My Experience in Paris, France, By Elena

What is it like to live in Paris? Would you recommend it? How did you find it?

Paris is an incredible city. There are endless things to do and see, whether with your friends, your family, or your partner. I would 100% recommend it. It really is a charming city.

What is the student life like in Paris?

The student life is good, you can meet people from all over the world. There are plenty of clubs, bars, pubs and restaurants. In addition to this, the university campuses offer lots of different activities, which is great for socializing, something really important in a new city.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

It is definitely an expensive city to live in, you have to be prepared to spend more in Paris than you would in other cities. You have to keep track of what you are spending and budget well.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Paris? Do you have any advice or tips?

What I recommend for an Erasmus student is to either flat-share or to live in student housing. Make sure to spend some time looking for accommodation before you come to Paris, because it is difficult to find somewhere for a reasonable price, especially if you are coming from abroad.

What is French cuisine like? What are you favorite dishes?

I think it depends on what kind of food you like, but you can find everything here. There is plenty of great food and drink, not just the delicious sweet or savory crepes. There is a wide variety of cheese, French wine, hachis parmentier, la carotte râpée, Quiche Lorraine... the list is endless.

What places would you recommend to visit in Paris?

• Definitely the tourist places like la Torre Eiffel, le Sacre Coeur, les Champs-Élysées, le Moulin Rouge... But you can find magical and hidden places everywhere in Paris.
• It is worth strolling around the city at different times of the day so you can appreciate the scenery and beauty of different places with different light. For example, nothing beats having a coffee in the Saint Germain district.
• See one of the best views of Paris from the Tour Montparnasse (rather than from La Torre Eiffel)
• Take a boat ride along the River Seine, the most romantic thing to do in Paris.
• Discover the Montmartre district and visit le Sacré-Cœur.
• Discover the many beautiful parks of the city, like le Parc de Sceaux.

Which are you favorite places to go and eat in Paris?

I love going to the Latin Quarter with my friends. Eating a crêpe sitting along the Seine taking in the view of la Torre Eiffel is priceless. I would also recommend Arabic and Hindu food. The restaurant 'Les Ombres' is amazing with views of la Torre Eiffel. It is expensive, but worth it.

Where would you recommend to go out in Paris?

There are lots of places to go and they are really popular and always busy. Bastille has pubs like El Corcorans which is great, the music is always varied which is good. There are also clubs such as MixClub which is close to the Tour Montparnasse and the club Showecase. This club has views of the River Seine and plays only Techno music but it is fantastic! There are numerous places to go out in Paris.

Any advice that you would give to future students in Paris?

Make the most of the experience, always be careful, but live in Paris like there is no tomorrow because it is amazing. Try and budget well and definitely try and improve your French whilst you are there.