Life in Paris: The Things I HATE (watch before you come here) | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Living in Paris has its ups and downs, with stressful deliveries, a unique work culture, chaotic transportation, smoking prevalence, limited green spaces, difficulties connecting with locals, and occasional bad service at bars and restaurants.

Key Insights

• 🚚 Ordering deliveries in Paris can be stressful due to codes and delivery instructions being ignored.
• 💦 The French work culture emphasizes work-life balance, but lack of clear communication can create frustrations.
• 🚴 Biking and using the metro in Paris have their challenges, including hazardous bike lanes and overcrowded trains.
• 🚬 The prevalence of smoking is a downside, particularly for non-smokers.
• ⬛ Paris lacks large green spaces, and the city can feel oppressive without nature nearby.
• 😚 Connecting with Parisians can be difficult, as they can be closed off to foreigners.
• 🤢 Some bars and restaurants in Paris provide subpar service, leading to frustration.

Transcript

okay let me begin with this okay i love the city i think paris is amazing i wouldn't have moved here otherwise okay so this city hasn't made me bitter yet uh yet nah just kidding it's it really has not i don't think it will i hope it doesn't and look generally speaking i feel like i've contributed quite a bit to the dreamy romantic look of paris ri... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: Why are deliveries in Paris so stressful?

Deliveries in Paris can be stressful due to the need for multiple codes to enter buildings, and delivery instructions being ignored by drivers.

Q: How does the French work culture differ from that of the United States?

The French work culture allows for a maximum of 35 hours per week, but there are many loopholes that allow for longer working hours. However, the lack of clear communication about working hours can cause frustration.

Q: What are the challenges with biking and using the metro in Paris?

Some bike lanes in Paris are hazardous as they run in the opposite direction of cars, and the metro can become overcrowded and uncomfortable during the summer. Additionally, purchasing weekly or monthly metro passes can be inconvenient if bought in the middle of the week or month.

Q: How does the prevalence of smoking affect living in Paris?

Smoking is still common in Paris, and it can be unpleasant, especially when people smoke in close proximity, making it unpleasant for non-smokers.

Q: Why is it difficult to connect with Parisians?

Parisians can be closed off to foreigners and prefer socializing within their existing networks, making it challenging for newcomers to form connections.

Q: What are the main complaints about service in bars and restaurants in Paris?

Complaints include slow service, delays in providing the check, and sometimes encountering rude staff.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Ordering deliveries in Paris can be stressful due to multiple codes and lack of attention to delivery instructions.

• The French work culture is focused on work-life balance, but lack of clear communication and inconsistent business hours can be frustrating.

• Biking and using the metro in Paris can be dangerous and inconvenient due to confusing bike lanes and crowded trains.

• Smoking is still prevalent in Paris, and it can be unpleasant to be around people who smoke.

• The city lacks large green spaces, and escaping to nature requires conscious effort.

• Connecting with Parisians can be difficult, as they are often closed off to foreigners and have established social circles.

• Some bars and restaurants in Paris provide bad service, with slow responses and delays in providing the check.