the PARIS Q&A bc it’s the OLYMPICS 🏅🏅🥇

[@emmeline.reinhardt]

only 2 minutes in and THE EX has already been referenced! wouldn't expect anything less😌

[@DeliaLilith]

😂😂😂😂

[@meriapan6354]

just as i was searching something to watch to eat my breakfast with

[@mariabonitastudio81]

X2

[@kapukaina]

me right now

[@blaenksy]

Breakfast giiiirl, its almost midnight here i'm going to sleeep

[@Smartifiori]

Wow same

[@tugcenur4235]

samesie

[@PawDiva]

I admire Damon so much. He's very inspiring. I love how he so easily just does what he desires to do. Learn languages, travel to countries most people don't want to visit, sign up for a week long class in a foreign country, talk to strangers with so much confidence. Just soaking up every experience in life.

[@ch02063]

Less social people are admirable too. They do sciences, work hard to make progress for the rest, write exceptional music and make art. We need both. Diversity is the color to the world.

[@hiba7170]

I overthink a lot about being Introverted but your comment made me see the beauty in it. Thank you

[@sherryma8439]

I mean, it's not always been "easy" for him, but I agree with you and also appreciate how inspiring he is!

[@cartonriley]

You have such a cool aesthetic going on... It's hard to explain, but it always makes me feel safe

[@damondominique]

im going for 🫧FRESH🫧

[@cartonriley]

@@damondominique and it's working out for you wonderfully

[@FynnOliverEmonSill]

Interesting

[@evadehaan3871]

Avoiding Paris like the plague this month but still watching this whole video

[@aeolia80]

I was gonna be the same, but then my beau-frère told me had extra tickets for 2 days of rugby sevens matches, and I was like, what the F, why not, it's gonna be my only Olympic experience. But then waiting to get on RER B to go home nearly killed me, lol

[@mensa7190]

I’ve been a hermit in Paris for 8 months…this vid told me to get my ass up and go out

[@ElydaAmorim]

we just had lunch together. it was a great company, thanks

[@Myglowtips]

I absolutely love, the „Can Do“ attitude of Americans. Everything is done for comfort, ease and speed. To me, Americans really think big and they love to try out new things. I work in a diplomatic environment and my experience with France is, the French do not like change, everything is done slowly, bureaucratic and, as in Vienna (Austria), the general attitude is „Es ist nicht möglich“ (it‘s not possible). Having said that, I love that the French preserve their culture and that things do not move so fast. I held out on going to Paris for many years, was not interested but when I wanted to do a Raw Vegan course with a well known Chef, I was forced to go to Paris as the classes were held there. I fell madly in love with Paris. Yes, it‘s all the cliches but, it is also so much more and stunning for photography! The restaurants are to live for. Paris has some unbelievable raw vegan restaurants where the food is healthier and tastes better than normal restaurants. I also bought some clothes on the touristic side of town, which were of a decent quality and going at very attractive prices. It is really romantic too; while I was there, a cute gentlemen approached me speaking in French in such a respectful, beautiful way, one gentleman was on his sports bicycle and smiled at me as he rode past early one morning, of course I smiled back and he turned his bike, came back, and asked me if I would be available to go for coffee. He was in his riding gear, I was leaving that afternoon and I said that it is very sweet of him but I am leaving soon. He said thank you flashed another sweet smile and rode away. It was perfect the way he was not forceful. Another gentleman asked if he could join me when I was having breakfast on my second trip, at a restaurant near the Le Marais district. These things rarely happen to me in Vienna (Austria) - so yes, there is a certain air of romance in France. A certain cynism and negativity does prevail in Paris as it does in Vienna, however, one gets used to it and the goal is (at least mine is), not to become the same. I love the USA and, I love Paris. I think our hearts are big enough to hold love for both.

[@IsSeraProbleme]

As an American who’s traveled abroad, I understand feeling patriotic and wanting to defend your country when others criticize it. It’s like feeling protective of a sibling, even if they’re a mess-you don’t want to see them disrespected, especially when the person who is passing judgement also has a family that’s equally a hot mess.

[@livingmy2.0]

Happiness doesn't come from the place you live, it's something you have to cultivate from within. Can living in a beautiful place help? For sure! But it really comes down to how you see yourself and view your own life.

[@DeliaLilith]

True !

[@SamIsHere444]

“Wherever you go, there you are”

[@livingmy2.0]

@@SamIsHere444 love that 🥰

[@vjpublisher]

I knew that a few minutes in, Damon will start talking about his ex 😅

[@Rebecca-sc7rd]

😂😂😂😂

[@Rebecca-sc7rd]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@MariBased]

When you started answering 'Paris or happiness', I caught myself rolling up my sleeves and locking in, like when the coffee hangout with your bestie start getting deep.

[@damondominique]

Yeah y'all should know better before you ask me those kinds of questions!!!

[@chiaraliane]

okay but for real - the bit you said about happiness and fulfillment in life, I feel SO MUCH. I'm constantly like... huh, is this it? is this what my life is supposed to be? sometimes it's beautiful... but most of the time it's mundane. Idk its a weird space to be in🤣

[@damondominique]

WHAT ELSE? WHAT ELSE CAN I HELP WITH? ❤

[@hitashya]

Damon I have rage toward the security and transit olympic issues please help, I'm hiatus'ing in the suburbs near Versailles a party. needs to occur out here

[@hermoinegrangerful]

what's the meaning of life

[@isabellaalvarez4043]

You keep doing the most bestie 🫶🏻

[@marvinraphaelmonfort8289]

matchmaking😂

[@JSL1111]

Damon, here’s a suggestion. You can look up Agenda C40. This is what your mayor has been up to in Paris. Same here for my city Montréal, Canada. Well over 100 city mayors worldwide have agreed upon making 15 minutes cities. When you 1st look at what it is, it seems beautiful and all. But if you keep reading, this agenda will keep you in your neighborhood, not aloud to use your car more than 100 times a year, you will be “allowed” to purchase 10 pieces of clothing per year only in the name of sustainability. Basically, if you read between the lines of this beautiful document available online, it’s more control and a lot less freedoms for the citizens…. Control is the key word. En passant, j’adore ton style et ta chaîne KZbin ❤ À bon entendeur salut 👋 😉😘

[@josepha133]

I don't think any city will bring anyone happiness because at the end of the day happiness comes down to people / human connection.

[@TCt83067695]

The same unreliable untrustworthy humans? I dunno about that...

[@luismanuel2612]

It is always nice to see a city through the eyes of another person.😊

[@the_jny]

Just moved to Paris a few weeks ago and your videos randomly popped up. Real great stuff, learning lots about the French! 😄

[@oliviahayes6427]

better than a podcast

[@carlf.9035]

Damon, you need your own tv show just being you and nothing else. No need for anything crazy. You're quite amusing and unique. Thanks for this good insight.

[@DNSxDK]

Paris is one of my favorite cities to visit.. me and my best friend always go for Christmas since we are not close with our families - so we just go there to celebrate it together.. 😊

[@lexj23]

In Paris alone right now for 3 weeks! Thanks so much for this, Damon!

[@FynnOliverEmonSill]

I was a bartender at News Café on South Beach for about four+ years, I would have to say that was probably the happiest I've ever been in my life as well.

[@maarinaamms]

idk it felt like a big big convo with a friend and i gotta say i enjoyed every single minute of it

[@pausimone2391]

I always agree with pretty much all your comments, we need more of your mentality!

[@lisagoeke9084]

From an astrocartography standpoint, Paris and Miami light up different parts of your consciousness. I'm very curious to see your natal chart and ACG map with relocated charts. Your line of self-questioning about what you are looking for happiness? fulfillment? those are the biggest gems I saw you get to and worth doing some deeper exploration. In reality, no place and any place are home both at the same time. Thank you for your well-thought-out points of view and for articulating the nuances between the cultures of the U.S. and Paris.

[@-laura-3382]

I'm actually pro-Hidalgo but common Damon... Parisians aren't pissed because transportation is pricier. They are angry because students have been evicted from their accommodation for the Olympics, because 7 people died building infrastructure for the Olympics, because people voted massively for fascists 2 weeks ago but Macron decides to act like nothing scary almost happened, because homeless people were moved to the suburbs with no support... don't forget the real cost of a "clean" city

[@pojyrmo6355]

Omg merci je cherchais ce commentaire

[@luciam8904]

i wish this video was uploaded one year ago, when i went to Paris for the first and only time...i guess i have to go back now😝 what i loved about paris is that you go out and anything can happen, you meet such interesting people, it's amazing

[@sorryimjustsayin]

You’re so real Damon like i love how transparent you are with advice and everything thank you ❤

[@adrigom5925]

I am in Paris for 6 months of Erasmus (pracital rotaions in hospitals) and I am glad that this is my final week :D OMG I love Paris but I also hate Paris - especially in summer. Now I really understand why almost everybody is leaving Paris in the summer. And also I must admit that Paris really hits different when you live here for a longer time. Before that, I know Paris only from two 4 days trips. I walk everyday here like 10-15km and I even notice it because its so nice to walk here and look around... And yes, I loooove Buttes-Chaumont! And I live in 20eme and its cool for me because there is a lot great asian restaurants (sushi, korean bbq, chinese, vietanemse.. Poke bowls :D.) and underground artist expo.

[@HASANFOROFFICE]

no opening ad, are you an angel???

[@fernandais]

i looove how a 3 word question asked through an IG story turns into an existentialist rant with Damon 😂 IG: paris or happiness? Damon: WHAT IS HAPPINESS?

[@veronicaphiri7432]

Damon I really admire how you made that distinction between happiness and fulfilment. So much maturity has come watching you throughout the years, even since the Shutupandgo days. Keep expl;oring, question, and being curiously creative. Sending SO much love from a follower in South Africa. XXXOOX

[@briannaphelps8610]

I love the point you made about Paris bringing you the MOST happiness. I wonder all the time if returning to the city I studied abroad in would be enough to make me happy, but it doesn't matter because it is the place I know that will bring me the most happiness and we have to start somewhere. It's amazing how honest you're able to be about where your head's at.

[@Meg-xj2sy]

I just got here and I’m nervous about being alone and not speaking french but having some direction is helping me lots right now, thank you 🎉

[@kd1426]

you're speaking my language with your thoughts on the US election!! im so tiredddd of this ineffective system

[@anix1103]

the paris or happiness answer is soooooooo real (as someone who lives in seoul and moved from LA)

[@cutthelandline]

omg SAME, moved to Seoul two years ago. It’s so fulfilling in some ways but in other ways it’s really hard 😅

[@laneythelame]

The prosecco def sets the tone 😂

[@rehgaalkane8518]

28:27 I live in Paris and I agree 100% with him, his description of the different arrondissements and where you should live is on point

[@natzhao3260]

I love how fast you talk

[@TaylorsJourney]

I can say the same thing! This is my first time in paris and I was SHOCKED by how clean and Beautiful it was. I am currently in Nice, but return back to Paris Sunday and Cannot wait. So glad I came here. I have ZERO regrets

[@KaitlynYounger-ul6dt]

I used to watch you years ago! I am so happy to discover you again. I am so happy you are still making videos

[@simoling]

This is your best video in five years!!!! So positive, inspiring and showcases your talents and personality.

[@oscarfreites5519]

Hace 4 años no me perdía tus videos con Jo. Hoy te encontré de nuevo ❤😁

[@mirahartley6556]

I feel like the word you were looking for is content. I heard something from someone one time and it was everyone is seeking “happiness” but doesn’t realize happiness is a fleeting feeling what we should all be looking for is contentment or fulfillment as you said. A feeling of consistent ease and comfort without feeling like you are missing anything, all of your most important needs are met.

[@danielbocelli]

I think, personally, happiness involves, at least in large part, community. I moved to a new city a year ago and I’ve only really felt happy when I have built connections with other people.

[@dharris4318]

Happiness is a feeling, an emotion, not some permanent state of being. Happiness is not a destination. I think that’s the problem with searching for it(particularly in external things). It’s a feeling or state of being that comes and goes, like any other feeling and emotion.

[@Jordan-xg4pn]

I love that book idea!

[@clandestinecoherence]

11:46 happiness is community. it’s people, not a place. and it’s also a fleeting feeling, not a state of being

[@sachabrown]

Paris is the place to beeeee

[@JemimaRose]

I lived in the 17eme for a year & was scared you were going to hate on it but was pleasantly surprised! it was a pretty annoying commute to my classes but I loved the peace of it - & you're right that parc monceau is beautiful.

[@katharinecbriggs]

Getting SERIOUS FOMO watching this after JUST getting back from study abroad in Paris. Guess I'll start a list for my next trip!

[@JennyWoo]

I love just looking at Google maps and exploring Paris through your lens

[@mariast.4877]

thank u for theeee guide to paris. i have never seen such a thorough guide for any city!

[@i123456987654]

I need to rewatch this video when I visit Paris

[@m.m.s.95]

Love the enthusiasm about Google maps & the bookmarks - I do the same for my travels and longer stays. Thanks for the video - the tangents, the insight's, this is entertaining but with less of the brain rot I get from other content. Just Damon and his special interests

[@-HRH]

You have literally told my story in those first five minutes! Im gobsmacked. We have to meet!

[@Rachel-kr9rc]

Came back, this video is actually so helpful and detailed 🤌🏾🤌🏾

[@baileysadler5212]

Whatever she is doing is so similar to here in Victoria BC Canada and I love it!

[@torifrank3698]

Such a great walkable friendly place! I just visited it and loved being there

[@jovanaraljicviolin]

Resonating with every thought here as an expat living in Vienna and looking for "happiness" which is, obviously, within, but it makes the life thrilling and worth living 🎉

[@frankieleoh]

Hi Damon, loved the video! Can't believe you dropped all this local knowledge for free on your channel! Would definitely buy your City Recommendations Maps when they are available :)

[@rebeccahaefeli]

You truly are magnifique, Damon. You have inspired me for many years. So much so that I am going to move to Paris in two weeks for university!! I am nervous, but beyond excited. Thank you for all that you do

[@zoecrichlow8396]

I did study abroad in Paris and recently came back, it felt so good to see you mention places I went to all the time and walked by on the way to class in Arts et Métiers! This video made my little heart happy!

[@aimerclm4762]

I am french, and it was a really interesting video. Thank you so much !

[@InkkASMR]

Only you could talk about Paris to go straight to this philosophical reflection on life ❤😂

[@charlirosestuart]

lit need this for every country

[@dlc211]

You are spitting a lot of knowledge on urban transformation and political developments that would make sense to make in the US -- real nonchalantly, and I appreciate it

[@squashyoperator]

as a French who lives in Paris, the whole shitting-in-the-Seine thing wasn’t really about Hidalgo but more about how our government is actually shitting on us right now and even more with these Olympics! Highly recommend the book « Paris 2024: Une ville face à la violence olympique » on this subject

[@damondominique]

I do get the frustration that it’s basically a huge citywide event that messes up the daily lives of local residents, not to mention the exorbitant prices to even attend, but at least as a consolation prize, they did redo all of paris, extended a few metro lines , finished the line to orly early, cleaned the seine for future summers, and i just have a sneaking suspicion that with more of the streets closed rn that they’ll try to make even more bike lines. So, I do think, after all is said and done, the Parisians are actually winning here!

[@squashyoperator]

@@damondominiquesure this came with some perks (et heureusement!!) but the most precarious (e.g students being forced to move out of their studios or community gardens being erased) pay a large price for it

[@rachelwarner5795]

I would be interested in hearing more people’s thoughts on this chime off please

[@ryandesbonnes7539]

@@damondominique Of course but like the olympics have been used to freeze the political life of the country (for example the nomination of the price minister). But the most important thing is that because of the JO homeless people have been remove from the city...All of that add to the frustration of Parisians/French people

[@breezyashell]

@@damondominique and there's also the "social cleaning": the bussing of thousands of homeless people out of the city, the installation of anti-homeless architecture, the kicking out of students out of their residences, etc.

[@gelatogirl24]

Love learning more about Paris. Great vid!

[@ursalemii]

when i tell you i literally started making notes of all the places he mentioned....

[@KristynaG]

That is exactly what I struggle with! I really want to be fulfilled in life but currently I feel no joy in anything x

[@martakazmierczak2924]

j´adore!! love the video. thanks for the infos, Damon

[@davidoffsal]

Just made some croissants, perfect video to watch while trying to gain weight

[@kathleennoland9486]

Happiness is a mind set and balance.

[@simothyie.19]

As a sudiste, you kinda made me want to move to Paris.. but like after the Olympics.

[@trishmnz]

omg 7 minutes ago?? i'm this early HAHA (not going to Paris anytime soon but ofc it's a new DD vid so I HAD to click on it) also, was wondering why youtube's been too boring lately and realized it was missing a new Damon Dominique vid 🤷🏻‍♀

[@damondominique]

period

[@wehojm7320]

I've made a note to refer to this vlog in order to plan my next trip to Paris. It offers your personal insight to the best places to stay and hang out. I defer to you as a well informed local. Thank you.😜👍❤

[@utintellexi]

i LOVED the 'my leg' audit snippit. LOL

[@amaretto9759]

really enjoyed your take on politics, more level headed than most!

[@ledemi-chateau]

Just a quick voting update: You can not vote as an EU citizen in France. You CAN vote in municipal elections, if you signed up for your carte electorale but never for the big government elections. I just love your videos and how you are! I'm a german/polish expat living in rural France and that's why I know.

[@DechenDomaBhutia]

your so real for this and I love it

[@ONWorldTravel]

Damon you are so charismatic, I know TV networks have approached you! You can just riff for days dude haha love it. This video was super helpful! We plan to live in France in the next few years (my husband Nathan is French) and it's great to hear what's its really like in Paris right now. Paris is one of the cities we're interested in. We'll be following more of your vids. And maybe when I finally commit to learning french, I'll check out your course 🤘🏽 -Olivia

[@arlysurpris7205]

Love love love your site!!

[@LisaTothestars]

OMG not the explanation of the zebra crossing 😂 In my next life I want to have the confidence of an US American

[@thecrazychick2000]

amazing video as always!!!

[@redlo2]

I did not expect I’d be writing down notes while watching a Damon Dominique video 📝

[@evercent]

Amazing urban planning innovations! If there is a will there is a way, which American mayors, governors, etc, etc lack.

[@PiaAmorin]

love you lol it’s been like 10 years since I watch your content so I just get it idk it’s like talking to a friend lol

[@taylortorres5400]

This is how I talk to myself

[@ezgiozb]

the part about fulfilment and happiness!!!! put it in a school book.

[@Jeremy-ji1sk]

i'm french and still it's the most informative video i've seen about olympics 😂

[@Nikowithak]

You create your own happyness

[@katieakin9397]

I can’t believe that gorgeous apartment is only 1670, we’re so screwed in the us

[@fallemblem]

Love your energy Damon! ❤

[@sydney_swann]

thank you for this! even in nation, things have been crazy

[@patricia2078]

As a parisian girl I watched the video and loved it

[@LifewithErnee]

One person one vote and ranked!!!

[@mariedavtyan371]

OMG I love your personalityyyyyyyy

[@ActivistGirl]

Just as I was searching something to watch with my midnight snack

[@Nikowithak]

Im from Denmark, so greatfull for an AMAZING democracy

[@AriesAct]

Not me finding out it starts tmr through this video 😅