Culture

The Most Annoying Things About Paris

Annoyances might seem implausible when it comes to Paris, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.  How could such a charm-filled, picturesque city irk anyone?  Here's how, and local Parisians might even agree with a few of these points.

(Note: You really have to spend at least a few months in the city to start to notice any of these; so travelers: no need to fret - your vacation will be superb!)

The Skinny on How the French Don't Get Fat

There has been much written on why the French don't get fat.  Most say it's the way food is eaten and the portion sizes.  While this is true, after spending a year living in Paris, I thought of 10 non-food related reasons that aren't usually mentioned.

Myth #4: Parisians attend their annual music festival in a calm, refined manner at local concert halls and auditoriums.

False!

The annual June 21 festival, la Fête de la Musique, celebrates the world's music and brings it to the streets with free concerts for the public.  Some concerts are organized, others are spontaneous, but one thing that is sure: Parisians flock to the streets and know how to celebrate with the best of them.

Myth #3 Taking the train is the most affordable way to travel around Europe

Not Always!

With the emergence of discount airlines across Europe, it is often less expensive to purchase an airline ticket than to travel by train. However, what train travel affords you is:

Myth #2: You'll be able to grab your coffee to go in Paris as you do at home

False!

Having your morning, noon or afternoon coffee to-go in a paper cup is uncommon.  Going for coffee in Paris means sitting in a café of your choosing (there are many in any neighborhood) and enjoying a few moments over your freshly brewed drink.

Myth #1: Parisian dog owners don't clean up after their pets

True! 

This is one of the stereotypes you always hear about.  To give the city credit, they have made dramatic improvements in the last decade.  Yet venture into one of the neighborhoods in Paris, and you will still have to watch where you walk.

A Charming Saturday in Paris

Do you ever wonder what a typical Saturday in Paris is like? Not one as a tourist when you are trying to see as many museums as you can, but the afternoons enjoyed by the locals who call Paris home?

Here is a photo gallery, thanks to Claude Néron, her husband Tom Rugani, and their friends, of an afternoon filled with bike rides, a visit to a café, outdoor market shopping, ping pong and wine in the park.

Click on any image to launch the gallery!