The Hidden Gems of Paris: Beyond the Tourist Trail
Ah, Paris! The city of love, light, and enough tourists to sink a battleship. Once you’ve squinted at the Mona Lisa just to see if she’s really as baffling as she seems, what’s next? I mean, where can one find a slice of Paris that doesn’t require elbowing your way through selfie sticks and group tours?
Well, dear readers, it seems the Guardian has issued a challenge! A chance to share your very own hidden tips about Paris—those secret spots where the only crowd you might encounter is a local artist pretending to be deep in thought over a coffee. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?
The competition calls for your special discoveries: perhaps a quirky bookshop where the dusty tomes whisper their secrets, or a bistro with food so good it’ll have you declaring “I’ll never eat bland food again!” until you’re back in a Tesco meal deal. Just keep it under 100 words; we want your recommendations, not a novel!
And this is the part that really gets the blood pumping—a £200 voucher to stay in one of Coolstays’ fabulous properties. Isn’t that just the cherry on your Parisian tart? But hang on, it seems the competition is only for UK residents. So, if you’re watching this from a cozy café in France, just know that we’re sending you a sympathetic nod.
Now, while you’re crafting your tip, let’s sprinkle in a bit of cheek! Think of it as a Michelin-starred dish; something unassuming yet astonishing when it reaches the palate—like the time you tried escargot. Was it gourmet cuisine or just your taste buds revolting?
The closing date for your words of wisdom is 25 November at 9am, so don’t dawdle like a tourist waiting for the perfect sunset shot! Get those pens moving or keypads tapping because someone’s about to score a little extra magic in Paris. And remember, it’s the *words* that will be judged, but feel free to toss in a cheeky photograph if you fancy.
Lastly, if you want a taster of what winning entries looked like in the past, just pop onto the Guardian Travel page. You might find inspiration or realize your secret spot deserves more than just a hastily scribbled note on a napkin after two glasses of wine.
Bon chance with your submissions, and may your Paris tips be as delightful as a croissant fresh out of the oven—flaky, warm, and definitely lacking the tourists! Cheers!
Paris is truly one of the most captivating and frequently explored cities around the globe. Beyond the iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower and the historic Notre Dame Cathedral, many travelers seek respite from the bustling crowds. We are eager to uncover your hidden gems in Paris – the delightful neighborhoods, underappreciated museums, vibrant food markets, charming bookstores, or exceptional bistros that don’t usually make it into typical guidebooks.
If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but your written words will be the focus for the competition.
Keep your tip to about 100 words
The best tip of the week, selected by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, will win a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – with over 3,000 unique accommodations worldwide. The most compelling tips will feature in the Guardian Travel section and on the website.
The competition closes on 25 November at 9am
How can travelers connect with locals to discover hidden gems while visiting Paris?
**Interview with Clara Dubois, a Parisian Travel Blogger and Hidden Gems Expert**
**Interviewer:** Clara, thank you for joining us today! Paris is often overcrowded with tourists flocking to iconic sites. What are some of your favorite hidden gems that travelers should seek out?
**Clara Dubois:** Thank you for having me! Paris has so many layers beyond the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. One of my favorite spots is **Le Jardins des Serres d’Auteuil**—it’s a peaceful garden with stunning greenhouses that most tourists overlook. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle.
**Interviewer:** That sounds lovely! Do you have a favorite local bistro or café where readers can enjoy authentic French cuisine?
**Clara Dubois:** Absolutely! **Chez Janou**, a quaint little bistro in the Marais, serves the most divine lavender crème brûlée. The atmosphere is cozy, and the locals are super friendly. It’s a slice of Paris that feels like stepping back in time.
**Interviewer:** Those sound like wonderful recommendations! The Guardian has prompted readers to share their own hidden tips alongside a chance to win a voucher for a stay in Paris. How can readers effectively share their discoveries while keeping it concise?
**Clara Dubois:** I love the challenge! My advice is to focus on a single experience. Describe what makes a place special to you in just a few sentences. Maybe it’s a bookshop with a cat that curls up on the counter or a street artist whose work captivates you. And don’t forget to sprinkle in some personal emotion!
**Interviewer:** That’s great advice, Clara! What’s your take on the competition being exclusive to UK residents?
**Clara Dubois:** It’s a bit of a bummer for those of us over here in France. But I think it will lead to some fascinating discoveries from UK travelers! And who doesn’t love exploring Paris from the eyes of someone who might see it differently?
**Interviewer:** Thanks for sharing your insights, Clara! Any final thoughts for those looking to capture the magic of Paris beyond the usual tourist spots?
**Clara Dubois:** Absolutely! Remember, Paris is as much about the little moments—the laughter shared over a glass of vin rouge or the feeling of wandering down an undiscovered cobblestone street. Embrace the unknown, and your own hidden gem adventures will unfold!
**Interviewer:** Perfectly said, Clara! Thank you for your time and lovely insights into the lesser-known treasures of Paris.
