Several years ago, I was introduced to my favorite city and I immediately fell in love. Here’s proof! I was immersed in a completely different world of sounds, sights, and tastes. I didn’t ever want to leave. Honestly, I texted my parents and let them know that I planned to move to Paris.
Even on cloudy days, Paris still impresses me. Sure, I love the city for all the cliche reasons you can think of, but for other simpler reasons as well. I love listening to the rise and fall of the French language. I love seeing people sitting at outdoor cafes, enjoying each other’s company and a cup of coffee. I love how easy it is to get around the city. I love how fresh and amazing the food tastes. I love the way I feel when I’m in Paris. Although I’ve visited this amazing city three times, I’m always stating, take me back to Paris!
I honestly can never get tired sharing my experiences in Paris. I’ve done the super touristy things like the Eiffel Tower, the Catacombs, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and Sacre Coeur. And you can read all about that here! But for me, Paris is so much more than that.
“Just add three letters to Paris, and you have Paradise.” -Jules Renard
the people:
Whenever people talk about visiting France, one of their main concerns is interacting with “those rude French people”. Of the three times that I’ve been to France, I have yet to find evidence that strongly supports this sweeping generalization. This could be for various reasons, but I’ll share some tips if you’re nervous about meeting the French:
- Speak French. No matter how hilariously bad you think you are, just attempt. People will appreciate the effort, and that effort goes a long way. You’ll be more readily helped than if you assume or demand they speak English.
- Be aware of your surroundings. No matter what city you’re in, no one likes it when you all of a sudden just stop walking in the middle of the sidewalk because you’re lost and you need to look at your map. Move to the side, with your back against a wall, and make sure you’re in no one’s way.
- Stay away from taboo topics. What is considered taboo differs from country to country and culture to culture, so it really is the responsibility of the traveller to know. For France, try to stay away from talking about money/salary and politics.
Just remember, you find rude people everywhere. Go with a positive attitude and an open mind, and I’m sure you’ll find people are more willing to talk to you and help you out!
The Food:
The food is simply scrumptious. Everything is so fresh and so delicious – whether I was grabbing something from one of the street carts, or sitting down at a nice restaurant. Part of the Parisian experience is definitely immersing oneself in the various culinary delicacies the city has to offer. Of course you have to try the escargots, the crepes, and the macarons. Order things you wouldn’t normally try at home. Who knows?! You may be pleasantly surprised and discover your new favorite dish!
“Breathe Paris in. It nourishes the soul.” -Victor Hugo
the atmosphere:
Paris has a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ that keeps drawing people from all around the world to the city. It has a certain dynamic that is hard to explain. Even though Paris has the hustle and bustle of any major city, it also has a laid back vibe. You can choose which flow you’re feeling on which days. Some days I like to sit back and watch the liveliness of the city; other times, I like to jump right in and be a part of the excitement! Either way, I have the option to choose, and that greatly appeals to my introverted personality!
take me back:
Personally, I believe that words and pictures don’t do the city justice. You’ll just have to go and visit one day to see if the city is for you! Maybe after you visit, you’ll be like me and you’ll start saying, “Take me back to Paris!”
“Paris is always a good idea.” -Audrey Hepburn
Have you been to Paris before? What was your experience like? If you haven’t been to Paris yet, what are your impressions of the city? Let me know in the comments!
France is so far the only place that I’ve been abroad and it has inspired my dream of traveling! Paris was amazing and I totally agree pictures can’t do it justice… it’s the feeling that you get while you’re there! Great post 😊
Ah yes! Someone who understands exactly what I’m trying to say. It’s definitely inspired my love for travelling as well! And thank you 🙂
I have always wanted to go to Paris, and now I want to go even more!! Wonderful post <3
xoxo Paige
thefrontpaige.co
Thank you! I hope you’re able to visit one day! It’s truly a beautiful city 🙂
Yes, take ME back to Paris too! It’s such a beautifully historic place. And the food is to die for!
I could not agree with you more!
Awww I want to visit Paris so badly, I’m obsessed with Audrey Hepburn so the city it’s always been on my bucket list! Your photos look amazing!
Thank you so much! I hope you’ll be able to visit one day – I think you would absolutely love it!
Oh I’d love to spend some time in Paris! Sounds like you had a fabulous time!
Oh, I always have a great time in Paris 😍. I hope one day you’ll be able to see what I’m talking about!
I just went to Paris for the first time last month, but we were only there for 48 hours. Not nearly enough time! We didn’t encounter that “rude French” attitude. The people we met and spoke to were quite lovely. But I think, like you, I’m going to have to go back for multiple visits 🙂
Yes, love it! 48 hours is such a teaser, it’s like you HAVE to go back. Haha that’s my opinion anyway 🙂
Lol..true, it is always a great idea. I am yet to tick it off though! Lovely pics.
Thank you!
I have not yet been to Paris and know I need to! Good to hear that the French rumors aren’t true. That was one thing I was worried about. I love visiting cities where the people are friendly because that makes a huge difference!
I agree with you – it definitely makes a huge difference. I think a lot of people go in with the mindset of expecting rude people, so that’s what they get. But, if you go in with a different mindset and try to speak a little French, it makes all the difference!
Nice post! I’ve never been to Paris even though it is only like a 4 hour train ride away. I never really felt like I wanted to go there. You really seem to love it though, maybe I should give it a chance one day and visit Paris. And loving those pictures! 🙂
Thank you!! And 4 hours away?! Oh my gosh. I would be visiting at least one a month! I would recommend giving Paris a chance…who knows? You might fall in love with the city!
Omg Larissa! I’m traveling to Paris next week and now I’m more excited after reading your post. It does have this romantic, mysterious charm to it. Any patisseries you recommend?
Ah, that’s so exciting! Safe travels and have fun! There’s so much to do and experience and see. I don’t have any specific patisseries in mind right now, but do grab a crêpe from one of the street carts. They are truly the best, and it’s made right in front of you!
oh this looks like fun! i hope to go one day! thanks for sharing your insights about certain topics to avoid there, too, so helpful 🙂
I hope you’re able to go one day as well! Thanks for taking the time to read 🙂
Paris was the first city I visited alone and international and so it had a special place for me. I fell in love with Paris too and honestly I didn’t find people that rude. Glad I had a nice experience!! These tips are wonderful, will be useful for my next trip 🙂
I’m so glad you find these tips helpful, and I’m also glad you had a positive experience! Safe travels on your next trip – wherever you may be going!
Paris is one of my most favorite cities in the world! Can’t wait to go back again soon!!
You and me both 🙂
Admittedly I didn’t love Paris when I visited. I don’t know if it was a result of the rain, or the time of year or what. However, I want to go back and give it a second chance!
I’m glad you’re willing to go back and give it another chance! I’m the same way about London.
Paris looks like a dream (: its one of my most wanted places to visit (:
Paris is a dream 🙂 I hope you’re able to visit one day!
I really want to visit Paris again because I didn’t care for it the first time around. I want to give it another chance to see why everyone loves it so much! 🙂
Oh no!! I’m sorry to hear you didn’t have a great time the first time, but so happy to hear you’re willing to give the city a second chance!
I love Paris but haven’t been in a whole year. I need to plan a trip soon!!
I need to plan a trip soon as well!
The best sweets I’ve ever had were in Paris, but it was the worst trip I’ve ever been to. Hope to give it another try soon!
Ahhh noooo! Hopefully the second time around will be a lot better than your first trip there!
Wow. Love your blog. Really detailed and informative. Superb photographs too. Keep it up :1
Thank you so much! That means a lot 🙂
I’ve yet to travel to France but its definitely on my list. I agree, with your travel tips! In every country I’ve visited has always been appreciated to TRY to speak their language!
I love France! And yes, the attempt is usually appreciated. And what fun is it travelling around the world to only speak the language you already know?!
Sounds like a beautiful place to be! I would love to visit France someday.
It’s such a beautiful place to be! I hope you’re able to see for yourself in person one day 🙂
Loved this. Paris is definitely my kind of city. From the food to the architecture, what isn’t there to miss about this place.
Thank you! And yes, you are speaking my language 😍
Loved this post! I’ve always wanted to go to Paris. So you gave a lot of wonderful tips for when I decide to travel there!
Thank you so much! I hope they are useful when you go 🙂 and safe travels!
This looks so much fun. Paris is on my bucket list and I hope to make it there one day! I always hear such amazing things!
I hope you make it there as well! Definitely something to experience at least once in your life 🙂
I have never been but I would like to go one day.
Oh, I am so with you, Larissa! I love Paris and want to go back, too! My husband has promised me a trip back if I can get healthy enough to travel again! Who knows? Maybe you and I will run into one another in front of the Eiffel Tower! 🙂
Yes, I love it! Wishing you a speedy recovery and hopefully we will one day run into each other in Paris!