GET IT I TRAVEL
HOW TO EXPERIENCE
PARIS
LIKE A
PARISIENNE Lisa Hammoum puts a spotlight on the City of Love – a favourite December destination for travellers from all over the world
Christmas in Paris, by Sephanie LaBlanc, Unsplash
hen you think of Paris, I’m sure any number of clichés spring to mind; the language of love, passionate arguments on cobbled streets and of course, that accent. While some of these clichés may ring true there’s so much more to this magical city. From the ‘je ne sais quoi’ atmosphere (quite literally meaning a quality that can’t be described) to the iconic lampposts that encapsulate Paris’ identity, this city is meant to be experienced in all its wonder and most importantly, like a local. While the call of the Eiffel Tower, boat cruises down the river Seine and the architecture of the Louvre shouldn’t be ignored, the most fun to be had is by experiencing Paris like a true Parisienne. Here, I’ve put together a list from my most recent trip on where to go and what to eat if you’re to thrive as a Franco-local. WHEN TO EAT IN PARIS My first important need-to-know is the eating ‘schedule’ in Paris. There are two distinct serving times, lunch is typically from 12 until 2.30pm and dinner around 8 to 11pm. Late, I know, but their local bistros and brasseries are worth experiencing December 2019
‘al-fresco’ under the twilight sky. Even in winter, many spaces are heated, to allow you to indulge in the full experience. A lot of restaurants close between lunch and dinner so if you’re hungry in between, your best bet is a patisserie or bakery for a sumptuous baguette. WHERE TO EAT LIKE A PARISIENNE Nothing says authentic French food quite like duck confit. Just a stone’s throw away from riverside views and Notre Dame is a little nook of a family-run restaurant with al fresco outdoor dining, La Grange Aux Canards. They specialise in duck and
Parisian markets by Mariana Lara, Unsplash
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From the ‘je ne sais quoi’ atmosphere (quite literally meaning a quality that can’t be described) to the iconic lampposts that encapsulate Paris’ identity, this city is meant to be experienced in all its wonder and most importantly, like a local.