Detailed Paris Travel Guide from Local Resident, Kate Devine

“Don't plan too much and take at least one day or more to just let yourself slowly explore”

Paris based photographer and recent In Vibrant Company feature guest, Kate Devine spends a large amount of her time on foot, wandering and searching for inspiration in Paris. The city is a top global tourist destination and can feel difficult to discover or experience outside of the obvious clichés, touristy recommendations and super-crowded arrondissements. Kate was kind enough to share her suggestions on how to discover and enjoy this city from a local’s perspective. The 18th arrondissement inhabitant’s list is full of originality interspersed with a few classics.

Favorite Cultural Activity

My favorite cultural activity in Paris is walking. What could be more french than just letting yourself enjoy the luxury of being a flâneuse for a day?

#1 Suggestion for visiting Paris:

Whether for the first or the fiftieth time, it's this: don't plan too much and take at least one day or more to just let yourself slowly explore. Sit in a café and watch people over a coffee or a glass of wine. Walk down that dead-end street, wander into courtyards, check out the smaller parks, just see where the day takes you. Truly, I think this is the best way to feel really connected to this city and all it has to offer.

Also, Paris has unbelievable food and wine options but nothing beats a picnic along the seine with a good bottle of wine.

On Sunday, stroll the Marais -- unlike the rest of Paris a lot of things will be open.

Where to Stay

Air BnB

Being somewhat central is always nice. I'd recommend staying in the 9th or 10th arrondissements perhaps in the area along the Canal St. Martin or near République.

Hotels

2nd Arrondissement - L'Hôtel des Grands Boulevards

2nd Arrondissement - Le Tinah

2nd Arrondissement - The Hoxton

9th Arrondissement - Le Pigalle

18th Arrondissement - Hôtel Particulier Montmartre