You never know where life may lead you...

There are few greater pleasures in the world than exploring a foreign city at night, tipsy, and in love. What is it that makes it so special? It's hard to put your finger on really; it evades definition. Perhaps it's the bubble that you feel when there's no one you know, hardly anyone that speaks your language, and all your responsibilities feel far away. Whatever the specifics of why though, are dwarfed by the relaxation and intimacy that you feel strolling hand in hand through the city of love.
We reminisced our day as we walked, letting our feet take us where they willed. The city was bathed in a soft yellow glow of light as we worked our way along the Seine towards the bright gleam of Notre Dame.There was a crispness to the air that spoke of spring, but we were warmed from the inside by our drinks.
After our stroll we worked our way back to our cosy apartment in Bellville. Along the way we stumbled into a small crowd milling outside a nondescript building with no signage. Curious, we strode inside with feigned confidence of people who knew what they were doing. We were immediately ushered down a winding spiral staircase into a dark unfinished basement with no one in sight. Starting to feel our first misgivings about our choice and, wondering when the first serial killer would pop out, we shuffled aimlessly around in the poorly lit area hoping to catch some sign of the attraction.We were about to give up and run for the hills when we turned a corner and happened upon a film festival exhibition on a bare wall with a small projector. We sat for some time trying to puzzle out the meaning of the short film before quietly slipping out. Emerging from the murky basement like troglodytes from a cave, we followed the crowd to the local bar that everyone ambled towards.
The bar was packed to the brim with young people from all walks of life. Students, businessmen, and tattooed artists sat cramped together like sardines. Outside, graffiti virtuosi showcased their skills, layering their artwork heedlessly over old masterpieces. The vibe of the place was incredible. Life and energy suffused the air. We sat for ages, engaging strangers over our beers on life in Paris; and as we sat, we plotted with relish our conquests for the next day, hoping to pry a few more hidden gems from Paris.
What is it to travel? Quite simply it is to experience, to feel, to immerse, and to live. The best way to find an adventure is to follow your nose. You never know where it may lead you.