The New French Kiss

Last night was one of the best nights I've had in Paris so far! It began rather early, around 4:00, after my roommates and I sprinted through one of the longest metro station transfers i've ever been in (think walking sidewalks) and nearly missed the famous "Muse Cruise" or boat ride aboard the Seine organized by our fearless leader, Stephen Muse. I was hanging out with some of the French students for a bit while on the cruise while Stephen was pointing out various landmarks. It was a stunningly beautiful day in Paris and there were many people spread out along the banks of the Seine enjoying their picnics and the gorgeous weather. There is a bridge that Stephen showed us that is supposed to be the most romantic spot to travel beneath and you are supposed to kiss when you sail beneath it. However, due to the Swine Flu epidemic, the French government has essentially tried to ban kissing and instead favors the more health friendly "fist bump" or the even more health conscious "elbow bump". I did not enjoy a French kiss beneath the bridge but my friends and I enjoyed quite the romantic elbow bump experience.

Just on that note, in Paris, people make out...everywhere! They also seem to have long, emotional conversations along the sidewalks, oblivious to their surroundings. I am all for a little hand holding and a peck or two..but come on people! Perhaps they put something in the water that seems to make everyone so romantic but so far I have just gotten a little weirded out seeing people practice the art of French kissing to each other with such fervent passion.

Anyways, after the Muse Cruise we headed to an Irish Pub to enjoy some dinner and drinks with all of the international students. Our French Culture Class is composed of international students from all different schools across Paris. Although I will only attend my school with French students, this class and our French class will be held with the international students. We have students from Germany, Lithuania, Austria, Mexico, Spain, and even Iraq. At first we were all very tentative to start mixing with each other but as soon as the food was served and the beer and wine started flowing everyone began to intermingle. In that hot and sweaty basement bar of the restaurant I became friends with people from more countries than I ever have in my life. It was quite the evening! As the night winded down (and the bar tab ran out) it was time to head home to 30 Rue Grueze. Muse closed the night by remarking that this was one of the best groups he has ever had and bid us au revior.