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

How to blend in in Paris. If you're feeling a bit anxious about traveling, or down from the return trip, check out the video's sponsor betterhelp.com/jayswanson to get connected with a licensed therapist and talk it through. There's no better excuse to get started with therapy than for the love of Paris =D
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Music by: Sir Nicolas, AXAtheDruid, & ayveator
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My name is Jay Swanson - I'm an American writer living in Paris on an artist visa and hoping to make the city of light my home base - at least for the foreseeable future. I write science-fiction and fantasy, vlogged daily for 3+ years, and love pizza a little too much.
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FAQ:
How long have you lived in France? Over five years now, holy cow.
What do you miss most about ho- NACHOS
You're always talking about living on some ship. WHAT SHIP? - I made a "Draw My Life" video that explains a lot here: • Draw My Life
Where are you from originally? - Pullman, Washington - a small university/agricultural town near Idaho (and yes, the potatoes are amazing).
What do you film with? - I've made a lot of changes recently, but I try to keep my gear list up to date if you want to see what I use and buy some for yourself: bit.ly/JaysGearList
What do you edit with? - Adobe Premiere - it's pretty much all I've ever used since high school.
Aren't you ever freaked out by leaving your camera behind to film yourself? - Yep. But not too badly - I tend to be careful when I do.
Why are you living in #Paris? - Because I've always wanted to; I feel at home here: • Why I Want to Live in ...
Do you speak French? - Oui. • Un Jour en Francais (E...
Do you make money off KZbin? - Ha, sorta. I wish. It took me over 500 videos to make my first total $100 off adsense. I think it will slowly change, but VERY slowly.
I really enjoy your videos, how can I support you? - The easiest and best way to support me is through Patreon, where you can pitch in as little as $5/mo to help me make better videos: / jayswanson
I don't trust this Patreon thing - can I just paypal you? - Here's my ko-fi if that's your thing (and coffee is your game): ko-fi.com/jayswanson
But I want to send you something tangible! - I do have a wishlist on Amazon, though it's a bit complicated with the international shipping situation. So instead people often drop off or ship things to the Peloton Cafe in Paris for me.
Thanks for watching!

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks again to today's sponsor, BetterHelp! betterhelp.com/jayswanson if you've been thinking of getting started with therapy, or jumping back on the horse, there's no better time than now =)

[@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 🙏

[@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

[@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.

[@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” 🥲

[@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!

[@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!

[@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...

[@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

[@RoxanneM-]

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

[@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.

[@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 😂

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@apk2039]

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

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Paul =D

[@lateesha-marietyler8480]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@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 =)

[@kaynichelle7982]

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!!

[@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 ✨✨✨😃

[@NancyLiedel]

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

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you so much!

[@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.

[@dawnhall7678]

thanks so much! Always enjoy your videos!

[@normaortiz5950]

Great video, great tips😊

[@PokhrajRoy.]

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

[@panchovilla5359]

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

[@MrsMajorHoff]

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

[@abchappell01]

That was a wonderful video presentation. Thank you 😊

[@Deckson25]

Coming to Paris this fall, excellent content!

[@KarinLynnBates]

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

[@djghostlantern]

Your videos are really good. Good Stuff! Merci!

[@jojo_inthemitten36]

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

[@Claudi771]

Love ❤️ your videos still. Great work! Thanks

[@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!

[@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 😂😊.

[@brittanyerwin6074]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@Raddddddd]

Amazing shots! And great advice as always.

[@JaySwanson]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@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

[@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 !

[@PokhrajRoy.]

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

[@JaySwanson]

You're most welcome!

[@cermelem]

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

[@providencialopez-davis2263]

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

[@kennethrose5422]

Thanks for the info. Well spoken

[@JaySwanson]

Glad it was helpful!

[@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!😊

[@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!

[@jahnacarlson3528]

Yes! Act like a guest. Best advice ever.

[@IgnacioGiri]

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

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks!

[@ladanatai6586]

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

[@JaySwanson]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@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 ❤

[@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.

[@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". 😊

[@JustAnotherDayInVegas]

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

[@JaySwanson]

So good!

[@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)

[@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 🙂

[@joyuk]

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

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you!

[@HelenGill2222]

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

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!!

[@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!

[@ReubenJamesBarrete]

Love your style and approach in your blog

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks so much!

[@ReubenJamesBarrete]

De rien :)@@JaySwanson

[@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 =)

[@FrenchMartini]

Thank you for your content, Jay! I'll be visiting Paris (for over two weeks) this December after having not been there since 2004. It appears from the way you said, "Parlez-Vous Anglais" that the liaison isn't used? I learned French 40 years ago so I use it in that case.

[@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..

[@davidwallace8353]

I think you should do a video on what's behind the facade. Especially airBnb 's in the 11th

[@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.)

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!

[@bombaytalkie.]

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

[@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. 😎

[@Heyitswhitlavonne]

Awesome video!

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks =D

[@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

[@spadaacca]

This video had REALLY good edits and framing! I'm a little wowed. Also, how on earth do you leave your camera/phone around for filming and not get it stolen in Paris 😅

[@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.

[@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

[@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?

[@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 😆

[@tedg.8026]

Hi Jay, Thank you for your video! It is very informative. I do have a question though. I were to decide it to stay longer in France, perhaps live there for 5 years or up 10 years, which visa or document that I need to apply it? Thank you!

[@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 =)

[@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.

[@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. 🙏

[@Iancosta1989]

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.

[@paulhorton5612]

Great video Jay! Single best piece of travel advice I ever received is: Be respectful, Be discrete - captures it all. Don't be that American I once heard in the Louvre announce loudly to the whole gallery: "Hey, that statue's got no d**k..."

[@JaySwanson]

😂😂 Classic moment in American history right there.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Paul Taylor has such a great video on La Mode and it was truly educational. Also, I hope I can visit Paris at a time where I don’t have to invest in Winter Fashion.

[@ADAtrips]

It's turning 50 F next week...🌴Aloha

[@JaySwanson]

Summer time will help a lot for that

[@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 😂

[@pricklyp3ar]

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

[@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.

Watching your channel and you leaving the camera 10s meters away just for a shot makes me feel that Paris is the safest city :D And also wondering what remote mic are you using ^^ I've checked Gear link but haven't found it.

[@JaySwanson]

Ah dang, I need to update that sorry! I'm using DJI's set - it's my favorite so far by a long shot. Range of sound is a bit weak (particularly on the low end) but otherwise its feature set destroys the competition

[@ADAtrips]

I firm believer in Jays info. I had the same thought. I am guessing , I think its a rode (10 Reasons to get the DJI MIC over Rode Wireless GO II). I am about to pull the trigger and buy the Rode wireless II. ( I don't make $ but see if J does). 🌴Aloha

[@abbysherali5109]

Bonjour Jay see this vid says everything i tell ppl you going Paris dont go without watching Jay Swanson vid BUY Paris in my Pocket

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Abby!

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Omg I just LOVE the thumbnail 👏🏽 #JeSuisEnTrainDeTournerQuelquechose

[@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,

[@teddysdadcory]

We did a ton of research before visiting Paris and enjoyed our trip more because of it. One thing I saw that screamed “tourist” was cargo shorts and those vented buttoned shirts. And athleisure wear. Don’t do it. All you need to pack are neutral slacks, black t-shirts and one white (vent-free) button shirt.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

I’m going to sound so Bengali but invest in Boroline if you get cuts. Of course use an antiseptic on the wound first if possible.