If there’s one thing that Parisians do well is living the good life or, as the French call it, joie de vivre. That exuberant joy of living permeates almost every aspect of a true Parisian’s life. They take joy in the simple pleasures of life from enjoying a simple, but very delicious meal to spending time with family and friends. Paris has something for everyone which is why it attracts expats from all over the world. Lets see Life in Paris as an Expat.
On the downside, Paris is one of the world’s most expensive cities which may make it beyond reach for those on a shoestring budget. That shouldn’t stop anyone from living their Parisian dream. Even with the high cost of living, it’s still possible to enjoy life in Paris as an expat, even if you are on a budget.
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The Best Things in Life are Free
Some of the best things in life are free and Paris has a lot to offer that won’t cost you a cent. For example, most museums in Paris offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. If you love being on the water, you can take a boat ride from the Corentin-Cariou Metro Station to the Le Millénaire shopping center. This service is free for shoppers and if you’re short on cash, you can always settle for a little bit of window shopping.
Paris is full of glorious parks where you can sit with a tasty baguette and a bottle of wine. The city also boasts stunning architecture and more. While you may need to pay for entry to many places, walking around the city is free.
Everyone Needs to Eat
Fine dining is one area that Paris excels at and no one does fine cuisine quite like the French. Paris has over 100 Michelin Star restaurants and while the food in these establishments is exceptional, it doesn’t come cheap. However, you can still eat well in Paris, even if your funds are limited. There are many small and large supermarkets where you can shop for groceries on a budget as well as markets offering fresh food so that you can eat well by learning to cook like a Parisian.
Eating out doesn’t need to be expensive and lunch is the best time of day to get a nicely priced meal. Bakeries offer a lunchtime special of a decent-sized baguette sandwich and a non-alcoholic drink. If you’re really lucky, some bakeries also throw in a tasty pâtisserie for dessert. Many of the local bistros also have a budget menu for lunch. This menu is usually a set menu but it often changes daily.
Café Couture for Parisian Joie de Vivre
Paris wouldn’t be Paris without its bustling café scene, a true embodiment of the city’s lively spirit. And while some may think that enjoying a cup of coffee in Paris requires deep pockets, there are spots to indulge in the quintessential Parisian café experience for expats on a budget.
Instead of flocking to the touristy spots, why not venture into the lesser-known neighborhoods? You’ll find charming local cafes offering affordable yet delicious brews and pastries. Picture yourself sipping a freshly brewed café au lait while soaking in the atmosphere of a quaint street in the trendy Marais district – it’s a moment of pure bliss that doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Home is Where the Heart Is?
Living in Paris may not be cheap but you still need a roof over your head while living in this charming city. Accommodation is usually the biggest expense you’ll encounter but if you use the services of a good platform, you can use the filters to find the finest accommodation options in your price range. You can also consider sharing an apartment with friends to keep the costs down and enjoy your new life in Paris.
Navigating Paris’ Arrondissements
Navigating Paris’ countless city districts, offers a fascinating journey through the diverse neighborhoods of the French capital, each with its own distinct character and charm. For those seeking affordable living options in Paris, certain arrondissements stand out as more budget-friendly than others.
The 19th and 20th arrondissements, located in the northeastern part of the city, offer relatively affordable housing options compared to the more central districts. These areas are known for their vibrant multicultural communities, picturesque parks, and thriving arts scenes. With a mix of residential neighborhoods and lively districts, such as Belleville and Ménilmontant, expats can find reasonably priced accommodations while still being close to the heart of Parisian life.
Even on a tight budget, you can create a fulfilling and wonderful life in the great city of Paris. Make friends with other expats and the locals to show you around and in no time at all, you’ll settle into your new life and experience little joie de vivre of your own.
