Top 10 Ways to Do As the Locals Do
They say for the best travel experience, you should do as the locals do. For those who want a truer taste of what makes the City of Light glow day in and day out, here is a list of the roads less traveled by tourists but crossed daily by Parisians.
Top 10 Ways to ‘Do As the Locals Do’
- Visit the Vineyards: Many tourists check in and out of France without really taking the time to sip on a glass of the country’s favorite keepsake – wine. Although it isn’t the same as a trip into the French countryside, a visit to Paris’ Montmartre vineyards and its nearly 100 year old tradition makes for a nice insider’s look at the French’s love affair with the primeval beverage.
- Browse Used Book Markets: We all know great antique fair finds and treasured flea market items are a definite here. But what about an afternoon with nothing more than a good read in a quiet section of a lush garden? Many book markets come into town at the same time as larger events and are often overlooked by tourists. Don’t fall into the trap. Take an hour to stroll book markets and you are sure to find a vintage treasure that you can enjoy long after you’ve left Paris. Square Georges Brassens holds a book fair every weekend from 9:30am – 6pm.
- See a Flick: Do not be fooled that this is going to be your typical trip to an American movie theater! If Paris had any other nickname, it would be The City of Movies for sure. Hundreds of movies play daily. They range from new releases to olden classics and many are played out in English too. A handy copy of Pariscope, which is available at nearly every paper stand, will allow you to search what’s playing when and where.
- Learn the Lingo: Many people are under the impression that Paris folk are impolite and this simply is not so. It’s quite possible that without “please’s” and “thank you’s”, they think you are the discourteous one! Take the time to learn language basics and you will see Parisian’s in a whole new light. Try simple phrases like Bonjour (hello), Au Revoir (goodbye), S’il vous plait (please) and Merci (thank you) and follow them up with a friendly grin. Take note that most French see their business as an extension of their home, so oblige them with a hello and goodbye. You can even go so far as taking a crash course that local colleges offer. No better place to learn French than Paris!
- Meander Bercy Village: Although everybody knows it, Bercy Village still remains one of the most genuine neighborhoods in the city. A day meandering here can consist of shopping at Course Saint Emilion’s boutiques and restaurants, wandering in and out of the local galleries or catching a flick at an old cinema.
- Early Bird Specials: Whether whooping it up clear through to the next morning or simply an early riser, the French know the best shopping is reserved for the early birds. And it is also quite likely that you won’t find a local floundering in a boutique among tourists gone mad in the afternoon hours. No wonder they always look fabulous; stress free shopping hours and the best deals in town!
- Wash Ashore: Although the Arsenal Marina, located where the Canal Saint Martin meets the Seine, is open to public perusal it is often left to those who dock their beautiful boats here. Take advantage of this low key spot and spend an afternoon appreciating the watercrafts and the Canal followed by a stroll along the famous Seine River.
- Take in Rue Cler: This is the fast forwarded version of all things Paris. In the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, this bustling market spans 2 blocks and includes local favorites like fresh fruit and veggie stands, a supermarket, flower shop, café, pastry shop, post office and butcher shop. If you really want to live like the locals, this is the ultimate place to do so; or consider it the best place to people watch in town.
- Parade the Promenade: The promenade is Paris boutique shopping where you least expect it! An old viaduct that runs from Place de la Bastille to Gare de Lyon has been taken over by an exceptionally long walk full of shopping and cafes. You can find secret entrances in the form of stairwells along the duct about every 100 meters.
- Walk! Wanna get in on a little secret? How about the coveted key as to how the French stay so slim? You really wanna know? Simply walk! Not to a destination where food is fat free or for exercise. Just walk to every place that is close enough to do so. That’s it! You’re as good as trim. Plus it’s a great way to explore the city on foot, up close and personal.
