My experience with Erasmus in Paris, France by Emma

How do you feel about living in the city of Paris? Do you recommend it? What is the city like?

I find it to be a very beautiful city, but I wouldn't like to live there, there are too many people, people who are stressed all the time, who are not nice. However one can stumble on very nice people.

What is the student atmosphere like in Paris?

Everything depends on the district.

What is the cost of life in Paris?

It's a very expensive city.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Paris? Do you have any advice to give?

It's very difficult to find accommodation, because it's very very expensive. It would be better I think to find something in the suburbs where the prices are more affordable.

What is the food like in the city? What are your favorite meals?

There is everything, one can fall as much on something good as bad.

Personally, I love sushi so I often go to Japanese restaurants.

What places in Paris do you recommend to see?

Everything in Paris is worth seeing, but personally I don't like going to Châtelet, Gare du Nord, Les Champs Elysées, les Galeries Lafayette (too many people).

And to eat in Paris? Can you tell us your favorite spots?

You can eat anywhere but you better avoid eating in the tourist areas (as everywhere else). There is a good crêperie (pancakes) next to Montparnasse, good restaurant in the 11th arrondissement (including a Spanish restaurant), Japanese restaurants, including an all-you-can-eat sushi next to Bastille (super good and between 12 and 15 € I think).

What places do you recommend for going out to in Paris?

Being a fake Parisian (I come from the suburbs), I know popular places like bars of Bastille, nightclubs on the Champs. Meet real Parisians and they will show you the real corners of Paris.

Also it is good to go to the shows of humorists or others, there are lots for affordable prices.

What advice do you have to give to future students of Erasmus in Paris?

It is better to get an apartment in the suburbs because the city is too expensive.