TOUR EIFFEL

For some people, it maybe just a simple structure; a piece of steel; an architectural art, as for France, it is a symbol of power, glory, and prestige! People who have visited Paris may have different interpretations on how they see the Eiffel Tower, for me, it is not just a  tower nor a landmark, but a symbol of my dreams coming into reality. 

Paris has been a dream destination for me and seeing the Eiffel Tower is always something I look forward of doing. I never thought that someday I will find myself in this city of love! My dreams and determination have brought my feet to this lovely city and I didn't let this dream to be a dream forever, I made it into reality!

The first time I saw the Eiffel, I was stunned by its beauty.  I couldn't help but stare in awe, and I couldn't describe exactly what I feel, I think it's love, oh yes it was love at first sight!

On my third day in Paris, I was scheduled to climb the tower, my Euro trip will not be complete or I won't call it a Euro trip without me visiting this landmark. I woke up early making it sure that I will arrive there on time. Just like any other attractions in Paris, there will be for sure a long line at the tower. I wasn't able to make an advance booking online because the slots were already full until January so I don't have any choice but to fall in line at the ticket booth.

Eiffel Tower in thick and gray clouds

It was a gloomy morning and thick clouds blanketed the sky of Paris, a sign that rain may fall anytime. I was a bit disappointed because of all places I've been in Europe only in Paris that the weather went bad and just in time when I was about to climb the Eiffel, oh not lucky enough? Nonetheless, I still hope for the best, rain or shine, thunder or the wind, I should be on the top!

I arrived at the Trocadero around 8 am, I have to make sure that I have to be that early. The Trocadero is the best location to see the tower from a distance. And there I was standing right in front of it, speechless and staring the tower in astonishment. While having my moment, I immediately went down at the Trocadero and walked towards the tower, I have to fall in line at the ticket booth before it gets crowded.

long line at the ticket booth

So I waited in line for about one hour because the ticket booth opens at 9.30am, even though the line is lengthy, I didn't lose my patience probably because I know what's in store for me after this. The line is moving fast so I didn't complain at all and, in fact, it was organized. The security getting inside the tower is strict and I felt secure. I was about to climb the stairs to feel the excitement while going to the top, but I chose to use the lift because I was a bit worried that it might rain anytime. 

The moment I reached the top, I had the feeling of exuberant, and if only I can shout at that moment, I could've shouted: "I am the king of the world!" I was the happiest person that time and for me reaching the top of the Eiffel Tower is the best reward that I can give to myself.

bird's eye view of Champs de Mars

view of the River Seine

It was cold and foggy at the top, I can feel the crisp wind touching my face, the chilly feeling made me wish I was with someone while looking at the splendid view of Paris! Anyway, with or without someone still, I enjoyed the time on top of the world's recognizable tower. I had the best 360 degrees view of Paris and still lucky that from time to time, the sun would peek on the thick clouds.

While enjoying the view from the top, I treated myself a box of macaroons, I thought this is the right place to eat France's delicacy, Eiffel, and macarons, the best of Paris!

Le Notre macarons

The sun showed for a while and I took advantage of the time exploring the side of the Eiffel, still very lucky to see the tower is lighted by the sun and I was so thankful that the weather cooperated even for a short period of time.

 The one-year preparation of this entire trip is really worth it, I am glad that I was able to do what I planned to do. I do believe that my strong will and determination made my dreams come true.

Vous revoir Paris!