So relatable: "As I was that American who only spoke English, I found a French phrase book in the hostel and quickly committed a few sentences to memory. I’m also a very insecure foreign language learner, as in, my insecurity as an only-English speaking American is a huge motivator. But also, I love languages. I'll watch Wikitongues FOR FUN, geeking out over languages."
I never heard of Wikitounges—I will look this up! Thank you!
Love this! This part - The energy of the city itself is overwhelming, intimidating and intoxicating on its own, and on that trip, was strong enough to poke through my cozy cocoon of “everything is fine, this is fine” - really resonated with me. I felt a lot of emotions break through me on my trips to Paris, there is definitely something in the air there, that isn't just romance and love and fashion.
Paris always throws me for a loop. I think you described it perfectly: definitely something in the air in there that all the fluff tourism doesn't touch upon. You think Paris is going to be one thing, but it has the potential to spit you out if you're not careful.
Interesting how these patterns emerge in our lives, sometimes retrospectively. I'm going to Paris this fall and I'm stressing the language thing. I think I might get Duolingo or Rosetta Stone.
Lucky you...for a visit or long term? One thing I can recommend is simply saying "bonjour" upon.entering a business/cafe/store/restaurant. You'll get much farther when starting off on that foot.
Also, check out Paris-based vlogger/writer Jay Swanson if you want some guidance specifically on how to order in a cafe or restaurant. https://www.youtube.com/c/JaySwanson
So relatable: "As I was that American who only spoke English, I found a French phrase book in the hostel and quickly committed a few sentences to memory. I’m also a very insecure foreign language learner, as in, my insecurity as an only-English speaking American is a huge motivator. But also, I love languages. I'll watch Wikitongues FOR FUN, geeking out over languages."
I never heard of Wikitounges—I will look this up! Thank you!
You're welcome! Thanks for reading and commenting!
Love this! This part - The energy of the city itself is overwhelming, intimidating and intoxicating on its own, and on that trip, was strong enough to poke through my cozy cocoon of “everything is fine, this is fine” - really resonated with me. I felt a lot of emotions break through me on my trips to Paris, there is definitely something in the air there, that isn't just romance and love and fashion.
Paris always throws me for a loop. I think you described it perfectly: definitely something in the air in there that all the fluff tourism doesn't touch upon. You think Paris is going to be one thing, but it has the potential to spit you out if you're not careful.
Interesting how these patterns emerge in our lives, sometimes retrospectively. I'm going to Paris this fall and I'm stressing the language thing. I think I might get Duolingo or Rosetta Stone.
Lucky you...for a visit or long term? One thing I can recommend is simply saying "bonjour" upon.entering a business/cafe/store/restaurant. You'll get much farther when starting off on that foot.
Also, check out Paris-based vlogger/writer Jay Swanson if you want some guidance specifically on how to order in a cafe or restaurant. https://www.youtube.com/c/JaySwanson
It’s a just a short trip. Thanks for the tips, Erin!