Experience in Paris, France by Atena

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

I came in Paris for doing my Erasmus , I feel like I am in love with the city, Even with the Covid situation you can enjoy its outdoor entertainment for every activity that you like there are bunch of people to do and help you ,there are some applications to meet up with them. For example I like skating , photography ,yoga and biking there are always some people around the place(parks) that you are living to doing these activities and you can join them and comunicate with them. In general it's a very multi cultural city and you can meet people from around the world.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

I think as it a big and expensive city, as a student without your parents support it is better to have a part time job. If you would like to enjoy its food cinemas and museums...
However in general if you are a sociable person you can easily find friends, there are many foreigner students also in my point of experience French people/students are very open and welcoming to foreigners.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

In my view the cost of food and clothing is almost the same as all big European cities, only the cost of apartment rent and transporting is much higher than other cities ,which in any case you can easily bike if you are a sportive person and you can go for living outside the Grand Paris which costs less.

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

To my personal experience it was easy even though I catch it in my very last moments.
There are lots of student residence as well.
If you apply from 3 or more months in advance you can find your ideal place.
But it is Paris and costs.

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

Since I came here the restaurant are close because of covid situation, I only tried French Crep which I liked it.
You can try it as a snack while walking near the Eiffel Tower there are bunch of street foods van.

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

Except Eiffel Tower and Louvre museums which are already well known around the World.
I highly recommend to visit the basilica of Sacre-coeur which /I didn't know before coming to Paris, you have a great panorama to Paris and There is a very beautiful Parc nearby.

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

Honestly Because of covid I have not tried eating in a restaurant yet.
However when I go out I will always take away some snacks or Ice creams.
To my experience I've got the best of them in the cafeterias near chatelet les halles.

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

Its nightlight is great even with covid restrictions(coupe feu). However, you can realise that it is a very alive city and people have lots of entertainment even at night. Everyone is out , some groups are singing or dancing , some are doing sports .
Some people are biking , some are running.
And without covid you can find many bars open till midnight Or later to welcome people to chatting, laughing, singing and dancing.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

If you are going to live in Paris, be well prepared for the French language.
You can make it easier in any aspect of your life, finding friends, having a tour around the city and etc..
Also think about your spendings and calculate your budget and compare to costing in Paris.