It’s no surprise, Paris, the city of light draws people to explore its cobblestone streets from all over the world. “Every time that one emerges from the Gare du Nord or the Gare St. Lazare for the first or the hundredth time, one is taken afresh by the vivid activity of it all – the bustling people, the scent of the corner Boulangerie, for Paris never changes. ”But how does one experience this, time after time? What happens when you have seen the Eiffel tower at night and peered over the marvelous ledge of Montmartre? Fear of missing out” — more commonly known as FOMO — is a normal and real feeling when you are traveling abroad. We are here to break down how you can avoid these feelings while exploring the Paris region and how to acquire French immersion 101 like a true Parisian.
Put Down Your Phone
Don’t just capture how French accomplish this certain “Art de Vivre” and to be present and live it. Yes, France can be a certain sensory overload with it’s beauty and charm but it’s important to allow yourself to be present. Really soak in the way of life and lifestyles of the locals. Take photos but remember to take mental snapshots of this beautiful corner of the world. One example is how the French love discussing and savoring moments while at a café. If you notice, WIFI is not of plenty (you have to ask) and laptops and phones are rarely spotted. Instead, try opting for a good book or people watch. Most café chairs are positioned perfectly to watch the street passerby. We promise, the posts on your newsfeed will not go anywhere but the moments spent on your phone will. Slow down and enjoy the moment.
Escape the Tourist Trap
Paris is known for its wonderful cafés museums, parks, and of course the grand tour Eiffel. While all of these are great, we encourage you to get outside of your comfort zone and take a step off of the beaten path. Do your research of where the locals go. Absorb the region like a French person instead? Repetition of local is not good.
There are a ton of resources out there of interesting and local restaurants, shopping, exhibitions and more. It helps to work with a travel guide to really uncover these unique destinations such as Chantilly, Auvers Sur Oise, or small group offerings if you are traveling solo or with a small circle of friends like with France With Friends.
Adapt the Lifestyle
While visiting France, try to do as the Parisians would do. Try the food, try the wine, try on the lifestyle. Don’t just observe, try to take a walk in their shoes (Remember to wear comfortable shoes, the French do walk a lot),While no one can really ever figure out the certain “Je Ne Sais Quoi” style of fashion, cuisine and art of living that all Parisians have in common, you can at least try to immerse yourself as deeply in the culture as possible. You never know how extraordinary it could be or what new experiences await, if you don’t try.
Learn Key Phrases
While most French people speak English, it is important to know a few key phases as a go-to if you are traveling outside of the “tourist zones”. There are numerous travel opportunities outside of the city of Paris for an easy day trip that may or may not be filled with French native speakers. We highly encourage that you learn your basics to cut down on any stress and enjoy your travels to the max. Duolingo is a great way to jumpstart your basics.
Don’t Fall in Love
Last but not least, don’t fall in love. For all of the tips we can offer, this is the most important one. Don’t fall in love with the vin rouge or the French cuisine that is like something you may have never tasted before. Don’t fall in love with new adventure or discovery. Don’t fall in love with the landscapes, the language or the smell of the markets. It might just change your perspective and life forever, and you certainly wouldn’t want that. Are you ready to take your French Immersion to the next level? We welcome you to join us for our 10 day workshop program in the heart of the Parisian countryside for the ultimate French Immersion. Visit our website to learn more and sign up for our next trip with your Parisian host, Amelie de Gaulle. Bon Voyage!