in search of an authentic paris

On December 27th, 2006, I saw Paris for the first time. I can't say I didn't know what to expect though. According to a recent T Magazine article by Elaine Sciolino, "Since 1990, about 800 American films have been set in Paris." And as such, "So much of Hollywood's version of Paris is fantasy, a place where the line between the real and the imagine is delightfully blurred, where adventure, mystery, beauty and even love lurk just around the corner." You very well know what she means as well, right?

Though our countless Parisian stereotypes are often negative (unlike our romantic ideas about the city), we still can't wait to visit.

My mom emailed me her itinerary today. Her and my dad will be in Paris from November 21st to the 26th. It'll be quick... but they're coming to visit me! I's so excited. It's sure to be as spectacular as the last time they flew into my abroad life, if not more so.

We'll obviously have to climb the Eiffel Tour as I did six years ago (and take new photos); in addition to stopping in the Louvre, floating by Notre-Dame, wandering through the Latin Quarter, down the Champs-Elysées, and up to Sacre Coeur.

I do hope I have enough patience to play tourist.

Because now I live here. Paris is more than just a pretty dream, it's becoming my home, and I need them to understand why.

My hope is that they'll fall in love with this city, too.

I'll show them ma chambre de bonne and my neighborhood. I'll take them to a favorite brasserie (more info to come!) and new restaurants I've yet to try. I'll treat them to a local's walking tour; and introduce them to the Parisian suburbs, most notably Melun, of course. Marie and her parents are already preparing for a weekend of fun. I'd also like them to see what my life is actually like: an unglamorous yet completely lovely combo of school-friends-fun; a life that just happens to take place in Paris.

If I'm able to accomplish the above, I don't doubt we'll have the most wonderful time... in addition to a very happy Thanksgiving.

In the mean time, as I discover my very own authentic Paris, I've been frequenting museums and markets. Why museums and markets? I believe the combination will provide the perfect blend of high, low, and popular culture with the treasures of yesterday and today. Please bookmark Museums & Market {of Paris} for photos of and dialogue about today's visit to the Booksellers by the Seine, and more.