A Rainy Day in Paris: A City of Timeless Beauty
My recent trip to Paris was meant to be a brief but fulfilling stop-over on my way to Cape Town. However, a heavy snowstorm in Norway delayed my arrival, giving me less than half a day in the city. As I sit here in Nairobi, Kenya, awaiting my next flight with nine hours to spare, I'm reflecting on my short but memorable time in Paris. Despite the weather challenges—a sudden downpour after checking into my hotel—the city's charm still managed to shine through.
Paris, founded over 2,000 years ago, has long been a beacon of culture, art, and architecture. Known as the 'City of Light,' it became a major center for the arts, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Gothic masterpiece of Notre-Dame. Even when racing through the rain, you can feel the city's deep-rooted history in every corner, from the grand Haussmannian boulevards to the quaint cobbled streets of Montmartre.
Despite the rain, I was determined to make the most of my short time in Paris. The rain came and went, but every time it poured, it was no light drizzle. I quickly learned that finding cover was essential, as it came down hard and fast. Still, I visited some of the city's most iconic and historically significant landmarks. Notre-Dame, standing tall and timeless, was a particular highlight, even under the gray skies. I also walked by the Société des Amis and admired the stunning Universités de Paris, whose old-world charm contrasted beautifully with the bustling streets around them.
From there, I made my way to the Panthéon, a neoclassical monument that houses the remains of some of France's greatest figures. The Mairie du 5ᵉ arrondissement de Paris stood proudly in its elegance, and I concluded my whirlwind tour at the Université Panthéon-Sorbonne, a center of learning that embodies the city's rich intellectual history. Each location told its own story, and despite the weather, they all added to the magic that is uniquely Parisian.
One of the unexpected highlights of my visit was an evening walk beside the Seine. Even though the rain persisted, the city's lighting cast a warm glow over the river, making the experience feel almost cinematic. The reflections of the city lights on the water were stunning and added to the tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere of Paris at night. As I strolled along the riverbanks, I couldn't help but think back to the summer of 2024, when Paris hosted the Olympics. I'm glad I wasn't one of the athletes competing in water sports, though—the Seine didn't exactly look like the most appealing place to take a dip!
When I return to Paris at the end of January, I'm looking forward to exploring more of this beautiful city. If time permits, I hope to visit the iconic Louvre Museum, where I'll take in some of the world's most famous artworks. I'll also head to Montmartre and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, both of which promise incredible views and a lively atmosphere. The Champs-Élysées will be on my list for a stroll down one of the most famous avenues in the world, and of course, I'll have to stop by the Eiffel Tower for some photos. If I get a chance, I'll make my way to the Arc de Triomphe, which stands proudly at the end of the Champs-Élysées.
While Paris was a quick stop, my adventure continues! Stay tuned for my next post, where I'll be sharing my experiences from South Africa, particularly Cape Town— from its iconic sights to its wildlife and everything in between. You won't want to miss it!