Experience in Paris, France by Jasmine

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

First time I moved to Paris was back in 2013, and I instantly fell in love. In love, with the architecture, the famous gray sky and the dirty streets. It has history and romance and so much details to it - let yourself get lost while wandering the beautiful streets, you'll find so much new things!
Living in Paris, ah, either you absolutely hate it or you love it, it's always either one of those two! I feel like the parisian attitude has somewhat been pictured the wrong way. I find parisians very friendly actually. I remember walking down Rue de Seine, a very famous and rich street. I walked across an old woman who met me with a big smile and a "Bonjour!". The fact that some french people don't speak english is not a rumor, however.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

I think the student life is quite good, depending on what you like to do. There are a lot of activities around the city... Gigs, cultural events, exhibitions, you name it! Just look for them, they are really everywhere.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

It is quite pricy to live in Paris. To find and rent an apartment, or a room for a good price within the city is quite hard. It also really depends on the neighborhood you're in, of course. To rent something a bit outside is easier, cheaper and actually a good idea..

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

Yes, I really think it is. So many people, travelers, workers, students are coming from all over the world to live here for a while. Rooms get packed fast, and sometimes you will have to move out several times (because of short-stay contracts)
Have in mind that most people leave during January, June & September. It might get you an insight of as when it will be a bit easier to find somewhere to stay!

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

The french cuisine... It's amazing! I love the food culture here. Also the famous, creamy desserts!
Tartar, duck, rabbit in gorgonzola... I could go on and on.
Pay a visit to the different markets around Paris, they make a "gourmandise" just like myself very, very happy.

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

Place des Vosges is probably my favorite park in Paris, other than jardin du luxembourg of course. Sitting there having fun with good friends, or why not alone with a book? I find parisians being utterly open when it comes to enjoying your own company. You can even sit totally alone in a restaurant without anyone judging you!
I don't really like the touristic places full of people, so I try to find secret passages and such. Look for them online!
I really also enjoyed my first time randomly finding Promenade Plantée, it's really creative and great for romantic little walks.

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

French cuisine... can it get any better? There are a lot of restaurants in the 6th, around Saint-Germain-des-Prés. You have café Le Pre that is opened very late. They serve great tartar. Just continue down Rue de Seine and you'll find a lot of nice hidden places to eat good food.
I would also definitely recommend Hanoï, a vietnamese restaurant located in the famous Marais area. They have a very good meny, and their Bo Bun is something I would recommend you trying! Walking down this street you'll find a handful of nice restaurants.

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

My favorite #1 pub in Paris is Eden Park Pub, located on Rue Princesse in the 6th. It's this small and very friendly pub, people are social and kind. Not to talk about their "un mètre" shot tray for 20€, it's a great split if you're in a big company (don't drink them all on your own, I think there are like 15 shots on that one!)
I also like Showcase, a club right under Pont Alexandre III, with panorama windows facing the Seine. They have gigs during the days and a great nightlife. They also have a lot of guest artists coming to DJ there.
Also - MARAIS! It's crowded with different people and ages.
Paris is always on the go, this city never stops surprising you.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Forget about making friends from your country, you're in Paris! Get out of your comfort zone, put that baguette firmly under your arm, pull some silly french sentences and find some locals! They will be your best guides to anything that isn't touristic and stereotypical French. Also, they know where the good parties are!