You can tell that your long journey on KZfaq has really made you a good storyteller with a unique style
@jeffsherman91 Жыл бұрын
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 KZfaq 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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
@@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.
@davidbrims5825 Жыл бұрын
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.
@chhm-si7df Жыл бұрын
Tes vidéos sont d’excellente qualité et sont super intéressantes. J’adore la poésie qui s’en dégage. Merci beaucoup pour ton travail !
@TeddyAura Жыл бұрын
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.
@monhmonhmonhmonh Жыл бұрын
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,
@Adam_le_Zigoto Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
You been to London, NYC or Tokyo? Its the same
@louisd.8928 Жыл бұрын
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.
@slamer2158 Жыл бұрын
doing nothing is not doing nothing, its healing!
@Agibi Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
mouais
@lucia9304 Жыл бұрын
In staid of playing Mortal Combat... they sit outside to enjoy the minimal of what is at reach ... living life ... not wasting it
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...
@k0brakai Жыл бұрын
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 !
@ydesroches1 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
@@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.
@adoberoots Жыл бұрын
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 😅
@synkodev Жыл бұрын
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!
@nursejoed Жыл бұрын
The metro is not that bad. Yeah, the connecting tunnels go on and on, but it's reliable and goes almost everywhere...
@lolah3838 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
Why difficult interaction because they didn’t speak English ?
@terryomalley1974 Жыл бұрын
@@florian6147More likely because they're smug and snooty, somewhat like yourself.
@joenroute9646 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
@@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 Жыл бұрын
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...
@paristoptips Жыл бұрын
You have a very interesting point of view on Paris and Parisians. As a Parisian, and as a KZfaqr 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 Жыл бұрын
@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."
@asellandrofacchio72634 ай бұрын
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.
@edcarlson6181 Жыл бұрын
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.
@palmsky1119 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
stop idealizing a country or a city already
@e815usa Жыл бұрын
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!
@santiagogiroski Жыл бұрын
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
@yberai Жыл бұрын
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
@saodat4844 Жыл бұрын
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👩🎓.
@herrgoldmann2562Ай бұрын
"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.
@australianpainter42069 Жыл бұрын
You nailed it, it's a busy city but at the same time it's very chill
@lioneldm5130 Жыл бұрын
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.
@zaydalaoui9397 Жыл бұрын
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.
@ThamerAlothman Жыл бұрын
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 🙏
@kevinesorelleazangue8360 Жыл бұрын
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!
@mydogisbaileyСағат бұрын
Paris is a splendid world class city ❤
@skylefall Жыл бұрын
This channel is a breath of fresh air. Continue this type of art.
@josephr9551 Жыл бұрын
"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.
@jermr8311 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
exactement.
@star-pixie Жыл бұрын
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.
@thomHD4 ай бұрын
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
@malachi58138 ай бұрын
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!
@ParisianBookworm87 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
Il insulte avec arrogance la France toute entière et vous lui baisez la main... ouache... ça va pas la tête
@dave19328 Жыл бұрын
@@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.
@lindadorman2869 Жыл бұрын
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.
@aaronrochard4594 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
These other cities are nice too but they’re no replacement. Paris is unique, it’s the City of Lights.
@nasc.1192 Жыл бұрын
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
@analuizatex Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
Thanks for your comment it's really interesting. I had no Idea what Brazilian daily life looked like
@kingly71 Жыл бұрын
only been to Paris once but those neighborhoods to the north: 9th, 10th, 18th arrondissements were my fave
@worldofwilson464 Жыл бұрын
Your storytelling ability is incredible, keep it up man
@YanBrassard Жыл бұрын
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.
@p.s.tea.w Жыл бұрын
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
@brunalnono2920 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
@@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 !)
@Hal10034 Жыл бұрын
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.
@spartanrolv4553 Жыл бұрын
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.
@Mtl-zf9om Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review.
@joenroute9646 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
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 Жыл бұрын
@@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.
@pogohd3041 Жыл бұрын
Finally someone that understands French culture and the best way to travel there
@mycroftholmes78639 ай бұрын
You’ve hit the nail on the head in terms of why I love visiting Paris!
@theozchannel6253 Жыл бұрын
When I traveled to Europe and visited Paris I was greatly disappointed I have to say ..nothing like I was expecting
@AJos17 Жыл бұрын
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. 😉
@buzzmattn6539 Жыл бұрын
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.
@0to100Art Жыл бұрын
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
@hollywoodCam47473 ай бұрын
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
@happypolish19 ай бұрын
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
@Zeyev Жыл бұрын
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?
@sophiaisabelle01 Жыл бұрын
We appreciate the content on here. They’re always the best of quality.
@MusiqueIntemporelles11 ай бұрын
He knows well the vibe and what we feel as Parisians. Respect🙏🏾
@thibDave Жыл бұрын
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.
@mussajavdan8203 Жыл бұрын
I have been in Paris hundred times ,business and trips.... Honestly I hate it . Unpolite people , expensive but at the same time low qulity things . The hotel manager almost humilitate me , that was an experience i hade several times . Once I checked in in a 4 star Hotel , and it was unclean the bed was not made ,it was terrible . The worst part was when i complained about it , the manager asked me to leave if I want. . So with only one visit you get nothing from the reality of this shit town .
@thefebi8457 Жыл бұрын
Yeah Paris could be harsh! but the city itself is beautiful and worth the visit, I used to have the same vision of the parisians but the last time I stayed far from the center and I found friendly people, for example I was lost in some street and a very nice guy help me and welcome me to his city, so I change a lot my perpective, I undestand what you mean but I'm open to change my mind too.
@mussajavdan8203 Жыл бұрын
@@thefebi8457 Thanks Febi for your reply . You are right ,nice and bad people are every where . But honestly I have been in Paris at least 12 times or more . Most part for business reasons . But each time i had bad experience . Well ofcourse their are nice people to . But If I could decide today where to spend my holidays it would deffently not bee Paris . I find the global attention to Paris overestimated and it is deffently not true . But every have their own opinion .Thanks again for sharing yours it was nice
@Agibi Жыл бұрын
@@mussajavdan8203 french people avoid paris for holidays or only if they want to go to an event, exposition or concert...overcrowded with people and tourist, not welcoming because with the mass they dont care...This city should be depopulated to benefit from the calm of province, work anywhere else is less stressing...since covid a lot of parisians and francilians went avay, i hope it will decrease and we will see only the best of Paris like in August when every parisian is gone, the art, the beauty of our capital... sorry for all my compatriotes.
@mussajavdan8203 Жыл бұрын
@@Agibi Thanks
@edwinroman30 Жыл бұрын
Great video dude 😎, you have amazing style of share your thoughts and experiences! Have a nice trip and thanks for the video!
@msknagano2 ай бұрын
“doing nothing” what a great phrase it is!
@prejolamandossi784 Жыл бұрын
Paris my city. Hope you've enjoyed your stay in our beautiful city and country🇫🇷. A bientôt ( See you soon)
@MousX7 ай бұрын
Next time, you should definitely organize a meet up!
@lacki9900 Жыл бұрын
Really like the story telling and snapshots in your videos, love from Austria
@atomic4650 Жыл бұрын
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.
@jl453 Жыл бұрын
Have you ever thought about doing one about safety in Paris? Pickpocket?
@LeonardoGuilherme92 Жыл бұрын
Scams on the streets of Paris. They are also famous for that.
@mydogisbaileyСағат бұрын
FYI Paris metro is one the most advanced in the entire world. Look up any global ranking
@melo.art._ Жыл бұрын
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.
@elrevah Жыл бұрын
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?
@thefebi8457 Жыл бұрын
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.
@forgottenarchitecturalhistory Жыл бұрын
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.
@marciobm781011 ай бұрын
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!👏🇧🇷🇧🇷
@ruthrodriguez5173 Жыл бұрын
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!! 🇲🇽🇺🇲
@fAhmedYacine Жыл бұрын
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
@xouxoful Жыл бұрын
No the waiter doesn’t make wait 30 minutes because you’re a foreigner. He does that to everyone. Sorry to make you feel « unspecial » 😊
@kroooassant989911 ай бұрын
There are much fewer cars than in other big cities that's what makes it calm.
@cheeseparis1 Жыл бұрын
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!
@Biomol_insight Жыл бұрын
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❤
@edcarlson6181 Жыл бұрын
Buy yourself another salad, Dan! I love the ones with the warm goat cheese on top :-)
@Ema........................... Жыл бұрын
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.
@terryomalley1974 Жыл бұрын
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.
@seanmartinez8415 Жыл бұрын
I have the opposite problem in Paris. I speak French to them (wanting them to respond in French) and they reply in English.
@Coltrain78 Жыл бұрын
What a great revelation! Great video Dan.
@zeblackjapanese Жыл бұрын
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.
@Pazu84Vaucluse3 ай бұрын
it's nice to take your time and just smell the air, soak in the sun, be with your friends, talk about anything and everything, debate and then agree to disagree...BUT a lot of french people are stressed out, and Parisians (the working ones) are notorious for being the worst stressed cakes in (at least) all of France :)
@TatianeSerpa-ek4uf Жыл бұрын
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.
@Pazu84Vaucluse3 ай бұрын
The Left Bank is nice as well
@glitchpublishing Жыл бұрын
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 :)
@jacjacmtl Жыл бұрын
Lived in Paris for 10 years. Now I am living in Montreal and I kinda feel this is way more chill. BTW, please don't sit here to eat you salad!! 100% sure someone peed here last night...
@euroschmau11 ай бұрын
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.
@alxmtncstudio2066 Жыл бұрын
This was posted 3 weeks ago. And he said "this city is just one manifestation away from total anarchy" Bruh. Crystal ball. It's not total anarchy, but the country is atm taking a major turn in its modern history
@Stevenfrijol Жыл бұрын
interesting way of seeing Patis.
@choisam20 Жыл бұрын
Great great opening speech. That was awesome haha!
@jenniferwatkins4569 Жыл бұрын
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!
@harveyschwartz6789 Жыл бұрын
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.
@stephendelacruzone Жыл бұрын
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.