“Paris is a city where time is best to spend by doing nothing”
– Erich Maria Remarque.
Every time I visit somewhere new I am encompassed in awe as I excitedly take in new surroundings, giddy with excitement for what I am about to discover, eager to explore and uncover each country’s unique beauty.
Paris in particular holds a special place in my heart and soul. While it may grace a few people’s list of favorites, my turbulent relationship with the city has been a result of my frame of mind each time I visited, reflecting unique milestones in my life.
My first visit was nothing like the dream I had imagined—in fact, I hated it. I found myself overwhelmed, disconnected, and unable to see the charm that so many people rave about. At the time, I wasn’t in the best place mentally, and it’s clear now how much that shaped my perception of the city. I believe if you can’t see the beauty inside your own life how are you able to see the beauty of anything around you?
Years later, I returned to Paris, and something shifted. I was in a better place emotionally and as a result, I saw the city in a completely new light. The bustling streets, the timeless architecture, the energy of the cafés—what once felt chaotic and isolating now felt vibrant and alive. That second trip was the beginning of a love story with Paris, a city that I had once dismissed but now couldn’t stop thinking about.
Most recently, I visited Paris for the third time, more than ten years since I was last there and this time, it felt transformative. I was finally able to fully appreciate the city’s awe-inspiring beauty with a sense of joy and clarity that I had never experienced before. Walking along the Seine, enjoying a delicious pastry from a cosy cafe, and marveling at the intricate details of its beautiful architecture. One of the most enchanting aspects of Paris is its unique blend of vibrant energy and an almost unhurried rhythm of life—where one can linger over a cup of coffee, savor meals at a leisurely pace, and share fine wine in the company of friends. Parisians seem to grasp the art of living, finding joy in life’s simple yet exquisite pleasures and just being able to resonate with that fact and that fact alone made me feel a wave of gratitude—not just for Paris, but for how far I’ve come.
It’s incredible how our mental state can colour the way we see the world. This time, I didn’t just see Paris—I felt it. Its beauty felt tangible, its energy infectious. For the first time, I was able to immerse myself in everything Paris had to offer, from its chic charm to its quiet, soul-stirring moments.
Paris has become more than just a city to me. It’s a symbol of growth, a reflection of my journey, and a reminder of how much I’ve healed. Revisiting it with fresh eyes and an open heart has made me appreciate it even more deeply. And that’s what makes my connection to Paris so special—it’s not just about the place itself, but about how each trip to Paris has represented a significant moment in my life and a reminder of how far I’ve come.
Maybe Paris has changed over the years; I know I have. But either way, I’m glad I can finally see it’s magic.
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