The Moment: I finally hyped myself up enough to book the ticket. I decided I wasn’t waiting on friends anymore. I was going to Paris as soon as the next cheap flight crossed my screen. I had never been out of the country by myself, but I didn’t factor that into my calculations. After boarding the plane, I was second guessing my decision, but the unlimited mini wine bottles and surprisingly well-seasoned meals relaxed me.

The older couple next to me made small talk when I told them I was going to Paris alone. They seemed intrigued that I didn’t know anyone or speak any French, but they spent much of the flight encouraging me that I had made the right choice. That it’s good to see the world and I would never regret having that adventure in my memory’s museum.

They told me about this grocery store I had never heard of—the Monoprix. They swore it was amazing and a must see, almost like some kind of attraction. Their warmth stuck out to me because it eased the vulnerability and second guessing I was feeling. Their words were all true. And they were right…I went to Monoprix every day that trip. And every trip since then, it’s one of my first stops when I land in my favorite city.