“Love, love, love…”
Paris has always been known as the city of love and I couldn’t agree more. Because what could be more romantic than strolling through the picturesque streets of the city, holding hands, with your loved one? Or to watch the sunset from the Pont des Arts? And what about a romantic dinner in a Parisian bistro? We all want that, right?
These things are only possible in Paris, but how did Paris get the honorable title of the city of love?
It started in the nineteenth century.
When the sun went down in 19th-century, it was time for ‘absinthe hour’. The elegant daytime flâneurs strolling Haussmann’s grand boulevards had disappeared and were replaced by the ladies of the night. Searching for clients on the cafe terraces and in cabarets such as the Folies Bergère and Moulin Rouge, the courtesans ruled Paris from their bed. They were strong, independent women with wealthy, powerful, and influential clients, so the women got paid in jewelries, dresses, art and apartments.
Writers and artists.
Writers and artists from all over the world came to Paris in the Belle Époque era (late nineteen century). In this era of Paris’ cultural and artistic climate the arts markedly flourished, with numerous masterpieces of literature, music, theatre, and visual art gaining extensive recognition. There was a hint of romance around those artists and everyone wanted to be part of them.
Parisian men are very charming.
Men in Paris are very charming. They dress well, always hold the door open for you, they are well mannered and love to flirt! And, of course, French men are very romantic.
The French language is enchanting.
Ohhh, that lilting, poetic French language. Every word is like music to your ears. Let’s face it, je t’aime sounds much better than I love you, don’t you think? And even if you don’t understand the French language, French chansons always come straight to your heart.
The love for food.
Every meal in Paris is a feast. Whether you have a delicious sweet breakfast with croissants and confiture, an extensive lunch on a sunny terrace or a romantic dinner somewhere in a restaurant with an amazing view, Parisians take the time to enjoy their food and their company. And what about all those delicious pastries that are beautifully displayed in the windows? Doesn’t that melt your heart?
And last but not least, the city itself. Beautiful architecture that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The bumpy pebbles shimmering in the morning sun, the wonderful smell of fresh bread from the boulangeries, the street musicians, the many art museums, the beautifully maintained gardens, romantic bridges… Need I say more?
So in my opinion, Paris is for sure the the city of love!
