Experience in Paris, France by Terri

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

Some find Paris a wonderful place and some find Paris a horrible place in which to live. All say it's beautiful. The transportation is unmatched. Living in Paris is possible if you "live like the locals. " For instance, stay away from the touristy areas; frequent the flea markets; the 2nd-hand stores and the dollar stores. The people in Paris are very wary of strangers (all nationalities) so you must have patience. Knowing the language is a must. If the French see that you are willing to learn and accept their way of life, your stay will be much easier. Remember, you are in another country. They insist that you learn their language, their traditions and their desires. Try and live in a district (arrondissement) near the border. Stay away from the center of Paris. There you will find most of the touristy areas thus the most expensive areas. The transportation (metro) is so good, you will have no problem getting anywhere.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

I attended the Sorbonne in Paris for 1 year. I made my money as an au pair. First, I would start to look for job offers at the "American Church" in the 7th Arrondissement. This church has many extra-curricular activities. It's a wonderful place for a student to meet other students. Mostly every place in Paris is safe but there are a few things you have to watch out for: mainly, pickpockets. Also there are a couple of rough areas. There is a lot of student housing. Meet a lot of other students. They will tell you where the cheap places are. Students usually have no money. Stick to supermarches for food called "Franprix. "

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

That depends. Stay away from the touristy areas. The price is very affordable. There are flea markets, 2nd-hand stores and dollar stores. Like any place, the longer you live there, you begin to live like a local. My advice: Apply for a permanent residency card. Once you have that, you will be eligible for benefits.

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

Yes. It is difficult. The prices are high no matter where you go in Paris. If you stay near the border, the rent will decline a little. Be warned. Some of the things Americans take for granted (elevators) are considered luxuries. The French will charge more.

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

The food is fantastic. Over the summer, there are many fresh fruit and veggie stands. Because the food does not have millions of additives, the food tastes much better and is healthier for you.

What places would you recommend visiting in Paris?

The first couple of weeks you are there, I would recommend getting the Parisian sites out of the way. Then all the "ooooing and the ahhhhhing" will be over and you can get down to earth. My favorite site is called St. Chapelle. It is a church which is mostly made up of stained glass--very beautiful. There are so many things to see. I don't know how to answer that.

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

I could never afford to eat out in Paris.

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

I could never afford a nightlife. I just partied a lot. Come to think of it. There are a lot of young people. Many colleges.

What advice would you give future students heading to Paris?

Don't expect support from the citizens, at first, but, eventually, they will warm to you. Be patient. Life is good in Paris. Hold to your traditions but, be open to France's. As long as you show them respect, you should not have a problem.