This week’s podcast features writer and social media star Anna Kloots, who was last on the podcast in 2020, and we’re discussing the mistakes people make when they visit Paris. There’s no reason not to have the time of your life here, so if you’re someone who’s had a bad time in the city, this one’s for you particularly. With fifteen years of Paris knowledge between Anna and myself, this was the perfect opportunity to share our five tips on what not to do, to ensure your next trip is unforgettable, for all the right reasons.
The podcast episode
The episode was recorded on-the-go through the streets of the 10th arrondissement. The video is above (and please make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel for more). Listen to the podcast below, or wherever you get your podcasts, and, at the end, you’ll hear a quick chat about pastries with Bertrand from My Private Paris.
1) Don’t (always) take the métro
Of course, the Paris métro is practical, but don’t allow it to become your default method of travelling around the city. Never underestimate how small Paris is, certainly compared to other European capitals, which means it’s really walkable. Not only that, the métro can, in places, be quite dirty and a hot spot for pickpockets. So, if you have the time and physical capacity to walk, it’s the most perfect, picturesque and, quite frankly, Parisian way to get around.
2) Don’t go to the viral places
Just because you see it on the internet, doesn’t mean it’s true. When researching recommended places to visit, do a bit of research around who has put the list together and, if they don’t live here or haven’t even visited, think twice about following their advice. Time is the most valuable thing you have when you’re making a quick trip, so don’t waste your time standing in line for a restaurant or experience because Instagram told you it’s unmissable. Figure out what your priorities are and do those, instead of following a list made by someone on TikTok.
3) Don’t talk to strangers
To be blunt, Parisians do not speak to strangers. That’s not to say they aren’t friendly, but it’s unusual for a stranger in Paris to approach and engage you in conversation. So, if that happens, it’s pretty likely that you are being marked out as a tourist and primed to be scammed. Feel free to chat to your waiter or the assistant at the boulangerie, but if a stranger tries to strike up a conversation with you or presents you with a petition to sign or attempts to put a bracelet on your wrist, keep your guard up and stay safe.
4) Don’t expect it to be like home
Prepare yourself for a change of scenery, cuisine and culture. Don’t expect the customs or the people to be the same as at home. Life is different in Paris and to avoid an unpleasant culture shock, why not brush up a little on the accepted etiquette and how it differs from what you’re used to? It’ll make your trip so much more enjoyable.
5) Don’t rush
Don’t tackle life in Paris in a rush. There’s a lot of pleasure to be found in enjoying a long lunch or a slow walk, so indulge in the luxury of time here. Understandably, if you’re only visiting for a few days, you’ll want to accomplish a lot. But it’s important to remember that time works differently in France and adapting (as well as planning accordingly) will make for a better experience overall.
Bonus 6) Don’t listen to other people’s opinions…even ours
The biggest mistake you can make is listening to someone else’s opinion and planning your trip around other people’s interests. Make your visit yours, following your own passions. Prepare to a certain extent, but leave room for error and accept whatever fate decides for you. It might just turn out to be magical.
That’s it for this week folks. Take note of these pitfalls and try your best to avoid them. Find Anna on Instagram and check out her writing on Substack and her guides here.
This season of The Earful Tower is brought to you by the award-winning travel company My Private Paris, which specializes in tours in Paris, day trips outside Paris, and travel itineraries. See what they offer here.
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