Why Paris is Overrated? A New Perspective

I initially viewed Paris as nothing more than a dirty and chaotic city with few monuments and less than exciting attractions. This perception stemmed from my passive experiences elsewhere and the prevailing romanticized image that people seemed to have of this city. Now, as someone who lived in Paris in the 1970s, and having encountered several visitors sharing similar views, I feel compelled to shed light on the realities of Paris beyond these misconceptions.

Paris Beyond the Romantic Saber

Paris, no matter the era, has been consumed by the myth of being a city of love and romance. This romantic image, though captivating, often overshadows the real experiences that one can have in the city. It is this romanticized perception that makes many travelers feel let down when they visit Paris.

Personally, I have never been drawn to the wonders that Paris has to offer, deeming them 'crap.' In living in Paris during the 1970s, I observed numerous visitors who echoed this sentiment. These people were not only ignorant of the city's beauty but also arrogant, uncultivated, and dull individuals who wouldn't recognize the beauty or worth of the city even if it slapped them in the face. Many of these tourists were attempting to ‘do Europe’ in just a few weeks and were only complaining because they couldn’t get the same comforts they had at home.

Drawbacks of Visiting Paris as a Tourist

While Paris is an incredible city to reside in, especially for young individuals without children and those who can afford to enjoy it, the experience for tourists might be less fulfilling. The city isn’t just about the famous monuments and attractions. To truly appreciate Paris, it requires some time and a local’s perspective rather than a rushed tourism experience.

In contrast, Parisiens are rarely found visiting tourist spots, except perhaps when provincial cousins are in town. Most Parisiens I know have only visited the Eiffel Tower once, at best, and I only know of one who has been to the Tour Montparnasse, which is a rather high and isolated viewpoint with a limited view of the city, especially the Eiffel Tower, obstructed by a newer, unappealing tower.

The charm of the city is best experienced in places where one can waste time, such as bookshops, cafes, terrasses, gardens, the Seine banks, small restaurants, movie theaters, and various shows. All these can be enjoyed via public transportation, including undergrounds, buses, trams, and rental bikes. Due to the compact size of the city, someone could grasp the charm of Paris in less than a month with local friends, but without them, it might be challenging to truly appreciate its essence.

For those who feel that their visit to Paris was a waste of money, I am sorry about that. The city indeed offers so much more than what was seen during their stay. If next time you plan to travel, I suggest considering a trip to Disney World instead. It might suit your preferences better, and you can enjoy a more sanitized and predictable visit without the frustrations of navigating through a bustling and sometimes chaotic city.

So, the verdict is clear. Paris is a city that requires a deeper dive and a more local approach to truly appreciate its charm. It is not merely about the monuments but the ambiance, the people, and the experiences that make each visit unique and memorable.