Escaping to Paris

Before embarking on my year abroad, I had spent very little time in France. In fact, I had actually never been to France until this year when my boyfriend surprised me with a weekend trip to Paris for my birthday. Just a few months later, I returned to Paris for another weekend getaway with my friend and it's safe to say that this bustling city has a place in my heart.

It's impossible to do everything in Paris in just a few days, but I think this is a part of its charm. This is truly a city with no bounds; home to some of the most grand museums, charming restaurants and renowned jazz bars, every corner of this city gives way to new possibilities.

Scroll through the photos and read a bit about my time in the capital and I'm sure you will fall in love too!

The Louvre and The Mona Lisa

Paris is home to some of the finest museums in the world. Whether it's getting to see iconic artworks in person at the Louvre, discovering modern art in the Pompidou or immersing yourself in Monet's waterlilies at the Musée de l'Orangerie, Paris' art scene is amongst the most vibrant and varied in the world. I had the chance to visit all three, though I couldn't possibly pick a favourite.

All of the museums I have mentioned are spectacular in their way. The Louvre is home to some of the most distinguished works such as The Mona Lisa and you would need an entire day to experience all that it has to offer. Meanwhile, The Pompidou's modern vision is reflected in its abstract design with the building's pipes and tubes visible. For those who are short on time, the Musée de l'Orangerie is less crowded than the Louvre and smaller, offering visitors a more intimate experience.

Unfortunately, the Pompidou will be closing for the next five years in summer as it undergoes refurbishment, so if you have your heart set on going here, I would suggest coming sooner rather than later.

Going for a stroll in Paris

Sure Paris can be a bit overwhelming, but if you are looking for a break away from the hustle and bustle, there are a number of green spaces and parks that you can go to to reconnect with nature. Strolling through the Jardins de Tuileries, you can sneak a moment away from the busy crowds and enjoy some peace on a park bench by one of the two pools. This historic park with its lush green banks and grand architecture is just a stones throw away from the Louvre, making it the perfect escape for tourists who want to wind-down after a day of sightseeing.

We also went to the Jardin du Luxembourg- a well maintained oasis in the centre of Paris with flowerbeds and tree-lined promenades offering shelter from the sun during the summer. Sit back on the lawn with an ice cream and watch the water as children sail model boats in this haven of tranquility away from the chaos.

Fine dining in the City of Love

Because French cuisine is so celebrated worldwide, I made it my mission to try some traditional French food. For me, trying local food is an integral part of the experience as a tourist and a good way to fully immerse yourself. Naturally then, there was one dish I needed to try: Snails.

On my first trip to Paris, my boyfriend encouraged me to try snails for the first time which were surprisingly good! Though, my favourite meal by far was duck confit.

If you get the chance, I would 100% recommend going to an authentic French restaurant. My pick would be The Compass in the 2nd Arrondissement where you can choose from a number of dishes which are truly French. You can never go wrong with Beef Bourguignon and this place is truly the master when it comes to this classic dish.

Moving in Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most charming neighbourhoods in Paris (also very hilly.) Whilst you're here, stroll along the winding streets and pop into a cafe, or grab the opportunity to watch the Moulin Rouge in the evening. Couples should not miss The Love Wall just off of Rue des Abbesses metro, where you will find "I love you" scribbled in various different languages. This quaint neighbourhood is also home to a number of stunning museums and architectural buildings, most notably The Basilica of Sacré Cœur.

When discovering a new place, I always find myself being drawn to beautiful buildings and few are as impressive as The Basilica of Sacré Cœur. Resting on the summit of Montmartre, the Catholic church is absolutely breathtaking- a real architectural marvel, like something out of a storybook. If you climb the 300 steps to reach the summit, you will be rewarded with an unparalleled view of the whole of Paris, where you can even see the Eiffel Tower! If you are unable to climb up do not fret, as there is also the option to take the funicular train to the top from Gare Basse.

Montmartre is an incredibly popular destination and the Basilica is definitely a hotspot for tourists, so I would recommend coming in the early morning to avoid the crowds. Unfortunately, we came in the early afternoon where there were queues of people already lining up to go inside. As we were on a time crunch, we decided to admire the it from the outside.

I could go on and on about the beauty of Paris but the options are limitless and we would be here all day. This is just a brief list of some of my favourite spots in Paris which I hope will inspire you to explore the City of Light for yourself.