Eiffel Tower

Being that the Eiffel Tower is one of the first things you think of when you think of Paris, it thought it would be interesting to learn some facts about it. The Eiffel Tower is located on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. The Eiffel Tower was originally built as the entrance arch for the World's Fair in 1889. Its name comes from Gustave Eiffel, whose company was in charge of the project.The Eiffel Tower is 1050 feet tall. However temperature can alter the height of the tower by six inches. This is because it is made from iron and when the sun heats up the iron enough it will expand. The Eiffel Tower truly remains one of Paris' greatest icons. 

Paris Expectations

When I think of Paris the first thing I think of is baguettes. I also think that French people are somewhat rude. Ive never experienced this for myself so I could be completely wrong. However I have this negative connotation because that is how they are portrayed in most movies and I've had friends that visited Paris and felt this way. I also think that they are not to fond of Americans, like most countries. I expect most of the people in Paris to have great style. I think that Paris is full of fashion and that reflects on the locals who live there. I also think that the men in Paris are more forward than men in America. It will be very interesting to visit and see just how right or wrong my expectations are.

Charleston's Local Farmers Market

I was pleasantly surprised by Charleston's local farmers market. There was an immense amount of fresh strawberries which are my personal favorite. Also you could find other produce that was in season for a great price. Many locals and visitors were enjoying lunch in the market. There was also a surplus of food trucks offering everything from omelets to hotdogs. I am excited to see the differences between the farmers market in Charleston and the one we will be visiting in Paris. The main difference I've learned so far is that the market in Charleston is more for entertainment, pleasure and produce. However the market in Paris is more of a necessity it is strictly for shopping of groceries.

The Metro in Paris

Never experiencing the Paris metro for myself, I was a little alarmed when our guest speaker (who is a Paris native) told us, "to be careful because sometimes people die trying to get on the metro".  After doing a little research I learned that this was very uncommon. Although it is very important to stay alarmed especially when the metro is very busy. I also picked up a little metro etiquette, it is always polite to give up your seat to the elders, some will demand it. He also informed us that there will sometimes be performers on the metro asking for money. This reminded me of the subways in New York City. However I think the Paris metro performers will be more exciting to see. Overall I think the Paris metro is an efficient and inexpensive way to travel! I am excited to experience it for myself. 

Potential metro performers we might encounter. (Although the passengers didn't seem very amused)

History In Charleston

Charleston's history is immense. Some of the most unique history is in the grave yards throughout Charleston. Some of the graves date back to the 1800s. Certain graves also have small sections on them dedicated to all the accomplishments of that person. This is just another reason to visit Charleston!