Jan
1
Bon Voyage!
Filed Under Paris/London 2008
Well, I’m all packed, except for the few carry-on items I have (snack food). My roommate Kaicy will be taking me to the airport in about 30 minutes which means I have 30 minutes to remember anything that I’ve forgotten to pack up until now. I’m quite pleased with my minimal packing, although it’s always advised that once you pack, you should then take 3/4 of your suitcase contents out, and the remaining 1/4 is how much you should actually bring. Settling on five outfits was a good decision, each of which I can wear twice.
As I said in my previous post, I have done a lot of reading to prepare for this trip. I like to know about a destination’s history, people, and culture before I go. I’m already quite confident in knowing the layout of both Paris and London after having looked at many maps and read through a bunch of self-guided walks. Orienting myself shouldn’t take too long.
I’ve been trying to think about what my current perceptions of both cities (and their countries) are. When the St. Olaf Band toured throughout Mexico during our 2004 Interim, half of our time was spent learning about the country beforehand. One of the exercises our professors conducted prior to our flight south was to have us write out our preconceived notions of Mexico and its people. During one of our last days on tour, we all gathered to revisit what we’d written and talk about how our thoughts had changed after having met a wide gamut of Mexicans and spent almost two weeks in the country. The discussion was quite an eye-opener for everyone.
With that said, I have feared that the French would be snooty and rude. If I try to speak some French, will they look at me with disgust as I butcher their language? Eek. One of my guidebooks says that Parisians are as nice as anyone else in the world and as rude as any New Yorker. They think that Americans don’t find value in seeking out deep friendships, so they don’t open up to visitors too quickly. I was warned that I shouldn’t go smiling and saying hello to every person on the street because they are likely to think I’m senile. As for language, the French are apparently very proud of their language and at least trying to speak a few words would make them aware that you at least appreciate it too. French people know more English than they let on, and that is because they prefer to speak foreign languages as perfectly as possible when they do so. I expect Parisians to seem standoffish compared to what I am used to, but I plan to give them the benefit of the doubt.
Well, I am off to occupy seat 14-J on the A330 (FYI, Michael) to Amsterdam and then Paris! Hopefully sleep awaits me. And my luggage.
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With the French, the only rudeness I ever experienced was when they perceived someone was being rude to them. When you go into a store or cafe or anywhere, you must say, “Bonjour, madame/monsieur,” and look up how to ask for things in the polite manner in your guidebook. Then say goodbye before you leave. This will make a huge difference. Have a blast!!!!!
Dear Kat:
I am so glad you will be travelling with Noelle for the rest of her trip. A mother worries, you know!
Have a great time! And be safe.
Noelle’s mom, Jeanette
I so happy that you have taken this trip but wish you could have gone in the spring or early summer to see the flowers. But since you have gone enjoy the wine and the museums and the city of Paris and London. London try the fish and chips and the beef Wellington with Yorkshire pudding and hopefully you may see the Queen in person. All our love Aunt Sally and Uncle Howard