Working remotely has become the norm for so many during the pandemic, and it’s likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future. A knock-on effect, we think, is that people will look to take longer trips in the future that more effectively combine work and pleasure, free from the tyranny of the central office and keen to make the most of a post-pandemic world.
Enter a month or three in Paris.
Everyone, at one time or another, has fantasised about packing their bags and moving to Paris, and with flexible, remote working set to be the new normal, making this dream a reality feels well within reach.
While we no longer have the freedom of being part of the European Union and the ‘bureaucracy-lite’ residency options which came with it, we can still enjoy a short stay of up to 3 months. The French Government’s Official Visa website explains;
‘’British citizens do not require a visa if spending up to 90 days over a 180 days period in the Schengen area. You may however be asked like any other third country nationals to justify your travel by the Immigration Officer (means of living, address of stay, medical travel insurance…).’’
Currently, travel of France isn’t permitted but will likely be allowed later in the year, and when restrictions are eased, a chance for an extended break in Paris, working remotely and enjoying the glamorous, unique way of life in the City of Light, is waiting.
That’s where serviced, fully furnished apartments in Paris come in handy, allowing you to establish a base, from which to live, work and explore this great city of love, lights and le Louvre.
WHY RENT A SERVICED APARTMENT?
Why not just stay in a hotel, we hear you ask?
Well, a serviced apartment not only offers the kind of spaciousness and comfort that a central Paris hotel room could only dream of, but you’ll also save money on various elements of daily life, since you’ll be able to cook for yourself and get into a rhythm of urban living which doesn’t revolve around sightseeing and expensive coffee shops!
Of course, you’ll also benefit from having that ‘domestic’ feel, allowing the opportunity to really get under the skin of the city and live like a local…
With this in mind, here are 5 tips for making the most out of your serviced apartment in Paris.
A CHANCE TO LIVE LIKE A LOCAL
On a city break, you should have to be constantly on the move, living transiently and in a rush. It’s a kind of artificial existence which doesn’t best capture the soul of a city – and you’re here to capture the very essence of Paris, aren’t you?
Instead, it should be about getting to know a place as efficiently as possible, and adapting to the local way of doing things in a manner that allows you a little glimpse of a different way of living. We could all do with some of that after the year we’ve had, don’t you think?
As such, the trick is finding the right neighborhood that you want to explore and experience.
Paris is divided into many arrondissements and each district has its own unique vibe and scene. You’ll find serviced apartments in neighbourhoods all over Paris, so it’s best to hone in on one specific suburb or community and go from there; check out the Lonely Planet’s ‘quick fire’ handy guide on each one here.
Wherever your interests lie, consider a serviced apartment in Paris as a gateway to a more local way of living. In choosing this kind of accommodation, you can base yourself in a neighbourhood and engage with a community more organically than you would from the launchpad of a big, multi-national hotel.
COOK WITH FRENCH PRODUCE
Food is unquestionably one of the most expensive parts of any trip away from home, and Paris is consistently named as one of the most costly eating-out cities in the world.
But alongside the Michelin starred tasting menus and intricate pastries which will cost you a week’s wages for a flake, Paris also boasts some of the best markets in the world, where the produce is still premium, but the price isn’t.
One of the joys of staying in a serviced apartment in the city is the chance to delve into those markets, interact with artisan producers and go shopping at butchers and fishmongers for local delicacies. All with the promise of a domestic space in which to enjoy them at the end of it.
Some of the best markets for French produce include: Marché d’Aligre, Marché Biologique Raspail, Marché de la Bastille, Marché des Enfants Rouges, Marché Biologique des Batignolles, Marché Monge, Marché Saxe-Breteuil and Marché Saint Honoré. Amongst these you’ll find fantastic charcuterie and cheeses, the freshest, seasonal vegetables and fruits, and baguettes still warm from the oven.
Strolling home to your apartment, goodies clutched to your chest…you couldn’t feel more Parisien!
That said, just because you’ve booked an apart-hotel doesn’t mean you’re obliged to cook, which brings us to our next point…
MAKE THE MOST OF EATING OUT
A plethora of patisseries, bountiful boulangeries and delicatessens, cute cafes and Michelin starred options twinkling on every corner; when it comes to food in Paris, there’s just so much to eat.
As we mentioned, the fine dining institutions of Paris are extraordinarily expensive, but that shouldn’t necessarily be a barrier to you enjoying them; it’s in the French tradition of hospitality to offer set menus which are inclusive and affordable for those wanting to sample high end food at lower prices. And while you’re here on an extended break, this represents a great way to check out some of Paris’ most famous restaurants.
We’d recommend a good blend of down to earth (we love historic, cheap as frites Chartier), mid-range (Les Cocottes is splendid) and maybe a blow out or two, for the full experience.
And of course pastries; lots and lots of pastries.
If you’re in Paris alone, don’t be afraid to dine solo. As Bon Appetit implore in their round up of great meals for one in the city, “Paris is a cinch for any food lover traveling solo, because as far as the French are concerned, taking yourself out for a good meal is not only civilized but just plain common sense. Counter seating and other casual options are more popular in Paris than ever, but dining at a table is so much nicer, especially in good company—your own. And as long as you’ve made a reservation, no one will bat an eyelash when you turn up without a date”.
Since you’ll be staying in Paris for a while, check out our tips for dining in Paris on a budget.
LEARN SOME OF THE LOCAL LINGO
According to Widely Spoken, ‘’Recent stats estimate that around 39% or just under two-fifths of the French population report being able to speak English to some degree. Not many of these can speak it fluently though – much like other European countries, many of this 39% will only be able to converse in very basic English at best.’’
Though they do continue that ‘’English speakers who have visited Paris tend to report the prevalence of English is much higher there’’, if you’re to get under the skin of the city and make some amie along the way, it’s essential you dust off your GCSE French textbooks and reacquaint yourself.
When it comes to reminding yourself of the language, learning apps like Babbel and Duo Lingo are convenient to use, especially on the go. Moreover they give you quick, efficient results so you can carry yourself, greet new friends and order your meal with a bit of confidence. Download one and dedicate an hour or so a night to practicing before your trip. It’ll improve your experience immeasurably!
Now, ‘’où est la piscine?’’
INVITE YOUR FRIENDS OVER
The joy of having your own serviced apartment in France is that you have your own space, not only to inhabit, but also to host. Make the most of it and get your family and friends to visit you while you’re there, perhaps showing off your new-found skills in the kitchen – or your new-found shopping skills at the market! – and your quick-developing grasp of the French language.
After a year of lockdowns, friends and family will be as keen for a holiday as you will be to host them, and having loved ones visit will be a great way to cement your relationship with Paris for many future stays in the City of Lights. Bon Voyage!