Experience in Paris, France by Katherine

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

Living in Paris is like living in a dream because there are times where you can't even grasp how amazing it is and there are others where you could just sit back and watch life pass you by. I would absolutely recommend it. There is a lot of life and art to see. I loved it and even began to adopt some French-isms seeing as the people are very focused and don't really stop to help unless you ask. It is not customary to talk to strangers unless you're introduced or in a casual setting. The city is gorgeous and everyone should experience at least some of what it has to offer at least once in their lives.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

The student lifestyle has its perks. You get discounts for many things such as transportation and sometimes even lodging. You also have a lot of learning tools such as museums and such nearby. It is hard in the sense that you might not always be tempted to go to class or do homework because there's so much to do.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

On average, without any extra luxuries, you can get by on about 1,500 Euros per month for a single person.

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

Yes! If you don't know anybody, it can be a pain. But there are plenty of websites and agencies available with different options. One I recommend is paristay.com

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

Amazing! Fair warning though that if you don't take care of yourself, you will gain a lot of weight. The cheapest and best options I found on a budget where the typical Boulangerie sandwiches, croissants, and pain au chocolat (best thing in life for breakfast).

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

Le Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, Centre Pompidou, Palace de Versailles (outside of Paris but close enough), Les Tuilleries (gardens, in front of the Louvre), Père-Lachaise cemetery (http://listverse.com/2011/10/27/top-10-fascinating-graves-in-pre-lachaise/), Montparnasse cemetery, and the many parks it has to offer! Some of these are no brainers, but it doesn't hurt to talk them up.

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

Yes! I went to so many cafés and boulangeries, I can hardly remember the names, but just go explore. There are cheap options, just like there are places that charge you a hundred euros for a meal.

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

Yes! There are a lot of cool bars in the 5th and 6th arrondissements, Oberkampf (street), and there is a club in Montparnasse that has Thursday Erasmus parties for international students but a lot of non-students show up too. Also there were several boat parties by Erasmus, I forget the place but it was a stop on the RER.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Do your research, prepare for a culture shock, enjoy the ride, read books about free (or almost free things) to do in Paris, and prepare for the worst and expect the best.