The 20 Arrondissements

Did you know that Paris is split up into 20 sections called "arrondissements"? These labels make it easy for Parisians and tourists to manage their way around the city. The arrondissements start at #1 in the center and increase by number in a clock-wise direction. I lived in the 8th arrondissement during my stay in Paris. As you can see from the map above, I was quite close to L'arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysees. In fact, it was only a five minute walk from my apartment.

A snapshot of Paris

While I was abroad, I took 13 rolls worth of pictures (yes, we used film). Unfortunately, British Airlines lost half of my luggage on the way back. That bag contained many items: souvenirs, my mother's wedding ring that she snuck into my bags on the way to Paris, and all of the photographic memories that I had yet to enjoy. Though I was devastated to loose all of those precious things, this video helps me reminisce about my experiences in this beautiful city. My Aunt Lynn and Memere were able to come and visit during my stay. We ended their stay with a boat ride on the Seine River during which we heard the song in the video above. My Memere cried throughout the song as she sang because it was a lifelong dream of hers to make it to Paris. Having been away from this beautiful city for nearly ten years, I now understand the emotions that my Memere experienced.

Check out this French music video...she mentions a U.S. state.

Considering studying abroad in Paris?

AIFS is an excellent program to go through, I know from experience.  Coincidentally, the summer before I left for Paris I was working at an ice cream shop with a girl who had just done the same program. I was very nervous at the time, but also quite reassured to hear of her great experience. The AIFS program was well-organized, had many planned group excursions and boarded students in pairs so that we were not alone in our host home. When I came back, I convinced a girl across the hall to pursue this same opportunity the following fall. Click here to go to the AIFS Paris site.

Watch how La Tour Eiffel was made!

Did you know that the Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 as an entrance arch to the World's Fair? It was supposed to be knocked down twenty years later and was widely regarded as an eyesore. Luckily, Paris and the world fell in love with this iconic piece of history!

If you visit Paris, you will need to learn the metro!

The metro is the most convenient way to get around the city. For around $50/month you can have unlimited access.

Nicolas Sarkozy: The French President

Can you understand anything that he is saying?