Paris Greeters

I attempted to sign up for one of these walks...giving very explicit answers to their questions as to what I wanted to see and the type of walk I wanted. Their answer: EXACTLY opposite of what I requested in every way. I declined and they made a 2nd attempt which was failed. I finally just gave up. I'm not a newbie to Paris, and I was trying to find something a little different.

I also put in for a tour in early October of the Marais area on a Sunday morning. I heard back and they said as it got closer I would hear from someone. I haven't heard yet, but am hoping for good luck with this. I'd love to tour the area and hear from a local.

I toured the Marais with a Paris Greeter last October. I did not ask for a specific area, I just indicated my interests. The first proposal they gave me was rescinded. I was then sent a proposal for the Marais, which I accepted. They then gave me the email address of the volunteer and I made my arrangements with him. If they propose something that is not of interest to you, you can decline it. They then will notify you with another option. Volunteers conduct these tours, so I imagine if they don't have anyone who can do a tour specifically where and when you want to go, you will be out of luck.

I would agree with Andrea. We had a great experience with our designated greeter. We emailed back and forth several times a few weeks before our visit to formulate a basic plan but we did not ask for a specific area. Paris Walks does great tours of the various neighborhoods including the Marais but the experience with a greeter may be more what you are looking for. We have done both several times and always had a great time. Enjoy!

We had a great experience. I don't recall if we requested an area but we did say we like flea markets and we were hooked up with a fun young woman who took us all around her neighborhood (Montmatre) and we found carousels for my then 8 year old. After a few hours she brought us to her favorite cafe and we had a great lunch and beers (on us) and then we ventured under the ring road to a cool flea market. This was our family's first full day in Europe - since then we have returned at least once a year - and it was really one of our favorite days ever.

We also had a great experience. Wanted food, markets, wine in Le Marais, got got architecture and history, and it was excellent experience; and something we wouldn't have accomplished on our own

We did this a few years ago and it was absolutely wonderful. We indicated our interests and a volunteer took us on a long tour of his neighborhood. We hit it off so much with the guide that when he visited Chicago we gave him a tour of our neigborhood, and then we met up with him again on our next trip to Paris. I say just go with whatever tour you end up with regardless of the neigborhood--it's sure to be an excellent experience!

Thanks for all your responses! I guess I should look at it as a new Paris experience! I assumed that you could choose your area of interest. Happy Travels!
Debi