Experience in Paris, France by Mikaela

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

Paris is truly one of the most beautiful cities I have ever visited, it's easy to fall in love with the city. Paris has so much to offer and it's really a city with contrast with a variety of cultures and a broad spectrum of entertainment and things to do. Every arrondissement has something different to offer as well. During one day, in the same neighbourhood you can admire cool street art from local artists and later have a drink at a trendy and fancy cocktail bar. I love the openness and the creativity in the city.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

I did not want to traditional student life, so I also became friends with people living in the city permanently, to get a more varied experience. Which meant that I got to see a lot of places and things that you not normally do when you are a tourist or student but I also missed out on some "traditional sights". But since I made friends in Paris I go back regularly to visit.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

Living in Paris is expensive, especially renting a place or room to stay.
Food is about the same cost as in Sweden, entertainment about the same cost as well.

A plus is that wine is cheaper :)

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

It's no so difficult to find a place, there are many agencies that you can go through. However, it is expensive. Try to get in contact with people that are going to Paris for exchange as well and try to rent an apartment together. Hopefully the school you are going to has a Facebook page for exchange students or something like that.

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

The food is good. As there are so many different cultures in Paris, there are as many different cuisines. I especially like Canard, which is duck a typical French dish.

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

Strolling around in Montmartre and st. Germain. Visting the parc des Buttes chaumont, parc Monceau and of course Jardin Luxemburg. The area around Canal st. Martin is also nice with cheaper bars and cool restaurants. Really good restaurant also in Montmartre.
Go out for cocktail in st. Germain. Go to galleries and different exhibitions, once a week the galleries open up their door and you can see art and have a free drink. Don't miss the huge market of antiques in the north east of Paris, end of metro number four. Once there have lunch at philippe starck's restaurant. Go out! The night life in Paris is really good and you meet a lot of people if you separate your self from only hanging with students. All the typical monuments and sights of course is worth a visit.

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

So many good places. Restaurant around canal st. Martin and restaurants in Montmartre. Have a look at time-out on the web, it's a good site for browsing restaurants and bars.

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

Yes!
Pubs: anywhere. Bars: in the 6th, 8th, 1th arrondissement. Clubs around Champs Elysee.
Find your local favourite.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Try to get to know locals