Paris Diary: Learning, Mishaps, and Parisian Delights

Bonjour from Paris! I'm excited to share a glimpse into my second full week in the City of Lights. It's been a whirlwind of learning, unexpected adventures, and of course, delicious discoveries.
Class and Culture Clash
The week started with a rude awakening (literally - 9 AM classes are tough!). But the early mornings are balanced by the reward of learning French in a vibrant environment. My classmates are a great resource, and two of us even a skipped class turned into a fun Parisian lunch date. In my defense, I didn't know that lunch was going to take so long! 
Speaking of lunch, navigating Parisian meal customs has been an interesting experience. From leisurely lunches with no takeout boxes to the importance of ordering the "plat du jour" (daily special), it's all part of the cultural immersion.

@lorettelinsta

le plat du jour - pork sausage, mashed potatoes, and sautéed onions; 23 avril 2024

Pencil Quest and Palace Adventures
A simple errand for notebooks turned into an adventure. After getting lost searching for a school supplies, I learned a valuable lesson thanks to my teacher: Parisians get their school supplies at the Monoprix! Thankfully I asked her because the first store I found while searching for a "librarie" turned out to be a tarot and crystals shop - not exactly what I was searching for.
Petit Palais, a Beaux-Arts Style Building
Later, I finally made it to the Petite Palais, a stunning museum housed in a former palace. It's amazing how France transforms these grand spaces into accessible cultural hubs. It features a permanent collection of art spanning centuries, from antiquity to the early 20th century. Originally built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, the Petit Palais is now a free museum (except for temporary exhibitions) and a popular destination for art lovers visiting Paris.

​Exploring Parisian Groceries
Another exciting find was Picard, a store with a mind-blowing selection of high-quality frozen meals. From healthy options rated "A" for nutrition to decadent treats, it's a game-changer for busy Parisians (or time-crunched students like me!).
Sweet and Savory Delights
Paris is a paradise for both sweet and savory palates. I'm trying to be mindful of sugar during the week, but indulging in a pastry or two is part of the experience. Discovering my love for pistachio desserts (especially tiramisu!) has been a delightful surprise.

Learning to Love the Parisian Pace
Parisian life moves at a different pace than back home. Adjusting to the constant walking, the focus on in-depth learning, and the leisurely approach to meals has been a challenge, but it's also eye-opening. This immersive experience is exactly why I signed up for this program, and I know it will benefit me in the long run. 
Living and Learning in Paris
Every day brings new discoveries, from navigating the metro to deciphering food labels. There are bound to be more mishaps and miscommunications along the way, but that's all part of the adventure. I'm excited to continue learning, exploring, and indulging in the best that Paris has to offer.