Quelques Réflexions sur Paris

Exploring Paris

I would tell anyone who is planning on studying abroad to come to Paris, but to come without expectations. The images we are often presented with in the United States of Paris are that of Paris from long ago, not modern Paris. I think it is best to arrive here expecting nothing, in order to really see Paris. That being said, the program here is not a joke. It is pretty rigorous academically, so be prepared and think about maybe taking 12 or 14 credits instead of 16. That way, you’ll get more time to explore Paris and travel around Europe.

Here, I live in a studio apartment in the 4th arrondisement close to the Marais. I asked specifically to live in this area, because if you don’t you can be placed anywhere. Try to fit your preferences some where on the housing form to be placed appropriately. If I had to recommend an area I would say the 3rd, 4th, 11th, and 18th arrondisements are great choices. They all have pretty large young populations, so they are ideal for study abroad students. Also, I know it is very convenient to find housing through NYU, but having done that, I think finding your own is safer. With NYU you get what you get, so you have more flexibility searching for an apartment before you get here. Plus, the landlords NYU works with elevate their prices a bit because they know it’s your only option.

As for things and places to do, I have a fair bit to recommend.

1. Get Felafel in Paris. DO NOT go to L’As du Felafel, its not as awesome as everyone makes it out to be. Go to Chez Hanna down the block at 54 Rue des Rosiers off the corner of Rue Vieille du Temple. Metro: Saint Paul.

2. When you miss home, go to Breakfast in America, a classic American diner in Paris. I prefer the Marais location at 4 Rue Malher. Metro: Saint Paul.

3. If you want to meet some French hipsters and drink cheap beer, head over to Le Truskel in the 2nd Arrondisement. 12 Rue Feydeau. Metro: Bourse.

4. If your family is in town, get them to take you to a three star Michelin restaurant. My favorite is Taillevent. Lunch is a steal at 80 Euro. 15 Rue Lamennais. Metro: Georges V.

5. Be a tourist and take a ride on Les Vedettes du Pont Neuf at night. I don’t care if it’s cheesy, it’s beautiful.

6. Tuesday night is Ladies Night at the Long Hop, a British bar in the 5th. It’s a no frills, laid back atmosphere with super nice bartenders. 25 Rue Frédéric Sauton. Metro: Maubert Mutualité.

7. Go to a bakery that sells a bread called “La Parisse.” It will change your life.

8. Go to La Défense and see a different side of Paris.

Paris has so much to offer. My list could go on and on. Luckily, I will be in Paris for another semester, so for those of you coming in the spring feel free to ask me any questions! And for those of you who are thinking about coming to Paris for the weekend, you should. Everyone should come to Paris at least once in their lives, so why not now?

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