I recently returned from a 3 week trip that ended with 6 nights in Paris. It was my 3rd trip to Paris, but it was the first time for my friend. I prearranged a meeting with someone from the Paris Greeter program and it was excellent! He took us through the Marais, where he grew up. Although I had been to the area before, it was so much more interesting seeing it with him. When you submit your online application they ask what your interests are, and then match you with someone who will show you around. I highly recommend doing this, even if you have been to Paris before. http://www.parisiendunjour.fr/
Posted by
Provo, UT
175 posts
Thanks for the info. I had seen other posts about them, and have wondered what it was, so this information helps. I checked out the link you left and it looks like a great program, one I hope to take advantage of next year!
Posted by
Washington
121 posts
My wife and I went on a Paris Greeter tour in May and it was the best. I highly recommend it.
Posted by
maplewood, new jersey, usa
818 posts
Great experience. Sara picked us (2 adults and 8 year old _ this was four yeas back) and we took the bus to Monmatre (sp) neighborhood. She showed us all around her neighborhood, we took her out to a great little place for lunch, rose a carousel. Then we walked under the ring road to the big flea market. It was a really great day! I think we extended the two hours to about four but she was having fun too (I hope).
Posted by
OP
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10225 posts
We were with Alain for about 3 1/2 hours. He was up for spending as much time as we wanted. It is a great program that doesn't cost anything. When you make your request on the website it allows you to make a donation, but it is not mandatory.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
127 posts
I have signed up for a Paris Greeter tour next spring. I will make a contribution on their website. But, I would also like to take a small "thank you" gift to our guide. But, I have no idea what would make a nice gift. Suggestions anyone?
Posted by
Santa Rosa, CA, USA
355 posts
Paula - what about something from Georgia? Pralines, a jar of Georgia Peach Salsa, or a jar of Vidalia Onion Relish - something like that...
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
127 posts
Hi, Linda - I had thought of those ideas. I just wasn't sure about taking food to someone who lives in a city that offers some of the best food on the planet...
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
127 posts
Hi, Linda - I had thought of those ideas. I just wasn't sure about taking food to someone who lives in a city that offers some of the best food on the planet...
Posted by
Kansas
1175 posts
We also booked with Paris Greeters for an afternoon in the Marais two years ago. It was just great. We made a 20 Euro donation on their website, although it was not mandatory. We are returning to Paris on our 6th trip there next April and plan to use Paris Greeters to explore Montmarte this time. There are so many out of the way adventures to be had in Paris and using the greeters is the best way to get off the normal tourist track.
Posted by
Ballwin
833 posts
Another website that provides options like this (and in other locations) is CouchSurfing. It's not only used to find beds in other cities, or to offer your own, but many people are listed on there as "available for tea and coffee" and often would like to share their city with you for an afternoon.
Posted by
OP
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10225 posts
That is great information Devon. I never would have known that, as sleeping on other people's couches is something I wouldn't do. When I was younger, yes. I don't even like to sleep on MY couch now!
Posted by
Ballwin
833 posts
Glad you have fined it helpful, Andrea! I would say in what I've seen, maybe even half of the CouchSurfer users do not offer their couch because they either don't want to, or don't have an extra couch. But many will meet you for a meal or drink. I started CS just to surf or meet people, but as I'm living in Tuscany right now and have an extra bedroom, I put my "couch" up as a maybe. I hosted for the first time a week ago, and had a lot of fun hosting so I think I will continue.