Everlasting Memory

by: Kristine Siapno

I stepped off the plane and already, a whole new world was right in front of me, it was breathtaking. I never thought that I would be in such a beautiful place called Paris. It was that moment, when I knew this was going to be an adventure I never would forget.

As we got on the bus to tour the city, I was amazed by all the large and glorious architecture that surrounded this ancient city. The streets were filled with people walking and talking, carrying their shopping bags, eating their crepes in another,the roads were packed with cars and buses, making its way all across the city, and in the distance stood the famous Eiffel tower, standing tall and strong in the very heart of the city.

The Barrier

Each day I was there was filled with a new experience, but probably the most difficult experience I had, was the language. Most people these days know at least 2 languages if not more, but in my case the only language I know is English.

It was very difficult for me to communicate with many people during my time in Paris because most people only knew French. There were some occasions where I would meet a person who spoke very good English but that was very rare. I considered my self lucky to even find someone who was able to talk a little English, it was during those times that I felt like an outsider, only now understanding the many millions of people who come to America and do not know English. But gradually as the days continued I was able to pick up some of the language, which made my stay a lot easier.

According to Plan

Something that caught my attention was their train systems. Back home in Chicago, we all know, our train systems suck, slow travel, delays all the time, construction at about every station and fare increase, but here in Paris their train systems run according to plan.

The train system in Paris is one of the major ways of transportation, because most French either walk or take the train to get to the different parts of the city, since most people can't drive.
The train stations are spacious and they have a sign that shows when the train is going to arrive and how long you have to wait. It definitely beats the Chicago CTA.

My favorite part of Paris was taking the train all across the city, walking around, taking in all of its beauty by admiring the buildings, the people and eating their delicious pastries.

Paris is something I will never forget, it will be an everlasting memory that can never be forgotten.