By this point of the trip, I had fully surrendered to the rhythm of Paris. No agenda, no hurry — just me, my worn-in sneakers and a city that seemed to unveil magic at every corner. I set off with no real plan, just a vague mental map and a craving for beautiful things.

The Champs-Élysées greeted me like an old movie set — grand and glittering but somehow still approachable. I strolled its length with nothing to buy and everything to take in. It’s wild how a simple walk can feel like a cinematic experience in Paris.

And then, of course, the Eiffel Tower. She peeks out at you throughout the city, teasing her presence, but nothing compares to standing before her. I saw her from below, craning my neck until it hurt; from across the Seine, where she looked like a delicate sculpture against the sky; even from afar, where she shimmered just enough to remind you this isn’t just a tower, it’s the tower: iconic and, somehow, still surprising.

Later that day I wandered into Le Jardin du Luxembourg, baguette in hand (because when in Paris …). I found a good spot near the fountain and people-watched until the chairs started disappearing and the garden whispered it was closing time. There’s something about the way Parisians lounge: It’s intentional, like an art form. I took mental notes.

Grand Bassin du Luxembourg

Grand Bassin du Luxembourg

With time to kill before dinner, I zigzagged around the neighborhood, checking off a few spots from my initial list, like The Panthéon. It was just me, the beautiful Parisian streets and my vague sense of direction. Eventually, I made my way to Le Machon d’Henri. Cozy, classic and completely delicious. This was the kind of place that reminds you why French food has the reputation it does. I still think about the sauce that accompanied my steak and potatoes. You know it’s good when you consider asking for more bread just to mop up the last bit.

The Panthéon

After a night of proper deep sleep and even deeper dreams, according to my Oura ring (probably involving that sauce), I returned to Luxembourg Gardens the next day, drawn back like a moth. I walked around and sat to enjoy my lunch as I witnessed many locals doing the same. No screens, no rush, just pure bliss.

Medici Fountain, Jardin du Luxembourg

Palais du Luxembourg

Then came souvenir hunting, which is just fancy talk for wandering into dreamy stores and pretending you’re picking out gifts for others when, really, it’s all for you.

One of the shops I visited was Astier de Villate. This felt like stepping into a cabinet of ceramic curiosities. This Paris-based brand is recognized for its artisanal approach, black terra-cotta clay and signature milky-white glaze. The pieces showcase subtle imperfections and individual character.

Inside the Astier de Villate, 6th Arrondissement

Then Marine Montagut. This one felt like someone bottled the soul of Paris and put it on a shelf. From mini baguette pencils, beautiful trays and tea towels, I left with fragile paper bags filled with treasures I told myself were “practical keepsakes.”

Marine Montagut, 6th Arr.

Highlights from The Louvre

I ended the day (and in some ways, the trip) at the Louvre. Yes, it’s massive. Yes, it’s crowded. But somehow it still felt intimate. Art has a way of doing that. I wandered until they gently nudged us out at closing time, then grabbed dinner at a nearby bistro that served exactly what I didn’t know I wanted.

That night, walking back through the streets, Paris felt less like a place and more like a feeling, one I want to carry with me, tucked between the pages of a notebook or in the folds of a scarf. I came to see a city. I left feeling seen.

— Yasser Ogando, executive media director