Experience in Paris, France by laura

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

Paris is a wonderful city. First, in terms of architecture and art of course but also in terms of nightlife, bars, cafe... You can easily find something to do depending on what you like. It's a big city that sometimes never sleeps! I recommend it not just because I am proud to be French but also because it's the most beautiful city that I know for me.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

The student lifestyle is quite simple and nice. We use to study a lot in beautiful Parisian libraries like "bibliotheque sainte-genieve" close to Le Pantheon,Saint-Michel and take a coffee with other students. If you come to Paris without knowing anyone it can be quite difficult at the beginning because French people are quite "closed" but don't be afraid to talk and meet people because even if French do not come to you, after talking with them they can be very very friendly. We really like foreign students and as we are proud of our city we will do our best to show you everything that have to be done in the city.
The nightlife is great if you know where to go and in Paris it's changing every time so you have to be aware of what happens !

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

Living in Paris can be quite expensive compared to Spain or Germany for example but similar to the UK.
The main cost is for renting a flat, you will have to pay between 600€ and 800€ for a flat of 10 to 30 m2. That's why I strongly recommend to share a flat (the best website is "appartager.com").
Regarding foods, it's quite cheap, you can easily find sandwiches under 4€ .
I use to spend around 20€ per week for food but I really like to cook my own meals.
The last cost is probably the subway and bus, it's around 2€ per ticket but you have monthly cards for 40-50€ and if you take "imagine R" (special discounts for students if you subscribe for 1 year), it can be cheaper and allows you to go everywhere in Paris+ suburbs during the weekend and holidays.

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

As I said , I strongly recommend to share a flat. It's very difficult to find an accommodation and it can be very expensive. You have to search it min 2-3 months before your arrival.
Alone you can pay 600-700€ for a 15m2 and only 600€ for a 50m2 if you share a flat.

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

The food is excellent. We all know that Paris is the capital of gastronomy.
There are many blogs with excellent restaurants addresses.
Even in the supermarket you can easily find healthy cheap food.

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

Starting with saint Michel (notre dame, pantheon, Sorbonne university) it's beautiful...
Then go to le louvre of course, musee d orsay, le grand palais.
I am not a huge fan of les champs élysées but I recommend it during Christmas holidays because of the temporary market and lights.
To finish you have Montmartre where you can eat in small typical Parisian restaurants.

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

As I said Montmartre is a good place to eat well and French. I can not say where to go because you have good restaurants everywhere in Paris just try to find one in a small street (not very touristic), walk, visit and eat !

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

The nightlife is great, you have everyweek the best djs that are coming but there is no just one place to go. It depends on the night, the dj, the weather.
During the summer I recommend "wanderlust" with a huge terrace.
You have "Le Rex", "social club" that I like for electro and underground music.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Anticipate your accomodation.
Don't be afraid to talk to French people, they are very nice and friendly.
Paris is secure but of course I also recommend to come back home not alone an prefer taxis to nightbus.
Connect you on Facebook groups to find good exhibitions, party...
And enjoy !!