o2bnfrance

As you can tell from my screen name, I am a Francophile. For me, spending time in Paris is a must. However, I've done most of the tourist things, and now, I'm curious about what the locals do.

Where do they go, what do they do for inexpensive entertainment? For example, I'm a recreational ice skating enthusiast and would like to join the locals at an indoor ice rink or take in a local amateur ice hockey game. I love music and would like to catch pop-rock or jazz local or international artists performing in concerts or small clubs. I would like to roller blade somewhere safe and different. Other ideas of interest are small carnivals or fairs, local plays and musicals, etc.

Do you have any other ideas or suggestions that would allow someone to mingle with the locals? Do the locals do theses things in their leisure hours? Or, would I want to mingle with the locals, and why would I not?

Thanks.

travelbuff

You might repost this on the Lounge page, and my second suggestion is to learn French.

o2bnfrance

Thanks, travelbuff. I did repost it on the Smart Travel Tips page. I didn't find the Lounge page you mentioned.

I speak French well, but I'm not fluent. This is one reason I want to try the local experience - to improve on my French.

goddesstogo

I'm probably the last person in the world who can answer your question since I've only been to France once but first of all, I'd suggest posting this on the Europe board.

Secondly, I'd suggest that you have a good long time in Paris and try to explore some of the more residential areas rather than the centre. Also, if you can read French (and I think travelbuff's suggestion is not a bad one), look in the local newspapers for neighbourhood events.

Also, have you checked websites for things like 'ice-skating rinks in Paris' or 'ice-hockey in Paris' or your other interests. You may have to search a bit but eventually you'll come across an interest group that will suit you. Essentially, approach it in the same way you would search something out in your home city.

Do you think that would work?

o2bnfrance

Thanks for the advice, goddesstogo. My first try at 'ice skating in Paris' took me to Northern Illinois and Paris, Texas. Next, I discovered that, in the winter, I can skate atop the Eiffel Tower and outside the Hotel de Ville. A short time later, I found several useful forums. But, would you believe, the most productive search for 'local ice skating in Paris' was Google Maps, showing names and locations.

This is a good start. Thanks.

goddesstogo

Well, if you end up in Paris, Ontario, skate on over to Toronto. We have plenty of ice-rinks and hockey here!

NewbE

I always thought that Parisians spend their days walking their poodles under the Eiffel Tower and sitting in cafes while dressed in blue-and-white striped sailor tops and black berets, smoking all the while. They also ride bicycles, same outfit only with a red scarf tied around the neck, and with a bunch of flowers in the wicker bicycle basket. And sometimes they carry a canvas bag with a wedge of cheese, a bottle of wine and a baguette poking picturesquely out of the top.

These were the images that popped into my head, anyway, and I quite enjoyed them! I think they came from a printed tablecloth I saw somewhere...

o2bnfrance

Goddesstogo:

Did you mention "ice hockey?" Ah-h, my passion. I play amateur hockey twice a week and would love to play a Canadian team. We have three Canadians on our team; really likeable guys, "eh."

NewbE:

That was no tablecloth. Sounds like my wallpaper.

Regardless, my next trip to France will likely be to Quebec instead. That way, I don't have to swim home if I can't afford the gas.

stumpworks73

Many Parisians spend their days sitting at a cafe table, smoking cigarettes, sipping from one cup of coffee for hours, and most important bitching and pontificating.

Others play boule in the parks.

Tennis, cycling, and walking are all popular.

The locals turn out in throngs for museum exhibitions, concerts in churches, and farm markets.

The French are active day trippers. With excellent and affordable rail service, many families will take a weekend to another part of the country for scenery, hiking, and of course the local food.

I'm sure you'll find a ice rink and have no problem filling your time without going to Disney World.