Style Statement -- Live by your own design

My Style Statement, Composed Enriching, was my travel director when I went to Paris.

Before leaving for Paris I “interviewed” anyone who might have a juicy tidbit or perspective about Paris. The people I talked with included a distant cousin I’d never met who lives there, colleagues who’ve been to Paris for work, five-star travelers, and backpacker friends. I also consulted tourist books’ “Top 10” lists. My goal was to compile a list of recommendations and then pick out what really spoke to me. I’ve learned to make a note when something is inspiring, so I dusted off my own Paris file as well. Sounds Composed, right?

I didn’t want to plan every minute. I wanted to leave time for aimless wandering, let time unfold, and leave space for the surprises. But it was my first trip to Paris and I only had eight days, so I also had a list of must-sees – a loose plan for taking in all sorts of places to see and things to do. I referred to that list many times while in Paris.

Once actually there, I did let the hours and days unfold and changed plans according to my mood, the weather, and where the day took me. It was a great luxury to be traveling alone. I ended up striking the perfect balance of planning and letting the trip unfold.

I went to Paris for inspiration. Everything I experienced fed a part of me – from visiting the tombs of great writers at the Pantheon to spending a day alone in galleries, dining at famous bistros, and tucking into off-the-beaten-path spaces and neighborhoods. I did the tourist bus thing and I also met up with a friend who’s a local (we ran errands together). I spent a lot of time alone, but I also savored time with someone special. It was the perfect combination of having Paris all to myself and shameless tourism avec fromage!

Composed is all about creating ease, pulling elements together, and striving for balance. Enriching is all about adding value and significance. My trip had it all.

I can’t wait to return to Paris!

Article by Natasha Lakos