If, like me, you have been to Paris, seen the Eiffel Tower, done the Louvre and drunk coffee in quaint Parisian cafes overlooking the Champs Elysees, you may think that you have seen all that the French capital has to offer, but you couldn’t be more wrong! Paris has a whole alternative side, far from the beaten tourist track which is both interesting and a real eye opener as to what contemporary Paris is all about. Here are some tips on where to find the “real Paris”……
Logically, picture postcard Paris is in the centre of the city, neatly arranged around the Champs Elysees and Montmartre; so it makes sense to think that as you go further out of the centre you go further towards a more genuine image of the city. Having said that, if you go south you will come across some very affluent residential areas which are of little interest unless you like drooling over beautiful properties. Going north-east you will find some the venues for Paris’ alternative scene, from dingy smoky bars to cheaper, international restaurants. Art squats in Paris are also located in this area and give an interesting insight into the city’s underground scene and how that revolutionary French spirit is kept alive in Modern Paris.
As far as accommodation is concerned, B&B’s in Paris can be a good option for a more independent stay, but check exactly what is included in the price when you book as you may find you get your bed but no breakfast. Another alternative for meeting likeminded travellers are the many hostels in Paris.
For alternative shopping, check out the city’s flea markets. My personal favourite has to be Les Puces de Clignancourt for its bustling atmosphere and sheer size. You can buy all sorts here and I always feel like anything I buy there already has a secret history and a story to tell.
For culture, skip the louvre and head for one of the city’s excellent smaller musuems such as the lovely Orangerie, which houses some of Claude Monet’s finest works or hunt out the hidden Buddhist temple in the Asian quarter.
The Paris we all know and love is timeless, beautiful and romantic, but dont come here and overlook what’s back stage as it will help you understand Paris and its people and, ultimately, get more out of you trip.
