Experience in Paris, France by Astha

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

Paris is beautiful! It is always full of hustle bustle, always lit up, it is like the city that never sleeps. Living in Paris would be an experience that can never be matched. It is a big city, full of options for living, shopping, eating out, eating in, etcetera. But of course with such a big and touristy city you have to remember that crime rates (usually stealing and pickpocketing) are quite high. Also if any strike or government related thing happens, it affects the entire city since it is harder to control such a big population.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

Paris is full of students! Accommodation options are galore, you can get shared rooms for cheap and private rooms/studios for more expensive monthly rents. Each neighbourhood has a great nightlife, and there are cafes like in the Bastille area that cater to a younger, student crowd, offering great night outs at student affordable prices. During the day on a holiday, Paris has so many nooks and corners which have their own identity that you can keep roaming around (with a coffee/ice cream in your hand), not spend so much, and still have an exciting day.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

I don't know the exact range as personally, I have not lived as a student in Paris, but I do know friends living there, who were paying 600 euros for a private bedroom in a shared apartment, and have now shifted to a one bedroom whose rent is 1500 euros per month. The rent really depends on the location in the city, as well as your negotiation skills (which is possible with some landlords!)

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

As I said, I have not lived in Paris as a student, but finding accommodation in a populated city like Paris is definitely tough. You always have to be on the lookout, and keep talking to friends and classmates who can help you in finding a good, affordable place. And then when you do, remember to try negotiating as some landlords do engage in that.

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

I personally love French cuisine! My favorite dish is definitely foie gras (for those fancy night outs) but I do love the egg, ham and cheese crepes, as well as the nutella ones that you get on the corner of Champs Elysees or in front of the Eiffel Tower. Because Paris is such a touristy city, you have a variety of options when it comes to cuisine. I especially loved tacos from O'Tacos, which were just a burrito wrapped heaven of cheese and chicken. A must try for all the junk lovers like me!

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

There are obviously the main attractions - Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral (which is closed for renovations after the fire in 2019), Musee du Louvre, Place de la Concorde, Montmartre, the Opera House, etcetera. I would also recommend roaming around the Rue de Rivoli (one of the fanciest streets!), and sitting next to the Seine river just before the Notre Dame cathedral (there are small steps that go down from the main road). The Pompidou Centre is not to be missed (it is another architectural marvel), and if you have time do visit the Palace of Versailles (it is a 90 minute train ride from main Paris).

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

Yes, of course! When I visited Paris I was staying at a friend's place so we did not eat out much, just went out for drinks and then we ordered/made Indian food (it was a homely reunion). But I did like O'Tacos and literally all the bakeries!

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

You have so many options for nightlife in Paris. For fancy night outs there are really good clubs whose entry starts from 15-20 euros and can go up to 50-60 euros (this is without the table). Else for an affordable night out, maybe for drinks with friends, you can go to the Bastille area - there are a lot of bars, cafes and lounges! I visited one bar in the area near the Les Halles metro station - there is a big mall/commercial center there, and there are a lot of nice bars and cafes in the area surrounding the center. Some are open till early hours of the morning as well.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Paris is really a dream city, which you can never get bored of. If you are lucky enough to call Paris your home for even a short time, make the most of it as the city has hidden gems everywhere! It is a little pricey (especially around the tourist attractions) so make the most of exploring on foot - you will find the best areas that way as well. Just be safe with your belongings, and make the most of this experience- the one a million people would kill for!

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