Natalie’s Travelogues – Paris Chronicles #1
I have always been intrigued by cities and countries other than my own. Growing up, I was captivated by the globe in my classroom. So much so that I was gifted one. Traveling to new and familiar places allows me step out of my daily routine and explore another culture. I often am far out of my comfort zone, which is something I have come to appreciate. I typically travel solo, though not always. As a woman of color, visually impaired from birth, there are many aspects which go into each trip. From research to packing lists, from gathering navigation tools to actually utilizing them, from the first step into the airport to my return: there are endless moving parts. Can I easily find the airline I am using? Do I ask for assistance through TSA? Which typically means being wheeled through, even though I don’t require a wheelchair. Or do I manage it alone?
Historically, travel, especially international travel, has been viewed as a luxury. When I first began traveling abroad in my early twenties, I didn’t see anyone with a visible disability. And honestly, I used all the functional vision I had to blend in as much as possible. I was raised to utilize every aspect of my vision rather than limit myself because of what I might not see. As a seasoned traveler in my sixties now, when I travel, it is routine for me to encounter a diverse travel population. I have come to appreciate social media which has been valuable as a platform for people with disabilities to showcase their travel experiences.
I invite you to share in my adventures. To view travel through my unique lens. To experience the highs and foibles as I navigate new and familiar destinations. To understand the moments of embracing my vision to being challenged by it. To the commitment I make to myself in living a full and vibrant life.
Natalie goes to Paris
Note: Paris is my flagship city. Paris is my happy place. I am my best self when I am there. I say this as someone who has visited France several times. There will be several entries dedicated to Paris.
The summer of 1987, I visited France for 5 weeks. My first joy upon arriving at Orly Airport was how easy it was for me to read the signage. My experience with flying at that time had been limited to short domestic flights.
At that time, the only tools I utilized for reading print were glasses. This meant I squinted a lot when reading maps. I memorized all metro stations near the apartment which expanded my transport options.
At each station, I read the signs which listed all the stops on each line specific to direction. I memorized the number of stops to my destination.
By the end of week 2, I was comfortable with the metro.
But three weeks into my trip, I lost my prescription glasses. I was quite distressed. Purchasing a replacement pair was cost prohibitive. I surrendered to my reality and chose to focus on enjoying my remaining time.
Did I get lost? Absolutely. Did I learn to ask for help en francais? Bien sur.
I spoke French, and yet, I lacked confidence. My need for help trumped my embarrassment in fracturing the language. The only downside to losing my glasses was the additional strain I placed on my eyes. Sometimes this led to headaches.
My hosts taught me a valuable phrase which allowed me to place my situation into context. La vie est difficile, puis on meurt. Pourquoi ne pas vivre. Life is difficult, then one dies. Why not live?
I decided to live.
My French improved as I was immersed in French daily life. My love of all things French was firmly secured and has endured all this while. I visit Paris at least once a year, twice if I can help it.
More Paris travelogues coming up…
