London: culture capital of Europe

[meridannight]

I respectfully disagree. Paris is the cultural capital in Europe, in my opinion.

I think London ranks so high among the American tourists for the simple reason of English language. They can go to the theater, concerts, museums there, and everything is in English. Whereas in Paris, understanding of French is critical for the same activities. You can't even buy books in Paris, unless you speak French. (And those booksellers on the quai on the Seine are one of the reasons to visit the city. They have many precious gems to offer). And, let's be honest, Americans have a terrible reputation for speaking foreign languages or even wanting to speak them.

In Paris, everything seems associated with culture. From the physical surroundings and landmarks, to the way people dress, to the food sold in the corner shop, to the weather and small moments of life you're having which reflect back on lines you read in Proust, or Guibert, (or some other author): you're thoroughly immersed in culture every breath and moment of your time there. That is one of the things so amazing about Paris.

I'm sure London has its charms, but I am more closely connected to Paris.