Take Me Back to Paris

Take Me Back to Paris Feature Image

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:

People spending time in the park - take me back to Paris
People spending time in the park

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:

Eating crepes in front of the Eiffel Tower - Take me back to Paris
Eating crepes in front of the Eiffel Tower

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:

Montmartre - Take me back to paris
Montmartre views

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:

Excited about my bag full of Lindt chocolates - take me back to Paris
Excited about my bag full of Lindt chocolates

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!

51 thoughts on “Take Me Back to Paris”

  1. 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 😊

  2. 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!

  3. 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 🙂

  4. 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!

    1. 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!

  5. 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! 🙂

    1. 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!

  6. 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?

    1. 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!

  7. 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 🙂

  8. 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! 🙂

  9. 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!

  10. 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! 🙂

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