i get lost a lot, even with gps, but just after this photo was taken my phone died and i was completely on my own. no gps, miles from my hotel, not to mention i can’t read a map to save my life.

i was a bit terrified but it ended up being one of the greatest afternoons of my time in paris – no distractions, forced to speak french, and although i missed some incredible photo ops, the sun came out, clouds disappeared and i had the chance to witness the most beautiful sunset on my journey home.

moments like this mean so much and why i try not to take anything for granted.

i was forced to get help and ask for directions – with the small amount of french i know and no translation app to help me. i don’t know why they speak so ill of the french, because i have met the most beautiful, kind, helpful people in this city.

i have noticed i tend to find myself drawn to local parisians for tips and hidden gems, and although i come off a bit ignorant, they never make me feel this way. i say ignorant because i struggle speaking the language and often find myself reverting to english, simply because it’s easier.

from waiters in cafés to clerks in groceries to the guards at townhall, i have been fortunate to interact and learn more – about france and about paris and how everything i had ever read about paris was in fact true. paris is one of those places you can get lost in – see what i did there? i was already getting lost in this beautiful city and then i REALLY got lost.

as i was getting lost and then actually got lost, i realized being quiet was my best option. i was able to speak more with a smile and the few words i did know than to just speak a bunch of garbage in english. being silent and just listening (even in a language you can’t comprehend) is powerful and made a big difference when i was interacting with others.

my love for paris has only grown. but honestly, how could you not love paris? the history, the beauty – every street i have wandered to has been photo worthy.

my only suggestion for visiting paris (okay, not only suggestion, but an important one) would be to get lost for a little while. maybe don’t forget to pack an extra portable charger for emergencies, but turn your phone on silent, put away the camera and just take in everything paris has to offer. and to be honest, like i said before, paris is an easy city to get lost in. you may find your self lost before you ever even realize that you’re lost in the beauty that is paris.

i know if ever given the chance, i would most definitely get lost in paris again. actually, who am i kidding, i am still lost in paris.

xo, courtney