Don't Be THAT Tourist - How to Blend in in Paris

[@remicarlier]

I'm french and I support this message

[@JaySwanson]

Gracias, Rémi 🥂

[@susanobrien9917]

I'm an American who has travelled throughout Europe and I definitely support this message 🤣

[@grahamcooper2144]

Lived in Paris 10 years. Another top tip I've taught visitors. Whatever a french person says to you - say it back. 'Bonjour'. 'Au revoir'. 'Bonne Journee'. ' A plus'. " A Bientot'. etc. It really helps.

[@JaySwanson]

Repeating back is a really helpful start 🙏

[@solangelauthier2381]

You certainly do not say « A plus ». That is very low class !

[@AlshainFR]

Parisian here. This right here at 0:53 is the single most important tip of the video. In France, not saying "Bonjour" first (even an English "Hello" or "Hi" will be more than enough for most Frenchmen, it's the fact that you greet us that counts) , especialy before asking for something is the equivalent of walking up to us, spitting in our faces and saying "Give me directions right now, you worthless slave". In some of the more... colorful areas of the country, failing to greet can get you in serious trouble, even as a native. Unfortunately I find Americans (then Chinese and Middle Easterners) to be the most common offenders, probably due to your large service industry and "customer first" culture. If you wonder why you've been treated badly in France, maybe ask yourself if you did that instead of going right away to French bashing. I'm sorry if I sound harsh or salty writing this, I actualy enjoy the company of tourists and help them as much as I can, I'm very proud that my country and city are so sought after and I love sharing my culture and history despite not being in the tourism industry, but reading francophobic crap on the internet over and over and over from people who treat Paris like an amusement park and Parisians like costumed characters here to serve and amuse them drives me up a wall.

[@JaySwanson]

I totally get it! It's a cultural difference, in America you don't necessarily say "hello" but you'll say, if you're a good person, "excuse me" but very politely, and that inflection in enough. Here, it's truly about the words. Thankfully it is a pretty easy thing to pick up on!

[@jennifer_u]

It’s refreshing to dine in European restaurants because you can actually hear the conversation you’re having with your partner. It’s insane how loud people are even in fine restaurants here in the States.

[@jean-claudemuller3199]

it was really chocking for me (a frenchman) the first time a went ro USA, how loud people are in restaurants. Drinking beer on the bottle in fine restaurants, everywhere having a lot of fryed food that made me sick because my body isn't accustomed to it. French use a lot of spices, but soft ones with a subtle taste that is even not noticed by people who regularly eat with strong spices. Just make a try with for example "Madagascar black pepper" and you will understand what I mean.

[@teddysdadcory]

Agreed!!!

[@Hehawtyragu]

As an Australian who’s travelled a lot Americans have such a bad name around the world, we are often viewed as pretty rambunctious but Americans take the cake

[@marcosvazquez2925]

To all my fellow Americans…PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD IF YOU DONT KNOW MUCH FRENCH LIKE MY WIFE AND I START THE CONVERSATION WITH “PARLEZ-VOUS ANGLAIS?!!!” 1:37. It really does help set the tone. My wife and I walked into a ice cream shop started with that and the server was extremely helpful and kind. Shortly after us an American family came crashing in with no “bonjour” and immediately started ordering In English without even asking if she spoke it. The servers face said it all. For years I heard the french were rude to Americans but now finally here in the city I can see it’s actually the opposite. Thanks for your content jay it was extremely helpful my wife and I love ya!

[@etogalya]

Can I just point out that your videos were so helpful when we visited Paris, that another tourist asked ME for directions? She realized, wide-eyed, and backing away slowly when I began speaking in broken French that I was not, in fact, a local, but there was a moment. There was a moment.

[@JaySwanson]

And a glorious moment it was

[@hublocker849]

@@JaySwanson That happened to me to. I´m Canadian, but I am of pretty much 100% French heritage and was wearing black jeans, a neutral colour shirt and a black suit jacket.

[@ericam339]

I just went to Paris this year for the first time and I have to say, SOLELY thanks to you I had an excellent time. I watched your videos sort of passively while doing chores etc, and yet while there I found myself remembering lots of stuff you said and tried a lot of your recommendations (kb coffee was a STAPLE, thank youuu) and heeded lots of your advice (always “Bonjour” and some basic French got me VERY far). I will say my only regret was not buying your book, cos man, you really helped lol, so anyone going to Paris- BUY his book. I can’t imagine how flawlessly things would have gone if I did. He changed my vacation!

[@RAD6150]

We met so many people who didn't speak English in Paris... until they heard us talking and decided we weren't THAT type of tourists. I still used my minimal French where I could and had a couple taxi drivers help me with my word usage and pronunciation. Also: About four years ago, we went to Paris and saw a woman (obviously American) wearing a red beret (pre Emily) and a marinière. We were at first embarrassed for her, but then realized she was super happy and living her best life. I knew at that point it didn't matter as long as you are friendly and it makes you happy!

[@JaySwanson]

Absolutely! If the beret makes you happy, go for it. Being authentically yourself is always the fastest ticket to making good friends anywhere in the world - even if you don't speak their language =)

[@shinyshinythings]

A few weeks ago I saw a group of about five women tourists in Paris, all wearing identical hot pink berets - they were having a grand time, and they certainly could find one another in a crowd!

[@fionabooth6093]

Omg I’m 100% sure they were British lol

[@RandolphSouth]

San Sulpice is always my first stop in Paris to see the last work of Delacroix. The organ is amazing as well. Like a time machine.

[@lindapark8467]

I visited France in 2005 and am thrilled to be going back this May. I remember really enjoying how polite everyone was. Even the ticket takers were saying bonjour to each customer. Love your videos.

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you!

[@whatupwhatup4206]

Same!! Except it’s my first time

[@erinmh]

It's downright refreshing to not get the american customer service experience. Once you go to/live in other countries, you realize how smothering it is. I love not being bothered while eating or sipping coffee.

[@JaySwanson]

I do struggle with American customer service when I go back now for that exact reason 😆😆

[@aeolia80]

Korean customer service is like the US but 10 fold, they never leave you alone in a store!!! hahahahahaaha

[@FrenchMartini]

But idiots who are "paying money" expect French Laundry service in cheap places.

[@graciepoo622]

Especially when you're being rung up for food or coffee, in Cali at least, they ask "how is your day going?", which I interpret as "Tip, please!"

[@michelleinfrance]

It can definitely feel smothering but I do very much miss not hearing “c’est pas possible” 🥲

[@RoxanneM-]

“Be polite, it will go a long way.” 😂🤣👍Loved it! 👏

[@PeterReefman]

Finally - a Paris-based youtuber tourist advice channel that isn't pretentious. Thank you! I had been getting turned off even learning about Paris (visiting late June 2024)! Thanks again. Let the binge begin!

[@lateesha-marietyler8480]

I think you have just taught people basic manners. Thank you x

[@seesantos]

Read the room! Once I was behind a gentleman, an American, who was trying to get "Saran Wrap" - which is a brand btw, at the Rodin Museum Cafe. The young lady pretended not to understand, so he spoke louder, cuz THAT works. Anyhoo, she called over the manager and they somehow worked it out. It was my turn, and in my very bad French started speaking and the young lady switched to English...amazing how that works! Heading back this summer!

[@driddy1]

Wonderful points to keep in mind 😃 I miss your tours and tips about Paris neighborhoods/ arrondissements etc. Love today's post 🙏🏾❤️🇫🇷🥖🥐🗼😎

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks! Lots more tours and tips and tricks to come this year =)

[@driddy1]

@@JaySwanson Woot woot ✨✨✨😃

[@gmnewlook]

We enjoyed our trip to Paris at the beginning of the month. We dressed regularly like we would here in Montreal (wore my Expos cap for a day). I guess I looked like a local cause I was asked for directions 3-4 times, and I tried to help out the person(s) as best I could, this being our second time in Paris. I probably visited a few places tourists don't go to like Porte de Vanves, Porte d'Orléans and Porte de Choisy to do bus and tram photography, as well as Chelles for the AMTUIR transit museum, where I got to ride in a 1934 Renault TN6C2. Also got to do my last MP 59 métro photos on line 11 at Châtelet, Arts et Métiers, Porte des Lilas and Pyrénées.

[@fionabooth6093]

I’m enjoying these so much. I’m a Brit and twice your age - probably - but I know and love Paris. I definitely follow the ‘ I’m a guest’ and liberally using ‘ bonjour’ - and Madame and Monsieur is something else they expect that we Brits and Americans don’t as well- but it’s more to do, I think, with an elaborate politesse than it is to do with ‘ being a guest’. They respect balls; they do NOT respect cringing politeness, and I say that with some experience 😂 Stand your ground ( maybe for not being fobbed off with a crap tourist table) and that they respect, if it’s done with very elaborate politesse. I don’t know what you think about that, but that’s what I’ve learned over thirty years visiting annually, getting older, growing a pair and a bit of experimenting!😊

[@jahnacarlson3528]

Yes! Act like a guest. Best advice ever.

[@Migz570]

We will finally be there in May 2023 and currently mapping our steps to see the most of Paris. Thank you for your informative videos, we have been watching them for years.

[@IgnacioGiri]

Beautifully shot and good audio giving the fact that you're by yourself.

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks!

[@roychastain2958]

This was a great video! In 1981, my bride of 1 year and I spent a week in Paris on our way to my school in Salzburg. I'm sure I did everything wrong. We returned in 2021 and 2022 and found Paris and Parisian wonderful. What changed? Me! Watching your videos (and a few others) taught me a lot about how I should act and what to say. About the 30th time of saying "Bonjour!" each dy it seemed trite, but I kept it up. All sort of doors and good/great experiences were the result. Keep teaching us. Thanks again for the video!

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Roy! I'm really happy to hear that they were helpful - thanks for watching!

[@NancyLiedel]

I appreciate your videos. I really adore Cooper! You are a good dog parent.

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you so much!

[@scottlindsly]

It can be said in so many of your videos, but struck me especially in this one (perhaps because there are so many different scenes, and the camera is still) how outstanding the backgrounds & framing that you choose & setup are...very well done! The subject matter is what drew me here long ago, but over the course of your journey the improvements of quality (editing, framing, speaking, content, etc) are remarkable!

[@AAbshier]

I was on the Metro coming from The Louvre heading towards the 11th Arrondissement. I had been in Paris for several days so was very aware of how quiet French passengers were. When I got on there was a group of Americans talking to an Englishman further down the car. I was away from that group so just watched. The Americans were, well, Americans, talking loudly. A few stops later the Americans got off the Metro, and as soon as they left the Englishman did this massive eye roll, which elicited some snickers from the French!

[@Vancouver_Dan]

Thanks for this - helpful and funny. Best line: "Just because you speak more loudly doesn't mean people are going to better understand you." They should print that in the front cover of USA passports. (I have witnessed some unbelievably cringey incidents in Mexico - including, recently, a woman across the restaurant yelling in English at the unilingual Spanish server: "You didn't listen to a word I said!" (which brings up another of your points - the woman was upset that she did not get the egg white only omelet she ordered).

[@JaySwanson]

WHY IS MY EGG MADE FROM EGGS IT SHOULD BE TOFU YOU CRETON 😂

[@EvaUnit_01]

i’m happy i looked up to say bonjour every time i stepped inside a store/cafe. i froze every time i tried to ask if they spoke english in french, and it ended up me just saying “english?” to which i was helped and most people spoke english since i was in a tourist heavy area. i can attest to saying bonjour goes a long way

[@JaySwanson]

That works too! I think all anyone really wants to see is that you're making an effort - it helps them want to do the same and meet you halfway =)

[@samanthasutton7963]

On my first visit to Paris, I came with my whole family and we definitely made all of these mistakes. But my second time around on a solo trip it was so much more enjoyable knowing some of these social norms and completely changing my expectations.

[@charlesblack1086]

I loved this video. I've been on trips with "that" tourist. Once I was on a bus with a tour group heading to the Italian countryside and one of the men in the group kept going on about missing the game back home on TV. It was cringy and I was young, my first trip ever to Europe, still I was embarrassed for him. I also liked what you said about food. I know many people who customize food in my opinion way too much here in New York. I will tell them not to depend on that in Paris.

[@JaySwanson]

At least that guy could stream the game on the bus if he traveled now =D

[@Cuttlefish233]

Great video. Long time viewer. Thanks for all your videos. I am trying to learn French. I visited Paris for a short trip. I quickly realized how little I knew. I bought two bananas from a street vendor. I used my best attempt to order, with a French accent. Started with "Bonjour", inserted a little ehh at the appropriate point, ended with "S'il vous plaît". I was proud of myself, until the vendor said something. I could tell he was telling me how much to pay. I realized that the only numbers I knew were 1 through 10 (not zero). Multiple times I would open with "Bonjour" (by itself using my best French accent), and get reply in French that I couldn't understand. Then have to respond "Désolé parlez-vous anglais?" To reduce that exchange, I started opening with "Bonjour and Hello", then the salesperson would know I would prefer to speak English, but am willing to try French. Each time they responded in English. Thanks again for your content. V

[@JaySwanson]

You mastered that bonjour quite well it sounds like! And you're welcome =) Thanks for watching!

[@newberley]

Thank you for thisJay. I was especially grateful for your advice on refraining from insensitive comments related to WW2. You don't discourage viewers from reading & learning about history - indeed, you encourage it -but you remind folks to be careful about what they say. Well done!

[@JaySwanson]

Always good to try and retain a little perspective for the things we say. It can be hard when we're excited about our history, I totally get that - and sometimes the best way to learn is to step in it and have some awkward moments. But if I can help one or two people avoid that, all the better =D

[@inmytravelstoday]

You did not tell one lie. I lived in Paris for 8 years and you told nothing but the truth. I will visit Paris soon and look forward to being in restaurants where I cannot hear other people's entire conversations, not being rushed, and meeting friendly merchants with impeccable manners.

[@thedavidguy01]

Jay, I think you covered all the most important points. I would emphasize two of the things you mentioned, volume and immediately speaking English. When you get used to the typical French level of public speaking volume you’ll realize that we Americans are usually really, really loud. And immediately speaking English to people is both presumptuous and rude. You’re not entitled to everyone speaking English. France is a foreign country not a vacation theme park.

[@JaySwanson]

Volume can be a tricky point to raise - here's hoping keeping it general helps 😆

[@Paul_C]

@@JaySwanson the Dutch have this annoying habit to send american tourists on a rather long route if they don't like the look of them. Don't know if the French have discovered that trick, but it wouldn't surprise me...

[@heathergonzales1258]

I’m so glad I found your videos! We are heading to Paris next month for the first time and your videos are helpful. We’ve been to London and found it wonderful. Hoping with keeping tricks in mind, we have an amazing time.

[@JaySwanson]

So glad, I hope you have a blast!

[@jasoniscool2006]

For anyone reading this comment I have his guide and it is very worth it !!!! download it today

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you Jason! You are indeed cool, 2006-2023

[@petkoandreev7869]

It's good to see and hear that you are in a good mental shape man. It has been a while

[@JaySwanson]

Long time coming - an ongoing effort but one that's bearing fruit =) Thanks!

[@jimregan6590]

Awesome video. First time viewer and this video was insanely helpful relative to all of the other “what not to do” videos that are out there. Thanks for putting this together and for the fantastic editing. Pleasure to watch and super helpful!

[@yazmingonzalez5462]

I just found your channel and I’m obsessed! Your humor and confidence is unmatched! I’ll be in Paris in May and I’m binging your videos so that I am prepared. I will make sure to leave my cowboy hat and boots at home 😂😊.

[@apk2039]

Okay…one of your best, for sure. And we’ve seen them all. WE MEAN ALL!🤣🤣🤣

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Paul =D

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

This was a great video, clearly told from the perspective of someone who lives in Paris not just visits, as you did not slip into any of the overly dramatic or overly specific "tips" one can typically find in similar lists. I especially appreciate how you advised people to just dress the way they want; I totally agree. I think it's most important to be comfortable so you can enjoy your experience! I also really appreciated the "you're a guest - just act like a guest and you'll be fine." One small note: "bellicose" means "warlike", not "loud". 😊

[@SpaceyStacy74]

Our first trip to Paris, we stopped in the bike lane, but we learned not to do that real quick! Heading back to Paris in a couple of weeks. Maybe I’ll see you there, Jay!

[@SaltTravelCo]

I’ve been obsessively researching Paris then I found Jay Swanson. I. Love. This. Channel. So much HELPFUL information. Binge watching! Thank you, Sir!

[@JaySwanson]

Welcome aboard!

[@andyshacks7812]

Some very useful tips there Jay, especially around metro etiquette. I learned that the hard way lol. I broke the fold down seats rule until I was curtly reminded of it lol. I think we Brits can be on the loud side too !

[@iimaperfecionist]

I just came home from a trip to Paris and London and it was really amazing! I agree with your points, especially saying ‘bonjour’ and ‘merci’. The French people are actually really friendly, unlike some stereotypes I’ve heard people say. Something really dumb that happened though, me and my mum were in the metro station and the ratp staff came and asked for tickets. My mum thought she was a scammer trying to offer her something, so she ran and they thought she was evading the fare 😂😭(she caused a huge scene). But I will definitely come back to France, because it is beautiful there! (And we learned some do’s and dont’s)

[@JaySwanson]

😆😆 that's an amazing story

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Thank you so much for this primer. I’m definitely recommending it to someone who’s headed to Paris.

[@mbrolfe7504]

Merci for all your lovely Paris videos Jay. I started following you during the pandemic to get my “travel” fix and see what was happening with the Norte Dame rebuild. Two other suggestions-just as in London, stand to the right and walk on the left on any RER/Metro escalators or moving sidewalks. And try using crossbody handbags/bags rather day backpacks to be “less touristy” and to make things more difficult for pickpockets.

[@JaySwanson]

Great ones! It is annoying to have to wear your backpack as a frontpack 😆

[@hermionegardener3796]

when I first visited paris almost 40 years ago, I tried to learn how to order a burger well done, I struggled to say it in french and when the clerk realized I was american, he started to speak to me in english, lol, he appreciated that I tried,

[@teresasmith6076]

We had heard horror stories of the rude French. Luckily my daughter had a super French teacher in high school and really prepared her for her first trip so we were having a great time. So our first trip was in the early 1990's the excavation under the Louvre was happening. We were in the "basement excavation" and a really kind vendor was helping us choose a book, talking quietly, respectfully.... when an American tourist interrupted us, waving her hand and loudly asking "where's the art?" In very good English and with equal volume vendor told her to "follow the wall" turned her back and started with us again. Bought the book and went outside to have a laugh. The take-away....you will get as good as you give. I love Paris.

[@hildabrunski7400]

Another home run Jay! I can hardly wait to use your tips. Love the info about mental health too. It is is the key to a fulfilled life!

[@HelenGill2222]

I had a bright pink puffer jacket. Nobody was in bright pink.Totally stood out! Bought a navy one for the next trip.

[@iniabellepaz445]

Hi Jay, as always very informative video, visited Paris last February and your videos made our trip wonderful by following your tips! Thank you, can’t wait to visit again! Continue success in 2023!

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you Iniabelle!

[@MrZakatista]

So hilarious that you are explaining basic civility. Love from NYC (where there's... some).

[@JaySwanson]

Wish it could be assumed 😆

[@MrZakatista]

@@JaySwanson haha,

[@isabellefortin3458]

J’adore tes vidéos, sans complaisance aucune. Je visiterai Paris pour la première fois à la fin mai, et je prends note de plusieurs de tes recommandations!

[@renferal5290]

I love your dog!!! He is so perfect!!! I am going to Paris for the first time in a couple of months, and I want to fit in and not be noticed. This video was very helpful.

[@brokebritinparis]

Great tips Jay! Some french people could do with learning the not stop in front of doors thing. But also you could point out because we often forget this living in Paris you don't need to do much to blend in. I spotted a thread today on Reddit that pointed out that 1 in 4 people in Paris are a tourist at anyone time. You don't need too much to blend in.

[@JaySwanson]

Just gotta deviate enough towards the mean in order to vanish =D

[@jimregan6590]

Awesome video. First time viewer and this video was insanely helpful relative to all of the other “what not to do” videos that are out there. Thanks for putting this together and for the fantastic editing. Pleasure to watch and super helpful! I just subscribed.

[@JaySwanson]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@JustAnotherDayInVegas]

I Love the snail, the butter and garlic are just a bonus! Great video

[@JaySwanson]

So good!

[@cermelem]

Great video. I liked the perspective, it almost had a green screen quality, which I thought was cool. The ending made me laugh.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

9:55 Yeah, this advice is needed when I go to the UK. I’ll tell the French that it was nice to have you over in Pondicherry and Chandannagar (2 of the French spheres of influence in India)

[@kaysee482]

Another pro-tip: Don’t take your oversized suitcases onto the metro, if possible. The above-ground train is fine, of course. But the metro is pretty fast-paced, crowded, and people are legit on their way to work and living their lives, locally. The metro isn’t very accommodating for big suitcases (especially when it comes to escalators, elevators and general accessibility), so once you take the train into the city, just take an Uber or taxi for your own benefit, and the people around you.

[@lisaw2525]

Good advice, thanks!!

[@ladanatai6586]

Really really like your overall tone and humor - thank you!

[@JaySwanson]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@danielbrechbiel9852]

Hey Jay, thanks for the video. I echo everything you shared. A big part of enjoying Paris for me was the challenge and success of 'fitting in.' It really is all about coming to Paris with the right mindset. It's not hard to say 'Bon Jour' and 'Merci,' you just need to be aware and disciplined and see it as part of the experience. Learning some basic French phrases (with correct pronunciation) and being confident enough to use it goes a long way. The French will respect you for trying and may switch to English as a matter of respect for your effort (they may also continue in French and if so, Parlez vous Anglais becomes your best linguistic friend!) I found everyone I spoke with to be patient and kind, and one caviste (wine merchant) although fluent in English, stuck with French because he wanted to help me practice and learn. thanks again for the invaluable advice. It made a difference for my visits and I know it'll be helpful for anyone watching.

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Daniel! And yeah, making the effort goes a long way in bridging gaps between folks =)

[@brittanyerwin6074]

Heading to Paris in two weeks and have been watching all your videos to prepare!! Very informative

[@MrsMajorHoff]

Fabulous video Jay! So well done and informative- I really think this is your sweet spot!

[@rrl4245]

Thanks for this. I thoroughly enjoy your videos, your topics , your recommendations and advice (we'll be in Paris for the first time in the fall), as well as your delivery. We'll be in Paris, for the first time, in the fall - I'll try and be a good tourist...

[@JaySwanson]

So glad you found it helpful, and definitely check out my guide if you need more tips!

[@katherinekempton]

Bonjour is so big. When my parents came to visit me, how I explained it to them was that "bonjour" recognizes another person's humanity, and the last thing you want to do is forget about that. As for history, I'm very surprised that the French don't respond to Americans who bring up WWII by bringing up the American revolution and how they helped us.

[@JaySwanson]

They did save our bacon

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Hello, Katherine. If I may, perhaps it is because we don't really study the alliance between France and US during the American Revolution. Don't get me wrong : we are taught that we helped the Americans, and how the American constitution inspired the progressive party in France. Moreover, I suppose that at the end, with or without France, Americans would have freed themselves from Great-Britain : it would have just taken a bit more time. So, in France, the importance of the American intervention in WWI and WWII is far more studied than the French participation to the American Revolution. And there is also another reason : the American Revolution takes place shortly before the French Revolution : that is why, at school, we put the stress on the political and economical situation of France at this moment (around 1780), more than the foreign policy. I hope I gave you the beginning of an answer 🙂

[@luckystone2293]

I'm loving this thumbnail with a beret.

[@agyos]

Fabulous, and in my opinion, exactly on point. Thank you for another great vlog….and….ohhhhh, my goodness….Cooper is divine!

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you so much!!

[@providencialopez-davis2263]

Thank you for this valuable information. I’ll be traveling to Paris in April. 😊

[@joyuk]

I like your video style, nice and relaxed! Cute dog too!

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you!

[@Raddddddd]

Amazing shots! And great advice as always.

[@JaySwanson]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bombaytalkie.]

You rock. PS: Cooper's a great addition to your videos.

[@MamaPersonalTrainer]

Such a helpful video! Well, all of your videos have been so super helpful in planning our first trip. This one in particular has gotten me even more so excited!!! Especially the food tips, YES just eat the food the way it was prepared 😊 no salt or pepper on the table?! YES!!! Forget about l our trip, this is my kind of place I could live!!!

[@JaySwanson]

Sounds like you're set for a great time! I hope it's the best =)

[@foreverlis]

4:04 my family and i went to Paris for my 18th and we had went on the metro to get to our dinner cruise that we booked. the metro was so busy, i hadn’t realised that my family had already got into the train and before i realised the doors shut on me. i was panicking so much and the fact it all happened on my birthday 😭😭 -long story short i met up with them in the end and we were just in time for the dinner cruise, (i thank God i made it back with my family) but it was not easy at all trying to find them…especially with no data… my advice is whenever u go on holiday, bring cash on u always. i was lucky to have money on me so i was able to get a taxi to the destination.

[@JaySwanson]

This is great advice, and I'm so glad you're ok and made it to them. I always recommend making sure everyone in your party knows the end destination in case you get separated - for this very reason!

[@IAC89]

The beret thing couldn't be more true 😆

[@JaySwanson]

They're having a definite resurgence in popularity in touristy locations (probably due to Emily in Paris) and I'm quietly enjoying it from the sidelines.

[@jojo_inthemitten36]

Great video, Jay. Love the color of your hat.

[@Deckson25]

Coming to Paris this fall, excellent content!

[@kathymoorehead7827]

I’ve visited Paris many times now usually for a month and I have a funny coffee story. I could not get an American style “coffee mocha” so I would order a hot coffee and a hot milk but they did not have hot chocolate milk. Yes! I had to buy all three! After visiting several times, detente was reached. The lady began to put a little chocolate bar on my plate. 🇺🇸 🇫🇷 Big takeaway learned many times is keep going back to the same place and they become more amenable to doing something differently for you. 🙏

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Thank you for your video! You’re simply delightful and also, hello Cooper!

[@JaySwanson]

You're most welcome!

[@robertparsons313]

Jay, you have mentioned the narrow sidewalks in another video. I was surprised many streets aren't conducive to slow, leisurely walks to peer into store windows, as we see in touristy brochures. Instead, I spent a lot of time getting out of people's way without encroaching on the bike lanes. Saw a lot of close calls with scooters and bicycles and saw a really horrific motorcycle accident near Galleries Lafayette Haussman. (Very busy intersection with traffic from all directions.) I think tourists should get a safety briefing on this. Paris is a big city sometimes with a NYC feel. Don't assume traffic of any kind is slowing down or stopping for you. (BTW, it still was a great visit.)

[@heidiAfami]

love your videos and you have a very nice sense of humour 🤭

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you!! 😁

[@cutecheerfreak1]

I just got back 2 weeks ago from a trip to Paris with my boyfriend his first (not mine). And actually we were asked for directions in French. My French is not great even though I’m trying and he definitely did what you said greet everyone and politely asked if they spoke English. No one tried to scam us or rob us either. Dressing to blend in I think just helps with the safety. Lucky for us we both wear black all the time anyways lol.

[@douglewis7067]

I think people sometimes get intimidated by the idea that if they're not semi-conversant in French, the locals will be mean to them. When we went, that wasn't our experience. Your tip of just saying "Bonjour" when walking in the door made a huge difference. We did learn a teeny tiny bit of French, but we found that as long as we made a half hearted attempt to read off a menu or ask for the bathroom, the locals flipped into English and were perfectly nice.

[@JaySwanson]

This, exactly this! You've summed it up perfectly.

[@danyelmoulden3803]

As far as food goes, we did find a decent little place Mokus l'Ecureuil on Ave Kleber. The food was good. Not too expensive and the wait staff was friendly. Just a suggestion if you are looking for a late lunch early dinner, like we were. between the Museum of Architecture and Musee' de l'homme..

[@ReubenJamesBarrete]

Love your style and approach in your blog

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks so much!

[@ReubenJamesBarrete]

De rien :)@@JaySwanson

[@sharonthompson7101]

I love escargot. I have to drive to Southlake,TX. Walmart sells the shells, but no snails. Weird. Le Coupe-Chou is really good by the Sorbonne

[@JaySwanson]

They sell the shells without the snails? As food?

[@andrews3978]

Jay, at the risk of sounding like a stalker, I am madly binge watching your videos after watching this one. Your sense of humor and sarcasm is freaking hilarious and as a born and bred New Yorker, I relate to so much of what you share. I have been to Paris quite a bit as it is probably my favorite place on earth and next time I come, i believe i would be more excited to see you then the Eiffel Tower!

[@JaySwanson]

I'm glad you're enjoying my videos! Thanks Andrew =)

[@jainthorne4136]

Watch his 20 in 20 videos. They are perfect.

[@andrews3978]

@@jainthorne4136 thanks!

[@TomJosephi]

What you're saying makes a lot of common sense that can apply to a lot of places. Being considerte to others is the best thing to do wherever you are. I saw a therapistt for at least 15 years until she retiured. I still see a psychiatrist so I can kep meds to help me with my anxiety. There's nothing wrong with anyone getting some help now and then.

[@JaySwanson]

Absolutely!

[@cindysandberg2044]

Hi jay n Cooper, Cindy n Paul from Santa Cruz ca, hope to see you in Paris n we will mention you on all our bike rentals and and tours. 😎

[@opheliaretardanta8348]

Loved the video especially after going to Paris last year I can officially say from my experience all of this information is true so listen up folks ❤

[@abchappell01]

That was a wonderful video presentation. Thank you 😊

[@ZippityDont]

Thanks Jay. Good tips. I was in Paris for the month of November in 2016. Clothing is an individual thing, but I agree that the color palate almost universally darker than the US. I took darker clothes except for a bright power blue down jacket and I stood out in it. But as you say these things are personal choice as to how much you want to stand out. I would also say that the beaming American smile isn’t the passport to ingratiating yourself that it is in the states. Generally you’ll get no response. Having said that I had an amazing time In Paris, learned a lot about the culture.

[@JaySwanson]

Yess - smiling is one of the things on my list I forgot to include. It'll be a good one to revisit.

[@Lidzee22]

I live in an area of the US that has a fair share of tourists, for the most part it doesn't bother me, aside from the required slight grumblings, because I appreciate that that people want to visit. People stopping in the middle of the sidewalks does get old, or if they are from another country they sometimes walk on the wrong side of the sidewalk and don't feel the need to move. One bigger thing that bothers me that I try to be aware of myself is when people take too long to get "that" photo, everyone wants the iconic picture so please don't take forever. I once let an asian couple ahead of me to take a photo of the view and I immediately regretted it when they pulled out their three telephoto lenses and tripod, it was a long wait after that for my two shots. I like how loud Americans are, it's weirdly comforting, but I do appreciate that not everyone appreciates that and I try to keep it down.

[@jerrismith9337]

I swear I saw Kate when we were in Paris in December. We were heading to our apartment and she passed by me. I did a double take but didn’t want it to be awkward, especially if it wasn’t her. Near Rue Reaumur. And I think I’ve perfected pronouncing bonjour because when I say it people launch into conversation in French. I’ve also perfected Je suis desolee as a result.

[@JaySwanson]

Two great words/phrases to perfect 😂

[@Swordopolis]

2:20 When I visited France last March/April I went to the Trocadero in the evening to watch the Eiffel Tower light up, and there was a food cart/stand there selling what ended up being a very nice hot dog in a baguette, covered in cheese....IIRC it was only 6€, which is considerably less than I would have expected them to charge for it within eyesight of the Tower It might not be as good as a proper meal, but it wasn't bad at all

[@JaySwanson]

That's a win! 🌭

[@panchovilla5359]

Great tips when visiting Paris, keep up the great work Jay!

[@KarinLynnBates]

I’m a bit behind on watching videos that have been released. This is really well done, Jay! Lots of great tips. Merci! 🙏🏼

[@dawnhall7678]

thanks so much! Always enjoy your videos!

[@JBR2SRQ]

Great tips!!! And I might add that nobody wants to hear someone moaning about "I wish we were back home where I could get a decent meal!" while wearing their Ralph Lauren Stars and Stripes sweater!

[@JaySwanson]

😂😂

[@ladybugazoo]

This was great advice, especially to act like a guest, not like you own the place. Another thing I think many Americans don’t realize is that it’s less common to binge drink. Yes, have a glass of wine with dinner, but don’t be the table of Americans who kept drinking and drinking and now is shouting and laughing obnoxiously in a quiet restaurant. And I would say Europeans generally dress a bit more business casual, are more likely to avoid shorts and ugly sneakers unless working out, use more scarves, and wear more stylish shoes. And be prepared to walk a lot, which is one of the things I enjoy most about Paris.