Experience Paris as a Local — Montmartre
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. Walking through its streets is amazing and powerful, making you feel like you’re in a dream. The charm of the French culture captures your heart in a way that is difficult to explain. You may yearn to belong there, to experience the city as a local and avoid its crowds of tourists.
On my first visit to Paris, I felt this urge. I wanted to immerse myself as much as possible in a Parisian dream, experiencing the bohemian lifestyle I’d read about in novels. If this is what you too are looking for, Montmartre is the place to be. I’m not saying you won’t find tourists there; you will. However, despite its many hotels, the area is largely residential. You can readily interact with locals and have cultural conversations that will teach you a lot about the French people and their habits. It’s also a great opportunity to improve your French.
Want to feel like a local in Montmartre? Try the following.
• Create a French Morning Routine
Can you imagine waking in Paris and walking across the street to a supermarché to buy a fresh French baguette for breakfast? Having a routine certainly feels like home. Or maybe stop at one of Montmartre’s many cafés to start your day right with a croissant. I recommend Café des Deux Moulins. Centrally located, this restaurant is famous for being the workplace of Amélie Poulain in the renowned French film Amélie. There, you can enjoy some of Amélie’s simple pleasures, like cracking an order of crème brûlée with a spoon. Or perhaps you’ll prefer an authentic Parisian crepe from a street vendor.
• Have a Drink—or Several—at a Local Bar
The variety of bars in Montmartre is greater than any traveler could ask for. Most are small—mom-and-pop restaurants—ideal for immersing yourself in the French vibe. Order a specialty drink, sit outside, and enjoy the views of this splendorous neighborhood that mixes old architecture with modern art. It is a true bohemian experience!
• Interact with Locals
Every traveler should interact with locals. You are visiting a country to see its sites, of course, but also to experience cultural exchanges that teach much more than the Eiffel Tower could ever do. Meeting locals is like joining a community. Making meaningful connections with local people will help you evolve as a person and teach you how to treat their culture with greater respect. You are visiting their city, region, or country. When you share your experiences with them, they will be delighted to hear about your adventures in their Paris. Montmartre is an ideal place to encounter locals and start conversations. Everyone there is remarkably welcoming. Remember, though, always be polite! Even if your French is poor, try initiating a conversation with a “bon jour” or “comment allez-vous.”