A Week in Paris, like a native

Author: Vanille
Date of Trip: October 2004

We decided to spend a week in Paris, studying the crepes, cafés and patisseries. We rented an apartment instead of the usual hotel route, so as to get the feel of a neighborhood. It was an interesting experience, both positive and not-so-positive..

Highlights:
My husband and I like Europe a great deal. I had the passion before I met him, and he soon joined in my enthusiasm. My favorite countries are France and Germany. This last trip was a week (well, eight days) in Paris at the end of September. Instead of booking a hotel, we decided to rent an apartment, to see how the natives live so to speak.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
When looking for sustenance, wing it! Walk around the neighborhood where you are staying to see what restaurants and cafés offer the most delicious options for you. We made reservations once, when it was deemed necessary. Otherwise, we did a lot of stepping in and asking if dinner was served. It often was. We combined sightseeing with meals and walking and/or climbing stairs. This took care of food, entertainment, and exercise in one fell swoop! Plan part of the day, but always leave some room for changing your mind or taking breaks.

Best Way to Get Around:
When in Paris, forget a car and take the Metro or trains if you are going farther than the city limits. If you got there by car, park it somewhere and take public transportation. The Metro is easy to follow and inexpensive to use. It is unbelievably prompt and very clean for the most part.