In honor of the holidays, every corner of Paris is magically lit.
From Hôtel de Ville to the Champs-Elysées, Paris is transformed into an even brighter ‘city of lights’.
The ultramodern architecture of La Défense looms large, reminiscent of a mini-Manhattan. It encompasses over 100 buildings, home to one-third of France’s 20 largest corporations. The Grande Arche, the most impressive of these structures, is a monumental cube composed of Cararra marble, housing government and business offices. There exists a unique and intense energy in this high-rise business district, isolated in the west of the city. It does not feel at all like the Paris of postcards, refreshing on those days when I desire an escape.
Every store imaginable exists within this inclusive universe of silver walls and layered malls. Majestic renowned sculptures by Calder and Miró, among others, add an element of color and culture.
These wintry afternoons, a holiday market fills the walkways as familiar Christmas carols fill the air. My lunch visits to La Défense remind me of the many years I spent gainfully employed amidst the skyscrapers of New York City. I miss working. More accurately, I miss the team dynamic of working towards a common goal and the satisfaction that follows. These days my greatest goal is to learn a language, not to mention a culture. I have decided (finally) to attend courses, to share this grand and often intimidating task with those in a similar predicament. I may even enjoy the experience, and learn French!
Perhaps I was spoiled in NYC with the extravagance of Halloween. A parade followed by days and nights of costumed celebrations in every corner of the city. There is no such display in Paris. Several bars took pride in the festivities, mainly those trusted Irish ex-pat locales, and a random bar or two in the Marais. Though I’m not certain the clientele was dressed in costume or preparing for a regular night of revelry. Needless to say I was not inspired to wear anything other than the garb of a Parisian girl, for me, a costume in itself.