Paris solo?

eliza61,

Not at all. I go regularly and I prefer going alone.

Enjoy your planning and enjoy your trip!

Joan

I certainly enjoyed my time there alone!

I've been a solo tourist in Paris probably 50 times over a 30-year span. No, it's not weird, it's liberating. No one to finesse itineraries with, no traveling at different paces, no one-wants-pastries-the-other-wants-a-burger moments, no OMG-she-talks-too-loud moments, no one-wants-to-sleep-in-the-other-has-to-be-on-the-streets-at-day problems....trust me, be brave, and have a ball. Get some good guidebooks, have a plan, but one that can be scrapped if something else turns up, and have fun.

If you're uneasy about eating alone in restaurants, particularly at dinner, which I admit I was when I was young and in Europe my first few times, just grab some takeout or stuff from a supermarket, eat in your hotel room, and go out for a coffee/drink at a café afterward. After a few days you'll probably feel fine eating alone. Bring a newspaper or journal or book - sometimes that helps.

I would do it in a heartbeat!!

I went to Paris solo in May 09. It was the best trip I have ever taken and can't wait to get back there. If you have the chance to go, do it! Have a great time.

The first time I went to Europe many moons ago I visited Paris solo and had a blast. It was very easy to meet people when I wanted to be friendly, but it was also nice to make my own schedule each day. I'd do it again anytime. And if you're young and single . . . well, the men can be quite charming. (But not as pushy as the Italians!) Go for it.

If you're old, the men can be quite charming, too

Sorry, I didn't mean to be agist! I'm sure the men in Paris are charming to ladies of all ages.

It's probably the most perfect city to see alone. You will never run out of sites to visit or areas to wander in. I rented an apt for a month in May and two out of the four weeks I was on my own. Gave me a chance to see sites that maybe companions wouldn't care about.

I mostly ate in sidewalk cafe type places while alone; very casual and I never felt out of place. Great for people watching and I often chatted with people nearby. As St Cirq said above, bring a journal for notes/thoughts. I often used it for writing my trip diary.

I have a trip diary for this time if you'd care to read it. E-mail me at nbale02@cox.net. Nancy

P.S. I met a travel friend thru Fodors TravelTalk after she laughed about how many ice cream stops I made!

You might always travel solo after reading this

http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/this-is-why-i-will-always-travel-solo-from-now-trip-report--rome-and-sorrento.cfm

Go for it. I love wandering Paris alone. Besides, I bet you might be able to have a Fodor's Get Together if you like. There always seem to be Fodorites visiting Paris.

Ditto, ditto, ditto, Did It last May for 3 weeks and had the time of my life. My loved ones joined me the last week. I did cooking classes, wandered, ate. It was fabulous, and I never felt wierd, or anything like that!.

Paris is a great place to go solo. I've spent time there alone at least 4 or 5 times - attached to a business trip - and once for a week when the beau's business required he cancel at the last minute.

There are tons of great activities you might enjoy more not having to cater to friend with diffeent interests.

Don;t know if you have a hotel yet. I always book a full service hotel - with room service - in case I don;t feel like eating dinner out - although I usually do, and I have met several interesting people also traveling solo, in the hotel lounge, bar or breakfast room that I ended up spending part of a day - or having dinner with.

Any doubts? Plenty here to let you know the pleasures of going it alone. Post back if you have any questions as you will get lots more encouragement if you need it.

I don't even consider myself particularly independent but Paris is fantastic for solo travel! Going for a week all by myself last May was one of the most delightful, rejuvenating experiences of my life so far. Can't wait to do it again.

Enjoy.

Thinking about the same thing...so I'm glad to see all the words of encouragement.

Going any where these days alone is snap. Why wait for someone who may or may not join you???

I have been traveling in Europe for many years by myself. A few weeks ago, a married girlfriend said 'I'm going with you this year.... I don't care where you are going. But, I'm going.' Her husband doesn't enjoy pleasure travel (does some business travel) and she is tired of not seeing the world.

Will it be different for me? Oh, yes! I'm so used to doing what I want when I want... but she is a friend from my college years and we do enjoy the same things. Wine and laughter also help!

The beauty of solo travel is sightseeing, shopping, etc. at your own pace. No complaints or 'can we leave now' queries.

The downside is eating alone but so minor when one considers they are in Paris!!!

There have been times when my old man just can't get away but I can and have! Solo is really great and although you may start off a bit timidly, in no time at all you will be confidently striding into a restaurant to dine alone - very common so you won't be looked at sideways or stared at!
I suggest you keep an eye open for other Fodorites that will be in Paris at the same time and plan a GTG (get-to-gether).
Great fun and it breaks the boredom of having only your own company at mealtimes.

Absolutely, for the above reasons. I've been 7/8 times on my own. You control your day...want to sleep in, fine. Want to just wander, fine. Want crowds, take a walking tour. Tickets to events, easier when solo. It becomes your holiday, at your pace.

Eating.. a lot of people wonder about eating alone in a restaurant. Believe me, it is a non-issue. I've never been treated differently (worse table,rushed to vacate the table,etc..) because I was on my own. In some cases, I've felt the waiter talked to me a bit more. You will also see a lot of locals dining alone. I usually bring a book or journal.

I'm hoping to go, solo, for a couple of weeks this year.

<<Is it really weird being a solo tourist in Paris?>>

Definitely not! Do your research, decide what you want to do when you're there and go!

If you're uncomfortable eating alone, bring a book to read or your journal and write while you're waiting for your meal.

I have been to Paris solo many times (about 6 or 7) as well as to other European cities. I have thoroughly enjoyed it. This past November I had 2 friends with me and while the trip was fine, it was a lot different from doing it by myself. Sometimes I have a tendency to wander off track (translation: get lost) and that's fine with me. I'll push myself until I get to a familiar place - Metro, arrondissement, etc.

Eating alone has gotten better for me over the years. I do bring a book or journal. Also, it's fun to people watch - esp. if the restaurant caters to tourists and locals alike.

Go to Paris and have fun! You might just find out that you prefer to travel solo instead of with groups (all the time, that is).

TR

There are lots of trip reports here about women's solo Paris trips. Reading them can be inspirational.

I have done this now three times in Paris, and I have enjoyed it a lot. I definitely meet more people when I am alone and have had very interesting conversations this way. Then again, I do enjoy being alone. For people who don't, it might be less enjoyable.

Paris in May is DIVINE. Unless I'm with a very handsome and sexy lover, I vant to be alone.

paris is a city that makes a woman feel beautiful.
Sitting in one of the beautiful parks or stopping at a cafe
as you watch the teeming crowd of locals and tourists pass is
a way to enjoy yourself. The over 100 museums can keep you busy. Just looking at the beautiful displays in boutiques and patiseries will have you mouth watering. Taste a macaron or some chololates. Take a bus ride, a good way to see the city.
The lingerie shops are so elegant. I've never had problems eating alone, The wait persons have been very nice to me.
Stop in the charming bookstores,visit the markets, relax, take time to enjoy the architecture look up and you'll see details that make this city the beauty it is.

As said before I go often , maybe several times a year and stay at least a month. I really prefer going alone..make my own plans and do it all 'my way'.

My running trip reports tell all that is going on and filled with the pics of dining. I meet up with so many who are there during my stays.I also have many Parisian friends now who join me for some great dining, too. We get together for lunch or dinner etc. I go to 3 star down to local bistros all the time..rarely eat at home..unless I pick something up at super Davoli.

Enjoy your planning of solo travel..

Joan

Paris is a huge city. Unlikely anyone will notice you, one way of the other. Personally I LOVE traveling alone and would go to Paris solo in a heartbeat! The only thing different I do solo, than traveling with friends, is dinner. I chose more casual restaurant where I feel most comfortable. Cafes or bars, even getting a meal to-go and picnic in my room.

Yup that's true about solo travel. You don't get a chance to "share" the experiences with someone else. You just enjoy everything all on your own.

If I wait for my husband to travel with me, then I will never see another country. He has a fear of flying and does not want to get over it. I have learned to make myself happy and not to depend on another person. I enjoy traveling sometimes with friends or my sons, but I also enjoy traveling alone. No worry about pleasing anyone but myself!

Huh? If the OP had a man in her life who wanted to go on the trip with her, I doubt she'd be doing it solo. Maybe she's married and husband just doesn't enjoy travel, or can't get away for some reason. Either way, solo travel can be fun.

If I waited around for a man to go with me on vacation, I'd never go anywhere. Plus, I certainly don't have a hard time finding someone to "share" the experience with, but I don't need to bring him with me, I can meet him along the way. (Didn't we cover that part? Men are everywhere, they don't need to be brought from home.)

My husband is disinterested in cities, architecture, history and art. He has been to Paris with me but doesn't appreciate the city like I do. He and I vacation where we can hike, bike, ski, kayak or play on a beach and when I go to Paris it is not with him.

I've spent time there with my son, various friends and alone. I like wandering alone the best- no worry as to whether others enjoy the same activities as I do or not or want to travel at my pace.
Ann Marie

Hi Malelion55,
Op here. Actually no problem traveling with men at all. LOL, I'm the Happily married mom of 3 teen/young men so I've been travellin with guys for the last 25 years.

This actually started out as a trip planned for my sister in law, myself and 2 other girlfriends. My SIL has dropped out and my 2 other friends may still commit.

I've wanted to go to Paris for so long (5 years now) that I've just decided that no matter what happens with my other friends, I'm going.

Or maybe it's just the fact of turning 50. I don't want to wake up one day wishing I had went to Paris and never done so.

Oops forgot to add. "The old guy" LOL my husband has no interest what so ever in Paris.

"if you are traveling by yourself, you don't get a chance to share your experience with someone else"

How not true. If you possess charm, intellect, personality, and style, many opportunities will present themselves that might not if you were with a friend, husband or a group. Speak a little of the country's language and watch the adventures unfold.

I met most of my French and Italian friends while traveling alone and some of those relationships are 20-years-old. There's nothing more fun than being asked to dinner by a handsome stranger (and surprising you by picking up the tab). While dining alone in Venice, I sat next to the sweetest gay-male, forty-something couple from Australia. We closed the restaurant and I bought two bottles of Prosecco (they insisted on paying for one) from the owner and went back to my fabulous apartment and we chatted and laughed until 3 AM. I haven't seen them since but we stay in touch via email.

I can spend an entire day in a museum or an entire day shopping. I don't know many men or women who enjoy museums and shopping as much as I do. Being alone allows me to take my time doing the things I love. Unless you're into photography, no friend or lover wants to play assistant. I'm always happy to be a single traveler.

Eliza, my dad had no interest in Paris, either. My mother was always thrilled to go with me and leave her husband at home. My parents loved each other madly and lucky for me, they weren't attached to each others hips. I love men who are secure enough to let their wives do their own thing. By all means, turn 50 in Paris. Ooo-la-la!

Please check back after your solo trip.
We hopefully hoping you will have a wonderful time.
If you see my post above, we with not a big budget can still enjoy this beautiful city.

I've been doing Paris almost annually since the mid 1970s and probably 95% of the time it's been solo. I prefer it that way. I've been doing Paris since I was around 21 years old although I've been doing Europe solo since I was 17.

I really wouldn't worry about the other travel companions and would just pack up my bags and go. I've been on every continent in the world, except Antarctica, and many times over and have been just fine solo and planning my own adventures. By traveling solo, there are no distractions or possible drama if others are traveling along. Trust me, I've had it with other people's drama ; people who just invited themselves on a few of my trips and showed up. Happy Travels!

<<I don't want to wake up one day wishing I had went to Paris and never done so.>>

Good point. You've heard from several female solo travelers so I hope you're encouraged.

You don't sound like a woman who is afraid to be alone so I think it will a wonderful experience for you.

Spending a week or two in Paris without your husband certainly won't damage your marriage if it's good -- it may even improve it. You'll return energized instead of staying home and longing to go.

'you don't get a chance to share your experience with someone else...'
Sure you do...write a trip report and share it with all of us. By the way, I was planning a trip in May to Spain or London(can't decide), but now after this thread I am longing for Paris.

another woman who has traveled to Paris and many other places on my own. Ther is nothing to fear and everything to gain. Go for it! and then be sure to share your adventures with us (well you don't have to share everything!)!

<<malelion55 on Jan 22, 10 at 9:08pm
I know a cheap good divorce lawyer that only cost 500.00 dollars and everything is done...you will be free....LoL....>>

What a sad response. The only reason I can think of that one or two weeks apart would end in divorce is that there is no trust in the marriage.

Not every woman is afraid that her husband will look for someone else if she isn't with him all the time. Ditto for husbands.

While traveling, I've met a lot of married women on trips without their husbands because the men are not interested in travel or had enough of it while serving in the military.

Go Eliza! You'll love it.

As for the "divorce" comment, just s few months ago I was at my best friend and her husband's 25th wedding anniversary party that they threw at their house. During their entire marriage, they have had the system of a family vacation together and then two separate ones if they wish; one for him and one for her.

She's taken off as long as 3 weeks to South Africa with 3 female friends from work. And that's when their child was young. They worked it out so that she could have that possibly, once in a lifetime, South African trip. And that was way back more than 15 years ago. She also used to take off either alone or later with their one child to Bali and just relax and de-stress at a 4-star overlooking rice terraces.

Before they got married, they discussed their lifestyles and one thing that she clearly brought up was that she needed to have time on her own. So, they both knew what they were getting into before saying, "I do.", as all of the cards were laid out on the table, so to speak. They're both very secure and happily married people. Many of her on-a-leash friends didn't make it anywhere near 25 years of marriage and are now divorced. Happy Travels!

The first time I visited Paris the plan was to meet a friend on arrival. She got delayed by flight problems and a family emergency, so I wound up on my own. It turned out great! Of the many return visits since, some have been solo and some have been with others (SO, friends, family) but all have been enjoyable.
I agree with those who have observed that Paris is easy for solo travelers. Single hotel rooms are readily available, dining alone is not a problem as small tables are abundant, and waiters as well as other service providers are generally very helpful. I have treasured memories of both shared moments and solo experiences. I think of it as Amorino offers both chocolate and vanilla gelato, and at different times I eat one or the other (and sometimes a little of both.)

Go for it! I went to Paris alone when I was in college and though I was only there for a short time, I met several other young Americans and toured around with them to museums, etc. I have also been to Florence alone and was just fine for three weeks. I am planning a return trip to Rome this spring and am *seriously* thinking of adding Paris on to my itinerary. I would like to go again as my more confident and smarter 31-year-old self!

I do worry about dining alone; but after reading all of these comments, I'm feeling up to it!

PS. For the singles...there's usually no shortage of fellow travelers or lovely European men to make you feel welcome!

Absolutely not.

My friend dropped out of our trip last May, but I still went. And I had a lovely GTG with fellow Fodorites which made it all worthwhile.

Once you fix your dates, post them here and you will have little problem arranging a GTG - there are ALWAYS many Fodorites in Paris at any given time, and lots would love a GTG.

I've already got a GTG planned for October in Paris (am I allowed to say it's with Barb...???)

Eliza,

I only started really traveling in 2005 and 95% of my travels have been solo. Like you, my feeling was if I waited for someone to take me, I'd never get out of the country, so off I've gone to explore and enjoy. I agree with the other gals, no cowtowing to others who dont want to eat here or there or go to this or that museum. Sure it's nice to have company to share with but it's also liberating to travel solo. Just imagine: "You've come a long way Lady".

I've been to Paris every year since and no matter where I'm headed I always try to fit in at least a few days if not a couple of weeks in Paris. I've been 5 times and there's always more to see and places having been to before, to enjoy again.

I love Paris and if I could, would move there in a heartbeat.

I've found the people friendly and pleasant and helpful, no matter what you may have heard about the rude French, it's not true except for maybe one or two exceptions in all the times I've been there .

As far as eating alone, it's never been a problem for me since I'm a big people watcher. Park yourself at a table near a window so you can watch the goings on as you dine. Or carry an American newspaper, and you might find other Americans or English speaking approaching...or look for other Americans and start a conversation. And absolutely, post on Fodor's for a GTG and the dates you'll be in Paris. I attended one with about a dozen fodorites and a long long lunch and wonderful time was had by all. It's nice to meet the faces behind the words.

Go for it and have a wonderful time.
(Don;t miss the D'Orsay or St. Chappelle or the Luxembourg Park!)

The OP is not thirty-something years old and is not spending her life alone. Nor are most of the people who have responded to this thread and said they have enjoyed their solo trips.

As to the question as to whether there is something wrong when a woman in her thirties lives alone without a partner, it is not relevant to this discussion, but I would venture a guess that few who have replied here would agree with that premise.

do you have problems going on vacation with men ?...

I know a cheap good divorce lawyer that only cost 500.00 dollars and everything is done...you will be free....LoL....

if a 30- something woman who is living alone and don't have a partner, then something is wrong...

LOLOLOL. Keep diggin malelion55. You are cracking me up.

Another recommendation for traveling solo to Paris. I loved it and can't wait to go solo again. Usually I travel there with DH - and that's great, too. But, traveling solo is a different feeling and as others have said, very liberating. Do it!

Agreed Cigal, methinks male chauvinist piglets are long
out of style- yet there are still some cavemen skulking around -

Mahya2...

malelion55 has apparently created a time machine and is posting from 1955.

Newsflash: This is the year 2010. Today, women don't need a man to give them permission to travel or do anything else. Plus, you apparently have problems with reading comprehension as the OP said she's married and recently turned 50 (or is about to?).

Life is too short to sit around at home, wishing you had gone to Paris. Go for it.

Not married at 30 means something wrong? Wasn't that applicable when the book was called "Paris on $5 a day"?

Being a male, I'd hate to think that any women somehow needs my permission to go somewhere or do soemthing on her own. If I can go, fine...but to say you can't because I can't...yikes.

if a 30- something woman who is living alone and don't have a partner, then something is wrong

WOW... only here on Fodor's can I mix & mingle with people with such old fashioned opinions.

Ignore the caveman and maybe he'll go away.

Go! Paris is wonderful. The first time I went, I was taking a class and was with a group but found plenty of solo time. The solo time was the best.

The second time, I went with 3 family members and was unable to do anything solo and had to cater to others' desires.

The third time, I went with two co-workers and it was pretty much the same.

Next time, I'm going alone! There's too much to see and do and too many places to get "lost" to spend time worrying about others and their wants and needs.

Go alone and see and do the things you want...there are no shortage of wonderful, helpful people to meet...or not meet.

I waited until I was 50 to go the first time even though I had wanted to go since I was a teenager. I wish now that I had done it before I did.

I just booked a solo trip to Paris for my 50th birthday.

My partner of 20 years is a homebody. He would much perfer that I go on vacation and leave him to paint the house in peace LOL! My friends are all married or don't travel!

Of course the trip is in July and my birthday is in September, but... September's just a busy time of the year for me.

Not 100% sure I will take this trip, but if I cancel it won't be because I didn't want to go solo (It's all on Frequent flyer miles and free hotel nights so the "cancellation penalty is $100) (I do have one friend trying to figure out a way to leave her husband and special needs kid for a long weekend someplace fun and if she can work out the details I will probably have to cancel this trip.)

Go you will probably discover that you really like going solo. No one to answer to as to how to spend the day, and the luxury of only thinking of yourself and your enjoyment. Some of my best trips have been when I traveled alone.

Just went to Paris for the 1st time last Sept and, although it was with my darling husband, we saw lots of solo female travelers from all over the world - they were having a blast!
Rent "Paris, Je T'Aime" which features 10 or 15 5-minute films by different directors...you'll get some great and very different takes on this wonderful, wonderful city. I think you'll relate to the very last one - a 50-ish lady travelling to Paris solo...I wept with joy to see her reactions.
You are gonna LOVE it!

eliza, let me share these short videos with you to get the flavor of the different places in Paris.

http://www.geobeats.com/videoclips/france/paris/boulangerie

"if you are traveling by yourself, you don't get a chance to share your experience with someone else"

Which can be good or bad....

However, I find the implication here that those of us traveling alone aren't having fun wrong. I often look at the familes having a fight and think "I am glad I am not them" LOL!

<<...I often look at the familes having a fight and think "I am glad I am not them" LOL!"

So true, CarolA. While traveling solo in Europe I had dinner one evening with two women who have traveled together for several years. I thought how nice it was to have someone to "share" the experience.

I sat with them at breakfast the next morning and when one left the table the other put her head in her heads and began a litany of complaints -- she's driving me crazy -- she doesn't like this, she doesn't want to go there -- it went on and on.

My son met me at the airport. When I told him about the two he laughed and said "It sounds like being married."

Paris is probably the best city to go to solo. I go every winter by myself when it is cold and less touristy. Easy to get into restaurants and museums. And of course, cheaper. My wife calls Paris my "mistress". You don't have to answer to anyone, wake up when you want to, eat when you want to, you are the boss. When making restaurant reservations, I always make them for two. You get a better table. When the waiter asks you why you are alone, tell him the other person got sick and canceled. I like to go to restaurants where you sit elbow to elbow with the locals, sharing wine and learning about the culture. Believe me, you will have a great time.
Marc from Los Angeles

"when one left the table the other put her head in her heads and began a litany of complaints"

That could have been me except I know it wasn't because my last companion to Paris NEVER. EVER. FOR ONE SECOND. left my side during our 17 day trip to France.

I knew she'd traveled to Europe before so her fear of doing anything at all alone came as a surprise until I learned that every other trip was with an organized tour company. I'll go alone or only with one of my two best friend's that I travel well with on future trips.
Ann Marie

I agree with all the above. Best trip I ever had. Solo to Paris for 1 week. I can't wait to do it again...I didn't get to do all that I had wanted. (Gotta get to that Tower someday.)

I don't know if anyone said this, but it helped both my limited budget and my desire to eat "posh". I ate terrific lunches. Ate quietly at night close to my apartment or brought something in to cook. (One of my problems is that I typically wake up at about 5-6 AM and can't stay up so late! LOL)

But if others enjoy a late night stroll, I enjoy the really early strolls.

I'm sitting here right now solo, and was reflecting today on how nice it was to be able to go wherever I wanted and do whatever I wanted to do today. Since it was raining, I read a book in a cafe overlooking Pont Royal and drank a glass of rose. Then I got lost for a little bit, and went grocery shopping on the way back to my apartment. Not that you wanted my play-by-play, but the point being, I reflected on how enjoyable the day was for me, yet could have been drastically different with other people in tow.

Don't skip Paris just because you friends can't come. This city is filled with people...you'll make some news ones

Well, I just have to reply to this one. Greg above posted a link to one of my trip reports. I traveled with a group of "friends" to Rome and Sorrento. It was the ultimate trip from hell. Since that trip I now travel solo. I have met up with friends for a day or two during a trip, but ALWAYS have my own room or apt. I usually try to set up a GT with Fodorites, or with people I have met on previous trips. Of all the places I have visited, I think Paris is probably the best place to be solo. It's so easy there, so comfortable, so special. As many others have said, you have such freedom when you are by yourself and you do not have to compromise with someone else's travel style. You don't have to bite your tongue when your travel partner says or does something that drives you nuts. You are much more approachable when you are alone. Some days I may feel like meeting people and that's never a probem, other days, it just feels so good to be with myself. If I feel the need for a group experience, I join a walking tour, or a day tour.

Eating alone is never an issue with me. I don't go to swanky 4* restaurants, like others have said, I prefer a cozy bistro or at an outside cafe table. I rarely ever eat in my hotel or apt. Sometimes I write in my journal, but most of the time I enjoy soaking up the atmosphere and, I admit it, evesdropping a little. I usually have no problem with service and if anything, maybe a tad more attention from waiters, wink wink.

I am going back to Paris in Oct., but this time with my DGD. I am a little apprehensive because she is a teenager!! but I am sure it will be just fine.

So, by all means, go, have a blast and write a report when you get back!

Barb,

I remember that trip....... It was the trip from hell!

I travel solo on business a lot so I long ago got over the eating thing. Right now for example I live in Atlanta and work for a company based on Southern California which means I am there two weeks a month. I am not eating on the hotel "bed" for all those meals. And of course my co-workers, while very nice, have families to go home to so....

Go alone!!!! I've traveled solo to Paris the last five Thanksgivings and always have a fabulous time. Not at all weird eating alone - I always have a book or journal while eating. The city is so beautiful, walkable, and safe. I would encourage anyone to do a solo trip, even if friends were able to go along. I very much look forward to my solo trip to my favorite city.

"I traveled with a group of "friends" to Rome and Sorrento. It was the ultimate trip from hell."

LOL. It was so bad I still remember the report and I think it was a few years ago. But, am I imagining it, or did you happen to meet at least one charming man on that trip?

I WISH I had traveled solo my first time to Paris!!! I'm with the majority on this board. It is my preferred method of travel. I've had no problem dining alone whether in Paris or Dubrovnik. If you are the type of person that likes talking to others, there will be plenty of opportunities. A waiter in Rome sat me next to a fellow solo traveler from my home state so we not only spent dinner together, we also went to a musuem that was open late that night because I mentioned I was going there and he had no idea it was open. I spent almost all day with a nice couple from Australia during a bus ride from Florence to Siena. We had a 3 hour dinner back in Florence and watched a midnight procession as we left the restaurant. Oh yes, and the overnight train from Naples to Venice with the five Italian ladies. I could go on and on but go and make your own memories.

I could not agree more with the positive comments here. I've had *wonderful* travels solo including in Paris (and yes there's a DH at home who can't get away from work responsibilities much and can't easily adapt to time changes for short trips).

I stayed in the Left Bank area at a small hotel with small rooms, not a problem for a solo!

Meals were fine -- cafes, museum cafes, a 3* restaurant, and the like; the hotel folks took good care of me and meals were fine. Mostly, I was *free* to walk, go where I wanted, hop the Metro, stop at museums, stop at shop windows, etc. without boring or holding up anyone (or being held up by others).

It was wonderful! Do it!!

I haven't been to Paris yet but when I do go, I'm going alone. All of my most memorable vacations were taken solo. You have the freedom to see and do exactly what you want and you also have a lot of time to think and learn about yourself. I'm sure your solo trip will be wonderful!

kyliebaby, I hope you post a report and some photos when you return. Have a great trip!

malelion55- You seem to think that we go alone because we have no choice. Do you really think that we have no options? Like we're losers that can't get a date to Paris? Maybe you're just trying to "stir the pot" but I'll respond again.

You are still not likely to "get it" but we don't need you. We don't want you. We have plenty of fun without you. We are not man haters. We are not wall flowers. We have friends. We just like Paris ON. OUR. OWN.

I've been to Paris five times in the past decade and without a doubt the best time I've spent there was alone. I CHOSE to go alone after a number of trips with others. I will CHOOSE to go alone in the future.

One time I went to Paris with a group of people. No one else could make up their minds about what to do, they'd done no research on what they wanted to see, they just wanted to follow me around but if I made a misstep there were some that were quick to point that out. If I asked them to make transportation decisions they stared at me like idiots. No one liked "real" French food and were afraid of eating something that didn't involve meat and potatoes. None bothered to learn to say even basic phrases in French. They embarrassed me by using cell phones in museums and had to be told to turn them off more than once. Some wanted to sit around and sip coffee on the apartment couch all morning which is not my style. I tried to ditch out as often as I could as I was ready to SCREAM at times. I will never go with a group again.

Another time I went to Paris with my 14 yr old son. While we had fun, he lost interest really quickly with art museums and got bored with just walking around which I can do all day in Paris. Every day, about mid afternoon, he hopped the metro back to our apartment and was content to watch French TV and play on his GameBoy which seemed like a waste of money and time to me. I'm glad I took him and I'd do it again but it wasn't the most fun trip I've ever had in Paris.

Once I went to Paris with DH of 23 years. He loves hiking, biking, skiing and beaches and he went with me to France to ride bikes for two weeks during the Tour de France. The whole time we were in Paris he was tired and grumpy from jetlag and his back hurt from the long plane ride. He could live his whole life without going to a museum, looking at old buildings or eating French food. NOT a fun trip and I'll never try to get him to Paris ever again.

Another trip I went to Paris with a single coworker who I liked and admired. She ended up being afraid to do anything alone and it became apparent on the plane trip that she suffers from OCD. She functions well at her job but on our trip she was a mess I won't even go into here. I have other friends that would happily go to Paris with me and although I travel with them to many locations stateside I just don't feel like being a tourguide in Paris.

I am a lucky gal who travels about every six weeks for fun. I travel with DH, with a variety of my gay boyfriends, with college friends, with a neighbor friend, with my family and sometimes all by myself. Paris is a "by myself" place.
Ann Marie

Anne Marie, my late husband didn't like Paris so I have been there alone but he loved France and its food and everything about it. I wish my gay friends with ask me to travel with them.

Does anyone else think that poor malelion's partner probably wishes he/she could travel alone. Anyone who is that judgemental, demeaning and flat out rude can't be a good traveling companion, can they?

Traveling with someone that judgemental would be another great "Trip from hell" report, but I am not volunterring for that torture.

Sad, sad, man! Let's just feel sorry for his partner and move on!

Amwosu, You definitely summed it up! and very eloquently. We solo travelers are not pathetic, we are not lonely. We do this by choice, maybe after disasterous trips with friends or family, or maybe because we are just so comfortable being on our own. Paris is the PERFECT city to venture out on your own. Please don't wake up one morning and wished you had gone--- go, have the time of your life and, again, we want a report when you get back.

Your French is terrible, malelion...another reason we wouldn't want to travel with you, or anyone else.

Leely2: I'm traveling for three months this time, so I'm afraid the trip report is going to be very delayed. However, I'm keeping a blog as I travel, so please follow along there in its place
...www.culinaryhopscotch.blogspot.com.

It will explain what I'm doing, and there are already a few pictures up!

Married 22 years.

First trip to Paris at 23 when still single - solo - had a ball.

Second trip to Paris at 47 - with my 17 year old daughter - had a ball.

Third trip to Paris at 48 - with my 15 year old daughter - had a ball.

Fourth trip to Paris at 48 - with the 17 year old again...oh we do love Paris and France. Best people watching of our lives at Costes. Plus I got her drunk which was very funny.

Fifth trip - will be 50 like the OP, hmmmmmm, really wanting to go solo again but may bring my husband to be nice - if so, we'll eat well, lodge well, probably get a great Hermes scarf (the sweetie understands this is an essential part of the trip) but skip the museums. There is still a lot of art I haven't seen yet and a lot I've seen but need to see again - maybe I need to plan 2 more trips to Paris to properly celebrate my 50th???

Still so much to see and do in Paris and I really think you see and do the most when solo...

Eliza - have a great time whether solo or not! and Happy, Happy 50th. Start living your dreams!!

gruezi

Poor Malelion.

When he couldn't convince us that he was right he went storming off!

LOL!

<<Does anyone else think that poor malelion's partner probably wishes he/she could travel alone.>>

"Poor malelion" is right. I doubt that he has a partner but if he does traveling with him would be torture -- he'd be clinging, watching, judging.

Sounds more like a dodo bird (extinct) than a lion.

"we are not lonely....,YES YOU ARE !!!!!!!!"

LOL. In all my days I've never been accused of being the lonely type. I'm thinking this guy can only picture "alone" as "lonely" so I'm just shaking my head and laughing.

After this exchange I just gotta say I really really love my husband. I'm off on a cruise with a dozen college friends this month, skiing with the fam in March then to Vegas with my "boys" to see Cher in April. Lonely, lonely me.
Ann Marie

I don't know.... if you look at the Lion species, the female does all the work of gathering food. Malelion is probably just like that... Depending on someone else to take care of him which would explain his fear of solo travel. Who would feed him?

Lonely....I think NOT!

I am fortunate enough to have both sides of the coin. My husband likes Paris, I love it. We often go together, he stays for a week and returns home and I stay on for another week, solo.

I love both weeks, and they are enormously different! The week by myself is so much FUN. I can walk and window shop for 12 hours, I never tire of it, this is one of DH's least favorite things to do. I walk, eat, walk, drink, walk, shop, walk, do a little unknown museum I might pass, chat with people at the cafes, go to the theater, the circus, the movies...I've never been bored or lonely durning that week.

"the female does all the work of gathering food. Malelion is probably just like that... Depending on someone else to take care of him which would explain his fear of solo travel. Who would feed him?"

Exactly. And this "male lion" has no roar, just a pathetic squeak.

Eliza here,

Thank you every one for your support. I've decided to go ahead with my trip (yeah!!)and definitely loved the positive replies.

The "old guy" better known as my husband thinks it's great that I'm still going. I think he's secretly planning a fishing trip with our sons (I hate, loathe and despise fishing). LOL

So, plans so far are: Leaving Monday 5/24 from Philly international, arrive in Paris Tuesday 5/25. Booked at the Hotel Regina in the 1st Addroisament (spelling sorry) near the Louvre and from what I've read an easy walk to many spots.

I hope you guys don't mind if I start picking your brains with questions.

Thanks every one for the links to videos and blogs.

Eliza

Eliza,

We will gladly help you plan your trip!!!

So glad you are going.

gruezi

We are at your side (sadly, only for planning)

FANTATIC! Anywhere in the 1st should be a good location for getting out & about on foot.

it's arrondissement

Eliza,

That sounds like me and my partner. He wants to go "fly fishing" Hmm.. stand in a creek and try to catch my dinner which I then have to clean before I can eat. Not really my thing! The camping and the outdoor part I am good with, it's the fishing and dealing with the dead fish!

Eliza,
DH & I will be in Paris from May 26 thru June 1, staying in the 7th. Maybe we can GTG?
I may precede DH by a week (SOLO!), if I can snag a good airfare, which is proving very hard to do thus far since prices are very high this year, and so far not a sale in sight!

Susanna, I prefer your scenario: arrive with DH and then spend a second week alone. Will see what I'm able to arrange... EJ

Eliza,

I'm so glad you have decided to go!! Here is another trip report that might further encourage you.

http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/trip-report---3---weeks---solo-to-france.cfm

Elsiejune: I actually prefer your way. I like to get there first, and wander around and shop and see everything, then I look forward to his coming...my way I have to wait until he leaves to do my cc damage!

Really, either way is great!

Barb's report was indeed memorable and worth reading by anyone thinking of arranging a trip for others. I think there's a trip report on England by Janisj that is also a must read by those who think solo trips are to be avoided at all costs. Truly entertaining but proof of the adage "no good deed goes unpunished".

I am planning my first solo trip to London/Paris in May 2010. I've seen both cities with others and am looking forward to not having to compromise. I love my friends but this trip is all about my preferences.

Would do it in a minute! Having a friend along is nice to share the experience and the cost. Doing it on your own will teach you an awful lot about yourself and that can be fun stuff to learn.

"Doing it on your own will teach you an awful lot about yourself and that can be fun stuff to learn."

Good point and often overlooked.

Barb..it may be 7 years old, but your trip report is still a good read. Thanks.

Go for it! Check out the Paris Walks tours also. They are inexpensive way to have a nice walking tour and meet other travelers. They last for a couple hours and usually have several each day. I also find eating in cafes alone less intimadating than bistros/restaurants. Try Brasserie St Louis in the 4th!

I've been to Paris alone and I've been with "friends". Alone was SOOOOOO much better.

Uh-oh, he's back. Darn.

Come on... ,,Ladies...You girls are try to tell everyone that this is the best way to travel?...alone???...by yourself?....get real !!!

Chill out,Granny....!!!!!

I'd say the only one who needs to chill out is you Mr. Lion. You are the one with all the !!!s. Ladies? Girls? Granny? I don't believe any of us need to "get real."
Ann Marie

Malelion55,
That Granny is so me!!!! That's how I want to be in my 80's I want to feel happy enough and confident enough to "dance" in the streets when the music moves me. LOL.

Granny would never, ever not visit a place simply because she didn't have a "man" to go with her. Any one who has the freedom to do her thing in public with flip the naysayers the bird and be on the first plane smoking to Paris.

Ladies just remmber.

Malelion can't travel alone. He needs a woman to take care of him. Just like the real species. Alone, he would stare. Sad isn't it!

(Just booked my next trip to Paris, my SO will go to Paris too... Paris Tennesse.... LOL!)

Opps. that sentence above should read "alone he would starve"

(Although he does seem to to the kind to stare, doesn't he)

hmmm very interesting...

Well, Paris, Im coming to c u in April and guess what, Im a solo traveller too (will be my first time) hopefully would enjoy...

so people any help with hotels? checked online and just got more confused.. lots of choices... (budget around 150 Eur...


thks for help
Jina

Jina- Have fun in April. Here is a thread about hotels you might start with...
http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/paris-hotels-left-bank-thread.cfm

There is also a right bank hotel thread you can check out. Just use the search box.
Ann Marie

I think he is wishing to join some of the solo women travelers.

Five posts in a row makes me think lonely lion.

< You girls are try to tell everyone that this is the best way to travel?...alone???...by yourself? >

YES

I think he meant to post to the original Like a Virgin video with the lion but, unsurprisingly, he failed.

cigale- I would ignore. For some reason this person lifted iowagirl's comments and your comments from a different thread (why you picked your fodor name) and pasted it to this thread.

Ladies,

I would suggest ignoring this babbling, giggling idiot. His lack of proper grammar gives creedence to his low level of intelligence. Obviously, he is one of the most significant reasons to travel alone.


Saying that, I am finished with this thread.

Now, now Ladies and Gentlemen. Let's play nice.

Op, here.
Thanks everyone for the encouragement. So I've got a sketchy itinerary. I did have a question. My flight gets into Paris about 1:00 pm. I'm assuming that it will take about 1 hour to get to my hotel (I have transfers from my TA). Would you leave the rest of that afternoon open? My first thought was to immediately go over to the Eiffel tower and pinch myself but now I'm thinking after an overnight flight I may be overly ambitious.

It is likely that you will be very excited when you get there and want to walk around and see things. You might go see the Eiffel Tower, but you might not want to invest the time to go up if there is a long line.

Lots of people will tell you to walk around and stay up as late as you can with no nap. I always need to nap after staying up all night on the plane, but I might get out first in the neighborhood. I would leave it open and see how you feel when you get there.

eliza61:

If you're staying near the Louvre and arriving at your hotel in the afternoon after an overnight flight, you might not want to try the Eiffel Tower on that first day. You'll want to get settled and get your bearings. You might want to roam a bit but yet stay within the general vicinity of your hotel, stopping at a cafe and relaxing for a time and maybe scouting out the area for restaurant possibilities. I've found that if you try to do too much on that first day in a major foreign city you don't know, you can get overly tired and even somewhat confused by it all. That could color the rest of your trip.

As for dining alone, I've done it several times in Paris, and I've had uniformly good experiences. You will too.

Another solo female traveler chiming in here. I travel for work and holiday (often hooking holiday onto a work trip) and Paris really is a great place for a solo visit. I do find French men to be pretty persistent (more persistent than, say, Italians), and the worst (in my experience) is along the Champs-Elysees.

Whether you make it straight through your arrival day without sleep or take a nap, do make a point of spending time outside (after your nap if you take one) so that your internal clock can figure out what's going on. Eat meals according to Paris time, ignoring your body (unless you wake up at night and are hungry---have something in your room to eat in case this happens). Even if you're not particularly hungry, go ahead and stop for a light meal.

"malelion" has been removed! Yay!

On my first afternoon I like to visit the huge Jardin du Luxembourg in the 6th arr. for lots of great people watching and beautiful scenery.

I enjoying walking around to see the fountains & gardens and to take in the action on the boule courts (courts?). There are children on the elaborate playgrounds, at the puppet theatre, on the carousel and sailing model boats in the basin/pond. You can sit on the green metal chairs and people-watch near the Palace.

Bordering the garden is rue vavin a lovely street for strolling with a nice mix of womens' and childrens' clothing stores, cafes, and at 3 rue vavin, a Jean Paul Hevin chocolate shop that calls my name. It looks more like an upscale jewelry store than chocolate shop.

Stroll down rue vavin by clicking the link below. Apologies for not using tinyurl. I'm having trouble with it... http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=rue+vavin&sll=48.850258,2.34513&sspn=0.005577,0.021887&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Rue+Vavin,+75006+Paris,+Ile-de-France,+France&ll=48.844832,2.332379&spn=0.001497,0.005472&z=18&layer=c&cbll=48.844768,2.332246&panoid=QqUpVq4HQqxFz1DaBzMTEg&cbp=12,229.48,,0,4.91
Ann Marie

I sadly do not have the words to tell you all how much I am enjoying this thread.

I have loved Paris since I was a little girl. I did not get to see it until I was 43. It was even better than I had imagined. During that trip, I vowed to see Paris once a year for the rest of my life. My husband likes Paris well enough, but he has no desire to see Paris once a year for the rest of his life (which I hope, will be the same length as mine). So, I sometimes will go with him, I sometimes will go without him.

I am headed to Paris this year with my husband and my two teenage children to celebrate my 50th birthday. Next year I will go to Paris for a month to study tbe French language. My husband will join me for part of the time, and part of the time I will be by myself. I am looking forward to both parts of my month.

Paris is wonderful to visit with friends. Paris is wonderful to visit with family. Paris is wonderful to visit when you are by yourself. Go. Enjoy.

<<My first thought was to immediately go over to the Eiffel tower and pinch myself but now I'm thinking after an overnight flight I may be overly ambitious.>>

I agree with others to leave the tower for the next day. Explore your neighborhood that afternoon, window shop, sit in a garden, find a restaurant or cafe and have lunch and take it easy. Believe me, you'll know you're in Paris.

If your flight arrives on time at 1:00, I think it's more likely to be an hour and half or two hours before you get to the center. A lot of planes land on the tarmac and bus passengers to the terminal, then you have to go through immigration and get your luggage ... then you're good to go.

eliza~ Everyone's different with a long flight and time change. For me, I like to check in to my hotel, have a glass of wine, take a nap for a couple hours, then get up and walk around the immediate neighborhood until dinnertime. Have a nice meal. Then try to go to bed at a normal time (on local time).

Eliza61: I'm glad that you're taking off to Paris on your solo adventure. You'll have a great time. I've already thrown in my 2 cents worth earlier in this thread.

I've been vacationing, in Paris, 1-2 times a year, almost annually since either 1975 or 1976 and love doing it solo. However, on this upcoming trip, a best, male friend of mine will meet me there. But, we'll be fine as we have the same interests. Plus, although he'll be staying with me at my rented apartment in the 6th, we'll have our separate space. He once studied in Paris and has also been back years after completing his studies. Also, he's very independent.

Too bad we'll be there at different times or else we could have possibly GTG'ed it. I'll be there before you though.

Have a great trip and I look forward to reading your trip report. Happy Travel!

I went to paris alone last summer and it was fantastic. I did what i wanted to do when i wanted to do it. Its great not having to listen to people whining and complaining about everything!! Go and have a great time!!!

i love traveling solo. Coming back from Lourdes to Paris, I shared a cab with 2 sisters who were from the phillipines, and they invited me to lunch at their hotel once we were back in Paris. One of them wanted to go sightseeing, and the other one did not. So once we had lunch, me and one of the women went out sightseeing and she was so grateful that she met me, because she did not know the metro system. It was nice to have company for part of my trip.

pdeb69- I think meeting interesting people is one of the benefits of solo travel!

In the past I have been to Paris once with my daughter and once alone. My daughter is an excellent travel companion and we had a lovely time. At the time, I found an amazing cheap deal for our flights, and hubs was not able to take off work at the necessary time frame. I did have to compromise a bit, as daughter was then only 11 years old, so the Moulin Rouge was out. Personally, I saw it as an excuse to return later, so was grateful. I waited 30 years to see Paris, something I had longed to do since I was 4 years old because my aunt had shown me pictures and told wonderful stories when she took French and went with her high school group.

I returned a year later solo because I again found an amazingly cheap flight and hubs was unable to take off work. I again enjoyed an amazing visit. For myself, I enjoy company and love my family, but I am not going to predicate all the joys in my life on having someone with me. I was raised to believe only she who can enjoy her own company is fit company to be with.

As many have mentioned, there are many ways to enjoy the company of other people while traveling, if you desire. Some that I have enjoyed were get together meet ups with groups from Fodors and other travel boards. Day tour groupings and cooking schools would give you people to eat with on occasion. Arranging to have lunch, tea, or coffee with local bloggers might also give you company in the cafes. In Paris, the American Library has all sorts of activities you might join, and the added benefit that you might meet an expat happy to regale you with all sorts of great information on local sights and activities in return for hearing a voice from home. They have their schedule on their website at http://www.americanlibraryinparis.org/ and some are completely free, others would require a very inexpensive short term membership. I attended an author's talk there on my solo trip and ended up dining with the author and a small group after.

I wish I were not on my laptop on a business trip, at home I have bookmarks that would allow me to give more exact information, but there are also several various online persons who host salons in their home where they accept email reservations and everyone gathers to nibble, drink, and chat. Sorry, I don't have a current list, but I am sure other Foderites can help or you can find them via search. There is also a Francophile group that has schools in cities in the US and also a school in Paris. They have regular gatherings at the Paris school where you pay a small fee to cover the food and can gather with travelers and expats to chat, perhaps also improving your French as well.

For myself, I loved my solo visit to Paris. I did visit the American Library, one of the salons, and had a wonderful brunch with a favorite blogger during my ten day stay. I had a great time enjoying Paris exactly to my own whims, but I do look forward to visiting again with my dear husband. Hubby enjoys a much more laid back, relaxed visit, whereas I was so enthralled with Paris I wanted to scurry and see everything, go everywhere. I think we will both be much happier with our trip this next year than we would have been had we tried to go together those first times. Besides, my desire to see Paris with the man I love gives me an excellent excuse to visit again, so aren't I the sly boots?

I really am glad I found this forum! I have been saving my money for 3 years now for a first trip to Paris. I have been hesitent about going cause I cannot find anyone to go with me. Hubby has no intention of ever getting on a plane and most of my friends would not choose Paris as a destination, but I have dreamed of going since I was a teenager. Thanks to all of you who have really made me believe that I can do it myself! I think I may take the leap and do it next year. It would be a great 47th birthday gift to myself.

Hi Lori,
Op here. I've got 16 more days to go. Soooo excited and yes I'll be there by myself for 5 days. One girlfriend is going to meet me there. The members here were awesome and I've got a lot of good information on here. I'll post a trip report.

I am really glad to find this thread too! I will be in Paris on Thursday for a week... I'm traveling on the same plane as relatives, but they are staying in the 15th and I'm in the 6th. This is my 4th trip to Paris but I still wasnt' comfortable traveling completely by myself. I think this is the best deal for my first time solo: having someone there if I need them, but not having to see them for a week if I don't want to

It's great to see a thread with so many comments saying Paris is a great city to see solo, I'm more excited now!!

eliza61,
I can't wait to read your trip report!! I have only been overseas once about 11 years ago on a work trip to England. I loved it. I think I would be fine myself, I come from a small town in Wisconsin, but have been to Chicago many times. I just worry about the language, I plan on taking a French for travelers class and hope that will be okay. Enjoy your trip! So exciting!!

I have visited Paris alone several times over the past 20 years and it has never been a problem. I am from NYC and in my late 40's so being in a large city doesn't bother me. I get to choose where to eat, what to see and do without having to consult with anyone. I have even taken day trips on the TGV as far as Rennes for a change of pace; breakfast in Paris, lunch in Rennes..then dinner back in Paris.. Do not feel inhibited in any way if you end up going alone.. You stand a good chance of meeting other tourists and friendly Parisians who can offer suggestions to guide you should the need arise.