Paris city guide - discover gigs, parties and events:
Learn French
Duolingo is a fantastic free app for learning languages. Just 5 minutes a day is all it takes to understand the basics before your travel. Click here to see their French course.
Gluten-free Paris
As a gluten-free traveller, I recommend using
this handy French restaurant card by Coeliac Travel when querying gluten-free options on a menu. Click the image to visit their website.
Why you will love Paris
It's pretty hard not to! So much of our perception of romance is wrapped up in the style and mythology of this city. It really just sells itself, so try not to love it!
Things to watch out for in Paris
Speaking English - you can get around most of Europe not bothering to learn the native tongue (which is terribly rude but we all do it) but you should definitely brush up on your French before arriving here. Not every waiter and shopkeeper will give you a hard time but knowing at least a little French will help you avoid some seriously smug eye rolls.
Dog poo - it's e.v.e.r.y.w.h.e.r.e. Look where you're putting those feet.
Veggie avoiding - Paris has a bad reputation for not being especially vegetarian and vegan-friendly. But don't let that put you off travelling there now as there has been a serious sea change. Sure, you'll probably still struggle for a notable veggie option at your average restaurants so check out East Side Burgers, Fee Nature, Pinson cafes, Sol Semilla, and Tien Hiang among others.
Being too colourful - if you wear black all the time, you'll be fine in Paris. But be prepared for being openly stared at (or even insulted) in the street if your hair or clothes are a little beyond the norm. I don't think anyone should have to tone themselves down for anyone. Love your look! Just be ready for a little more attention than normal.
