This word, derived from flaneur in French, is used to describe leisure, curiosity and attention. www.flaneurlife.com The word flaneur describes a person who is absorbed by urban life and wanders through the streets of a city with an open mind. This idea from the 19th century Parisian period has now transcended into a global symbol for urban adventure.
The flaneur is a street-connoisseur who finds beauty and poetry in everyday life, as well as narratives in hidden city murmurs. It is this person that enjoys, not only the bustle of a city, but also spends time watching, pondering, and absorbing it. Flaneurs enjoy the vibrancy of city life, but also take time to observe and contemplate.
Flanerie is a form of art that celebrates observation and slowness. It also makes the ordinary extraordinary. The art is to surrender yourself to the rhythms of the city and let it control your senses. It's about enjoying the unexpected. The technique creates a stronger connection to the surrounding environment. It generates a feeling of belonging, and knowledge that goes beyond mere physical presence.
Modern flaneurs travel outside Paris' ancient boulevards. Flanerie has become accepted everywhere, whether it's in Tokyo's neon streets or Rome's medieval alleyways. The key to being a flaneur, however, is how you relate with the city and not where you reside. It is a great way to get in touch with your world.
Tech has enhanced flaneur experiences. Digital cameras and cellphones allow travelers of today to share their experiences with an international audience. But true flanerie comes from the ability to turn off the screens and look at the world.
The flaneur is a symbol of the vibrancy and complexity of a city. In their explorations, the flaneurs discover urban culture, history and interaction between people. This journey is about self-discovery as well as city exploration. Each walk tells the story of the traveler, the city and their streets.
Being a flaneur opens one up to unlimited possibilities. This encourages people to take their time, appreciate every moment and find magic even in the midst of urban noise. The flaneur reminds that journey is destination, and wandering with purpose can teach us many things.