I’m probably going to get a lot of sh*t for writing this post… but hey, this is my blog, and this is how I feel.
The city of Paris isn’t for me.
Cue gasps…
I wanted to love Paris. I really did. So much that I’ve been back 3 times to try to make things work. But still, after my most recent visit this past week, I’m left feeling like Paris and I should go our separate ways.
In the travel world- Paris is put on a pedestal.
Paris is the “City of Lights” and the international destination for love. It’s the fashion-forward capital of crunchy baguettes, mouthwatering crepes, stunning tree-lined boulevards and the iconic River Seine.
Still, like I said before, Paris is just personally not for me.
“But WHY, Lauren? What’s not to love?!”
I’m glad you asked. And I’ll keep this part short and sweet. To start, I hate to feed the stereotype further, but Parisian people aren’t overly welcoming (not that us New Yorkers are known for our cheery dispositions). On multiple occasions during my trips to Paris, I have felt uncomfortable striking up conversation with strangers or as though I was inconveniencing my French counterparts in one way or another.
Next, the city streets, parks and architecture are almost too pristinely clean and luxurious. I know this high-class regal feel is something that draws many people to Paris- but for me, these bougie, exclusive, “designer” vibes, are a major turn-off.
Lastly, compared to many other European cities, Paris is extremely expensive. Twenty-two smackeroos for a fried egg on top of cheesy toast?! Non, merci!
When it really comes down to it though, the reason I haven’t yet fallen head-over-heels in love with the city of Paris, is, well, just a feeling. Walking the streets of Paris, I’ve never felt fully comfortable. I’ve never felt like I fit in.
It’s not like the way I feel sipping a “cafe con leche” on a terrace in Madrid or rummaging through the bustling markets of Marrakech. Not the way I feel aimlessly wandering along the canals in Amsterdam or watching the summer sun set over the mountains in Santiago.
Paris, although “Paris!” just isn’t for me.
Do I still think you should visit? Absolutely! Don’t take my word for it, it’s simply my opinion. Actually, I think a lot of my friends out there reading this post would strongly disagree, and urge you to book a ticket ASAP.
After all, there are quite a few reasons to love Paris- its art scene, colorful culture and influential history, the romantic sound of the French language and my personal favorites- cheese, crepes, and macaroons. (I had to end on a positive note.)
Is there any place you’ve visited and really tried to like, but that place just simply didn’t do it for you? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
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Well, that macaroon looks good! I take all your points but still think Paris is special…
Completely agree Laur!
Paris isn’t really for me either, and that’s ok!
Although I disagree and absolutely love Paris, I appreciate your post and completely felt this way in Barcelona. It just rubbed me the wrong way and felt very unsafe, unauthentic and everyone is heckling you always. I feel the same way you do telling people I don’t like Barcelona, but after going 3 times and really trying to love it I just cant. I am disappointed to say it because I absolutely love Spain but Barcelona just isn’t the city for me.
Love your blog/ insta! keep up the great work! besos xxx
I love Paris but there are certainly aspects I don’t love about it either. I felt like areas were dirty, people were rude and the scammers are just the worst! I would however still like to return! #WanderfulWednesday
You’re not gonna get shit for this post from me… I also have had mediocre experiences in Paris!! I’ve found it to be rude and dirty (soooo many men peeing on the street, like why yall??). I’m up for giving it another chance though.
Hear, hear! I get the same reaction as well… #wanderfulwednesday
I really did not like Paris the first time I went for many of the same reasons you listed, but I’m giving it another chance this summer, so we shall how I feel about it after a second trip. Thanks so much for sharing!
I felt that way about Thailand when we went. It could have just been the places we went, but I much preferred Vietnam.
I think it’s perfectly ok to not love a place it seems everyone else adores. I feel that way about Thailand. I really tried to love it. But I just don’t. #wanderfulwednesday
I can understand the feeling, everyone says Barcelona is fabulous, the food, Gaudi…. and while there were some things i truly enjoyed (the little bakery around the corner from our apartment), I just really don’t see what everyone is talking about.
I totally know what you mean! I was never attracted by Paris much, I find it cold and dirty. But I have to say the first time I caught the skyline after landing by plane, it enchanted me, it looks as amazing as everyone said. It just didn’t keep that impression to me from up close!
I love the Paris outdoor cafes, shopping, and artsy Montmartre. However, like you, I occasionally felt unwelcome by some of the Parisians who smirked at my faltering French.
Fair enough! Not all places are for everyone. I think you gave it a valid shot with three separate visits – I think by then you have a fairly good idea if it’s your kind of place or not.
I do think you’ve given it a good run, so I completely understand if it’s not for you. For me, there’s still a lot of magic locked up in the Eiffel Tower when it sparkles, so I’m going to make my third trip in September. It will be the the longest I’ve stayed there, too, so I’m interested to see if my perspective changes. As far as places that aren’t for me, Amsterdam is one of those places… but I do think it deserves another try. 😉
I took a while to warm to Paris. It is unfriendly and quite dirty, but I think time of year makes a difference – when I visited in spring or autumn it was much better than summer or winter. But that’s just me. Now I am quite fond of it, mostly because of the gluten free eclairs I can get there to be honest… I do also like the architecture a lot. I think after 3 visits though you can definitely say you’ve given it your best shot!
I have to agree with you. I have visited a couple of times and so has hubby. When we had the chance to spend some time in Paris, we opted for a rather far out suburb. We went into Paris on two separate days as there are so many things we thought our kids should see. While beautiful, it was expensive, crowded, and not all that friendly.
I quite like Paris but I can understand why someone might not like it. as you said, it’s a feeling and some places agree more with me than others:)
I agree with you. I had a horrible experience in Paris. So bad that it built up to my cursing someone out on the street. Not a super proud moment yet not ashamed either. I have thought it was bad timing and I should go back. After reading you tried three times, I think I will try again with an alternative plan to get out quickly if needed!