b'My lasting memories of Paris are from a school trip in 2015This is my Paris, Mrs Minhas, Mr Mohsin, Mr Jones, Mr Campbell and I, along with 50 Year 8 and Year 9 students, were all not just one thing, but many things heading off to Frances capital for a science tripthe trip was excellent When people ask me where I come from,all the same. La Goutte dOr (literallyand we all had a great time. I always say that I was born and raised inthe Golden Drop) is the name of a Paris. Truth is that I was born in Paris, grewneighbourhood which in many ways is the up in the suburbs and moved to Paris lateropposite of Montmartre. It is still the face of for university. What I am certain of is thatthe Paris populaire, where so many cultures for most of my life I lived in the vicinity of anand people from all over the world meet incredible and diverse city. The best exampleand coexist every day. I remember coming of that is the neighbourhood where I spentout of the Metro: the sounds, the different close to ten years: the 18th arrondissement.languages, the smells of food. This is my Located to the north of the city, it is homeParis, not just one thing, but many things at to Montmartre and its village which I havethe same time. A place where, if you ever always thought to be one of the mostget the chance to visit, you really need to charming sides of Paris if you are visiting (andbroaden your expectations and be ready to it is not too busy). It is really a place full of art,be surprised at every corner. This is also trueThings I learned from the trip? Mrs culture and history. However, one of my mostif you have lived there a long time. Minhas and I have beautiful singing fond memories was always climbing the hillAnd I can only hope that this is what thevoices, and it was unnecessary of early in the morning with a friend to watchvisitors to the Olympics will feel and that theythe coach driver to tell us to give the sunrise while no one else is there. will want to visit the city again, because it hasit a rest. Mr Jones needs to check Like many things in Paris, there is anotherso much to offer. for cyclists before opening the side side to the arrondissement that I did enjoyMr Diaz entrance to the coach (no one was hurt). And finally, the French just go on strike! We did not get to the science museum on the science trip as it was shut! However, we did have a fantastic trip around the Stade de France instead.Paris is a beautiful city, although navigating students through all the tourists and traders on the Eiffel Tower can be challenging!Mrs DonoghueA special place that showcases Frances cultural and historical heritage As a boisterous youngster, I nearly had to navigate French people often have mixed feelingsPlus, its vibrant art scene and top-notchthe Gare du Nord alone.about Paris and its residents. While they mightdining make it even more appealing. .when I somehow stepped off the train not have the best impression of Parisians, theyOn the flip side, Parisians often get awithout my parents at the tender age still love the city itself. Heres why. bad rap for being rude, impatient andof seven. Parenting was different back Paris is adored for its stunning beauty, richunfriendly. The fast pace of city life, constantthenI did my own thing which caused history and cultural treasures. The city iscomplaints and aggressive driving contributemy mother some bother during this trip home to famous landmarks like the Eiffelto this negative image. People from othertravelling to southern Spain by train for a Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame, whichregions sometimes feel that Paris gets toofamily holiday!fill people with pride and admiration. Itsmuch attention and resources, which canMy only other visit to Paris was nine beautiful architecture and picturesque viewslead to a bit of resentment. years ago when my wife and I saw in make Paris a special place that showcasesDespite these mixed feelings aboutour first wedding anniversary there. Frances cultural and historical heritage. Parisians, the charm and allure of Paris as aWe enjoyed the art, the food and Paris is also a major centre for art, fashionsymbol of French culture, history and beautywandering the streets, seeing the sites and food. The citys museums, theatres andremain strong, earning the citys love fromof this amazing city. We must go againgalleries are world-famous, offering tons ofpeople all over the country. perhaps with my seven-year-old son!cultural experiences that everyone loves.Miss Piepdie Mr Bird9'