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a musing Aida
France
Приєднався 30 чер 2022
Paris on my mind
No TikTok nor Instagram. UA-cam only.
Business enquiries: amusingaida@gmail.com
No TikTok nor Instagram. UA-cam only.
Business enquiries: amusingaida@gmail.com
My piece of Paris -- and peace of mind
I left Paris’ most iconic neighborhood... am I crazy??!
Finding a place to live in Paris isn’t easy-ask anyone (except for people who believe "Emily in Paris" is a documentary)! But I found myself doing exactly this -- giving up my apartment in the Marais (yes, that Marais -- the one everyone wants to stay in) in search of a very different vibe elsewhere in Paris.
Why? Well, after a decade of living in a bustling tourist hotspot, I wanted something more authentic-a real vie de quartier. And maybe... a bit more sunlight.
And the search was tough but in the end I bought my new apartment, in one of the city's up-and-coming arrondissements.... But it did need a lot of DIY, which brought its own drama. Now, though, I’ve got a sunny top-floor apartment with wood floors, a big bathroom, and views of Parisian rooftops. It’s not perfect, sure, but it’s mine, all mine-and that feels amazing.
*** Shot on an iPhone, edited on Lumafusion
*** Music from Artlist
Finding a place to live in Paris isn’t easy-ask anyone (except for people who believe "Emily in Paris" is a documentary)! But I found myself doing exactly this -- giving up my apartment in the Marais (yes, that Marais -- the one everyone wants to stay in) in search of a very different vibe elsewhere in Paris.
Why? Well, after a decade of living in a bustling tourist hotspot, I wanted something more authentic-a real vie de quartier. And maybe... a bit more sunlight.
And the search was tough but in the end I bought my new apartment, in one of the city's up-and-coming arrondissements.... But it did need a lot of DIY, which brought its own drama. Now, though, I’ve got a sunny top-floor apartment with wood floors, a big bathroom, and views of Parisian rooftops. It’s not perfect, sure, but it’s mine, all mine-and that feels amazing.
*** Shot on an iPhone, edited on Lumafusion
*** Music from Artlist
Переглядів: 29 244
Відео
Is Paris Still Romantic?
Переглядів 6 тис.2 місяці тому
Learn languages the fun way with Lingopie! Start your free trial today: learn.lingopie.com/aida Is Paris still romantic? That will sound like a silly question to most people. Given how Paris looks, the answer seems really obvious. But, you know what? I think a lot of people just say 'Paris is beautiful, therefore it's romantic'. But I really believe that romance means much more than lovely aest...
Why Paris empties out for a month
Переглядів 6 тис.3 місяці тому
Few foreigners believe that Paris actually closes for a month in summer, as its residents take vacation. But there's a very good reason for that... as you'll see. It’s the height of summer in Paris, and the city feels delightfully... empty. No need to fight for the best seats in cafés because, well, most of them are closed. And most of my friends have vanished too, off on their long vacations, ...
The Marais is changing
Переглядів 30 тис.4 місяці тому
The Marais is the most popular area of Paris for visitors these days. It also happens to be my neighborhood. I've seen this district change a lot of over the years though the beautiful, historic architecture always stays the same. It's easy to see why so many people are drawn to the Marais: it has cafés and cute shops and lovely parks, and culture and discoveries in every street. There's the Pl...
Paris Olympics: the rain falls mainly on the Seine
Переглядів 13 тис.5 місяців тому
I went to the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony on the Seine... and it rained. Boy did it rain! Here's a quick video of what sort of day we locals in Paris had as the Games opened. TL;DR It was a day of sabotage, security... and getting soaked. But Paris was at the center of the world's attention (where many Parisiains believe it belongs!).
What You Need to Know Before Visiting Paris
Переглядів 20 тис.6 місяців тому
Some friendly tips that I hope will make getting around Paris (or moving here) a bit easier for you. The links to the handy websites I mention in the video are here: Transport: RATP for the metro (www.ratp.fr/en) G7 taxis (www.g7.fr/en/) Free water everywhere: Eau de Paris (fontaine.eaudeparis.fr/) Restaurants: ZigZag (www.pariszigzag.fr/) Le Bonbon (en.lebonbon.fr/paris/) Le Fooding (lefooding...
All Paris arrondissements - by a local
Переглядів 127 тис.7 місяців тому
A local's guide to every one of Paris' 20 arrondissements. Covering famous sites like the Marais, Sacré-Coeur, the Café de Flore, the Latin Quarter as well as hidden gems that we locals really like! You'll also find out which one's my favorite neighborhood in all its vibrant, messy, fun glory. If you've ever asked "What is the best arrondissement in Paris?", "What is each neighborhood like?" th...
Lost in Identity
Переглядів 3,9 тис.8 місяців тому
Who are you really? ID papers don't tell the whole story - but they're still necessary! This video started out with my trying to work out how to get a new French ID card which meant finding a way around French bureaucracy. But from there, it led me to an unexpected skateboarding experience... and broader musings on the complexities of identity and culture. Many thanks to Max for the my very fir...
Change & Agency - trying to guide my life in France
Переглядів 4,6 тис.9 місяців тому
A very personal vlog about me trying to 'guide the ride' adapting to the changes happening in my life in France and trying to have some agency over them. Let's have a look at the complexities of change and personal agency. That means reflecting on the inevitability of change and the challenge of navigating it and pondering the balance between external forces and individual control. Of course yo...
La Nouvelle Vague
Переглядів 2 тис.9 місяців тому
This little interlude is a glimpse into my day-to-day life in Paris..... if by glimpse you understand it's a blast of Nouvelle Vague cinematic nostalgia. Enjoy! (Shot on an iPhone, edited on LumaFusion. Music from Artlist.)
The 2024 Paris Olympics: should I stay or should I go?
Переглядів 2,7 тис.Рік тому
With Paris hosting the 2024 Olympic Games, we residents in the city face one big question: should we leave the madness, or stay and enjoy the cultural blender? Shot on an iPhone, mostly (a few Insta360 shots as well, and supplementary images from Pexels.com) Music from Audiio.com and Artlist.io Edited on LumaFusion
What is joie de vivre?
Переглядів 11 тис.Рік тому
"Joie de vivre" is one of those phrases you associate viscerally with France. But this joy of living is not a French-only thing. It's a concept that you can take with you anywhere. (Though it's true that living in a land that extols wine, food, art and relationships could be an advantage.) Step into a realm where life is not just lived but celebrated in every moment. Joie de vivre is a concept ...
French facts & trivia you will not believe!
Переглядів 4,6 тис.Рік тому
Th'ere are things about France I bet you don't know. The world of French trivia is both quirky and fascinating. There are some seriously weird laws, and many more surprising inventions. Ever heard of a town where UFOs are banned from flying overhead? Or a place where it's illegal to die without a reserved spot in the local cemetery? Did you know that denim, the beloved fabric of jeans, hails fr...
Inspirations for a PERFECT Paris weekend (from a Parisian)
Переглядів 8 тис.Рік тому
Paris can be a beautiful and a calming place to visit... if you know how. If you're being led around by online lists and trendy recommendations, it may not seem that way at all. That's why you might want some insider knowledge. Allow me to show you how a Parisian spends her weekends. You'll find no tourist tips or traps here. No high-pressure itineraries, no endless blah-blah. Just a glimpse at...
A French girl visits Australia
Переглядів 25 тис.Рік тому
This is a voyage to the other side of the planet to Australia, or Oz! It's a long way to go for a French girl from Paris. But you know what? It kind of felt familiar when I got there (that is, if you don't count all the weird animals). I was amazed by the beaches. Swept away by Sydney harbour. Stumped by Aussie slang. And being French, I just had to taste the local cuisine and I was gobsmacked ...
Escape to Spain (my favorite: Valencia)
Переглядів 3,4 тис.Рік тому
Escape to Spain (my favorite: Valencia)
Madeleines and memories - the Proust Effect
Переглядів 8 тис.2 роки тому
Madeleines and memories - the Proust Effect
What's it REALLY like living in Paris?
Переглядів 160 тис.2 роки тому
What's it REALLY like living in Paris?
Paris: the best sights in the Latin Quarter
Переглядів 48 тис.2 роки тому
Paris: the best sights in the Latin Quarter
The chicest supermarket in the world
Переглядів 12 тис.2 роки тому
The chicest supermarket in the world
A perfect day in the Marais in Paris
Переглядів 32 тис.2 роки тому
A perfect day in the Marais in Paris
This is the third video of yours that I have watched in the last 48 hours. The only word to describe it properly is EXCELLENT! I would love to live in Paris but my budget would not allow me to do so; therefore, the next best thing is to gather as much information as possible and pay a yearly visit to it. I had the pleasure of visiting Paris twice (in 1999 and 2005) I remember excellent dinners in the 7th district and the wonderful Musée Cognacq-Jay. Thank you so much for all these great tips. All the best for 2025 and, last but not least, congratulations on your new apartment! Claudio.
Thanks for that -- I hope I can soon put out some videos to whet your appetite for Paris. Even visits are worthwhile!
I started "following" you a few weeks ago, mainly because I love Paris. Your charming nature and sense of humour make your captivating videos something special to look forward to. I congratulate you on the purchase of a new home, and as a cat lover, I am very pleased to know you have a feline companion (a kiss and a hug to Calvin). BTW, you look very Italian, you remind me of the Italian beauties that painters like Bonnat and Leighton used to portray. Greetings from Buenos Aires, Argentina. PS: All the best to you and Calvin for 2025!
Thanks! Most kind of you to say that... and Calvin says hi too
Very good work here. Thanks!
Thanks! I hope to get a few more videos out in the months to come
merci pour tes vidéos. je suis canadien (anglophone) et j'ai vécu à new york pendant quelques années. j'irai à paris plus tard l'année prochaine. en fait je n'aime pas trop les grandes villes et en regardant tes vidéos j'ai pas non plus envie à me héberger dans la ville. ça grouille de trop de monde, tout le temps. je suis introverti et c'est fatigant et énervant d'être submergé dans un vacarme constant, entouré en permanence par des gens. même à new york je préférais rester dans les banlieues un peu tranquilles par rapport à manhattan. je m'intéresse pas du tout au shopping ou aux soirées chargées de grands arguments qui ne mènent nulle part 😅 mais ce qui m'intéresse ce sont les jardins, l'histoire, l'art et les musées qui sont éparpillés tout à travers la ville. peut-être tu peux faire une vidéo sur les quartiers plus calmes et paisible pour les personnes introverties ? j'ai l'impression que c'est pas ta personnalité mais ça pourrait être intéressant à beaucoup de gens. merci par avance 💚
C'est une bonne idée. Malgré des apparences, j'aime bien aussi des endroits paisibles à Paris. Je ne suis pas une fêtarde inconditionnelle.
@ merci pour ta réponse, Aida. Je voulais juste préciser que quand je disais qu'il me semblait que c'était pas ta personnalité, c'était absolument pas un jugement de valeur que ce soit.. bien loin de ça... à chacun(une) son goût. On est tous différents et c'est ça qui rend le monde plus riche et plus savoureux. Merci pour ta chaîne et tout ce que tu fais. En tant qu'étranger, je trouve tes vidéos très utiles pour mieux comprendre Paris et ses habitants, et en quelque sorte, je dirais les Français aussi. J'adorerais vivre en France un jour (pas à Paris très certainement 😅 mais dans une plus petite ville). Bonne soirée à toi de la Colombie-Britannique au Canada. 🇨🇦
I have been to Paris 5x…but this was 20 years ago, but every single time I found individuals that would go out of their way to help me (One man walked me and my friend across the DeGaulle airport to get us to the right gate!) I was charmed!
Those sorts of interactions leave lasting impressions!
You’re not a Parisian, and will never be if you’re not born, raised and live in Paris : it’s ok and it doesn’t really matter. But you don’t become a Parisian, you’re born a Parisian.
@@Ellinillard I've heard that argument a few times, mainly from the kids living in the 16th. The funny thing is, of course that only 30% of people living in Paris were born in Paris. Which then reduces the definition of Parisians to around 650,000 people - and not necessarily the ones who give the city its character, architecture, culture, life and energy. Modern takes (see the way residents are referred to in Le Parisien, Le Figaro and other Paris-centric newspapers for instance) recognise that Parisians are those with a deep and abiding and ongoing connection to the city that they live in and help shape. Which is another argument to take, and one that corresponds better to a world where people can choose the city they live in, anywhere around the world. It's an amusing little debate, which has little real-world effect.
@@amusingaida unfortunately I’m neither a kid nor did I ever live in the 16th. And only wannabees take offense and start jumping on their seats claiming to be Parisians. A bit like nouveau riche, precisely from the 16th, trying to monkey old money. Indeed the Parisians are a very tiny minority in Paris, and, as I said, it doesn’t really matter. But it seems to hit a nerve every time. Using journalists to try to counter that fact is so funny, as they’re precisely the ones who long so badly for that term. Indeed tourists, foreigners and provinciaux or banlieusards are the ones giving Paris its current character, as they’re a massive majority : indeed 45 million tourists plus 12 million people coming from the suburbs plus 1.6 million temporary residents compared to the tiny 700 000 Parisians. But none of,them are Parisians. Get over it, especially since it matters so little.
I did not listen to vid. BuT I swear I am not a troll. I imagine French telling us viewers. "Stop worrying about whether we like, respect or hate you." UA-cam keeps sending me vids about how to understand, appease, placate and avoid the mepris of the French. Oh la la. On s'en fou+ It's demeaning like trying to suck up to people at what you think is the cool table in a school cafeteria. Had I watched I bet the advice is sound, logical and something I totally agree with.
If the YT algorithm keeps sending you these videos, is it because it has a record of you watching them? (FWIW, even commenting on my video will likely trigger the algorithm in that direction.)
I remember 1 1/2 hours to commute 10.8 km on public transit. Bus, RER, metro, metro.
That is a ridiculous commute
The french like people to suck up to them. I just can't do it. So you just have to accept being abused and smile and be polite about it. I can't do that either. It's not about politeness it's about lording it over other people. The insecure french person is the worse, so hard to deal with. I have so much to say. But a whole reinvention of French culture is needed in the modern world. To come from a culture that used to have so much relevance to one that is hanging on a string, must be crushing to the French ego.
Oh I agree: insecurity is the worst. Definitely.
Very nice informative video. It would be better if you would let the pop-up titles remain on the screen for a few seconds more so that they can be read.
Yes, mea culpa. I've heard that and made sure to keep them up longer in my later videos.
Very nice! What arrondissement is this?
It's the 19th arrondissement... (I'll do a video on it sometime)
@@amusingaida Thank you so much. Will wait for your video 👍
The 16th is my favorite part of Paris, from Passy right on up to the Arc. Beautiful architecture, great places to shop and eat and stay. And a mere 12-15min Metro ride to the 3rd or 4th. Oh, and Bois du Boulogne on it's doorstep.
Yes to all that -- the architecture is wonderful in the 16th. And I love the Bois de Boulogne too.
i absolutely love your video how they look like 2000s programs, with the music and editing and videography and transitions!!!
Thanks for the comment -- though I think it shows both our ages!
@@amusingaida yes :))
It's just like my home state of California, but with funny accents and driving on the wrong side of the road. 😊
@@fv1291 and kangaroos
Congrats! Maybe you didn't think so but the video was fun 🙂And I'm sure you will be in love with your new place before you know it.
Thanks - glad to hear it was fun (in the end). I am already enamoured of my new place; it's coming along nicely...
@@amusingaida nice ☺
As a solo traveler I'm too self conscious to dine alone, so survive off of food to go. 😟 I have yet to enjoy a restaurant meal.
I know that problem too! But it's actually a crime to not eat in a restaurant in Paris when you visit (and bistrots and cafés are good spots for solo dining - take a book with you)
IN SOME CASE IT IS :) Bonne analyse, vous avez tout compris.
Merci - j'espère bien !
As a person with a bad back who has been to Paris several times I definitely don’t agree there are benches to sit on “everywhere.”
You must find Paris tough, given it's such a walking city
@ Has always been difficult. Normally visit in Fall because my back brace can be hot. Bringing GS mid June. Xtra challenge. But ❤️ Paris.
Nice fixer upper. Feliz primera navidad en tu casa nueva. 😊
Gracias! A fixer upper indeed - but I'll get there!
I have been a real estate broker for many years, and that gives me a clear idea of what this whole process has meant to you. That's why I want to congratulate you for going through all the challenges offered by such a change. A new home (yours 👌) and a new beginning. I wish you to gather in this apartment as many beautiful and unforgettable moments as possible. By the way, Calvin didn't sit around for nothing, he had come to inspect the walls and the quality of the renovation 🙄 :)))
Yes! I think you see how we get emotionally invested, but also wanting to turn a place into a tailored environment. Thanks for the words of encouragement! And I think Calvin agrees with you
This can be applied to Germany and few other countries. It's just common sense. As an European and à french man, this is very accurate.
Your content is so authentic.
@@mayansantos4498 Thank you! That is the nicest thing I've heard today
Isn’t respect a mutual an universal principle all around the world where you treat others the way you expect to be treated yourself? Why fixate on the French (Parisians?)?
The principle way we'll be -- but it's the interpretation and execution of it that is culture specific.
Sydney? Crikey, you must be taking the piss! Brizzy is the place to be. And definitely give Melbin a pass; it's full of whingers and the weather is shite.
I feel the same about Le Marais! I used to live there in 2017/2018, and then, I moved to Australia. When I came back in 2023 OMG I was so disappointed...
Yeah, right? A good reminder that places do not stand still in time. That the sort of vibe the Marais used to have is still out there somewhere... just not in the Marais anymore...
13:03 ... ... for that "Dad Joke" alone, +1 sub!
That'll be a high bar to live up to, going forward
@ take your time, my dear. As a musician, I'm never one to pressure the muses. Rubies are precious because they're rare 😉
Point of order: 1) Congratulations 2) 15:53 Save The Cat 3) We don't know about your roof situation, but with a skyline, you may need to prepare yourself for the summer. I can only hope that room is not going to turn into a greenhouse.
I'm glad someone noticed Save the Cat... next to the cat
Uh, one important piece of info was left out: how much was the apartment, if you don’t mind my asking? That would help others following your footsteps.
Probably the most useful, up-to-date tool for estimating prices in different parts of Paris (for those looking for a place that suits their own tastes): www.seloger.com/prix-de-l-immo/vente/ile-de-france/paris.htm
Such lovely and inspiring video! I kept saying “I know exactly how you feel” ❤❤❤ you are also such a lovely person! I have subscribed❤
Thank you so much. That is a kind and generous comment!
Fantastic video ❤ did you grow up in France?
@@brightgreenleaves Hi, no, I was lucky to have lived in several countries. So I'm perpetually an outsider looking in and an insider able to see things an outsider can.
Love your style! Looks like a movie in some shots and the vibe reminds me of the good old days before social media and iPhones ❤ so appreciate that!
That's a wonderful comment, thank you! I do strive for a high production look, when possible. And yeah, like you, I look mainly to quality TV and movies rather than to social media for the vibe...
I always thought homeownership was an Anglo-Saxon fetish. I guess our word “mortgage” comes from old French. It is nice to own a piece of land and the sense of security that comes with it.
You may be right that it's stronger in the Anglo-Saxon world.... partly because in France renters are well-protected, so some of the motivation of home ownership is weakened. Across all of France there is 60% home ownership, but that drops to half that in Paris. So I guess I'm in the minority....
Amazing video.... very very engaging! Subscribed ❤❤❤
Thanks so much! That is wonderful to hear!
@amusingaida you're welcome! 🥰
Hello I just saw the video and the joy and frustration is there. Trust me buying a home is hard but each time you open up the door you can say and you already did its mine which is a beautiful thing. And yes there is something about Le Marais ( I spent my Bday 2 years ago during Christmas holiday time). But I can see how over time it may change and possibly what drew you in becomes less attractive. Anyway congratulations, enjoy enjoy enjoy 😊
You sound like you've gone through this process a few times. This is my first time, but yes, that is exactly the feeling I got. I hope I didn't dismiss the Marais too much -- I did say that it's still an excellent place for visitors to stay. Most convenient, and wonderful streets and architecture. I just needed a change, for something where I live longterm, every day.
Nope I did get your understanding of Le Marais and can’t wait to see. Thanks 😊
Well Aida nice going , you deserve it . Your new apartment looks so espectacular , i wish the best for you . Thank you so much ♥️ Hugs from Utah 🎄❄️♥️🌟🥰
Hola Dolores! Y gracias por el comentario. Yes, the new place is coming along nicely. I'm loving it. And you'll see more of it, soon!
First timer on this channel, but already subscribed! Love the content and the brief, to the point introduction to various parts of Paris. This information will be very helpful next time we go to Paris. Thank you!! ❤
Sooo happy to hear that! That was the idea of the video -- be helpful in really concise terms. Not trying to be comprehensive, just give a quick overview.
Congratulations! That area has changed a lot: I picked up a car along avenue Jean-Jaurès, in the late 80's!!!! Fridge might not be level , by the way. ENJOY !
The area has changed a lot in the last 3-4 years, I'd say. The Parisians who used to live, or go out, in the Marais are pushing further and further east in the city. It's really changing the face of the 19th and the 20th. It's still uneven (which is great -- because the diversity lends a lot of energy), but yeah, I think I'm just part of a wave....
@@amusingaida Trailblazer!
Haha. Not quite. I'm just part of a wave -- which is why, happily, I'm finding many things in my new hood already that I like; the sort of places that the Marais used to have a lot of...
Congratulations!!
Thank you!!
How strong you are bravo you did it❤❤❤❤❤ congrats New palce swity
Thank you! You know where I get my strength from!
Pourquoi elle criait quand la lumière dans la cave s'est éteinte ? C'était sa première fois dans une cave française ? Elle savait pas que la lumière s'éteint toute seule après quelques minutes ?
Peut-être que j'ai crié dans la cave parce que je croyais que des trolls y habitaient.
How much is your apartment ? I plan to live in Paris soon
www.seloger.com/prix-de-l-immo/vente/ile-de-france/paris.htm is a good calculator to get a base idea of what prices are like. But if you're not in Paris yet I recommend a long term rental first, to narrow down potential neighborhoods.
36?
Close enough!
You are an inspiration. I think I will do a few projects on my Condo. Thank you can’t wait for the next video. Good luck. 😻
I think the projects never stop, right?
enjoyed ur video here from texas!!! so did u have a house warming party???
Congratulations on your new apartment. Great video. And yes, it is said that moving is one of the greatest stresses of life; along with death of a loved one, divorce or ending a relationship, loosing your job and number 4.....moving. Moving is listed as one of the greatest causes of divorce. But now it's done. Enjoy. Don't forget to put a moisture barrier (covering) on the walls of your cave so your things don't mildew. (I hate moldy shoes). Again fun video. Thanks.
It is certainly one of those trial-and-tribulation events in life. The move was so traumatic I think I wiped much of it from memory - doing this video brought back just how hard it was! And the cave is pretty dry actually...
Congratulations! Aida! What a brilliant move… I love the feel of your new apartment. Those skylights are awesome, and this apartment has such high ceilings and depth. Yes, remodeling can be challenging. I totally remodeled most of my 1926 era home in Seattle. But it can be so rewarding to accomplish that yourself. So I am totally impressed and I like how peaceful the new neighborhood looks. Good job!❤
Those skylights were one of the biggest attractions for me. Love them! Sounds like you know a thing or two about tailoring the space you live in to your taste. And my neighborhood? I knew it a bit beforehand, but plan to get really in-depth really soon.
My romance with Paris has always been with Paris. I visited with my ex spouse several times and still, my romance was with Paris. It’s magic. How you do it, Paris, je ne sais pas. Mais, surtout, J’adore Paris.
Paris sways so many people. And I do feel privileged to have it as my home.
Mon dieu! J’adore le Marais. Please don’t ruin it with capitalist US instagram vibe.🙏🏼
I think Instagram is a nationality unto itself. I guess people want an aesthetic version of their lives to share. Me, though, I don't do Instagram.
I just turned sixty. I had a midlife crisis when I was 18 and started my first, dull, badly paying job and thought "Is this what people do?? Their whole lives?? Nooooooo!!!" And no adult knows anything about life; we all fudge our way through it, make mistakes and wrong choices, spend our time and money on the wrong things. Some of us get lucky and some of us don't. Best advice : Have lots of rewarding sex with the right people while you're still young! I'm not being facetious. The rest of life is what it is, you don't have a lot of control really. Nobody dies regretting things they have done more than the things they didn't.
Lots of advice there! I'm certainly feeling more positive these days as I dive right into doing things that fulfil me.