The Truth About Paris 🇫🇷 (a complicated city)

[@jeffsherman91]

American here, born and raised in the LA area. I've visited Paris several times, most recently last year (Christmas-time). One of my favorite places in the world. I must say, though, that I speak French reasonably well (learned it starting at the age of around 6, but am VERY rusty not having really spoken it much in the past quite a few decades). My wife - who is German - doesn't speak any French and had a very different opinion from last year. I can get along reasonably well; I'd mistakenly left my laptop charger at home and so one of the first things we had to do was to go find a replacement, which included going to two different stores (first one told me about the second). Neither spoke ANY English, but both were absolutely helpful, even a bit above and beyond at the first place (sending me to somewhere ELSE that might have what I needed). The second place had it in stock, and even tried to talk me out of buying it from them because it was expensive (though I needed it and was happy to pay whatever it cost). And my watch battery had died (literally at CDG waiting for our luggage) and so I had to call around to see if anyone could replace it (turns out it had to go to the factory in Switzerland). Again, all in French. And on the attempted flight home, I had a chat in French with the flight attendant about the oil leak in our left engine which caused us to return to CDG. So I don't know if I'd say I'm "fluent" but I can get by. But the interesting thing is, since my wife doesn't speak ANY French, pretty much everyone else we encountered immediately switched to English for her. All the waiters spoke to us in English (I actually had to keep responding in French to get them to speak French to me). Train ticket kiosk. Hotel staff. Most major stores. Everyone at CDG except security. So I wouldn't agree that everyone in Paris refuses to speak English to non-French speakers because I've found that to be almost the opposite (except for those few specific encounters I had). Oh, and the Uber driver to the train station didn't speak English but his French wasn't that good, either. I also didn't find anyone to be rude at all. My wife, on the other hand, thought some of those very same people WERE being rude. The CULTURE is very different, and if you act like a loud, obnoxious, demanding, pushy American, you're going to get treated badly. Eat your fries with your fingers? Demand ketchup? Demand butter for your baguette at lunch or dinner? Don't say "bonjour" when you walk into a shop? Ignore the trying-to-be-helpful store salespeople because you want to look at things on your own? Yeah, they're going to be rude back because YOU'RE being rude to THEM. One of the best videos I've seen on this topic ("How to get respect from the French") is on a KZbin channel called "A Musing Aida" where she discusses some of the cultural differences, like the fact that in the US, we think of the customer as king and the store salespeople as there to do our bidding, whereas in France, they think of the store as their HOME, and you're essentially an invited guest. Don't treat them with the same respect and "politesse" as a respected peer and they'll immediately give you the famous French disdain right back at you. BTW, when we travel, we DO go look at some of the major tourist attractions. But we also like to walk around, take the train like locals, and prefer to eat at neighborhood spots instead of the famous (and touristy) restaurants.

[@thomasharter8161]

You understood everything. I don't know why people love to hate the French but I may have an explanation. The French are a people of ethnomasochists so implicitly they invite others to hate them. The cliché that they are chauvinists is completely false. How many French people like to spit and vomit on France? They are numerous. To hear many French people, their country is the worst in the world. And you're right as soon as they know how to speak English they rush on people to speak English to them to the point that you can't even speak French to them anymore and people lie saying that they refuse to speak English so much they despise them.

[@johnsdeath]

I think you explained it very well. I had a similar experience (and was interacting in French like you, as a Canadian tourist). And I agree with your observation: " in the US, we think of the customer as king and the store salespeople as there to do our bidding, whereas in France, they think of the store as their HOME, and you're essentially an invited guest. "

[@paulushooker2044]

I moved to Paris in 2022 from NYC and I have yet to experience the Parisian rudeness everyone complains about. Even the French who live outside of Paris think the Parisians are rude. But in my experience, people here have been really welcoming and nice. I speak some French and I think that makes all the difference. TRYING to speak French goes a long way here. Also, the French are reserved. They don't talk about their lives voluntarily but if you start asking questions that are not too personal or direct, they start to warm up. This is where it's important to understand that often it's not YOU, it's the CULTURE. Ask a German, Latino or Japanese person and you will get a completely different reaction. I agree with most of jeffsherman's comments above that being obnoxious, loud and demanding will definitely piss people off much in the same way that I get pissed off (speaking as a native New Yorker) having obnoxious, loud and demanding American tourists coming to NYC. With regards to meals, because wait staff are paid a living wage and have healthcare and not surviving on tips, there will be less of a robotic efficiency with taking orders and delivering your food. Servers don't come around every 2 minutes asking how your meal is or if you want more water. They largely leave you alone and the expectation is that when you need something, you will flag them down. Btw, everyone here eats fries with their fingers and they usually ask you if you want ketchup or mayo. I ask for butter with bread because, let's face it, French bread (and specifically Parisian bread) just has no equivalent. But if you are being a dick about not having something you want, when you want it, you will get the cold shoulder and that's just to be expected everywhere. And honestly, if all your time is spent in the tourist areas of Paris (or any other city) don't judge a book by its cover. Explore the less-touristy places. Get out of your comfort zone and try the road less traveled. In the words of Robert Frost: Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth; Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear; Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same, And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I kept the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back. I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

[@BobKnight-mm2ze]

Thanks for the insights might be helpful going forward. Also, I think Aida does some great visual work, but something about her....I just cant click with her.

[@BobKnight-mm2ze]

@@paulushooker2044 Appreciate the insights. Moving to a non-Paris area soon. I'll try to recall your comment and do a comparison on what you said vs my experiences. Also, I don't know, seems like the "classic" loud, obnoxious American thing isn't really super prevalent anymore. I know they're out there, but they're certainly not reading comments like yours and doing deep self reflection. Most people who spend the money to travel know they're a guest and don't act an ass, in my experience. But I guess I'll find out the current situation.

[@BenEncounters]

You can tell that your long journey on KZbin has really made you a good storyteller with a unique style

[@davidbrims5825]

You know the old saying, the Anglo Saxons live to work while the French work to live. Paris isn’t France, just as London isn’t England or New York isn’t America. To see real France go out of Paris. Why should the French speak English ? After all we’re a guest in their country ? They just want to protect their language and culture.

[@Agibi]

Hello Dan, i will say "mouais" to your vision of Paris...yes every french people enjoy chillin in France, but this is not seen as doing nothing, it could be contemplative (i dont know if the word exists in english lol), recharging your own batteries after a hard day at work or school for 7 or 8 hours, 39 hours by week (this is really extensive compared to some other countries here but less time yes), in order to be motivated again at your work and appreciate life because life is not just work...These chillin moment in park and terace could be time to think with a backview at your life, think of the future, vacation, investments or relations, and chattin with your friends about everything from political to your love life and share time together to reenforce your friendship link...a lot is about sharing...and maybe sometimes the "right to idleness" this is the mindset sometimes but for your own good (this is a book "le droit à la paresse") because capitalism always make us think that human are here to work but not we are here and basta we do what we want in reality...juste need some money for material confort...Actually, there a point there, retired people are not useless to our society because at 64 they can manage associations (theres a lot in France) and movements like unions or non profit organisation and help their families to watch over their grandchildrens or harmed relatives or to help for renovation of apartment or houses etc...Retired people are very numerous and helpful during their next 20 years approx...they dont produce materials but services for all of us...and the strikers, on strike they dont do nothing, they walk, they discuss, they fight, they negociate, they write flyers etc...strike is not about staying at home here...but after we can chill too with a big pint of cold beer, yeah! Thanks for you point of view on us and taking time to visit chilly...calmement...mass tourism is a plague...they dont understand anything of life...just running from place to place...SO from Le Havre the best city in France.

[@thekajalflaneur]

Wow a great comment!! J'adore. Can I ask, who wrote le droit à la Paresse? Merci. I love your perspective it is perfectly said

[@miroslavbulldosex]

mouais

[@lucia9304]

In staid of playing Mortal Combat... they sit outside to enjoy the minimal of what is at reach ... living life ... not wasting it

[@Agibi]

@@thekajalflaneur en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Right_to_Be_Lazy

[@odalissk]

Also Dan you misunderstood : Parisians are perfectly aware of just how beautiful the city is. We don't dwell on it as it is a national sport for the rest of France to shit on the capital. But we sure know...

[@chhm-si7df]

Tes vidéos sont d’excellente qualité et sont super intéressantes. J’adore la poésie qui s’en dégage. Merci beaucoup pour ton travail !

[@TeddyAura]

I live in France since 2015. I agree with you. I will say that there is lots of unknown parts of Paris that people do not visit because they are looking for the main attractions. For example, in terms of museums, after you have visited the main ones, you could go to the Musée de la Chase et la nature, le musée de la vie romantique, le musee jacquemart andree, there are so many museums that have very few visitors that you will be amazed. There are parks, extraordinary graffiti areas, markets, places of life music, great unique stores, excellent restaurants at very affordable prices. Eveytime I go I discover a new place. So, yes, , it is highly recommended to set aside at least one day without a fixed agenda, allowing yourself the freedom to wander and stumble upon these remarkable hidden treasures.

[@slamer2158]

doing nothing is not doing nothing, its healing!

[@monhmonhmonhmonh]

As a born and bread former Parisian I can say you've nailed many points. The city is so dense that Parisians are constantly on the lookout for those little pockets of peace and tranquillity and definitely stay away from the touristy hotspots. However there's also some nuances to to be made regarding the metro for instance, the whole transportation system is undergoing a major transformation in order to accommodate the Olympics as well as the ever growing population of the metro area. And also the people chilling are mostly students, there's no Dolce Vita in Paris, it's a very tough and competitive city,

[@paristoptips]

You have a very interesting point of view on Paris and Parisians. As a Parisian, and as a KZbinr who spends his life roaming the streets of the City of Light, I have a different point of view: The waiter who doesn't come to see you, is not because he doesn't do anything, it's just the French culture that wants you not to disturb someone sitting at a restaurant, until he asks something. The dusty park in front of the Louvre (Jardin des Tuileries) is not just a place for tourists; on the contrary, Parisians like to come and do nothing there in the countless armchairs that are scattered there. And, in fact, Paris offers immensely touristic places, and plenty of places that are much less so, and all forms a perfect balance to offer all travelers (more than tourists) what they came for ! Your point of view remains very interesting and demonstrates that, despite all its faults, Paris remains a city to live in, intensely or by doing nothing!

[@jeffsherman91]

@paristoptips - BTW, not to hijack a thread, but love your videos as well. I particularly liked the recent one about Paris' version of the NY High Line. Next time I'm there... (which MAY be next year, but well AFTER the Olympics) And your English is a lot better than my French, so I'm certainly not complaining or making fun or anything, but I find it amusing when I hear you say something that sounds strange in English and then I realize you did a literal translation from French into English. Example: (and not that you've said this) "He's lived in Paris since four years."

[@aselliofacchio]

Stopped reading your comment after the first point. That's bullhit and you know it. If a waiter acts like that then he's not doing his job and making you lose time. Average delusional frenchman.

[@louisd.8928]

TBH, Paris requires more than one visit, especially if you're not staying for long each time. Most touristy things in Paris (except for the Eiffle Tower, Arc de triomphe and Champs Élysés) are really worth it. The Louvre, Notre Dame or La Sainte Chapelle are amongst the most beautiful things you will see in your life. But they're also the sort of things you do on a first visit, things that you kinda want to get out of the way. On a second or third visit, once you've checked those boxes, you do other things.

[@k0brakai]

I was born in Paris and moved to Canada years ago. Seeing you just walking in those streets brings back so many memories... thank you for the video !

[@Adam_le_Zigoto]

As a French person born in Paris and who lived in several fairly big cities, it is insane to hear someone qualify it as "calm". When I come back to visit my family, I see nothing but people rushing everywhere !

[@amakaa2393]

Really? All the time? Because so many people say this and honestly, I only really see the 'rushing' at the obvious places at obvious times (rush hour at Saint-Lazare, or mid-saturday rue de rivoli). Go to 14th arr on A sunday afternoon or Rue Saint-Maur on Friday mid-morning, it will be as calm as anywhere else.

[@BLACKSTA361]

You been to London, NYC or Tokyo? Its the same

[@ydesroches1]

I went to Paris many times in the seventies. Such a beautiful place to visit, but I would never live there : too much noise in the streets (even late in the evening) and too many stressed people. Every time I returned to Montréal, I appreciated the calmer living.

[@ehjo4904]

Yep , but Paris is also about art , history , culture . Something mission in many American cities. Yes , the people are stressed but also more cultured .

[@ydesroches1]

@@ehjo4904 I know there is a lot of culture and history in Paris. There is no North-American city that can beat that. But after spending more than a month in Paris in one instance, I was glad to return home to Montrėal. As I have said, Paris is a very nice city to visit, but I wouldn’t not be able to live there due to stress and high cost of living.

[@nursejoed]

The metro is not that bad. Yeah, the connecting tunnels go on and on, but it's reliable and goes almost everywhere...

[@edcarlson6181]

I was there in April and May and I love Paris. Big city with neighborhood vibes, people enjoying life. Slowing down can be a challenge for me, but I can enjoy "doing nothing" at a cafe or a long lunch/dinner. One of the cities I could return to many, many times and still love it. But it is important for people to visit other areas in France, a large and amazing country.

[@synkodev]

I've spent 9 days visiting Paris to put to test 1 year of French learning and also to discover all these iconic places that everyone talks about. And even though the Louvre IS indeed amazing, the touristic restaurants are worth visiting, the Sacré Coeur belvedere has a breathtaking view of the city and the Eiffel Tower really has its charm (specially when you go inside it), my favorite place to spend some time was surprisingly La Seine. Sitting there looking at the river while I had lunch or just doing absolutely nothing was the most unique experience I had there. Sad that I missed Saint-Martin, but at the same time you just gave me one more reason to visit Paris once again. Great video as usual!

[@e815usa]

Dan, would love to see you collaborate with Kate from the Unintentionally Frenchified channel! She's an American who lived in Paris for years, then moved to Montreal a few months ago and is based in Montreal now. She's got great perspectives on both cities!

[@adoberoots]

As a former New Yorker and Franco-American that's lived in Paris for the past 6 years, I still get into arguments with my French friends about this 😆 Many of them refuse to accept that Paris is, all things considered, a pretty relaxed and chill place. For them, it's the most chaotic place in the world. Granted, life here can be very stressful just like it is in any expensive megacity, but the things you've mentioned in this video are a big part of what makes Paris special. You don't feel the same intense level of overstimulation and hectic energy that you do in say, NYC, London, Hong Kong, Moscow or Tokyo. Because of my having been accustomed to that sort of place, when I first moved here I would sometimes even get frustrated by how slowly people walked, and was still in the habit of rushing when checking out at a store for fear of angering the people behind me. Now, I've come to appreciate it all, and enjoy not feeling like I have to run everywhere, even on my days off. But still, for someone from another part of France or someone who hasn't been to any other big metropolis, Paris is a madhouse. Oh, and it's worth noting that the chill Parisian vibe is notably absent for the 7 or so months of the year when we hardly see the sun. For the full laid-back French experience you have to go spend a month in a little village somewhere in the south - when you get back to Paris you'll start to understand the French perspective on things a little better 😅

[@herrgoldmann2562]

"Doing nothing" is my favourite occupation as well when I have some free time and spend it outside, especially when travelling....although I have never seen it as "doing nothing", just as relaxing and enjoying free time in a nice atmosphere / surrounding. I think people all over Europe are doing it, not only the Parisians.

[@lolah3838]

6:10 this is not exclusive to Paris. I've travelled throughout Europe and was always amazed by the amount of people doing nothing for long periods of time. The tourist experience is very different to local life in any place. Paris, unfortunately, is the only city I've visited that I didn't enjoy simply because the locals made every interaction more difficult than it needed to be.

[@florian6147]

Why difficult interaction because they didn’t speak English ?

[@terryomalley1974]

​@@florian6147More likely because they're smug and snooty, somewhat like yourself.

[@joenroute9646]

Sorry for that. Parisians are not the most friendly as to be polite in France is to show respect and not to be overly friendly. As such if you make a faux pas like not saying ' bonjour' they can be rude in reponse.

[@Agibi]

@@florian6147 80's and 90's generation speak a better English or try...It will change with time...thanks to netflix and globalisation...young are curious about the world but we think that tourist could try to speak too.

[@thomasharter8161]

I watched videos of English speakers who have lived in France for a long time, including a New Zealander, and when they know the codes they have a good opinion of the French. Sometimes their "rudeness" comes from the rudeness of others who don't realize they've made a mistake...

[@zaydalaoui9397]

Only an american can think Paris is relaxed and people do nothing :D i've been living in Paris for 10 years and here is what I can say : Most people find Paris stressful as any major city and people always running everywhere. But again it depends where you go, people go the canals to relax and you will se mostly foreigners at touristy places. The waiter is not doing nothing, usually there is one waiter for a lot of tables in France, because th'ey're paid a living wage and there is no tips, so they attend other tables and sometimes even clean the dishes... For the metro, French don't just want new things, they love old things, vintage, and they love to preserve historical buildings and stuff in general. So the metro looks old in purpose. The rams are changed every year or so but they keep the style. If parisians did "nothing", you wouldn't find a perfectly preserved 200 year building, street, canal, etc.

[@saodat4844]

Probably this is gonna be my favourite video in your channel👍. I am learning French but I could not understand what you said in French (I did not look at the subtitles at first). I think I learned English watching your videos. Now I am gonna learn French the same way haha. Btw, I really used to watch your videos during quarantine as a habit. Like 10 minute rule, watching The New Travel videos for 10 minutes a day. And here I am, it really helped me to improve my language skills. At first I really could not understand anything. I am writing this rn, bcs now I am starting my research for thesis, and I am feeling so inconfident just as I felt when I was trying to learn English from scratch. This comment will be a reminder for me that things that seems impossible at first will become a reality if we put a proper effort👩‍🎓.

[@analuizatex]

Excellent topic! I too find it very interesting the way french people live and relax through the day. I'm from Brazil and we're very influenced by american culture and our lives are in general about working and working. Most adults here don't have the time do do exercises or take care of their houses, families, friends or just chill in week-days! People only "live" outside work on weekends. That's soooo wrong, I really believe we have something to learn about french culture in this sense.

[@christine-my3gd]

Thanks for your comment it's really interesting. I had no Idea what Brazilian daily life looked like

[@skylefall]

This channel is a breath of fresh air. Continue this type of art.

[@palmsky1119]

Honestly, I agree with a lot of what you said. The memories I have of Paris aren't the best and frankly I barely remember what happened. I did not enjoy my time in paris but i think I barely scratched the surface. I still want to go again since as you said its hard to focus on the positive when you are not in a happy situation in life overall. Exploring, experiencing different cultures, meeting new people and keeping a positive attitude about life is what I strive for nowadays. Thanks for the videos as always!

[@yberai]

stop idealizing a country or a city already

[@australianpainter42069]

You nailed it, it's a busy city but at the same time it's very chill

[@star-pixie]

Just go on a walk on sunday morning. It makes your weekend feel longer. Do your « nothing », sometimes is as simple as reading a book in a park. Life is to enjoy, not to rush through. On the language note, French are like English speaking people, exactly the same, they expect you to speak their language when visiting. However, French do not expect the same when abroad, just saying. FYI, I`m Spanish living and working in Paris for the last 20 years.

[@nasc.1192]

Part 2 : You can find it everywhere in Latin Europe. It's called Art de Vivre in France , la Dolce Vita in Italy. That's why you may have sometimes this feeling when you are located in Le Plateau or la Petite Italie at Mtl

[@jermr8311]

interessant ce que tu dis. Je n'ai pas beaucoup de recul puisque je suis Français et je vis à Paris depuis 12 ans mais clairement tu as pointé une caractéristique. Rien de mieux que de se poser en terrasse et ne rien faire d'autre que d'apprécier la vie qui se déroule autour de soi

[@JihedCh]

exactement.

[@kevinesorelleazangue8360]

How adorable ! Your video really touch me. No judgement, no prejudice just lesson. Every part of the world have his own unique beauty. And to have different perspective, really help to shape one opinion and being open to new amazing experience. Enjoy your stay in Paris!

[@lindadorman2869]

In Italian, we call it "dolce far niente"...a long-standing concept not unique to Paris but enjoyed by Europeans (ok mostly French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese) everywhere.

[@josephr9551]

"The Art of Doing Nothing" Absolutely love that phrase! Dan, here is an opportunity for your next book! Love your video and thank you for doing it.

[@kingly71]

only been to Paris once but those neighborhoods to the north: 9th, 10th, 18th arrondissements were my fave

[@worldofwilson464]

Your storytelling ability is incredible, keep it up man

[@ParisianBookworm87]

Dan, l'homme le plus mignon des mignons... Merci profondément de créer ces vidéos touchantes et profondes qui nous satisfont à chaque fois que nous les regardons. C'est beau de partager ces moments tendres avec nous. Merci infiniment !

[@lucia9304]

Il insulte avec arrogance la France toute entière et vous lui baisez la main... ouache... ça va pas la tête

[@dave19328]

@@lucia9304 Si tu penses qu'il insulte la France, t'as pas regardé la vidéo toute entière ou t'as pas compris ce qu'il a dit. Il parle du bon et du pas très mauvais côté de Paris.

[@mydogisbailey]

Paris is a splendid world class city ❤

[@ThamerAlothman]

This video is full of emotions, beautiful scenery and beautiful deep philosophy. I am thrilled to have discovered this amazing channel and this knowledgeable young man. Thank you 🙏

[@mycroftholmes7863]

You’ve hit the nail on the head in terms of why I love visiting Paris!

[@brunalnono2920]

For the waiter making you wait 30 mn, it's not because of the foreing accent, don't worry it's normal, they do it even for french people ! (On the plus side, you don't need to tipe them ;) ) (Also, the restaurant and Café are normally to relax yourself, so in fact it may be perceived as impolite to run to you and press you with question, you may sign to the waiter, to grab his atttention, and have him come more quickly (same for asking the bill) (don't forget to tell him "Excusez moi, mais je suis un peu pressé", if you're in a hurry) Ooh I'm thinking that you may have been a victim of the "menu trick". It may be confusing : when you come and sit, they'll give you a menu to choose from, and go away. Then after you have chosen : close your menu and put it aside ! Otherwise, the waiter, will...wait. As a open menu is the code for "I'm still not sure what I want to eat, so leave me alone for the moment". After a long while they'll come anyway because they think you're taking too long to choose.

[@thomasharter8161]

You are completely right! It's a change from Montreal where when you're reading the menu and the waiter is harassing you asking if you're ready to order because he lacks professionalism.

[@brunalnono2920]

@@thomasharter8161 It may be why strangers find that our waiters keep them waiting "because you're a stranger", they do it to french people that don't know the code too ! (Also, some waiters, can also totally forget you ! Once in a restaurant, I put a folded paper with "parti manger" on the table before leaving ! (I did wait for so long and he didn't even gave me a menu !)

[@MusiqueIntemporelles]

He knows well the vibe and what we feel as Parisians. Respect🙏🏾

[@prejolamandossi784]

Paris my city. Hope you've enjoyed your stay in our beautiful city and country🇫🇷. A bientôt ( See you soon)

[@p.s.tea.w]

when you find the love and hate of a place, thats the moment when exploration starts~ nice video as always😊 thank you for bringing me back to the city i have always loved

[@aaronrochard4594]

I've found that there are better places in France to experience the culture than Paris. Cheaper, friendlier, less crowded, etc. etc. So far, I'm a fan of Lille, Rouen, Rennes and Nantes. Looking forward to visiting Bayonne. Forget Paris!

[@augth]

These other cities are nice too but they’re no replacement. Paris is unique, it’s the City of Lights.

[@buzzmattn6539]

Yeah, I can totally understand your points. That's why I decided to book only AirBnB in the outskirts of the big towns when I come to Canada. Just stay where the touristy stuff is when it's needed and give my best to blend in with the locals on the other hand.

[@santiagogiroski]

Saying they've made to nothing to improve the metro when there are literally self-driving trains on three metro lines by now is kind of a stretch

[@spartanrolv4553]

Thanks for this sincere video about the city (and around) where part of my ancestors were from for centuries and where I started my young adult life, where I owned my first place (a studio with a common wall with Abbesses Church, in this little street between Place Pigalle and ending in stairs on Place des Abbesses). I moved away to travel the world for decades now (yes, you could be my grand-son ... aie aie aie, c'est la vie ! on vieillit tous ... and now time for new generations to enjoy life ... see, this is very french to "philosophy", about any aspect of life ... and this gives us, to the "new" eyes watching us, the impression that we are doing nothing. First, enjoying life, this small moments ... this is an art and a way of life, that many others around the world, missed. For us, eating or "doing nothing" is already doing something. Enjoying life isn't it the purpose of life ? But ! Beware ! .... The French just "apparently" do nothing. In fact, they are working a lot but it's expressed differently. To most outsiders, they seem to do nothing. Yet, do you think this french "exception" came out of the blue ? In fact, it's a lot of "thinking" before "doing". While you're thinking and imagining, you seem, in the eyes of others, as if you were day-dreaming or doing nothing. Do you know that half of our energy spent by body, is by head/brain ? Check the French result ... see ... isn't it remarkably different, original and creative ? Of course, as everywhere, it's not perfect, ... far from it. But perfection is boring and not beautiful. After Paris, go and check Vienna, in Austria ... You will be surprised a kind a similar flair for best "art de vivre" ... Go along the Old Danube or in the "heuriger", these little restaurant hidden in the vineyards which are literally part of the City of Vienna ... you will find a cool atmosphere, as in Paris, where the Viennese seem to also do nothing. They also simply enjoy the little things that are making a good and pleasant life.

[@lioneldm5130]

I'm french. When i was 14, we read Montaigne in the classroom. He was walking in a garden with a young guy. The young guy asked: what are we doing here? We're doing nothing! Montaigne answered: we're not doing nothing. We are breathing, feeling the world. Carpe diem.

[@thomHD]

Hollywood likes to depict Paris with golden sunsoaked streets, and London as torrential rain or Christmas snow when, in reality, the two cities have virtually identical weather, give or take a degree

[@cheeseparis1]

Parisian here. Great video! Hope you enjoyed doind nothing at Canal Saint Martin. Please come back later when works will be over at Opera Garnier, the building is so nice ... and book a ticket! There are lots of neighborhoods with cobblestone streets and old houses you would enjoy!

[@YanBrassard]

Hello Dan, French Canadian from the beautiful province of Quebec here. I like your thoughts on nothingness. Every time I visit a new city, I try to spend at least a week there. I do not want to rush anything except maybe the touristic attractions. I see what everyone is expecting me to see but not for too long. What I like the most is to walk in unknown neighbourhoods, find nice coffee shops to chill there and watch the scenery of people living their daily life. My approach is the opposite to my sister for example who enjoys being overbooked and rushing to see as many places as possible. When I was in Istanbul a year ago, she was judging me for finding nice coffee shops and chilling there, walking in the city with no plans for the day, visiting different neighbourhoods without seeking touristic attractions. While on vacation, I like to experience living my life without following a tight schedule. Isn't it the purpose of a vacation? In Taipei two months ago, my Airbnb was a few streets away from Taipei 101. And to be honest, I don't know what people find interesting in this building. The view of the city from the top is not the best, there are better spots in the mountain nearby. And I find it honestly more exciting to visit places that are frequented by locals in their every day life. Often time you will discover a great restaurant or coffee by accident not by design. And all of this because you were doing nothing and actually paying attention to your surroundings instead of rushing to the next touristic attraction.

[@joenroute9646]

Seems that Montréal was the needed step to appreciate Paris . ' L'art de vivre et de prendre son temps ' . Look at the people sitting out the cafe are facing the street to experience the city and not only to consume . Watched you vlog on Paris years ago, felt that due a culture gap that you did not get . Yes to be polite in France is to show respect and not to be overly friendly. No causal québécois 'tu' but the formal 'vous' and always the mandatory 'bonjour' if not the people would be rude to you .

[@thomasharter8161]

In Montreal it's normal to walk into a store and people don't respond to your hello. It's not systematic but it happens. I know an old Haitian woman in Montreal who was very shocked at first when she arrived in Montreal. She said to them: DID YOU NOTICE THAT I SALUTE YOU?????????

[@thomasharter8161]

@@louisecote3542 It's not based on a single experience. It's based on my experience living in Montreal. The old Haitian was just one example among many. Like in shopping centers or the metro etc etc... people don't care if there is someone behind them when they open a door so if we are not careful we get caught in the door face. On the other hand people are disciplined when they take the bus they line up.

[@sophiaisabelle027]

We appreciate the content on here. They’re always the best of quality.

[@0to100Art]

Life begins when you step outside! I absolutely love how this ressonates! I finally took some time to enjoy your videos and I love how you are connected to world

[@pogohd3041]

Finally someone that understands French culture and the best way to travel there

[@yberai]

It must be strange for an American to realize how much he is a slave to his work that he cannot enjoy a single moment life without thinking about money or utilitarian profit, while drinking a good glass without going fast at all costs as if his life depended on it

[@forgottenarchitecturalhistory]

In the same spirit, during a trip to Montreal, I had to go from Little Italy to Place d'Armes, which I did by walking all the way along Blvd. St. Laurent. Great way to see a slice of the city. La même chose for Paris.

[@lacki9900]

Really like the story telling and snapshots in your videos, love from Austria

[@edwinroman30]

Great video dude 😎, you have amazing style of share your thoughts and experiences! Have a nice trip and thanks for the video!

[@ruthrodriguez5173]

Thank you Dan I had enjoyed this video most people show the main places in Paris something that most of us have seen over and over. Saludos Dan!! 🇲🇽🇺🇲

[@jenniferwatkins4569]

I really enjoyed this video. I find that you are very funny and easy to watch. I live in Manhattan and the perceived vibe here is so busy, so “go go go.” However, that’s not so true. Yes, the hustle is real here, surviving here is not easy. And sometimes you need to move quickly to make money. But, when you get out of midtown and head uptown, it’s a different vibe altogether. You see neighbors just sitting on stoops, relaxing and watching people walk by and cars trying to parallel park (a favorite pastime of mine, I can literally spend hours watching and narrating about the efforts of drivers). My kid and I get ice cream and just hang on the stoop, saying hi to neighbors and chillin. When I saw you at the Louve, I’m reminded of heavy tourist areas including midtown/Times Square here. New Yorkers generally do not enjoy going to these places. Like you mentioned regarding the Parisians, when I have to go down there for some reason, I am quick in and quick out. No eating. No staying. It’s not true New York. It’s about so much more than Manhattan as well. I live here, but leave and go to Queens, the Bronx, and other boroughs and you will find the true New York as well, where life does not move as fast as the world perceives us to be. Love your show!

[@AJos17]

Hello I'm french living in a city which is 1 hour by train from Paris. Despite that I think you know way better Paris than me, because as non parisian we try to avoid Paris because it's full of people doing many things and have no time to stop. If you wanna see people really doing nothing, come visit rest of France, not just Paris like too much tourists. 😉

[@theozchannel6253]

When I traveled to Europe and visited Paris I was greatly disappointed I have to say ..nothing like I was expecting

[@happypolish1]

I livein Paros more than 10 years and still i discover so many places.Depends where do you stay, which petiod of the year your are coming.For sure Paris is Must Visit in your life

[@atomic4650]

This video was super interesting. It's refreshing to see how others see the world. You also have a great understanding of the way people think which is awesome.

[@Hal10034]

My experience in Paris is that people want you to initiate conversation in French. It's a matter of respect. But usually, if they see that your French is limited, they'll switch to English. I thought the parisians were fine. But then i am from NYC.

[@Coltrain78]

What a great revelation! Great video Dan.

[@Mtl-zf9om]

Thanks for the review.

[@fAhmedYacine]

Personnally, I will come there for my medecine studys (Sorbonne) and that's why i'm watching this kind of content to prepare myself and avoid the PAris Syndrome

[@MirejeLenoir4670]

If you are looking for Organgina in Montreal, they used to be easier to find but the place that has the biggest quantities is the Provigo grocery in front of Radisson metro station. Stuff is written in Polish on the bottles for an unknown reason but it for me the easiest place to find large orangina bottles around here.

[@n4tune8]

Nice to know, merci!

[@hollywoodCam4747]

I am from Los Angeles and it's the same way. People come to L.A. for 2 days, they see it on tv.... but really, you need to almost live there for the full experiece

[@Ema...........................]

Reminds me of a day I spend with a friend I met at hostel!! Hahah, the next day I went to see the Louvre Museum. After hour of confusion and bumping into people, I just gave up, and went back to the quiet streets like those next to the canal. I loved Paris for the long walks, the infinite beauty and all the nice people I met. The art in the museum would be mesmerising too, I bet. But the feeling of endless possibilities in walking the streets just living life was far more important to me. After all, all the artist created the art based on such lived experience. paintings movies photos music... are just a reflection of that. Ps: hope to bump into you again sometimes Dan! The pictures from the new film camera turned out great too.

[@thibDave]

I stumbled upon your channel a few months ago and really appreciate your storytelling. I’m about to travel to Europe for the first time in my life and your stories have helped me already feel like I’ve experienced it a bit. Will be in Paris in two weeks and will try to experience it through this openminded lens. Merci beaucoup.

[@elrevah]

You got it. And that in a somehow poetic and philosophic way. The most interesting is everywhere but the touristic areas. And this ''everywhere' is 99% of the city ...Still a lot to discover, we'd like more videos about it. Maybe district by district or something like that? And what is with the huge suburbs that they make up 80% of the metropolitan area?

[@Biomol_insight]

I saw your video about Morocco, I was very curious abojt what Hassan said. You are reallt a good man❤ thanks from the heart. And welvome to Morocco❤

[@zeblackjapanese]

03:18 The real name is "Les quais de Jemmapes" It's more precise than "Le canal saint Martin" Wich is much longer. And yes it is a very nice spot to hang out in the summer. Glad you appreciated that, I feel a bit nostalgic to see it now that i'm in Quebec but heyyy I'm here to have differents experiences.

[@TatianeSerpa-ek4uf]

Hello! I loved your video. What's the name of the cafe next to the canal? I'm going to Paris in January and I need good tips.

[@Zeyev]

Merci encore des États-Unis. Tu es très drôle parfois et en même temps tu nous fais penser à beaucoup de choses. C'est un grand talent. Une question reste: Est-ce que tu as essayé de parler avec les Français en français? Si oui, quelle était leur réaction?

[@msknagano]

“doing nothing” what a great phrase it is!

[@glitchpublishing]

That's a very good vidéo ! I'm a parisien since30 years and you are right, doing nothing is an art here. So, you have a new subscriber :)

[@marciobm7810]

Hello, my friend. I understood your point. But next year we will go to the Paris for two nights and thre days. Which locals you recommend to visit? Thank you for attention and congratulation for the vídeo. Hugs from Brazil!👏🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@terryomalley1974]

I can tell that living in Montreal has rubbed off on you. You started the video by referring to "manifestations" in Paris. Manifestation is the commonly used term in French for what we call in English a protest. Good advice about avoiding the tourist traps and taking things more slowly. It always amuses me when I'm in a town with a lot of tourists and i see them rushing from tourist trap to the next tourist trap in a frenzy to make sure they don't miss a thing. They're do consumed with ticking boxes on their sightseeing list that they completely overlook taking the time to absorb the different atmosphere and immerse themselves in the local culture.

[@euroschmau]

It's about balance when traveling, which means giving places a proper amount of time. Far too many people give places like Paris a quick visit (under 3 days). You, of course, want to see the sights, so give them a few days, but then also give double that time to explore and get lost in the neighborhoods. For Paris, you need to devote two weeks.

[@alexadellastella5247]

Watching your video, I realised how French I am.... it took me years to truly appreciate the beauty around here actually. I could see that it was nice but since I was born here, I couldn't see how special it was in a way. Secondly, "doing nothing" or being contemplative I would call it is soooo me! I couldn't be any different it is so vital to my well being aside from being active of course ;) thanks for making me realise how French I am! ;) The only thing which disappointed me in the video was the quality of your lunch "Sodebo".... I mean you are in Paris, there are so many places to buy fresh food from even a sandwich from a bar or café or from any boulangerie.... For the rest, I love your honesty when you speak :)

[@choisam20]

Great great opening speech. That was awesome haha!

[@stephenkrus]

It's cool too see you again in #Paris... mon ami! My first video that I watched was you're on still living in Paris. Years has passed by. #TheArtOfDoingNothing.

[@MousX]

Next time, you should definitely organize a meet up!

[@christopher.96]

I enjoy a similar type of travel to you. I spent 2 weeks in Italy visiting 4 cities. I still felt rushed. Meanwhile in Rome I met many folks from N. American “visiting Europe” in only 1 week. “London, Paris, Rome”. I spent 2 weeks in Quebec as well. I prefer taking time to absorb the local vibe and relaxing with locals.

[@Gramiverse]

smartly thought & brilliantly presented

[@lynahouchi9097]

If you want to drink orangina when you come back in montreal they’re pretty easy to find in any algerian/north african shop !

[@junioroliveira-yf7ss]

Loved it pal 👏🏻

[@jl453]

Have you ever thought about doing one about safety in Paris? Pickpocket?

[@LeonardoGuilherme92]

Scams on the streets of Paris. They are also famous for that.

[@melo.art._]

Most of the time when we are working or go to work, we are working and going to work nothing else(most of the time) that is why in the metro, everithing is in a hurry because lots of people are going to work and if you are not in a hurry, let the peoples who are passe. That is why, when we are eating, doing a pause, taking our time, we enjoy it at the best i gess.

[@thefebi8457]

Paris is and incredible city, so beautiful and a the same time could be rude, speacially in the tourist crowed places, where the quality is not the best and the people not very friendly, but as you say is important to experience the not as touristy Paris, the more authentic one to have a wider idea and find the friendly parisians, beautiful spots and the best food, other way you may hate Paris dispite its beauty and the nice people that actually have.

[@harveyschwartz6789]

Stayed at St. Christiopher's Hostel on the Saint Martins Canal and another hostel in an old building in a different part of that canal and like you I do what I want like cleaning up my neighborhood and sitting outside the local cafe/bookstore-Bird & Hand.

[@lours6993]

You make many great points and are honest about your jaded first experience of Paris in 2014. However, your comments about waiters doing nothing and the metro never being updated or the trains not arriving on time come across as a bit off. Waiters earn a living wage and serve far more tables than they do in the US, they are NOT doing nothing and it’s NOT about your accent. I have an English accent and get great service and have lived here for 20 years. The Metro is currently undergoing a 41 Bn Euro upgrade. Biggest infrastructure project in Europe. Have you ever relied on AMTRAK in the US for an on time arrival? Anyway. I like many of your points, but I'd suggest not try to explain Paris primarily as people doing ‘nothing.’ Paris has more Global 500 companies than NYC.

[@seanmartinez8415]

I have the opposite problem in Paris. I speak French to them (wanting them to respond in French) and they reply in English.

[@craftgamer9941]

15:23 Merci à toi aussi pour ces superbe ouverture sur la culture des pays et de leurs modes de vie !

[@malachi5813]

Dude , the waiter doing nothing was straight comedy lmaooo! The Doin nothing part of of the video can be a straight up stand up comedy skit dude!

[@philexile0]

Thanks for this Dan. I'll be there in August!

[@edcarlson6181]

Buy yourself another salad, Dan! I love the ones with the warm goat cheese on top :-)