A Latina in Paris

By Fiorella Torrejon

I was born and raised in Lima, Peru until I was 12 years old which was the age that I came to America. Coming to the US most definitely created a cultural shock in me since life in Lima is very different than here, and also because I came into my adolescent years which gave me the ability to process and understand certain things with more clarity. When we got to France, I immediately felt as if I were back in Lima since, in many places, we also preserve many of the historical architecture. I was very pleased to feel that way even though France is on the other side of the world but still preserves many of the same values I believe in. 

One thing that I was able to notice about the cultural atmosphere in France was how engaging I found the people I encountered.  I am not sure if it was because they knew we were tourists but people felt very comfortable speaking and helping us with directions which I love since I've always heard all the contrary. I enjoyed the french culture very much because as a proud Hispanic, we are known for being very family-oriented and welcoming to the people around us.