I pinched myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. The Eiffel Tower stood before me in all its glory that Sunday afternoon, on my way from Charles de Gaulle Airport to my hotel.
Places you often see in photos, films, or songs feel familiar. Yet, when you finally stand there, excitement takes over. I felt giddy and wide-eyed, realizing I was truly in Paris.
I once saw the Eiffel Tower destroyed in a G.I. Joe movie. Photos show it beautifully, but seeing it up close was different. That cold morning walk to Musée du Quai Branly left me in awe. But the Eiffel Tower at night looked even more stunning, glowing against the Parisian sky.
I noticed details I’d never seen before, the engraved names near the base, the sunlight striking the iron beams, the long shadows below. Tourists from every corner of the world posed eagerly, chasing the perfect souvenir photo.
Even from afar, the Eiffel Tower commands attention. While walking or driving, it appears and disappears between trees and buildings, teasing the eyes. Each glimpse reminds you that you’re really in Paris—not a dream.
When I left the city, its image stayed with me. The Eiffel Tower became more than a landmark. It symbolized wonder made real, a dream finally touched. For travelers like me, that moment defined the journey—where imagination met reality beneath an iron giant.
This France travel was made possible when I was part of Photoquai 2013 in Paris.
I’d like to believe that this is the only architectural tower that is most popular to ALL people in the world. Indeed, when you see it you really have reached Paris. =)