How typical is this?

You’ve been to Paris.  The first time was the requisite see-as-much-as-you-possibly-can tour of Europe.  Later, a corporate job brought you back several times.  The hotels were great and the food exquisite, but you didn’t really get to experience the city.   Ever since, you’ve dreamed of returning and living like a local.

Here’s a quick, 30-second video I produced to entice you to get out there and do it.  If you like traditional French décor and luminous French windows, this is the place, but contemporary spaces abound as well.  The Euro is virtually at par with the dollar (at $1.08) and options for renting an apartment for a short stay have never been better.

Need inspiration?   

 1.  Find your perfect pied-a-terre.  Paris-Sharing.com and AirBnB make finding accommodations easy. 

2.  Experience your destination vicariously.  Afar.com Highlights provide insights from fellow travelers.

3.  Learn the language.  Last year, Rosetta Stone offered its best pricing – $149 for 5 levels – around the holidays.  Level 1 may not provide an abundance of confidence but Level 2, with a few lessons from Level 3 can help you negotiate shopping, transportation and day-to-day life with confidence. 

4.  Read a cookbook.  Some favorites with great stories and recommendations:  My Paris Kitchen by David Lebovitz; Paris: Authentic Recipes Celebrating the Foods of the World from William Sonoma; and The Apprentice:  My Life in the Kitchen by Jacques Pepin.

5.  Sign up for a course.  Whether it’s cooking, wine, or photography, cultivate an interest that makes your heart sing – and ideally, that is shareable with others.  

Bon voyage!