PARIS

I arrived in Paris without any expectations: I had already learned not to take expectations in my vacations, they are way too heavy.

The monuments are countless; however, do not fool yourself thinking they are as close as they seem. They are so impressive that they seem to be 10 meters away, when they are actually 5 kilometers away. But none of them will be empty, or urine free.

Watch out for the cars, and your ears. French people seem to search for the horn even before searching for the seat belt. The noises are plenty, voices, laughter, silverware clinking.

The food is a revelation. And it’s not even necessary to look for it, it is possible to find good food nearly everywhere, even in less attractive places. Stick to restaurants with a small shop attached, as odd as this may seem.

If the food is a temptation, the wines are what it takes to your complete downfall. Ice cubes in rosé glasses? Never mind, I did not dare to ask. I think that the people who make the best rosé (and white!) wines in the world can have their share of eccentricity.

Yet nothing compares, and will ever compare to that feeling of a lump in your throat when you see that piece of art you have been admiring since you were a child right in front of you. Be it Rodin, in a kiss, or be it Monet, in a lake.

The Tower? Yes, she is beautiful, but not as omnipresent as one may think. Either way, it is reassuring to see her lit up between the buildings when you turn the corner. It is good to know she is there.

...

For the Portuguese version, go to Meu Diário Lírico de Viagem