Almost everyone lives 'outside of Paris'

The City of Light, the capital of France, occupies an area of approximately 33.6 square miles (86.92 square kilometers). An article in a publication in 2009 quoted a writer who said he was born "outside of Paris."

He later confessed it was New York City. His response indicates liberties have definitely been taken with the use of those three words.

The phrase evokes a certain feeling. And truthfully, "Outside of Paris" encompasses the rest of the world. We join thousands, maybe millions, who find the phrase as intriguing, romantic and as adventuresome as a Humphrey Bogart/Ingrid Bergman movie.

We have visited Paris and thoroughly enjoyed the stay. Lifetime residents of the USA, we shamelessly claim we live "outside of Paris."