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Published: July 15th 2010
Paris, France
At the OECD. Do I want to work there after I finish my MPA? YesMonday, March 22nd we began the day with a program at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The OECD defines itself as a forum of countries committed to democracy and the market economy, providing a setting to compare policy experiences, seeking answers to common problems, identifying good practices and coordinating domestic and international policies (thanks, Wiki). The presenters discussed topics such as social policy and children’s health. It was another unique experience and a very informative presentation…lots of data.
After the AM OECD program Jordan, Megan and I headed to Musee du Louvre. We took the subway and got right in to the famous museum without having to wait in line! The Louvre is of course best known for being the setting of author Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code.” Ha, sorry Zach; I had to. But seriously, The Louvre is TRULY famous for being one of the world's largest museums, the most visited museum in the world and a former royal palace. It is also home of the “big 3”: the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and Winged Victory. We made our way through the museum, admiring both the art and the massive palace. And yes, we
Paris, France
Musee du Louvre did have a few Da Vinci Code moments (see photos). It was a fantastic afternoon and a must see for any of you with plans to visit Paris in the future. Touring it took most of the afternoon but was definitely one of the highlights of the trip!
Monday evening Jordan, Zach and I ended up eating at an Italian restaurant. That’s right; we were in Paris eating at an Italian restaurant owned by a very nice Middle Eastern gentleman. Did I mention that Paris is an international city? Good times had by all and the pizza was fantastic. After dinner we lamented over the fact that we were unable to secure tickets to a show at the Moulin Rouge. Travel tip: if you want to see a show there while in Paris better get tickets WELL in advance as every show sells out WELL in advance. Oh well, definitely next time!
After dinner Zach and I made our way to the Eiffel Tower. My roommate Zach speaks fluent French and at one point even lived in France for a while working as an ESL teacher. Despite this he was nice enough to humor me, guiding us to
Paris, France
The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel outside the Louvre the Eiffel Tower for what was probably the 50th visit in his life. I decided to brave the 2-hour wait to ride the elevator to the summit, Zach taking pictures and telling me how cool the hourly light show is (Youtube it, it’s great!). Once I made it on the elevator I was lucky enough to run into fellow DrakeSMART travelers Zach and Jen E. We rode the elevator up, which was a cool experience by itself. Once at the top we were treated to an open-air view of the lighted city and it was phenomenal! This was an experience I will never forget. Truly one of the best experiences of my life.
After the Eiffel Tower, Zach and I headed back to the hotel as we had another big day ahead of us. Tuesday we would leave the wonderful city of Paris for the beaches of Normandy so we would need our rest. When you are in Paris you think to yourself “why leave, what else in the world could be worth leaving this place for?” While I wouldn’t have traded the days to come for anything I can honestly say that I absolutely love the city of
Paris, France
Musee du Louvre Paris.
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Mom
non-member comment
Hi son
I am just reading this entry. I am so pleased you are continuing this and sharing with all of us who were so excited for you. Also, I haven't remembered to thank you for the post card of the Mona Lisa. Love you, son. Mom