27 Apr Ask an au pair: If Taylor is feeling stressed, she laces up her running shoes and heads to Trocadero for a splendid view of the Eiffel Tower!
What inspires you about Paris?
Everything. From the cobblestone streets to banks of the Seine, the city has this ‘joie de vivre’ about it, even on the rainiest days. Granted, I’m a romantic, but I understand why artists flock here from all around the world – there is just something about Paris.
How do you improve or master your French language skills?
I try to immerse myself as much as possible – Netflix, Spotify, even my iPhone is in French! At first, I struggled, (and spent a significant amount of time accidentally video calling people), but now I hardly notice the difference. Even when Parisians respond to me in English, I try to forge ahead in french – I like the feeling of accomplishment which comes with conversing entirely en français.
Can you describe a best meal you’ve had in Paris?
I live with my host family, so the best meals I’ve had in Paris have been around the dining room table. Whether it’s fresh ravioli from the market, cheese, or incredible French wine, home-cooked meals are something not to be missed. French dinner conversation is a bonus!
A favorite café or bar?
Around the corner from our apartment, there is a small bakery called Béchu. I think every Parisian will tell you their neighborhood bakery makes the best baguette – but I have yet to find one better. Béchu is on my route to school, and nothing tastes better than a tarte au framboise after a morning spent studying le subjonctif.
8. A favorite museum?
The Musée Marmottan Monet is a gem. Hidden away in the 16th, far from the madness of the museums in the center of Paris, it is filled with beautiful pieces – including a gallery devoted to Berthe Morisot – the only woman to exhibit in the first impressionist exhibition.
What is your favorite secret Paris spot?
It is probably the least secret spot in Paris – but it really is the Eiffel Tower. Whenever I’m feeling particularly stressed, or homesick, I lace up my running shoes and head towards Trocadero. Seeing the Eiffel Tower come into full view as I round the corner reminds me just how lucky I am to be here.
Any spots outside of Paris that you would recommend for a weekend or day trip?
I took a weekend trip to Lyon for Le Fete des Lumières, and it was brilliant! (No pun intended.) Getting out of Paris every so often is good for the soul.
What do you dislike most about living in Paris?
It is a luxurious city, with prices to match.
What advice would you give to incoming au pairs?
Check in with yourself. How do you practice self-care? My days are wild and wonderful, but they can also be exhausting. Mornings learning verbs fade into afternoons wandering an art gallery, which turn into evenings convincing a toddler he likes broccoli. When I feel balanced, I am the best student, tourist, and au pair, that I can be.
Get to know Paris, from an au pair’s perspective. Our “Ask an Au Pair” series was so popular that we’ve decided to continue it with our next round of au pairs! We pose a dozen questions about the City of Light to those who are seeing it with fresh eyes and learning all of its wonderful intricacies.