29 Dec Ask an Au Pair: Allegra discovers the joys of La Fontaine de Mars
Get to know Paris, from an au pair’s perspective. Welcome to our series of articles called “Ask an Au Pair” in which we pose a dozen questions about the City of Light to those who are seeing it with fresh eyes and learning all of its delicious intricacies.
This week, we asked Allegra, a 22-year old from Ohio. She lives with her host family in the 15th arrondissement. Here are excerpts from her responses:
What Inspires you about Paris?
The architecture, the artistic culture and spirit.
What do you dislike most about living in Paris? It’s hard to find small random items. The other day I wanted to buy some wooden toothpicks (going to a party and bringing a food dish) but couldn’t find them anywhere. I ended up having to buy plastic ones for 3 euros. I miss going to one store where no matter what you need, you can find it cheaply.
What is the best way to meet Parisians?
I joined mylanguageexchange.com and found a language exchange partner.
How do you improve or master your French language skills?
Get a language exchange partner! Also, even if you’re not very good at French, speak it with your host family. If you just speak English with them you won’t get any better.
What is the best meal you’ve had in Paris?
At La Fontaine de Mars: wine, chicken, and rice with mushroom sauce. It sounds simple but it was the best traditional French food I had ever eaten. Obama has eaten there before!
What is your favorite neighborhood?
The Marais or Montmartre
What is your favorite café?
Le Crystal Bar in the 15th
What is your favorite shop?
Thrift and vintage shops in the Marais
What is your favorite museum?
Musée d’Orsay
What is your favorite secret Paris spot?
I wouldn’t call it secret but L’as du Falafel in the Marais or walking on rue Saint Dominique
What advice would you give to incoming au pairs?
Really think about your preferences of how you want your host family to be before you arrive. I was so excited to come to Paris that I just said I have no preferences.