13 things visiting Paris teaches you about life

Anyone who has spent time in Paris knows that it can change the way you see things forever. It opens your eyes to the subtle wonders of everyday life, awakens your palate and savors flavors you will never forget. It can even be said that Paris teaches you about life. In his memoirs, Hemingway called Paris "a moveable feast" because "it stays with you wherever you go for the rest of your life." Whether you have visited Paris briefly, studied abroad, worked or lived in Paris, you will have experienced being captivated by the charm of the City of Lights.

The summer before my senior year of college, I interned for a fashion designer in Paris. I lived in cramped but quaint servants’ quarters in a French family’s apartment, ate panini sandwiches and ham with melon on the Place des Vosges during lunch breaks, and danced for justice in the streets during music festivals. After that, I was so hooked that I returned shortly after graduation, this time for my master's degree, and spent another year and a half immersed in my beloved joie de vivre , unparalleled cuisine and beautiful architecture.

With every experience, I felt like I was writing my own book, or at least playing an unseen extra in Midnight in Paris . From going to the bakery for a croissant early in the morning before class, to sitting on the balcony of my studio with a five euro glass of wine and watching the sunset over the Pantheon. From impromptu picnics with friends on the banks of the Seine to late-night strolls through deserted tourist areas to witness the quiet majesty of the Louvre. The memories created by these magical moments are indelible and their impact is lasting – you learn about life while exploring Paris.

1. Sometimes you have to lose yourself to find yourself

But that’s not to say you can’t enjoy getting lost.

2. Even a rainy day is beautiful

Life doesn't always have to be sunny to be bright.

3. Happiness doesn’t have to be expensive

Sometimes all it takes is a baguette, some cheese and a bottle of wine.

4. Coffee is best enjoyed when you sit down

Oh, the irony.

5. Sometimes all you need is a good book

And Nutella pancakes.

6. You can always find humor in unexpected places

Every moment can be made better by laughter.

7. There’s nothing you can’t dig out

In other words, this feeling will not disappear with time.

8. Experiences are best shared with friends

True happiness is enjoyed with some company and some count .

9. Don’t reject it until you try it

You never know if you're missing something you might like.

10. Try everything

Take risks and give everything a chance.

11. Sometimes you have to wait a while for the rewards of life, but they are definitely worth it

Keep an eye out for prizes.

12. There’s something to discover in everyone and everywhere, if you just pay attention

Stop and smell the roses and you'll discover the secrets life has to offer.

13. Life is too short not to eat French fries

Live every day to the fullest.

Image: Pexels; janvincentgonzales (5), acknight (7), vassargirl/Instagram