Maybe you’ve visited Paris before and seen all the must-see attractions. Or, perhaps this is your first time to the City of Light, but you’ve seen the photos and want to find your own Paris alongside the millions of others that call the city home. Either way, you’re looking to avoid the major tourist hotspots, and that’s where World Endeavors comes in. Our very own Marketing Assistant, Sydney, spent a year studying in the French capital. Now she’s prepared to share her all-time favorite spots around the city.
Jardin des Plantes
By no means is this garden “hidden,” but it is free from the crowded atmosphere that often surrounds the likes of Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg. I found myself here on a cool, crisp morning in early February and thought it was so lovely that I claimed a bench and read a novel for over an hour. Even with bare trees and overcast weather, this garden has real charm. And for all the animal lovers, you’ll enjoy the Ménagerie, a small zoo housing many rare mammals, birds, and reptiles!
Le Petit Lux
A mere two blocks from Jardin du Luxembourg, you’d think this little boulangerie would be overpriced and teeming with tourists. Not so! Catering to the large student population as well as the local business men and women, Le Petit Lux serves delicious options for extremely reasonable prices. It is perhaps one of the best kept secrets of those who frequent this area of Paris (shh, don’t tell them I told you!). I would highly recommend ordering the chèvre salad, but you can’t go wrong selecting any sandwich either. Don’t forget dessert!
Butte-aux- Cailles
While exploring my neighborhood one afternoon I stumbled upon this beautiful area with its prettily painted houses, cobblestoned lanes, and intriguing street art. To me, this neighborhood quickly became the quintessential Paris of my dreams. Everywhere I looked, locals were practicing their own joie de vivre. Older gentlemen debated politics and sipped espresso at sidewalk cafés, children ran laughing through the streets without a care in the world, and women happily walked with their dogs in the afternoon sun. When city life seems overwhelming, I often found myself seeking the peacefulness of Butte-aux- Cailles.
Le Loir dans La Théière
Chances are that if you’re living in Paris, you’ll visit Le Marais neighborhood to enjoy delicious falafel, window shop the expensive boutiques, or explore the many museums and art galleries in the area. I did the same until a friend recommended Le Loir dans la Théière. This is the perfect place to stop for an afternoon treat during a day exploring the area. Order a pot of tea and a dessert which you can pick from the day’s selection. I hear the lemon meringue pie is life-changing. If you are like me and prefer your sweets with chocolate, the options never did disappoint!
Do you have a favorite “hidden gem” from your time abroad? Share it with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! And don’t forget to check out our great international programs in France!
Posted by World Endeavors on April 1, 2016
World Endeavors believes that international travel has the power to change lives, broaden horizons, and deepen intercultural understanding. The world is undergoing rapid changes, with societies becoming more interconnected and environmentally aware; at the same time a more challenging global economy inspires in many a need to reach out and make a positive difference while seeking personal growth opportunities. There has never been a better time than now to travel abroad.
