Paris

Climbing to the top of the Arc de Triomphe in December is a bit of a challenge. The 284 steps to the summit can be tiring, especially if you’re bundled up in winter clothes. But the view from the top is more than worth it.

As you emerge from the narrow staircase, you’re greeted by a breathtaking panorama of Paris. The Champs-Élysées stretches out before you, a glittering ribbon of light. The Eiffel Tower pierces the sky in the distance, its golden tip twinkling like a giant Christmas ornament. And on either side, the city unfolds in a sea of twinkling lights.

The view from the Arc de Triomphe is not just beautiful; it’s also incredibly moving. It’s a reminder of the history of this grand city, from the Roman Empire to the French Revolution to the modern era. And it’s a reminder of the enduring human spirit, as the city continues to sparkle and thrive despite the challenges it has faced.