When I'm on vacation, there is always a moment when I wonder what it would be like if I never left this beautiful place. As I make comparisons between where I live and where I am visiting, I realize I want to take the best parts of my experience and incorporate them into my life back home.

If you've ever been to Paris, you know it is a particularly difficult place to leave. The architecture, the smell of fresh baguettes, the flower shops on every corner, and all that art! I met a girl at a cafe who came to visit six months ago and decided to stay! While I cannot do that at this time in my life (as tempting as that may be), there are bits of Parisian life that we all could try to integrate into our lives away from La Ville des Lumières. Ooh là là!

1. Have flowers everywhere.

In Paris, it is rare to go an entire block without running into a flower shop. Make your home a petite Paris by saturating it with the most beautiful flowers you can find. Hang flowers from your windows and casually buy flowers to give to someone special on your way home from work today!

2. Go to museums often and appreciate art.

Paris is known for its art and famous museums, so find an art gallery or museum in your hometown and surround yourself in creative thought! Also, do some research so you can drop some names and terminology so that everyone thinks you are le connaisseur!

3. Walk everywhere.

Paris is a very condensed city, so it is easy to get almost anywhere on foot! To act like a Parisian, try to walk everywhere (especially in the rain). Stroll through parks, go the long way and take the stairs. Or, if you're feeling tired... bike!

4. Go to outdoor food markets.

...And buy fresh fruits and vegetables. There are food vendors on every street corner in Paris and food markets in central locations every morning, so it's easy to eat fresh and organic foods. While the food markets back home might not be as easily accessible, seek them out, take advantage of all they have to offer and remember to chat with the vendors about their grandchildren!

5. Eat dinner after 9 PM.

The sun in Paris sets close to 10 PM, allowing you to make the most out of your day. Try eating later at night and staying up into the wee hours of the morning to live like a true Parisian. Don't forget your wine!

6. Wear scarves and always carry an umbrella.

Paris weather is extremely temperamental. It can be 75 degrees and sunny one minute and 60 degrees and raining the next, but with an umbrella and a scarf you can take on anything! Always be prepared for whatever Mother Earth might throw at you, while looking chic (and staying warm) in your scarf.

7. End every meal with a cappuccino (with whole milk) and don't take it to go.

There is something to be said for not being in a rush that the people in Paris have completely figured out. While America is known for fast food and "Running on Dunkin," there is nothing like good coffee in a ceramic cup. If you are really in a rush, down an espresso with a pack of real sugar (no Splenda, please).

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There is an appreciation for life in Paris that easily escapes us in the hustle of our chaotic everyday lives. However, there are countless ways to remind ourselves to slow down and soak up the beauty of the world around us, even beyond those offered above. Buy old books from vendors and dream about their previous owners. Eat macaroons and savor every bite and their rich flavor. By taking these little tips from Parisian life and making them our own, we can have our own joie de vivre whenever we want.

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All Photographs by Rachel Underweiser