What I learned in Paris

When I went to Paris in May 2019 with my girlfriend, I had a general idea of what to expect. However, I took that expectation with a tiny pinch of salt, and prepared for myself to be blown away by what this exciting city has to offer. Here are seven things you should know about Paris.

1. Paris is insanely touristy- Yes, you may already know this, but every year, thousands of people visit this remarkable city. It is especially crowded during the summer months so if you’re planning on going there, I’d recommend coming in the early to mid-spring, when it isn’t too hot and summery. If you really want to come at a time when the tourist numbers are low, then save your visit for the fall or winter. But regardless, this city is always alive so if you’re looking for a place for peace and quiet and little to no civilization, than Paris is probably not for you.
2. The main attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre- Be sure you absolutely want to visit these kinds of places. Don’t just visit them for the sake of visiting them. If you’re one of those people who goes to the top of the Eiffel Tower just to say, “I went to the top of the Eiffel Tower,” just avoid doing that, trust me. I wanted to go to the top because I love skyscrapers and they fascinate me. But one time is more than enough for me because of the insane lines and crowded spaces all over the tower. The views are spectacular and worth it but you have to be really into that stuff if you want to make the experience memorable. Same thing goes with the Louvre. If you’re into art and museums, you’ll love it. If not, don’t waste your time.
3. The Parisians are super friendly- This was one thing I was curious in figuring out. I was wondering how the Parisians would interact with me and my girlfriend since we’re both American. They were so gracious and lovely and they always helped us out if we needed it. We’d walk around tiny villages and people greeted us with smiles and laughter and it was very warming.
4. Paris subway systems are really great- This is the best and easiest way to get around the city. My girlfriend and I relied heavily on them and they were easy to follow along with. They’re also very cheap as well which is always good.
5. French cuisine and gelato- I’m a picky eater but I will say, I really tried to eat French food and boy am I glad I did. Escargot and frog legs were two of the more interesting dishes I’ve tried and they both exceeded my expectations. They were delicious, as well as the chocolate gelato. Oh man, is that stuff good. I could eat that any day or night of the week. It’s so rich that it’s addicting.
6. Eiffel Tower ladies robbing you- If you’re around the Eiffel Tower or another touristy location, be aware of the women who walk around aimlessly trying to nail tourists for money. They’ll get right in your face and ask if you speak English and then ask for your signature and a payment to, “help them fight for a cause,” which isn’t the case at all. It’s a scam so don’t fall for that. Simply say, “no,” and just walk away. And if they continue to harass and bother you, either tell a security guard nearby or just keep walking, eventually they’ll give up.
7. There’s more to Paris than you think- The best piece of advice that I could give anybody going to Paris for the first time is to really soak up everything around you and not get pulled into the “simple,” things. Really try and immerse yourself within the city and think outside the box to try and make this experience as unique as possible. In other words, reach out to Parisians and try and speak French with them, or visit local areas and just walk around and admire the city, it’s one of the most beautiful in the world.