Embracing the Parisian Lifestyle

For the third consecutive year, we made the decision to embark on an extended stay in Paris. This time, we planned for an eight-week duration, as Sarah enrolled in a fashion design course to further enhance her skills and delve deeper into her passion. Having gone through the rationalizing of value of accommodations on Airbnb, and maximizing credit card points, we once again found ourselves surrounded by the majestic limestone Haussmann architecture of the city.

However, this particular trip felt somewhat distinct from the previous ones. It could be attributed to the bustling atmosphere teeming with tourists, as their presence seemed more prominent than in previous years. Alternatively, the fact that I now viewed the city through the lens of potential relocation added an extra layer of emotional weight to the journey.  But I think novelty is destined to fade.  Anyone who has moved cities knows that for the first year, everything seems new, only for that newness to give way to routine.  What I think persists is the rhythm and energy of that particular city – something I’m still trying to feel here.

Two years ago, we stayed in the 6th arrondissement and I cherished the routine of waking up early, strolling a mere five blocks to the Luxembourg Gardens, and joining the scores of people running laps around the park. It was a more family-friendly area, with myriad strollers and toddlers.  As I’ve found out through posted rental adverts, it’s also one of the most expensive.

This year, we opted for the Marais district for the second consecutive time. While I adored the family-centric atmosphere of the 6th arrondissement, Marais provides access to a seemingly younger crowd, and features smaller hidden-gem restaurants and boutiques, along with some familiarity. It also offers proximity to the fashion school, necessary on this trip. 

During the initial days of our stay, we spent time poring over maps, searching for places both new and saved, and strategizing how to spend our days. However, simply venturing out and exploring remained the best way to acclimatize.  Our local area has a charming alley adorned with a fishmonger, butcher, and organic produce market. And to no surprise, the weekend farmers’ markets still prove to be the best place to find the finest produce and fruits.

Having not returned to the same apartment, every location necessitates readjusting and rediscovering familiar patterns and finding new spaces that resonate, even within the same city. Unlike shorter stays that primarily focus on exploring restaurants and coffee shops, these extended sojourns entail additional tasks. Alongside discovering new dining spots, we must also locate a suitable grocery store, navigate the local language, effectively plan our meals, and re-learn metro routes.

In Paris, there is also a strong culture of work/life separation.  Long lunches, taken during specific hours, without devices, for example.  Or strict no-laptop policies at cafes, where people sit and converse.  It’s a romance to personal connectivity that seems to have been lost in America.  And I find myself aligning with their routines, eating according to their schedule, and adapting my work patterns accordingly.

Traveling is fundamentally about immersing oneself in a different culture and assimilating rather than futilely attempting to impose one’s customs on foreign soil. It’s about growth, often in working through discomfort. And about memories and stories through experiences. Looking forward to sharing more soon.

Happy travels.