Paris Olympics. The Walking Tourist
Thanks to the internet, you did your research and you know which tourist spots to hit. You want to go up the Tour Eiffel because it is synonymous with Paris, but it’s not a good idea if you are scared of heights. I found out the hard way, but it was too late to turn back. Fortunately, I didn’t embarrass myself.
Your Budget
Most people budget before they go on vacation. Others clean up their credit cards, pay them off then start on a clean slate when they board the plane. Because of the budget, you might not afford places like the Tour Eiffel. Don’t worry, there are many interesting nuggets in Paris, provided you brought your running/walking shoes.
Sacre Coeur for example. It’s a nice walk up the stairs to the Cathedral. I don’t know what you are interested in, but the church has a variety of things to offer. Ivory details. Stone details. Sculpture. Stained glass windows. Massive golden or is it brass candle stands? Pews and the roof. Don’t strain your neck now.
Paris and the American Connection
Wearing comfortable shoes will lead you to places that are not in official tourist guide books or videos. Jim Crow America did not see African Americans as citizens, but used them in World War 11 as soldiers, gave them names like ‘Colored’ regiments. After the war, some stayed back in France, Paris in particular. They did not go back home because some white men in former plantation states like Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, hated seeing a black man in army uniform full of medals on the shoulders. They brutally killed them in that uniform.
That is why some parts of Paris, are part of African American history. You’ll find jazz in Paris. Authors like James Baldwin also lived in Paris for a while. Therefore, if your favourite team is not scheduled to play, put on those walking shoes and comb Paris for history.
Nonqaba waka Msimang
Blogger Without Borders
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