It was my first time in Paris and my perception of this country was solely founded on movies I watched (Ratatouille, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Anastasia). Of course, Paris is far different to how it is described in the movies.
Before flying to Paris, I should warn any tourists to mentally prepare themselves for the fact that Parisians are so proud of their language that they are reluctant to speak any English at any point. You can take everything from the Parisians, perhaps even the Eiffel Tower, but you cannot take away their Language.
The city does not seem any different than any other well-known city, but why is it called “ The City of Love’?’ The explanation runs into the pavement of every bridge, along the bank of the river and in its beautiful bright lights. Paris at night is beautiful; all of the buildings take on a new life.
Getting to the top of the Eiffel tower is a commitment that should be taken by every couple. You can see the panorama of the city spread out before you, a view you will never forget easily. While I was waiting in the queue on the first level to get to the summit, I overheard a young lady jokingly asking her boyfriend if there was something he wanted to ask. It all got a bit awkward when he asked for clarification with a confused voice. I was obviously aware of her sweet intentions and chuckled, which she heard, making the situation increasingly funny. For people who don’t know, the Eiffel tower is a favourite place among those who wish to propose to their soul-mates. Could it possibly get any more romantic with the view?
To share a baguette, waffle or pancake is another Parisian tradition. Once in Paris, it is a necessity to try those as they are beyond lip-smacking.
Meandering along the Seine is very soothing, especially if done in the evening. So many famous buildings are lit up, creating an even more romantic atmosphere for the young couples out walking in the evening.
Pont des Arts has "love spot’ written all over it, with the thousands of coloured padlocks latched onto the bridge. These rows of padlocks symbolise timeless gestures of love performed by thousands of tourists over countless years. It is an on-going hype and custom that couples go there and carve their names on their padlock (usually with the date of their visit) and lock it onto the bridge, a romantic gesture representing their everlasting commitment to each other.
Lastly, one surely cannot miss seeing the Eiffel tower at night. The lattice tower is lit up yellow, which alone is an amazing site, but to add to its perfection at the strike of every hour it bursts into a shimmering display of lights.
I think all that is mentioned above contributes to the answer of why Paris is known as the City of Love. There is obviously far more than that, but I believe those are its perks. If you are thinking about your next holiday and you want it to be romantic, then Paris is the right destination for you and your loved one!