This is Maria, writing to you all from the enchanting city of Paris, France! First off, I want to say how happy I am that we’ve all agreed to stay in touch through this blog, sharing our memories and experiences from our summer travels–I miss you all dearly and cannot wait to hear all about your many adventures in Europe!! So, Paris is incredible! I flew in two nights ago, and since then have spent my time roaming the streets and taking in all of the beautiful sights. I climbed the Eiffel Tower yesterday (well, not all of it…you know how I’m afraid of heights!) and today strolled by the beautiful Arc de Triomphe! It’s a little bit scary being in such a big city by myself, but luckily my dad put me in touch with the daughter of one of his boyhood friends, Pierre. I phoned the girl, Jacqueline, this morning, but she was headed off to school. It’s so weird how the schools in Europe continue classes all the way into July!! Having gone to boarding school all of our lives, most of us aren’t accustomed to the ways of the city school systems. Jacqueline’s is an interesting one—she is currently in her last year of collége, which actually is the equivalent of Middle School in France. She also attends a Catholic private school, although a majority of the schools here are public. All of the schools, public and private alike, are regulated by the Ministry of National Education and have a very strict curriculum that is the same for every grade level. Jacqueline will go on to lycée (like high school) next year before going on to baccalauréat. I don’t know about you all, but I really feel like these travels have given me so much more of an appreciation for other cultures and life-styles, I’m intrigued!!
And Clara, it is SO good to hear from you—Italy sounds absolutely captivating! I have already decided where my next trip is going to be—I’ve always wanted to go to the Basilica and the FOOD sounds divine! Speaking of, I’m going to run off and get some lunch at the crêpe stand, I’ll have to let you know how it is later!
Take care, can’t wait to hear from all of you!
Aimer,
Maria
