Before I arrived in Lyon, I had my fair share of reservations about spending my study abroad term there. I was convinced that Lyon lacked the allure of the great European capitals; after all, it was a city I had never heard of before I filled out my application. Now, when I find myself traveling to destinations where tourists flock in droves, I miss Lyon’s quite serenity.
My favorite place in Lyon is the riverside park that I pass by on my way home from the university everyday. Couples canoodle on lounge chairs lining the river, and friends idly sip on cocktails in nearby café’s. As a New Yorker, the slower pace of living was initially a shock for me, but I have grown to appreciate it.
I learned quickly that as tranquil as Lyon seems during the daytime, it is a bustling, modern metropolis. The cultural opportunities in Lyon are endless. The city’s many museums explain its historical appeal. Lyon is not only famed for its rich Roman heritage, but also as the home of the beautiful Basilique de Fourvière (dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who, according to legend, saved the city from a plague in the 17th century) and as the center of the French Resistance movement.
Some of my friends made the bold assertion that if they were ever lucky enough to move to France, they would enjoy their 20s in Paris, but move to Lyon to raise a family later on. Intimidated by Paris’ seemingly unconquerable size and the hordes of tourists, I would relocate permanently to Lyon given the choice.
Lyon has the three qualities I look for in a city: great museums and restaurants, a plethora of shopping opportunities, and fantastic nightlife. Lyon is a shopper’s paradise; one central boulevard, Rue de la République, is closed off too cars to accommodate the throngs of designer-label loving shoppers.
The gastronomic offerings in Lyon are said to be the best in France. Bouchons serve delicious, traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, including praline tarts (my favorite!).
In terms of nightlife, Lyonnaise college students enjoy a large selection of bars and clubs on boats. Traversed by two rivers, Lyon centers its party scene along the beautiful, illuminated waterfront.
The best part are the Lyonnaise, themselves! All of the friends I have made here are incredibly nice. They eagerly show me around Lyon, and help me with my French. Saying “au revoir” to them and their beautiful city will be the hardest part about going back home.