Paris Countdown!

Well, I'm roughly seven weeks away from my big trip to Paris. Everything is starting to come together nicely. I paid off the trip last week and, after paying double to get it expedited, I got my passport in the mail two weeks ago. But to be honest, I'm starting to get a little scared. Don't get me wrong, I'm also mega excited, and don't tell my friends and family because they are all in awe and praising me for my adventurous spirit. But suddenly the thought of going to Paris all by myself is starting to feel a little overwhelming, not to mention a little intimidating. There seem to be a million little details to attend to and decisions to make. For instance, what should I wear in Paris?

I know that sweats, white tennis shoes, and T-shirts with writing on them are a big no no in Paris and will instantly mark you as a tourist. However, I'm getting conflicting info about what exactly I should wear over there. Some say wear all black. Others say wearing all black isn't necessary. Some say don't wear jeans, while others say jeans are just fine. Some say wear comfortable walking shoes, while others say go for stylish and chic shoes. One thing everyone seems to agree on is to try and blend in and don't draw too much attention to yourself. So, I'm going to take the middle route and take jeans and clothing in neutral colors that include black, and comfortable, stylish shoes, if there is such a thing as comfortable AND stylish shoes. I hear scarves are also a must, though I'm not a scarf person at all.

Maybe it's my imagination but ever since I booked my trip it seems I've been noticing a lot of stories on the news about Paris. Last week, it was this story about a new book that was recently released and supposedly gives the real scoop on how singer Jim Morrison died. According to the book, it wasn't in a bathtub. Since I'm a sucker for every kind of mystery, I was all over this story and plan to read the book, just as soon as it's translated into to English that is.

I also found this story interesting. It seems Paris is trying really hard to shed it's image of being rude to tourists. The mayor of Paris is urging Parisians to be more polite to tourists, while urging tourists to try French products instead of running to the nearest Starbucks and McDonalds, though why anyone would go all the way to Paris and go to Starbucks and McDonalds is beyond me. I've often heard that as long as you don't act like a ugly American, and at least try and speak some French, the French are perfectly friendly. I guess I'll soon find out ; ).

Angela