My experience visiting the city of lights - Paris.
They say the French are some of the most unfriendly people in the world. I found that statement to be such a blanket one - since I’m such a “give me context” learner. However, after visiting France, well the city of Paris, I can see how most see the statement of the French being unfriendly can be subjectively true.
The People
I’ve visited Paris three times and each time, I’ve observed that the French in and around the city can be both friendly and unfriendly. The varying factor is upon knowing where in France, they originated from. I found French people from the rural areas to be friendly and inviting people. Even your attempts at the language isn’t judged but encouraged ( Forgive me if “rural” isn’t befitting to describe its geography). Surprisingly, I found Paris to be a very diverse cultural pot. The influence of its multicultural makeup, has evidently helped to shift its unfriendly nature a bit.
I find it incredibly ignorant to see the world through a single lens - given that we’re in 2024 - where so much is at our finger tips in a social media driven and technological age, where we see varying cultures are being shared. Unfortunately single stories being told and taught to others continues to plague the world today. I do think the unfriendly are driven by the danger in having a single story of an ethnic group, in particular black and brown POC.
On a more positive note.
I loved the city of Paris. Its beauty that awakens at night is magnificent, and rings true to it being coined as ‘the city of lights’. The simple reminders it offers, through the culture of the people, Is delicate in its presentation. What may seem as luxury for most - to just sit during a work day at a coffee shop, is something seemingly prioritized by the people. Their work life balance is interesting and refreshing to see.
Architecture
The archeological culture of this country is so rich, so profound and often times immensely sad. Every monument is so life like. Its castles, churches, its operas, basically, every piece of art available to be viewed, all carry this dream like presence of such intricate, and delicate displays of art. The restoration and care of these beautiful architectural sites is magnificent to see, whilst in their presence. I have gained a new perspective and appreciation for art and it’s preservation.
Literature
The preservation of literature in France isn’t talked about enough. It seems like in most modern cities, books stores are becoming extent. In and around Paris, I was greeted with books in all their pages of wonder and delight. My love for literature was renewed whilst in Paris. I visited Shakespeare and Company and coped a copy of “As you like it” - the book stores in Galerie Vivienne, the Abbey book shop where I also picked up a copy of “The Scarlet letter” I told you I love literature didn’t I? I stopped at every book stand along the seine river. It was such a humbling moment to see such a heavy reading/book culture in France. I loved every minute of it.
Final Thoughts
I do think how you view yourself and the world also impacts your experience. I tend to observe the body language of the people, and in part I adjust my own accordingly. Some countries we visit for the love of the aesthetic appeal, the cultural influence, a country’s historical landmarks and some for the charisma of its people. It is important to identify what your interests are before doing so. I think Paris is one that has a single gratifying factor to some and for others there’s more. From experience I’d say it is better to be surprised, than to go there with high expectations to be greeted by a city of welcoming people. So, go to Paris if you’re a lover of arts, literature, French culture, cafe aesthetics, croissants and macarons - I promise you through those lens, you will fall in love, like I did.
My Tips
Best time to visit Paris - if you don’t mind the cold, during the holidays, it’s magically nostalgic.
Eat every croissant.
Visit each landmark as early as you can.
Go to the not so popular dinning places.
Wear walking shoes.
It’s Macarons. Macaroons is a different but equally delicious pastry.
Emily in Paris is a glorified representation of Paris - however you can create your own version through your own lens.
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