Like most people, Natalie Gruzlewski fell in love with
Paris the minute she saw it. She visited the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame and many other interesting highlights, ate in some superb restaurants and, of course, ogled the fashion.
On her second visit to the most-visited city in the world, Natalie wanted to live like a local, and to do that, it's a good idea to learn a few words of French. That makes it easier to get around, and shows the locals you are trying. They love that.
Gideon Ben-Ami runs language classes specialising in conversation. Let Them Talk lessons cater for those wishing to do business in France, know how to read a menu or just learn the most basic phrases.
Markets play a very important role in the daily life of a Parisian. They tend to shop daily and there are countless markets spread across the city's arrondissements. Grenelle Street Market in the 15th arrondissement is open on Wednesday and Sunday between 8.30am and 2pm.
It's a good idea to go early and watch shoppers searching for the best produce and being very particular about what they buy. There is an amazing array of colourful fruit, vegetables and flowers, meats and seafood, p&226#;tés and truffles, and more choices of breads and cheeses than you dreamed was possible. You could buy a roasted chicken and salad, coffee and take a seat as the colourful locals provide entertainment. On some Sundays they hold antiques markets, which are always good for a browse.
To really live like a local, why not consider staying in apartment, rather than a hotel? Apartments Actually is run by Australian Sarah Pank. She has a great range of stunning boutique apartments for affordable prices. Each one is personally approved by them. They are in desirable locations and are available for short and long-term stays.
Natalie instantly felt comfortable in her home away from home. She had a kitchen (which was handy when she visited Grenelle Markets), courtyard, comfortable bedroom, spotless bathroom and fireplace. Sarah met her with keys and showed her around the local area. It was just like visiting an old friend.
Her apartment was on rue Malher in Marais on the Right Bank. The area is historical and fashionable with many restaurants, fashion houses, bars and galleries.
Apartments Actually has several other apartments from one to four bedrooms, covering a range of budgets. They also have properties in Provence in the south of France, all with pools and some with tennis courts.
Location
Paris, the romantic capital of France.
Cost
Apartments Actually has accommodation starting at around $200 a night.
Emirates has flights to Paris from:
- Perth $1907
- Melbourne $1940
- Sydney $1958
- Brisbane $1960
- Adelaide $2040
Sales and validity dates and other conditions apply.
Prices correct at February 17, 2011.
For further information
Emirates
Ph: 1300 303 777
www.emirates.com/getaway
Let Them Talk
www.letthemtalk.com
info@letthemtalk.com
Apartments Actually
www.apartmentsactually.com
reservations@apartmentsactually.com
Visas: No visas are required for stays up to three months.
Electricity: 220V at 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard.
Time zone: GMT +2.
Currency: The euro.
International dialling code: +33.
