Paris Study Abroad 2014: 20th Arrondissement

On the outskirts of Paris lies the 20th district that I had the pleasure of visiting. The 20^th arrondissement is famous for holding the Père Lachaise Cemetery and the famous people that lie within like the musician, Jim Morrison who is buried here. Next to his grave is a tree known as the gum tree that visitors stick their gum on in honor of Mr. Morrison. The cemetery is very big and filled with elaborate gravestones and some seem as if they are little chapels they are so extravagant. Oscar Wilde, the famous writer, is also buried here. At his grave it is known for women to wear bright red lipstick and kiss his gravestone. This is the first cemetery I’ve been in and it seemed a little eerie but very beautiful. Since it is close to the outskirts of Paris this area is a little rundown but there is still much to see. The Paris version of China town is located in this arrondissement as well. Many stores with various meats like pig snouts are in the windows of the shops.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

The graves are tall and elaborate.

The gum tree visitors put their gum on for Jim Morrison.

After visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery I ventured into the Parc de Belleville. This park contains a playground that is unlike any other in the United States. The playground seemed dangerous to me but was perfectly fine for French standards. It doesn't contain the typical American swing set and monkey bars but is more of a climbing gym with small tunnels wrapping around it. The children seemed to be having a good time and the park was a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Parisian city life. Most of the parks in America aren’t as busy as the ones here and going to the park seems to be a more popular activity. The parks are nicer and I appreciate the parks because of the relief it gives.