I'm so glad you went to Paris. It's a lovely city & yes, I've always found the French to be quite nice. If you try to speak French & you are polite and respectful , the French are wonderful 😊
Yes, it’s a place where speaking the local language is necessary. I was in Paris many years ago. It was not clean like it is today. I was surprised how many French speakers there are in Portugal during a visit earlier this year.
@@photopro100 There are a lot of French speakers in Portugal because a lot of Portuguese emigrated to France when Portugal was still a poor country (they became construction workers, janitors, cleaning ladies, etc) Now that Portugal is doing well they - or their children - are coming back. But there is still a huge Portuguese community in France. Speaking the local language is better anywhere you go… I have lived in Paris most of my life and find Paris is dirtier (not cleaner) today than it used to be.
Paris is the best city I've ever visited for tourists. Despite its size, because of the strict height limitation for buildings in the core it feels sunny and approachable. The sidewalks are mostly wide and flat as you say, and many of the neighborhoods are just incredibly appealing and scenic. Add a plethora of gorgeous parks, world-class museums, and delightful bistros everywhere, it is a joy to visit.
I find it wonderful on a sunny day and often dreary on grey, cloudy days, especially outside of the main avenues and boulevards - grey sidewalks, little greenery. It can seem like a maze of concrete and stone at times. I do agree though, it is definitely the most striking and beautiful city in the world, especially when the sun decides to join in!
@@johnschieffelin3226 I am afraid you did not see the whole of Paris, but only what you call appealing and scenic. Not every Parisian is enjoying your « delightful bistros ». You have a tourist point of view… Go to the 20th arrondissement and you will have another, more realistic, point of view about life in Paris. As to the height limitation for buildings, this was true in Haussmann’s time (1850-1870) and his (excellent) rules remained valid until 1882. But it seems you have not seen Tour Montparnasse… or the 19th, the 20th, the 13th arrondissements. You did not see Paris at all.
@@michaeldearaujo418 90% de Paris « sale, dangereux et cher » ? Sale certes dans certains quartiers. Dangereux dans certains quartiers la nuit comme dans toutes les villes du monde - mais aucun touriste n a de raison d y aller. Mais c est loin d être 90% de Paris. Cher ? Il y en a pour toutes les bourses, à chacun de choisir.
Well I didn't give it away and I was right. I knew your next trip was going to be Paris when I saw Amelia sitting in the Metro station on your last video. My wife and I moved to Paris from San Francisco in 2000 for a 2 year expat work assignment. When it was time to return I basically said no I'm not leaving, so I retired early. We lived in Paris for 11 years and now live on the Côte d'Azur. We just love the quality of life in France. (My mother by the way lived in Arlington Heights for several years)
Did anyone else tear up when JP made it to the top of the stairs and talk about how he never thought he'd walk normally again? They are just the sweetest couple and I'm so excited to get to watch their journey! I learn so much and am looking forward to my own adventures soon.
And because we suck at foreign languages! But it's also because we have sounds like nasals that don't exist in other languages and a prosody with little accentuation...
JP and Amelia, I must commend you on your beautiful, informative videos. I have been following you for years now, and the quality of your editing, narration and historical information keeps getting better and better. I'm glad you enjoyed the "City of Lights," and shared it with us.
We spent 22 years in and out of Paris annuallly, usually 3-4 months at a time. I definitely could live there but, like in Manhattan, we don't live 'IN' Manhattan - we live in a neighborhood. Six blocks this way, 10 blocks another. Take a bus or subway to a different 6 or 10-block area. Paris was the same way - we stayed in 1 neighborhood or another - 4 in all those years. Each were wonderful.
@@stanhubertdebahia2982 What is « dirty and dangerous » ??? I live in Paris, it is not perfectly clean (tourists are part of the problem) I agree - and depends on the district - but dangerous ??? I feel as safe in Paris as anywhere in Europe. Obviously, like anywhere, certain districts are best avoided at night, but why should anyone not looking for trouble go there ?
This has to be one of the most fun videos ! Maybe because I was there many years ago and walked in places y'all walked. Congratulations JP on the most triumphant walk. Amelia, that smile on your face exuded the extreme happiness that happens when one is there - at least for me. Yes, I learned French before going and it made the trip so much better. You looked like a local when you wore that love black shirt and the black choker, Amelia. I vote you two the most adorable, loving couple, and it's always a pleasure to 'walk with you' ❤🤍💙
Amelia and JP your show keeps getting better and better. I'm so happy you made it to france. Your takeaway from Paris is pretty on point. I've been there many, many, times fortunately, & am proficient in French. Like you, I'm an expatriate (well I'm in the process of being one) in Latin America. I think Paris is wonderful, albeit sometimes you likely will experience a sensation of the people being rude. A smaller City in France would probably be more to your liking. I would HIGHLY suggest you go to Montpellier, which is France's 7th largest city, & the country's fastest growing city for the past 25 years.
Preparing to go to France 20 years ago, I listened to CDs in my car. Not following along in the book, I missed a lot. I kept hearing one phrase, which sounded like "Antie Kate Kay." Finally, my curiosity got the best of me, so I pulled over to the side of the road and looked up the phrase. It turned out to be "Un ticket de quai" which means "a boarding pass." Fast forward to the actual trip. My friend and I had just boarded a train in station and I heard over the loudspeaker: "Validez votre ticket de quai." I said to myself, "I can understand that: it means Validate your boarding pass." Then I told my friend, "We forgot to validate our boarding passes!" So I grabbed his and jumped out of the coach, stamped them, and jumped back on in the nick of time. So, the moral of the story is, it does pay to learn a word or to before going to France!
@@thebiblepriest4950 « Tickets de quai » do not exist any more (they disappeared 50 years ago !). They used to be tickets not for travelling but only for access to the platform (quai) - if you were accompanying somebody who was travelling. They were no boarding passes at all. The phrase you heard was « un ticket s il vous plait » (one ticket please). Is that so strange ??? If you want to travel you need « un ticket » certainly not « un ticket de quai ». Maybe your hearing is not OK ?
@@solangelauthier2381 My experience did take place decades ago, and in a provincial train station with old stamping machines at the quai-side.. Perhaps what I heard was "validez votre ticket" or "valid votre billet." It was close enough to "validez votre ticket de quai" to get me moving!
@@solangelauthier2381 Madame : Merci beaucoup pour m'aviser de l'obsolescence total de l'infâme ticket de quai. Je les ai toujours détestés. Mon avenir est plus brillant sans eux. Mais permettez-moi de savourer ces souvenirs, car j'ai payé cher pour voyager ici et là, pour découvrir comment les choses se font. PS : Mon roman préféré est À la recherche du temps perdu, et mon chapitre préféré est la soirée catastrophique où la reine de Naples sauve le baron des insultes de son protégé. Si je puis me permettre de vous importuner, quel est votre préférence littéraire ?
I'm glad to see you guys made it to Paris. I have to say you both look pretty happy there. I live in Paris and agree with Amelia's comment that Paris is too big (and busy). I know lots of places in the south of France where the cost of living is much less than in Paris and it's away from crowds. In fact, I find the quality of life higher in those smaller places. Many English-speaking people like the Dordogne area just north of Bordeaux. One town there is about 25-30% English speaking. Nice video!
@@francois3475 You compare things that cannot be compared. Anywhere in the world prices are higher in the capital than in the rest of the country. Smaller towns are indeed quieter than the capital anywhere too, but there is far less cultural choice, it is a matter of taste… and money ! And what is the point of going to the Dordogne to be among 30% English speakers ? If you want to speak English, you stay home.
When watching Amelia talking about the quiet, I remembered another video on RUclips where the couple said you must mow your lawn during set hours to be respectful of your neighbors. I know the French have a lot of laws that make for a better environment for all.
That is very true. The Conseil National du Bruit (national council for noise or something like that) says you can't mow or make any noise on sundays and holy days except between 10am and noon.
@@almamater9566 If you mow your lawn at 4 pm on a Sunday I don't think anyone would bat an eye though. Just don't do it after like 7 and even worse after 10 pm
Something about restaurant prices US vs France. In France, the price listed is the price you pay. In the US, you have to add tax and tip. In the US for example if the menu says $20, you also pay approx 20% tip and something like 7% tip. (Personally I don't tip on tax but some people do.) that's $25.40. in France 20€ is 20€.
@@jimnewton4534 Donner un pourboire en France semble se perdre, perso j'en laisse toujours, et je récompense surtout l'amabilité et la gentille des serveurs
Amelia, I think you will like Lyon. The south is so wonderful too. I’m looking forward to your additional adventures in France. I’m considering a move to the south of France, Spain or Italy and all of your input is helpful to so many. I’m much older than you and JP but adventurous none-the-less. I’m living vicariously through you for now. 😊
Funny story: Back in 2011, my wife and I visited Paris for the first time. On our second day there, in the morning, we asked our hotelier where we might be able to get crepes for breakfast. He looked at me like I had grown a third eye on my forehead, sputtered with exasperation and claimed, "It is not done!" (I swear he fulfilled about three French stereotypes in the space of 15 seconds, and it was hilarious!). I apologized profusely and explained that I was just an ignorant American, then asked when would be an appropriate time to get crepes. He calmed down somewhat, and told us we could get them in the afternoon if we wished. 😀
My wife and I have been to Paris twice - 2019 and 2023. We thoroughly enjoyed it both times! It is the best place in the world to sit and watch everything happening around you. The food and coffee are amazing. On the last full day of our first trip, we were tired from all the touring so we went back to the hotel just after lunch time. We then headed to a nearby restaurant and grabbed a sidewalk table on the corner of a bustling 5 way intersection. Initially we thought we would just have a snack and a glass or two of wine... which turned into two or three bottles of wine and an excellent supper! The atmosphere was absolutely captivating and time almost seemed to stop. We had to force ourselves to leave at 10pm so we could get up early for our flight home to Canada next day. We still talk about that afternoon/evening regularly, five years later!
I love Paris ❤ I have visited many capitals around the world. Paris is by far the most beautiful city in the world: romantic and chic, Fashion capital, it is also the city of love and walking there is fascinating. ❤😀
I live in Paris and it's really comfortable, I love it here ! It's not for everyone but if you like living in a city full of stuff to do and you can afford the insane rent, it's worth it ! The French (yes, even Parisians) are quite nice as long as you start with "bonjour", always start with a "bonjour" no matter who you're talking to
I agree with you. France was much cleaner than what I had heard. Overall I was very impressed with France. For living I would probably take Portugal. For innovation and comfort in multiple languages the Netherlands. But France tops the UK and Germany in my opinion.
@@Misterjingle it was a number of years ago but a family I knew well had lived in both Germany and France. My experience was different than theirs. France deserves many of their top rankings. Food, fashion, museums, culture and health care are all near the top world wide. And yes in my opinion cleanliness matched or exceeded the UK, USA and Germany.
@@jimjensen9139 I know some parts of the country are not very clean, I am well aware of that, but it’s mostly bad neighborhoods of Paris, Marseille, etc. I know some tourists go to Paris and think all of France is like that 🥲 Fortunately, most of us live in clean and safe places 😅 Thanks for your nice comment. I won’t clam we have things better here. All countries have their pros and cons and have something to offer
@@Misterjingle Like anywhere in the world there are good neighborhoods and bad. Generally speaking visitors have nothing to do in the bad neighborhoods.
I'm glad you found it clean, times have obviously changed. When I was there in 1988, nobody cleaned up after their dogs! I unfortunately christened my shoe in it right away and my memory of Paris still involves les merdes du chiens.
Since a few years ago you'll get fined if you don't pick up your dog's poop or threw your cigarette butt. A lot of efforts are being made to make thé city cleaner.
Unfortunately it is still dirty. They had to do sth because of the Olympic Games. It’s a pitty you don’t speak French, it would have been interesting to know what the locals really think about the situation in Paris. You would be shocked in a negative way. … But I am happy for you you had a great time there. Wish to see more of your videos. What’s your next destination? 🤗
@@mgdu46 les locaux sont surtout agaces par le surtoursime... la salete j'en ai pas plus vue qu'a mrseille , lyon, nantes, rennes, lilles etc... alors oui quand c'est surfrequenté par des touristes qui font n'importe quoi...
@ 09:25 There are a lot of things to learn about place de la Concorde. One of them is that it holds the answer to a common trick quiz question : what is the oldest monument in Paris ? It's NOT the Lutece Arena or the Cluny Thermal Baths (both date from the Gallo-Roman period, 1st century AD). It's actually right behind her, the Obelisk taken by Napoleon from the Amon Temple in Luxor, Egypt. It was built by Ramses II, so it' s 13th century BC ! It blows my mind everytime I'm near it.
I lived in Paris for 5 years but have been on the Mediterranean coast in Provence for 30 years. I still enjoying going back to Paris to visit friends for a few days but I’d never live in such a big, dense city again….not to mention the weather 🌧 ☁️
@@solangelauthier2381; I meant Beauty Wise; it's a well-Designed City with Beautiful Architecture. But I know it's Not Perfect, I was there and I saw some things that were Not nice, but it was a Beautiful and Nice City to Visit.
While stationed in Europe in 2003 I and the family drove around the Arc de Triomphe on the way to our hotel. Talk about nerve-wracking! Twelve intersecting avenues and as many as eight lanes of traffic. Although my wife gave me kudos for not crashing our American van into anyone, as soon as we parked in the hotel garage I put away my keys. Taxis and walking until it was time to leave :)
Overall, driving in Paris is a total nightmare. That's why most people here don't even own a car. Since we have an amazing public transportation system, not really a problem. But as you Saïd, this area is the worst. No Line, totally messy. An adventure on it's own
Driving around the arc de triomphe is a special thing to learn. Just keep in mind that you owe priority on your right, and you’ll enjoy everybody stoping on your left ! It is difficult to enter the tour, but it’s easy to get out, feeling so victorious ! The way Americans feel around the arc de triomphe is well depicted in John Wick 4 !
It's winter and I love to see Paris in sunnier days. Thank you for this video, love to see my region, and why I love Paris. It's a perfect region to live as a commuter, I love coming back to Paris a few times a week. It's quite pricy though, I think smaller cities in France are more affordable for the housing.
@@Emmanuel_DH I am a French Parisian too. Paris is less and less civilized, absolutely true (but is not the whole world going that sad way ?). As to Paris being quiet and peaceful, it depends where and when you go - like anywhere -. You cannot go to Chateau Rouge - as an example - at 2am and complain. But why would you go ? During the day no problem, even in Barbès and the like. Now, anywhere in the world you can be stabbed to death at noon in a posh district - no zero risk anywhere.
I have never been to Europe and watching your videos is so much fun! Paris looks so nice, love the wide sidewalks. I'm glad that you had a chance to visit there.
Thank you very much for your videos about France. We are unloved by the world and that is not always justified. Thank you for your positive vision of Paris, Dijon and Lyon. Our country is magnificent, of course not perfect like all the others. We have magnificent cities - 3 seas, varied mountains in a small territory compared to the USA. Different architectures for each region. Our culture is interesting like most countries in Europe which are all very different too. A big hug to both
Well, we're not hated either; after all, France does get 100 million visitors a year. I think there is a percentage in America that have disdain for France, but that's because they don't know any better. Forgive them :)
So happy to see your videos again. I have been on a break for helath issues however I am back in the saddle and feeling great. Cant wait to see more of the country side
I've lived in Paris, Aix en Provence and Bordeaux...It is expensive, healthcare is great and it's beautiful! That said, I'd never live there again...Travel, yes! It never felt like home and I have lots of French family there!! Portugal 🇵🇹 for the win...We have a way better quality of life!!
Portugal is indeed a great country. A lot of French people actually retiré there. It's way cheaper, beautiful and the good is great. And people are very nice
Great Video guys, I love your content, I have actually taken this trip and done everything you did, despite that I still watched it and enjoyed it, I agreed with ya, the city is relatively clean and the people are nice
I think the Americans are a little bit obsessed with security in Paris. Parisians walk around the city a lot at any time. There are sometimes robberies, but very rarely assaults by simple passers-by. There is no danger if you avoid walking alone, late at night, in the stations and two districts a little warmer than others in the 18th and 19th arrondissement. In the tourist areas there are many police. Objectively it is much less risky to walk in Paris than in New York or London.
@@JeanGoalin In any city there are districts to avoid at night. What would anybody do in such districts where there is nothing to see anyway ? Parisians live normally otherwise, but like anywhere in the world zero risk does not exist, even at noon.
Very unexpected indeed! I’ve never heard good things about Paris but my daughter desperately wants to stop there on our trip through France this year. We were going to skip it but thanks to your vid I think we’ll check it out!
Paris and so much of France (and the world) is beautiful and the people are fantastic. Please do your own research and you will see that the entire planet has so many beautiful places to explore that our lives are too short to enjoy and experience all of it. I heard that Dallas/Chico/Decatur areas were horrible places and I found beauty there as well as kind and generous people.
@@MyTexasLife Nobody is obliged to live in a big city if they prefer the countryside. But from a cultural point of view coming to France and ignoring Paris, not even visiting it for a week or so, makes no sense.
You did very well . Extremely impressed that you took the pain to walk that long but I have done it and I know how rewarding it is 👏👍😎 Next visit near by Loire valley and it’s gorgeous castles and food including it’s wine. Further South towards Dordogne where you ll find more stunning architecture and old towns and villages while enjoying THE.Gorgeous food of this area , local wines is a plus , remember Bordeaux is next door.. Then if you don’t have more time , kindly go back to your normal life with memories for a lifetime. All the best
I'm an American from Michigan. I moved to Paris with my French husband and 3 children over 34 years ago. The youngest was five at the time, and the older girls were 12 and 14. After finishing high school, the older girls returned to the US . By the youngest was more French than American. It is expensive in the Paris region for housing. Luckily my husband and I could afford it. We're retired now and will stay here for the health care and relaxed lifestyle.
Prices have gone up because of the Olympics! But France is not just Paris, there are so many things to see all over France!! Alsace, Brittany, the Tarn Gorges, the mountainous regions, the Loire region, and many others, many choose a boat trip on the Canal du Midi, you are in such a quiet place! You pass by small villages to do your shopping, especially at the producers of vegetables, fruits, eggs or poultry!
They have inspired me to do research trips to Cuenca (in November), Albania (June '25) and Portugal (Sept '25). After living in Spain, Italy and China and seeing how spot on these two phenomenally generous people are with regards to all of their content I am consistently inspired to keep exploring locations, my attitude and health choices.
I've visited Paris twice and enjoyed both trips. So much to see and do. I agree with all your insights, and want to add something else to be careful about: scams. Like pickpockets, scammers tend to hang around places tourists frequent. There were many fine things about Paris, but the scammers were indeed a turn-off.
@@clm3436 « Walkable » if you remain where tourists go. Not if you consider (as an example) the 19th or the 20th arrondissement. Do not be a tourist, be a traveller, experience reality. Paris is not only the Louvre, the Eiffel tower and the like. Be curious. Think out of the box.
Looks amazing you two! We're coming to France for the Olympics in July. Heading to Reims for a few days first. Not so interested in crowded Paris. But we look forward to the experience!
@@RetireToEurope Coming to Paris for the Olympics is the worst idea. Many monuments and lovely places hidden by stupid scaffholdings, traffic impossible. Wise French people leave Paris during the Olympics.
@@solangelauthier2381 We had a terrific time. We walked everywhere or took the Metro. No traffic issues at all! But I agree the magic of France is found in the towns and villages of the countryside.
@@RetireToEurope Saying that you WALKED everywhere means that, like 90% of tourists, you stuck to the center and did not see real Paris, only the highly touristic part. And you did not see (as an example) beautiful place de la Concorde, as it was behind sort of scaffholdings. Trafic was complicated as most bridges were closed, and you did not even notice. No, you did not see Paris.
I’m French and Parisian and I’m always happy to see American tourists Paris is a beautiful place to visit, you just have to avoid the drawbacks (rude staff in restaurants, dirty places (rats are not a myth) … )
I help you answer your two questions: 1) No 2) No --- 1) As a foreigner you won't want to live in the suburbs or lower cost districts. Real estate is complicated in Paris and it's one of the most expensive city. 10k per sqm. 2) Like most french say, it's probably better to live far from Paris and pay 59€ plane ticket + hotel once to four times a year. You want to live in Paris if you have some kind of work which requires you to live in Paris (or relatives...)
What the heck? I was in Paris last week! I assume you were there a couple months ago, but it is so cool that we're practically crossing paths in Europe. :-)
I have been to Paris NINE times over the years....I spoke so highly of it that I would bring along friends for their first time leaving the U.S (and first time leaving TEXAS in some cases). My sister and I would go every few years to go shop...she would go to Louis Vuitton to get her handbags cheaper than in the US, and I would go to the Creed cologne store (both are within blocks of each other near the Arc de Triomphe) to buy my Creed cologne for cheap(er) as well. I also speak some fluent high school French haha so that makes tout le difference, aussi! Yeah there are some dirty sketchy parts (the area around Gare du Nord and Clichy-Levallois) but hey! It's Paris! And even their sketchy parts look charming
@@gregorriusadolphus2729 If your only interest in Paris is Vuitton and Creed, and buying things cheaper than at home, it is very sad, and a sign of a low cultural level. Clichy-Levallois is NOT Paris, it is Clichy-Levallois. Sketchy parts there are in any city in the world. And they are not charming.
@@solangelauthier2381 don't worry...I actually wrote a book on visiting Paris, and there is where I mentioned a lot more things to see LOL. INCLUDING A LACOSTE STORE!
Nostalgia, I remember that when I was just a little boy my mother took me for a walk in the Luxembourg Gardens after school to sail small sailboats and watch puppet shows. We lived less than 500m away.
Many foreign visitors to Paris always sum up the place as the historic city, bounded by the ring road, a very old city, and where the main historical sites and landmarks are located, like Eiffel tower, Arc De Triomphe, Notre Dame, etc... . But this is only a relatively small part of the real Paris area, about 2.2 million inhabitants. Real life for millions of inhabitants is in the huge metropolitan area around the city, which stretches for dozens of miles, where most tourists never go, and populated by about 10 million people. This is where one can find the gigantic shopping malls, by the dozens, or the most important car dealerships or superstores, etc...Disneyland Paris for example, is about 20 miles east of the historic city.
@@JEANKOURAGE Disneyland (which is NOT in Paris), car dealerships and shopping malls are best avoided (no cultural interest) - why mention that ? Paris has only some 2 millions inhabitants because Paris stops at the peripherique (ringroad), the rest is the banlieue (suburbs), not Paris. Within the peripherique limits (easy transportation by bus or metro) there is far far more than the Eiffel Tower etc to see (what about the lovely old green passages of the 20th, as an example? Never seen ONE tourist there). A life would not be enough to see just Paris. But 99,99% of tourists are clueless.
@@solangelauthier2381 Je mentionne ça parce que beaucoup de touristes sont des bourrins ignorants qui résument Paris seulement à la ville historique, et ne savent même pas que 10 millions de personnes vivent dans la zone urbaine autour, ou se concentre une bonne partie de l'activité économique. Il suffit de lire certains commentaires d'étasuniens sur Paris, par exemple. "Supermarkets in Paris are small", ou bien, "There are not big malls like in the US", alors que la banlieue regorge de dizaines de centres commerciaux gigantesques.
I’ve always thought Paris was the cleanest city I’ve ever been to. I love Paris. My daughter attended college at the Sorbonne. I loved my visits. As much as I love it for extended visits I wouldn’t care to live there. Madrid shares many characteristics with Paris. I love it there as well. Just wouldn’t want to live in a big city.
Budget travel is subjective 😅 We came thru Paris on FLIXBUS - 1 hr in Bercy Park, walked the bridge, saw the river, ate vegan lunch, transferred bus and on to Nantes.
Paris is not France....jus a part of it. there are thousands of absolutely fabulous places outside of Paris and throughout France, it's just incredible, I will go back soon!
I'm so glad you went to Paris. It's a lovely city & yes, I've always found the French to be quite nice. If you try to speak French & you are polite and respectful , the French are wonderful 😊
Yes, it’s a place where speaking the local language is necessary. I was in Paris many years ago. It was not clean like it is today. I was surprised how many French speakers there are in Portugal during a visit earlier this year.
@@photopro100 this is just for the games but Paris is very dirty and dangerous with many pickpockets I leave in Paris all the year
@@stanhubertdebahia2982 thanks for the info.
@@photopro100 There are a lot of French speakers in Portugal because a lot of Portuguese emigrated to France when Portugal was still a poor country (they became construction workers, janitors, cleaning ladies, etc) Now that Portugal is doing well they - or their children - are coming back. But there is still a huge Portuguese community in France. Speaking the local language is better anywhere you go… I have lived in Paris most of my life and find Paris is dirtier (not cleaner) today than it used to be.
@@stanhubertdebahia2982 Paris is very « dirty » and « dangerous » ??? Many pickpockets ? The pickpockets are where the tourists are !
Paris is the best city I've ever visited for tourists. Despite its size, because of the strict height limitation for buildings in the core it feels sunny and approachable. The sidewalks are mostly wide and flat as you say, and many of the neighborhoods are just incredibly appealing and scenic. Add a plethora of gorgeous parks, world-class museums, and delightful bistros everywhere, it is a joy to visit.
I find it wonderful on a sunny day and often dreary on grey, cloudy days, especially outside of the main avenues and boulevards - grey sidewalks, little greenery. It can seem like a maze of concrete and stone at times. I do agree though, it is definitely the most striking and beautiful city in the world, especially when the sun decides to join in!
oui apres tu a juste pas quitter le centre de paris et surtout la journe 90% de paris est une ville sale dangereuse et chere
@@johnschieffelin3226 I am afraid you did not see the whole of Paris, but only what you call appealing and scenic. Not every Parisian is enjoying your « delightful bistros ». You have a tourist point of view… Go to the 20th arrondissement and you will have another, more realistic, point of view about life in Paris. As to the height limitation for buildings, this was true in Haussmann’s time (1850-1870) and his (excellent) rules remained valid until 1882. But it seems you have not seen Tour Montparnasse… or the 19th, the 20th, the 13th arrondissements. You did not see Paris at all.
vous devriez aller à Moscou
@@michaeldearaujo418 90% de Paris « sale, dangereux et cher » ? Sale certes dans certains quartiers. Dangereux dans certains quartiers la nuit comme dans toutes les villes du monde - mais aucun touriste n a de raison d y aller. Mais c est loin d être 90% de Paris. Cher ? Il y en a pour toutes les bourses, à chacun de choisir.
Well I didn't give it away and I was right. I knew your next trip was going to be Paris when I saw Amelia sitting in the Metro station on your last video. My wife and I moved to Paris from San Francisco in 2000 for a 2 year expat work assignment. When it was time to return I basically said no I'm not leaving, so I retired early. We lived in Paris for 11 years and now live on the Côte d'Azur. We just love the quality of life in France. (My mother by the way lived in Arlington Heights for several years)
So cool! It’s an amazing country!
Did anyone else tear up when JP made it to the top of the stairs and talk about how he never thought he'd walk normally again? They are just the sweetest couple and I'm so excited to get to watch their journey! I learn so much and am looking forward to my own adventures soon.
Thank you 😊
YES!!!
@@anniesshenanigans3815 Okay, I knew I couldn't be the only one.
Yessss
Super interesting. I really enjoyed watching this video. Thanks
The French love their language because it is so beautiful.
And because we suck at foreign languages! But it's also because we have sounds like nasals that don't exist in other languages and a prosody with little accentuation...
Great video, and well done JP for climbing to the top of the Arc de Triomphe.
Thanks!
I was also thinking hooray for JP coz his back issues. Well done sir!
Paris on a clear sunny day is perfection.
vous connaissez pas paris juste les coin a touriste paris est un enfer ville chere dangereuse est sale
when it's not too hot
@@cjc2 A clear sunny day is perfection anywhere
JP and Amelia, I must commend you on your beautiful, informative videos. I have been following you for years now, and the quality of your editing, narration and historical information keeps getting better and better. I'm glad you enjoyed the "City of Lights," and shared it with us.
Wow, thank you!
We spent 22 years in and out of Paris annuallly, usually 3-4 months at a time. I definitely could live there but, like in Manhattan, we don't live 'IN' Manhattan - we live in a neighborhood. Six blocks this way, 10 blocks another. Take a bus or subway to a different 6 or 10-block area. Paris was the same way - we stayed in 1 neighborhood or another - 4 in all those years. Each were wonderful.
We were surprised, so many free things to visit! Love Paris! Cheers Chris and Jim.
@@midlifetravelbug Free ? Except churches nothing is free
because the olympics games Paris is not like this ( dirty and dangerous )
@@stanhubertdebahia2982 What is « dirty and dangerous » ??? I live in Paris, it is not perfectly clean (tourists are part of the problem) I agree - and depends on the district - but dangerous ??? I feel as safe in Paris as anywhere in Europe. Obviously, like anywhere, certain districts are best avoided at night, but why should anyone not looking for trouble go there ?
This has to be one of the most fun videos ! Maybe because I was there many years ago and walked in places y'all walked. Congratulations JP on the most triumphant walk. Amelia, that smile on your face exuded the extreme happiness that happens when one is there - at least for me. Yes, I learned French before going and it made the trip so much better. You looked like a local when you wore that love black shirt and the black choker, Amelia. I vote you two the most adorable, loving couple, and it's always a pleasure to 'walk with you' ❤🤍💙
Thank you so much! 😊
Amelia and JP your show keeps getting better and better. I'm so happy you made it to france. Your takeaway from Paris is pretty on point.
I've been there many, many, times fortunately, & am proficient in French. Like you, I'm an expatriate (well I'm in the process of being one) in Latin America. I think Paris is wonderful, albeit sometimes you likely will experience a sensation of the people being rude.
A smaller City in France would probably be more to your liking. I would HIGHLY suggest you go to Montpellier, which is France's 7th largest city, & the country's fastest growing city for the past 25 years.
Thanks for the suggestion 👍
@@OllieCat7 Why specially Montpellier ? So many other places !
Preparing to go to France 20 years ago, I listened to CDs in my car. Not following along in the book, I missed a lot. I kept hearing one phrase, which sounded like "Antie Kate Kay." Finally, my curiosity got the best of me, so I pulled over to the side of the road and looked up the phrase. It turned out to be "Un ticket de quai" which means "a boarding pass."
Fast forward to the actual trip. My friend and I had just boarded a train in station and I heard over the loudspeaker: "Validez votre ticket de quai." I said to myself, "I can understand that: it means Validate your boarding pass." Then I told my friend, "We forgot to validate our boarding passes!" So I grabbed his and jumped out of the coach, stamped them, and jumped back on in the nick of time.
So, the moral of the story is, it does pay to learn a word or to before going to France!
Great story! 😊
@@thebiblepriest4950 « Tickets de quai » do not exist any more (they disappeared 50 years ago !). They used to be tickets not for travelling but only for access to the platform (quai) - if you were accompanying somebody who was travelling. They were no boarding passes at all. The phrase you heard was « un ticket s il vous plait » (one ticket please). Is that so strange ??? If you want to travel you need « un ticket » certainly not « un ticket de quai ». Maybe your hearing is not OK ?
@@solangelauthier2381 My experience did take place decades ago, and in a provincial train station with old stamping machines at the quai-side.. Perhaps what I heard was "validez votre ticket" or "valid votre billet." It was close enough to "validez votre ticket de quai" to get me moving!
@@thebiblepriest4950 yes, just what I said, decades ago. Tickets de quai do not exist anymore.
@@solangelauthier2381 Madame : Merci beaucoup pour m'aviser de l'obsolescence total de l'infâme ticket de quai. Je les ai toujours détestés. Mon avenir est plus brillant sans eux. Mais permettez-moi de savourer ces souvenirs, car j'ai payé cher pour voyager ici et là, pour découvrir comment les choses se font.
PS :
Mon roman préféré est À la recherche du temps perdu, et mon chapitre préféré est la soirée catastrophique où la reine de Naples sauve le baron des insultes de son protégé. Si je puis me permettre de vous importuner, quel est votre préférence littéraire ?
I'm glad to see you guys made it to Paris. I have to say you both look pretty happy there. I live in Paris and agree with Amelia's comment that Paris is too big (and busy). I know lots of places in the south of France where the cost of living is much less than in Paris and it's away from crowds. In fact, I find the quality of life higher in those smaller places. Many English-speaking people like the Dordogne area just north of Bordeaux. One town there is about 25-30% English speaking. Nice video!
Thanks for sharing!!
@@francois3475 You compare things that cannot be compared. Anywhere in the world prices are higher in the capital than in the rest of the country. Smaller towns are indeed quieter than the capital anywhere too, but there is far less cultural choice, it is a matter of taste… and money ! And what is the point of going to the Dordogne to be among 30% English speakers ? If you want to speak English, you stay home.
When watching Amelia talking about the quiet, I remembered another video on RUclips where the couple said you must mow your lawn during set hours to be respectful of your neighbors. I know the French have a lot of laws that make for a better environment for all.
Ughhh that sounds terrible and autocratic. No thank you
That is very true. The Conseil National du Bruit (national council for noise or something like that) says you can't mow or make any noise on sundays and holy days except between 10am and noon.
@@almamater9566 If you mow your lawn at 4 pm on a Sunday I don't think anyone would bat an eye though. Just don't do it after like 7 and even worse after 10 pm
Something about restaurant prices US vs France. In France, the price listed is the price you pay. In the US, you have to add tax and tip. In the US for example if the menu says $20, you also pay approx 20% tip and something like 7% tip. (Personally I don't tip on tax but some people do.) that's $25.40. in France 20€ is 20€.
@@jimnewton4534 In France it is polite and friendly to leave a little tip if you have been happy with the service
@@solangelauthier2381 I've never heard of anyone doing this. At least nobody that I know does.
@@jimnewton4534 Let's say it isn't mandatory. It's up to you.
@@jimnewton4534 Very common in the south of France to leave a small tip, like one or two euros
@@jimnewton4534 Donner un pourboire en France semble se perdre, perso j'en laisse toujours, et je récompense surtout l'amabilité et la gentille des serveurs
Amelia, I think you will like Lyon. The south is so wonderful too. I’m looking forward to your additional adventures in France. I’m considering a move to the south of France, Spain or Italy and all of your input is helpful to so many. I’m much older than you and JP but adventurous none-the-less. I’m living vicariously through you for now. 😊
Great! That's very exciting! We have more videos coming from France!
Funny story: Back in 2011, my wife and I visited Paris for the first time. On our second day there, in the morning, we asked our hotelier where we might be able to get crepes for breakfast. He looked at me like I had grown a third eye on my forehead, sputtered with exasperation and claimed, "It is not done!" (I swear he fulfilled about three French stereotypes in the space of 15 seconds, and it was hilarious!). I apologized profusely and explained that I was just an ignorant American, then asked when would be an appropriate time to get crepes. He calmed down somewhat, and told us we could get them in the afternoon if we wished. 😀
The French are total you know whats.
🤣🤣🤣
I’m picturing in my head that whole conversation, yes I bet that was hilarious and very cool. Thx for sharing!
Did he then say that your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries?
@@timmmahhhh And he then farted in my general direction!
JP’s triumphant walk up the stairs is inspiring!
Thanks! 😊
My wife and I have been to Paris twice - 2019 and 2023. We thoroughly enjoyed it both times! It is the best place in the world to sit and watch everything happening around you. The food and coffee are amazing. On the last full day of our first trip, we were tired from all the touring so we went back to the hotel just after lunch time. We then headed to a nearby restaurant and grabbed a sidewalk table on the corner of a bustling 5 way intersection. Initially we thought we would just have a snack and a glass or two of wine... which turned into two or three bottles of wine and an excellent supper! The atmosphere was absolutely captivating and time almost seemed to stop. We had to force ourselves to leave at 10pm so we could get up early for our flight home to Canada next day. We still talk about that afternoon/evening regularly, five years later!
during weekend, that's the norm here , we can stay sipping drinks at a terrace and speak hours and eating with friends and family.
I love Paris ❤ I have visited many capitals around the world. Paris is by far the most beautiful city in the world: romantic and chic, Fashion capital, it is also the city of love and walking there is fascinating. ❤😀
@@lisalisa-q7q Chic ? You have seen only part of Paris. Like most tourists, you dream Paris, you do not see it.
I live in Paris and it's really comfortable, I love it here ! It's not for everyone but if you like living in a city full of stuff to do and you can afford the insane rent, it's worth it !
The French (yes, even Parisians) are quite nice as long as you start with "bonjour", always start with a "bonjour" no matter who you're talking to
pleine de choses à faire 🤔c'est fini paris ont peut plus rien faire 😂
@@PabloHirata pleins* on* ; tu peux toujours apprendre le français :x
@@pooky911 la vérité sa fait mal au c
@@PabloHirata il y a tellement de choses à faire à Paris, tu dois juste être chiant aux soirées toi..
@@Hiro_Trevelyan Bonjour (or the equivalent in the local language) is basic manners anywhere in the world !
Wonderful video tour & info! So inspirational to see JP walk that far after his back surgery history! Adding to our bucket list!
Thanks! 😊
@@AmeliaAndJP SO inspired by JP's progress! I love love love the content.
I agree with you. France was much cleaner than what I had heard. Overall I was very impressed with France. For living I would probably take Portugal. For innovation and comfort in multiple languages the Netherlands. But France tops the UK and Germany in my opinion.
You heard France was dirty? Never heard such thing about the French Alps or Britanny where I lived...
@@Misterjingle it was a number of years ago but a family I knew well had lived in both Germany and France. My experience was different than theirs. France deserves many of their top rankings. Food, fashion, museums, culture and health care are all near the top world wide. And yes in my opinion cleanliness matched or exceeded the UK, USA and Germany.
@@jimjensen9139
I know some parts of the country are not very clean, I am well aware of that, but it’s mostly bad neighborhoods of Paris, Marseille, etc.
I know some tourists go to Paris and think all of France is like that 🥲 Fortunately, most of us live in clean and safe places 😅 Thanks for your nice comment. I won’t clam we have things better here. All countries have their pros and cons and have something to offer
@@Misterjingle Like anywhere in the world there are good neighborhoods and bad. Generally speaking visitors have nothing to do in the bad neighborhoods.
Il faudrait dire cela à nos satanés journalistes qui nous rabaissent constamment en nous comparant aux anglo-saxons à nos dépens.
Au Revoir ! Thanks for the stopover in Paris.
I'm glad you found it clean, times have obviously changed. When I was there in 1988, nobody cleaned up after their dogs! I unfortunately christened my shoe in it right away and my memory of Paris still involves les merdes du chiens.
Yes, maybe they are cleaning up for future events. It was filthy when I was there years ago.
Since a few years ago you'll get fined if you don't pick up your dog's poop or threw your cigarette butt. A lot of efforts are being made to make thé city cleaner.
Unfortunately it is still dirty. They had to do sth because of the Olympic Games. It’s a pitty you don’t speak French, it would have been interesting to know what the locals really think about the situation in Paris. You would be shocked in a negative way. … But I am happy for you you had a great time there. Wish to see more of your videos. What’s your next destination? 🤗
@@mgdu46 The locals are fed up with the Olympics and low class loud tourists
@@mgdu46 les locaux sont surtout agaces par le surtoursime... la salete j'en ai pas plus vue qu'a mrseille , lyon, nantes, rennes, lilles etc... alors oui quand c'est surfrequenté par des touristes qui font n'importe quoi...
@ 09:25 There are a lot of things to learn about place de la Concorde. One of them is that it holds the answer to a common trick quiz question : what is the oldest monument in Paris ? It's NOT the Lutece Arena or the Cluny Thermal Baths (both date from the Gallo-Roman period, 1st century AD).
It's actually right behind her, the Obelisk taken by Napoleon from the Amon Temple in Luxor, Egypt. It was built by Ramses II, so it' s 13th century BC ! It blows my mind everytime I'm near it.
@@issey1456 no, it was not taken but a present from egypt to France
@@issey1456 The obelisk was not taken, it was offered by Egypt to France. And there were two of them.
@@issey1456 The obelisk is not French. Hence it cannot be considered the oldest monument in Paris.
I lived in Paris for 5 years but have been on the Mediterranean coast in Provence for 30 years. I still enjoying going back to Paris to visit friends for a few days but I’d never live in such a big, dense city again….not to mention the weather 🌧 ☁️
Awesome video. Congrats for the walk!
PARIS is Always A Pleasant SURPRISE!!!
@@12567NoYouCannot It shows that you know Paris little.
@@solangelauthier2381; I meant Beauty Wise; it's a well-Designed City with Beautiful Architecture. But I know it's Not Perfect, I was there and I saw some things that were Not nice, but it was a Beautiful and Nice City to Visit.
Great video. Thank you for your unassuming perspective on Paris with a little bit of history mixed in! I hope you do more of these!!
Been there four times and cannot wait to return. As Audrey Hepuburn is reputed to have said: "Paris is always a good idea."
Great video, thank you!
Thank you for coming to my country and explaining your perspective of Paris.
Thanks for watching!
Gorgeous video, the sunshine makes a huge difference. Great work and you both look so well, happy and healthy.
While stationed in Europe in 2003 I and the family drove around the Arc de Triomphe on the way to our hotel. Talk about nerve-wracking! Twelve intersecting avenues and as many as eight lanes of traffic. Although my wife gave me kudos for not crashing our American van into anyone, as soon as we parked in the hotel garage I put away my keys. Taxis and walking until it was time to leave :)
Overall, driving in Paris is a total nightmare. That's why most people here don't even own a car. Since we have an amazing public transportation system, not really a problem. But as you Saïd, this area is the worst. No Line, totally messy. An adventure on it's own
Driving around the arc de triomphe is a special thing to learn. Just keep in mind that you owe priority on your right, and you’ll enjoy everybody stoping on your left ! It is difficult to enter the tour, but it’s easy to get out, feeling so victorious !
The way Americans feel around the arc de triomphe is well depicted in John Wick 4 !
It's winter and I love to see Paris in sunnier days. Thank you for this video, love to see my region, and why I love Paris.
It's a perfect region to live as a commuter, I love coming back to Paris a few times a week. It's quite pricy though, I think smaller cities in France are more affordable for the housing.
I'm so glad you got good weather for your walk through Paris 😊😂
Us too!
You are such an endearing couple. I live in Paris and it was fun to see your reaction. I am glad that, all in all, you enjoyed my city!
Wow. Hi from an Ecuatoriano. I have seen you for years now. I didn't imagine you would be in Paris at that time. This is very great 🎉
Paris is civilized...quiet and peaceful.
@@donnasloane9031 Looks like you did not go everywhere in Paris, you would not find it « quiet and peaceful ».
I am born and raised in Paris. I can tell you it is neither civilized quiet or peaceful ! Ahah
But it’s Paris. It’s the best place anyway
@@Emmanuel_DH I am a French Parisian too. Paris is less and less civilized, absolutely true (but is not the whole world going that sad way ?). As to Paris being quiet and peaceful, it depends where and when you go - like anywhere -. You cannot go to Chateau Rouge - as an example - at 2am and complain. But why would you go ? During the day no problem, even in Barbès and the like. Now, anywhere in the world you can be stabbed to death at noon in a posh district - no zero risk anywhere.
Paris is a fantastic city to walk in. You’re obviously enjoying your time in the city. 👍
I've watched all your videos, and this might be my favorite one. I can't wait to see what else you guys discover in France.
Awesome! Thank you!
Looks amazing!
I have never been to Europe and watching your videos is so much fun! Paris looks so nice, love the wide sidewalks. I'm glad that you had a chance to visit there.
Thanks!
Awesome video of your time in Paris. Thanks guys!
Glad you enjoyed it!
So much to see and so much history! Hope you can make it to see Versailles and Normandy.
2:12 the place is Palais du Luxembourg, it is the French Senate :)
Thank you very much for your videos about France. We are unloved by the world and that is not always justified. Thank you for your positive vision of Paris, Dijon and Lyon. Our country is magnificent, of course not perfect like all the others. We have magnificent cities - 3 seas, varied mountains in a small territory compared to the USA. Different architectures for each region. Our culture is interesting like most countries in Europe which are all very different too.
A big hug to both
Merci 😊🇫🇷
Well, we're not hated either; after all, France does get 100 million visitors a year. I think there is a percentage in America that have disdain for France, but that's because they don't know any better. Forgive them :)
So happy to see your videos again. I have been on a break for helath issues however I am back in the saddle and feeling great. Cant wait to see more of the country side
Excellent work both of you!!! So beautiful!!
Thank you so much!!
Respect!
I've lived in Paris, Aix en Provence and Bordeaux...It is expensive, healthcare is great and it's beautiful! That said, I'd never live there again...Travel, yes! It never felt like home and I have lots of French family there!! Portugal 🇵🇹 for the win...We have a way better quality of life!!
Portugal is indeed a great country. A lot of French people actually retiré there. It's way cheaper, beautiful and the good is great. And people are very nice
Le Portugal est un pays d'avenir et le restera encore longtemps...
Living in Provence is such a dream
Great Video guys, I love your content, I have actually taken this trip and done everything you did, despite that I still watched it and enjoyed it, I agreed with ya, the city is relatively clean and the people are nice
Superbe video !!! Merci ...
Je vous trouve très sympathiques,
Un Français qui aiment les Américains 🇲🇫🇺🇲
I think the Americans are a little bit obsessed with security in Paris. Parisians walk around the city a lot at any time. There are sometimes robberies, but very rarely assaults by simple passers-by. There is no danger if you avoid walking alone, late at night, in the stations and two districts a little warmer than others in the 18th and 19th arrondissement. In the tourist areas there are many police. Objectively it is much less risky to walk in Paris than in New York or London.
@@JeanGoalin In any city there are districts to avoid at night. What would anybody do in such districts where there is nothing to see anyway ? Parisians live normally otherwise, but like anywhere in the world zero risk does not exist, even at noon.
what a delightful 16 minutes you gave me..... it brought back many memories of my previous visits to Paris ! Merci beaucoups!
What a beautiful place~! Great info ~ thanks for the golden nuggets you provide on a regular basis. I appreciate it. 💙
Our pleasure!
Very unexpected indeed! I’ve never heard good things about Paris but my daughter desperately wants to stop there on our trip through France this year. We were going to skip it but thanks to your vid I think we’ll check it out!
Great! It’s expensive but we had a great time 👍
Paris and so much of France (and the world) is beautiful and the people are fantastic. Please do your own research and you will see that the entire planet has so many beautiful places to explore that our lives are too short to enjoy and experience all of it. I heard that Dallas/Chico/Decatur areas were horrible places and I found beauty there as well as kind and generous people.
@@MyTexasLife Going to France and ignoring Paris is a very strange idea…
@@solangelauthier2381 I prefer the quieter countryside to a big city no matter what city it is
@@MyTexasLife Nobody is obliged to live in a big city if they prefer the countryside. But from a cultural point of view coming to France and ignoring Paris, not even visiting it for a week or so, makes no sense.
You did very well . Extremely impressed that you took the pain to walk that long but I have done it and I know how rewarding it is 👏👍😎
Next visit near by Loire valley and it’s gorgeous castles and food including it’s wine.
Further South towards Dordogne where you ll find more stunning architecture and old towns and villages while enjoying THE.Gorgeous food of this area , local wines is a plus , remember Bordeaux is next door..
Then if you don’t have more time , kindly go back to your normal life with memories for a lifetime.
All the best
I really enjoyed this video living vicariously through you for 16 minutes in Paris.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I'm an American from Michigan. I moved to Paris with my French husband and 3 children over 34 years ago. The youngest was five at the time, and the older girls were 12 and 14. After finishing high school, the older girls returned to the US . By the youngest was more French than American.
It is expensive in the Paris region for housing. Luckily my husband and I could afford it.
We're retired now and will stay here for the health care and relaxed lifestyle.
Great video. You guys are awesome and an inspiration to me.
me too!
Prices have gone up because of the Olympics! But France is not just Paris, there are so many things to see all over France!! Alsace, Brittany, the Tarn Gorges, the mountainous regions, the Loire region, and many others, many choose a boat trip on the Canal du Midi, you are in such a quiet place! You pass by small villages to do your shopping, especially at the producers of vegetables, fruits, eggs or poultry!
@@LOLOVAL-os3pq The boat trip on Canal du Midi is a tourist thing
Go out to Arras. About an hour and a great Saturday market.
@@Kurtzsharon There are plenty of markets everywhere in France, no need to specially go to Arras for that !
I love that you are doing this! You are living my dream. Thank you for being an inspiration!!
Thank you so much!
They have inspired me to do research trips to Cuenca (in November), Albania (June '25) and Portugal (Sept '25). After living in Spain, Italy and China and seeing how spot on these two phenomenally generous people are with regards to all of their content I am consistently inspired to keep exploring locations, my attitude and health choices.
I spent about 10 days in Paris several years ago and absolutely loved it! Your impressions are very similar to mine.
You guys give out such
HAPPY VIVES …and ENRRGY
I get HAPPY viewing your
travel journeys 💯🥰💯
GREAT TRIUMPH 👏
Thanks! That’s great! 😊
Wonderful video! I loved it and loved watching and hearing both of your excitement to be there. Congrats JP on the long day!
Thanks! 😊
Practice your stairs and get yourselves to the Cinque Terra Italy, so fun 🙌
@@clm3436 Cinque TerrE (plural)
Thanks it was a lovely walk and view! Paris is my city! Paris , ville lumière❤❤❤!!!
Your video made me want to try out Paris. Thanks
Bonjour! We plan on moving to France this fall, seeing Paris is on the list!!
@@DeanRamser Planning to move to France before knowing Paris, what a strange idea…
@@solangelauthier2381 We moved to Ukraine 🇺🇦 without knowing the country; it’s our style!🤓
Good job, you guys are fit ! I kept my fingers crossed, hoping you’d get there before sundown.
Thanks! 😊
I've visited Paris twice and enjoyed both trips. So much to see and do. I agree with all your insights, and want to add something else to be careful about: scams. Like pickpockets, scammers tend to hang around places tourists frequent. There were many fine things about Paris, but the scammers were indeed a turn-off.
We saw them is Athens and Rome, too. There must be an online school for it 🤦♂️
Pickpockets are very easy to recognize, it's always the same ones... You just have to be careful in a few places.
Paris is so walkable.👏 And some of the best exhibits in the Louvre are in the basement❣️
@@clm3436 « Walkable » if you remain where tourists go. Not if you consider (as an example) the 19th or the 20th arrondissement. Do not be a tourist, be a traveller, experience reality. Paris is not only the Louvre, the Eiffel tower and the like. Be curious. Think out of the box.
@@clm3436 What is best for you is not best for others.
Looks amazing you two! We're coming to France for the Olympics in July.
Heading to Reims for a few days first. Not so interested in crowded Paris.
But we look forward to the experience!
@@RetireToEurope Coming to Paris for the Olympics is the worst idea. Many monuments and lovely places hidden by stupid scaffholdings, traffic impossible. Wise French people leave Paris during the Olympics.
@@solangelauthier2381 We had a terrific time. We walked everywhere or took the Metro.
No traffic issues at all!
But I agree the magic of France is found in the towns and villages of the countryside.
@@RetireToEurope Saying that you WALKED everywhere means that, like 90% of tourists, you stuck to the center and did not see real Paris, only the highly touristic part. And you did not see (as an example) beautiful place de la Concorde, as it was behind sort of scaffholdings. Trafic was complicated as most bridges were closed, and you did not even notice. No, you did not see Paris.
@@solangelauthier2381 Why do you care about MY trip? Weird.
What a great video thank you.
Loved this walk thru Paris!! I will probably never go.. so thank you!!
It's been several years since I last visited Paris. I need to go again sometime AFTER the Olympics!
I’m French and Parisian and I’m always happy to see American tourists Paris is a beautiful place to visit, you just have to avoid the drawbacks (rude staff in restaurants, dirty places (rats are not a myth) … )
Paris is going car free and is very livable now, the mayor of Paris rocks!
@@DiogenesOfCa The present mayor of Paris (Hidalgo) is DESTROYING Paris
I help you answer your two questions:
1) No
2) No
---
1) As a foreigner you won't want to live in the suburbs or lower cost districts. Real estate is complicated in Paris and it's one of the most expensive city. 10k per sqm.
2) Like most french say, it's probably better to live far from Paris and pay 59€ plane ticket + hotel once to four times a year.
You want to live in Paris if you have some kind of work which requires you to live in Paris (or relatives...)
Beautiful.
What the heck? I was in Paris last week! I assume you were there a couple months ago, but it is so cool that we're practically crossing paths in Europe. :-)
It was almost a month ago. 😊
Hi what self guided walk guide app do you use
Google
@@FotosLostnFound No apps, be civilized and buy yourself a guidebook - unless you cannot read
You guys have got to go to Haarlem in the Netherlands👍
I have been to Paris NINE times over the years....I spoke so highly of it that I would bring along friends for their first time leaving the U.S (and first time leaving TEXAS in some cases). My sister and I would go every few years to go shop...she would go to Louis Vuitton to get her handbags cheaper than in the US, and I would go to the Creed cologne store (both are within blocks of each other near the Arc de Triomphe) to buy my Creed cologne for cheap(er) as well. I also speak some fluent high school French haha so that makes tout le difference, aussi! Yeah there are some dirty sketchy parts (the area around Gare du Nord and Clichy-Levallois) but hey! It's Paris! And even their sketchy parts look charming
@@gregorriusadolphus2729 If your only interest in Paris is Vuitton and Creed, and buying things cheaper than at home, it is very sad, and a sign of a low cultural level. Clichy-Levallois is NOT Paris, it is Clichy-Levallois. Sketchy parts there are in any city in the world. And they are not charming.
@@solangelauthier2381 please work on your comprehension skills....merci beaucoup!
@@gregorriusadolphus2729 It is extremely sad that the only thing you mention about Paris is 2 shops !!!
@@solangelauthier2381 don't worry...I actually wrote a book on visiting Paris, and there is where I mentioned a lot more things to see LOL. INCLUDING A LACOSTE STORE!
I was in Paris Christmas and New Year 2021/22 loved it. Did not want to come home. We stayed at the Lancaster highly recommended!
@@kimberlylewis5006 The Ritz is not bad either. What about « normal » places ?
We stayed like two blocks from the arc d’triomphe. The climb almost killed me lol. I later got a pots diagnosis.
@@freedakaye6720 Arc DE triomphe
Hi. Please share and overall budget for Paris. thanks
@@jesusortega729 Budget ? Depends how you want to live ! Like anywhere…
Great trip! I did not guess Paris at all!!
Nostalgia, I remember that when I was just a little boy my mother took me for a walk in the Luxembourg Gardens after school to sail small sailboats and watch puppet shows. We lived less than 500m away.
Très bien 😊
@@CROM-on1bz Indeed that was nice. It was customary. There are even 19th century paintings depicting it.
@@solangelauthier2381 Later I continued the tradition with my children and often took their boats to play with them (and sometimes even without them)😉
@@CROM-on1bz Bravo !
I really enjoyed your video. Very pleasant to watch, entertaining. Bravo !
Many foreign visitors to Paris always sum up the place as the historic city, bounded by the ring road, a very old city, and where the main historical sites and landmarks are located, like Eiffel tower, Arc De Triomphe, Notre Dame, etc... . But this is only a relatively small part of the real Paris area, about 2.2 million inhabitants. Real life for millions of inhabitants is in the huge metropolitan area around the city, which stretches for dozens of miles, where most tourists never go, and populated by about 10 million people. This is where one can find the gigantic shopping malls, by the dozens, or the most important car dealerships or superstores, etc...Disneyland Paris for example, is about 20 miles east of the historic city.
@@JEANKOURAGE Disneyland (which is NOT in Paris), car dealerships and shopping malls are best avoided (no cultural interest) - why mention that ? Paris has only some 2 millions inhabitants because Paris stops at the peripherique (ringroad), the rest is the banlieue (suburbs), not Paris. Within the peripherique limits (easy transportation by bus or metro) there is far far more than the Eiffel Tower etc to see (what about the lovely old green passages of the 20th, as an example? Never seen ONE tourist there). A life would not be enough to see just Paris. But 99,99% of tourists are clueless.
@@solangelauthier2381
Je mentionne ça parce que beaucoup de touristes sont des bourrins ignorants qui résument Paris seulement à la ville historique, et ne savent même pas que 10 millions de personnes vivent dans la zone urbaine autour, ou se concentre une bonne partie de l'activité économique. Il suffit de lire certains commentaires d'étasuniens sur Paris, par exemple. "Supermarkets in Paris are small", ou bien, "There are not big malls like in the US", alors que la banlieue regorge de dizaines de centres commerciaux gigantesques.
You are welcome in Marseille.
I got there a few month ago i did the same trip it was really nice , but The Invalide with Napoleon's Tomb was just breath taking
I’ve always thought Paris was the cleanest city I’ve ever been to. I love Paris. My daughter attended college at the Sorbonne. I loved my visits. As much as I love it for extended visits I wouldn’t care to live there. Madrid shares many characteristics with Paris. I love it there as well. Just wouldn’t want to live in a big city.
Budget travel is subjective 😅
We came thru Paris on FLIXBUS - 1 hr in Bercy Park, walked the bridge, saw the river, ate vegan lunch, transferred bus and on to Nantes.
@@pleasantjourneys So you did not see or experience anything. Vegan lunch is by far not typical French food ! You are VERY far from reality.
Paris is not France....jus a part of it. there are thousands of absolutely fabulous places outside of Paris and throughout France, it's just incredible, I will go back soon!