Paris definitely has it’s own identity. The atmosphere of the city is truly what sparks my love for the place. The culture, people and sites are what make this place a must-see when traveling in Europe.
I’ll start off by saying that the American stereotype of the French is completely wrong. We seem to believe that the French are stand-offish, hate Americans and choose not to speak English to you even if they know the language. The French people are like any other: they are proud of their language and it’s obviously their preferred choice, but they are kind and willing to help out anyone who asks. We must have went up to a dozen locals and almost all of them spoke English and were extremely kind in helping us. When they would ask where we all came from and I told them that I am American, there were no dirty looks, rude remarks or discontinuation of help.
What I’d imagine they don’t like is encountering their “stereotype” of Americans, which may be that we are loud, don’t try to experience the culture and only use English with the expectation that everyone should speak our language. I’ll tell you how to avoid being the stereotype: learn some basic phrases in the native language and approach them that way and finish a conversation in their tongue so they know you are trying. I didn’t know a lick of French before going but while I was there I just picked up on words from the French people that I encountered and eventually started every conversation with Bonjour (good day) and ended it with Merci (Thank you). I even would ask for the bathroom in French knowing that even if I couldn’t understand, they would point to me in the direction.
Although the main sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Triumph Arc are amazing sites to see, it’s great to also go where the locals go and do as the locals do. There is an area called “Latin’s Quarter” where all the young people hang out and live music is. It’s located just south of the Notre Dame and you’ll mingle with all the locals. Do as the locals do, save money. Instead of taking the taxi home after a night out, try taking the night bus (it’s pretty safe, promise!). It was only 2 euros and those who regularly take the bus helped us figure out which line dropped us off closest to our hotel.
Have an experience that is different than any average tourist.
My most favorite part of my entire time there was at the Sacred Heart Basilica. Although it is a tourist spot by day, it truly becomes a magical haven by night. When I was taking pictures on the first platform of the Eiffel Tower, a French guy pointed at the church in the far distance and told me it was best to go at sunset and that the view was stunning. So I did as he said and waited until nightfall to go. The tour of the inside was closed but that was alright because just sitting on the steps of the Basilica for 45 minutes was beautiful enough for me. Not only was the building itself gorgeous lit up in the night, but the view is also breath taking. You have to walk up so many stairs to get to it since it’s up on the top of a hill. The front steps overlook the entire skyline of Paris and there was also a French man there who was singing American classic R&B songs that set the mood. I’ll never forget him singing “Best Days of my Life” by American Authors and thinking… these truly are the best days of my entire life and I want to cherish every second of it.
I was able to enjoy some self reflection and look out at the beautiful city of love that I so very easily fell in love with.
Adventures With Erica 