of French and German. I worried that this would hinder my communication and affect my overall experience. Additionally, I was apprehensive about traveling with strangers to countries I had never visited before. Would I truly enjoy the trip?
Now, as the first week comes to an end, I can confidently say that my journey through France has been amazing thus far. The initial three days were spent in Paris, where the striking architecture immediately caught my eye. The cityscape, with its uniformly tall buildings and perfectly aligned trees, exuded a captivating aesthetic appeal. During our time in Paris, we familiarized ourselves with the efficient public transportation system, particularly the metro. It was a delight to discover that attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Catacombs were easily accessible within a 20-minute metro or bus ride. Our visit to Schneider Electric, a company initially founded in France but now operating internationally, provided an enlightening learning experience. As a tech enthusiast, I was particularly inspired by their innovative approaches and global presence. Their offerings, ranging from sustainable hardware solutions to energy consumption analysis software and infrastructure improvement strategies, piqued my interest in tech solutions.
Now, let’s delve into the enjoyable part of the trip. On our free day in Paris, we seized the opportunity to explore as much of the city as possible. We visited Sainte Chapelle, a renowned royal chapel renowned for its exquisite stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. Each window boasted a unique design, leaving me in awe of the craftsmanship. We also made a stop at Notre Dame, despite its ongoing reconstruction. The French Gothic architecture remained a sight to behold. Coincidentally, there was an annual bread festival taking place in front of the cathedral, providing insight into French culture and their passion for baking. Our wanderings led us to the Latin Quarter, where we visited the Shakespeare and Company bookstore and Square Ren? Viviani. We also ventured to Jardin aux Tuileries, a picturesque garden adjacent to the Louvre museum. To conclude the day, we enjoyed a delightful dinner at a renowned steakhouse. Following dinner, I met up with a friend who was studying abroad in Paris, and we explored Champs Elysee, Montmarte, and finally, the Eiffel Tower, which illuminated the night sky with its sparkling lights. Witnessing the tower sparkle on the hour was a breathtaking experience that captured the grandeur of the entire city. Our final day in Paris was dedicated to visiting the Louvre museum. Although our encounter with the Mona Lisa was brief, we had the opportunity to marvel at an array of beautiful and intricate art from the 17th to 18th centuries, as well as explore Egyptian tombs and hieroglyphics.
All in all, my time in Paris was short but incredibly enjoyable. I appreciated the French reverence for the arts, which seemed to be deeply ingrained in their daily lives. Whether it was visiting a nearby museum or admiring the architectural marvels while strolling along the Seine, the appreciation for culture was palpable. I also noticed that English was widely spoken, which made communication relatively smooth. This realization made me more grateful for the global influence of the United States and motivated me to learn French as a gesture of appreciation for their culture.
The next three days were spent in Strasbourg, a charming city in the Alsace region on the border of Germany. Strasbourg presented a different ambiance compared to Paris, with fewer crowds and attractions, but it exuded a tranquil village-like atmosphere. We embarked on a walking tour of the city center, exploring Le Petite France and the Notre Dame Cathedral of Strasbourg. We learned about the city’s history, which involved a fascinating blend of French and German influences due to its history of alternating between the two countries. One of the highlights was visiting Parc de l’Orangerie, a beautiful and spacious park perfect for leisurely strolls, sports activities, and relaxation. What caught my attention were the nests for storks, the emblematic birds of Strasbourg, nestled among the trees. We also had the opportunity to explore the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle and tour a winery along the Route du Vin, where we indulged in traditional Alsatian cuisine. The entire experience felt like stepping into a fairytale village from my childhood books. Compared to Paris and the United States, everything in Strasbourg was on a smaller scale, creating a more intimate and local atmosphere. The city’s rich history and culture seemed to foster a sense of togetherness among its residents, which I found truly endearing.
And now, we find ourselves in Munich, Germany! This transition from France, with a blend of both cultures, to Germany marks the final leg of our journey. Over the past four days, I have forged wonderful friendships, and these last moments in Europe have been nothing short of memorable. The language barrier no longer poses a significant obstacle, and I eagerly anticipate delving into the German way of life, exploring not only the aesthetics of the culture but also its history, philosophy, and sense of national identity. In conclusion, my initial apprehensions about the language barrier and unfamiliarity with my fellow travelers have been surpassed by the incredible experiences and newfound connections I have made during this trip. From the captivating architecture and efficient public transportation in Paris to the appreciation for arts and culture embedded in the daily lives of the French, every moment was filled with awe and inspiration. Strasbourg, with its unique blend of French and German influences and its intimate village atmosphere, provided a different perspective on European charm. And now, as I embark on the final leg of my journey in Munich, Germany, I look forward to immersing myself in the rich history and cultural essence of the country.
