JetSet: Paris 2016

Paris is just one of those cities you can't help but fall in love with. I got engaged there in 2011, and it has since become one of my favorite cities in the world. Not to mention, I was fascinated with Paris as a kid when I found out my grandpa's parents immigrated to the US from France in the early 1900s. From the food and culture to the fashion and architecture, there are just too many things to love about Paris.

A friend of mine was living in Paris for a while, and the best advice she gave me about visiting was to get lost on purpose! I don't always want to do every touristy thing I can find on Pinterest. Don't get me wrong, I still went to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, had crepes, ate foie gras, and drank wine, because #whynot. But on this trip, I spent most of my time hopping on the train and exploring different neighborhoods.

The most interesting part of this trip to Paris was leaving the city. I have to say, tourism has a habit of distracting visitors from the realities that face most countries, and that's the effects of gentrification. Just like any country, Paris isn't all glitz and glamour. There are areas that don't look as nice, and there are people who are struggling. It's just like here in LA. You can go to Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, or DTLA, but you can also see Skid Row and other communities who are struggling to make ends meet. I don't know why, but I was almost shocked to see homelessness just outside of the city center in Paris. It was a reminder that there are always communities in need, no matter where you go in the world. 

Anyway, here's a *few* pics of my most recent trip to Paris. If any of you have been to Paris, I'd love to hear some of your favorite things to do there. Comment below.

Lisa xx