A Paisley Perspective of Paris

What is it like to live in Paris? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Coming from a small town in Scotland called Paisley to one of the most visited cities in the world has been a whirlwind for me. The volume and diversity of people really attracted me to Paris and if you're looking for a beautiful yet fast-paced lifestyle I would recommend the city. Also, trains having two floors and meals having three courses? I could get used to that.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Paris? Is there any advice you can give?

Real estate in Paris can be ferocious, but c'est la vie. If you act fast enough and are in the right place at the right time you can find yourself a great studio/room share for a very reasonable price. I found my room mate via Facebook group 'Housing in Paris' shortly after posting a paragraph about myself and the living arrangement I wanted, and am now living 2 minutes from Notre Dame! Just put yourself out there!

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Don't knock em till you try them folks. Snails. Are. Delicious.

Is it good to eat out in Paris? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Ok, although living in France, I am still a massive fan of Chinese food. So I would recommend Mirama in the 5th arrondissement. Their duck cantonese is phenomenal.

Is the nightlife good in Paris? Where is good to go?

As Paris nightlife can be notoriously expensive, it's all about the pre-drink game. Take 10 friends, mix together in a 10m squared chambre de bonne, add cheap beer from Monoprix, and voila! The perfect recipe for going to a great club in central Paris on the cheap. Tip: find clubs with free entry and open till late to save more money and allow more time for pre-drinks. Also, stick to 'studenty' areas where happy hours are frequent and reasonable.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Make an effort to learn the language and submerge yourself fully in the Parisian experience. Don't always talk to people of the same nationality, put yourself out there and even further from your comfort zone. Paris is a wonderful city where you can meet people on an international level like no other.