studentsineurope

An American’s Guide to Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral

By Michelle Smith

It is difficult to find a positive outlook on France in America, but French people do not hate Americans. It is possible for an American to have a pleasant, meaningful, and enriching experience in Paris, France.

How does an American survive in Paris? It’s easy. Start by learning some simple French phrases. “Bonjour,” which means good day, is simple enough and can make the difference between a good and bad interaction with a French person. It is important to greet everyone properly before starting a conversation or asking a question. This is most important when entering a store. The shopkeepers expect to have a rapport with their customers. This is different than here in the United States.

Another phrase, “Comment allez-vous?” which means how are you? is an excellent way to show interest in the language and culture. The French are very protective of their language, and Parisians, those who live in Paris, consider it an art form. Pick up a guide at a local bookstore of French phrases. These guides have useful information for getting around town.

Wear appropriate clothes. French culture expects a well-groomed individual. T-shirts and jeans are not what the French consider acceptable. The fashion district of Paris attracts as many tourists as the Eiffel Tower because Parisians are the best dressed people in the world. Wearing casual clothes makes Americans stick out. By wearing a dressier outfit—black slacks and a dress shirt, for example—an American can fit into Parisian culture with no problem.

Learn about the sites and the metro. Researching before any trip is essential. Americans can definitely find help from Parisians on the way by being familiar with the sites, how they are pronounced, and the general areas where they are located. The easiest way to get around Paris is by metro. Using public transportation can be tricky to the inexperienced. Learn the lines and their destinations before the trip to guarantee convenient and easy travel.

Most importantly, take a moment and realize what it must be like to live in Paris. Last year, 27 million tourists visited Paris and gawked at the Eiffel Tower. The French seem cold and mean to tourists, but they are just reacting to Americans blocking walkways, lingering over maps, crowding metro lines, and asking questions in English. Parisians want to live a normal life, day to day, without being bothered—much like New Yorkers. They also complain of tourists taking up their towns and causing the construction of cheesy souvenir shops. Those living in New York City are seen as being cold and mean to tourists, but it is accepted and expected. New Yorkers aren’t much different from Parisians.

To recap, when going to Paris, remember four important things: learn some phrases, dress appropriately, learn about the sites and the metro, and try to be understanding of the Parisians. Following these steps will ensure a fantastic and meaningful trip to Paris.

Bon Voyage!