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Comments (3)
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Save/ShareOne of the challenges of visiting Paris, especially when going solo, is finding a way to interact with other people despite the language barrier. In this blog series, we'll be offering tips and suggestions to help you connect.
EnjoYourParis
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How does it work? Visit EnjoYourParis (in either French or English) to create a free profile. You'll be asked to indicate what sort of events you're most interested in attending. You'll then receive a weekly email with a roundup of possibilities. As student Laura Carroll wrote in this review, "after a quick e-mail confirmation, I was informed of a slew of events. Do I want to (Re)discover Saint Germain des Pres with Soundwalk? View the latest exhibition, Elles, at the Pompidou? Yes, and yes!"
The idea was inspired by Giler's own travels as a student in Australia — a trip that started out lonely but improved dramatically after he managed to meet local friends. Back in France, he and Brichant created this site a way for new arrivals (both temporary and permanent) to crack the tough nut that is Paris. Rather than simply inform readers about upcoming events, it organizes outings based on individual interest. Their video teaser sums up the friendly spirit of the venture.
Another recent outing included a visit to the Mexican wrestling bar La Lucha Libre. "Join us in that very special bar, with a wrestling ring in its basement, to have a couple of mojitos and other cocktails, and, for those who dare, wear the special inflatable sumo costume and fight on the ring ! That for sure will be a night you'll remember!"
More traditionally French outings are also in the mix, like an autumn picnic that was recently reviewed by the Associated Press. "On a recent evening, they brought out the pastis, some water to mix it with, fruit juice and Coca-Cola for an international happy hour al fresco. With the Eiffel Tower in the background, people opened snacks and bottles and started chatting."
The upcoming calendar includes art exhibitions, an organic market lunch, concerts, and much more. To check them out and register for events, visit EnjoYourParis. And please let us know about your experience!
User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.
One of the best ways to meet locals is to go to church services. I wouldn't suggest going to large churches like Notre Dame although we had a great experience at St Sulpice last week. After services they had a small social gathering where we were welcomed with open arms. On another occasion I attended a Quaker Meeting and as with all Quaker Meetings, there was a coffee hour to follow. I met some very interesting people, locals and travelers alike.
Posted By Steve From TravelingProfessor.com on January 27, 2010, 6:01 PM
Since we are dog lovers, we usually strike up conversations with people walking their dogs--with one lone exception, we met many nice people this way.
Posted By moondoggie on April 22, 2010, 12:47 PM
Hi,
Just go to a karaoke show in the evening. ( Cafe Rive Droite in Paris 1.District, Rue Berger or Cafe Epoque, Pigalle )
You'll meet locals and travelers and can even become a "Star".
Martin Wunder
Posted By Martin Wunder on May 4, 2010, 12:08 PM