Paris - the city of love and lights is said to be the city of lovers... the most romantic place on earth; unless your idea of "love" is two people feeling each other up while holding a bottle of wine, each, than try to avoid Gare du Nord Station at night.
I arrived in Paris via Gare du Nord Station with no knowledge of what to expect and
nothing booked for the evening. My hotel room had a single bed with dirty sheets and a balcony door that opened to a 7 story drop to the ground. The shower was black with mold and I'm still not sure what color the towel was suppose to be. The only thing I took with me from the hotel was a bad rash from bed bug bits and pessimistic view of Paris.If you have the option to use any other station in the city, spend the extra money and avoid the disappointment and possible mugging.
Yikes. Sounds bad. I would definitely say to avoid Gare du Nord at night. There is always a lot of people traffic and or homeless people. Sorry to hear about your bad hotel situation. There are some really good hostels in the city if you still need suggestions let me know. Paris is doable, even though it's rosy reputation may be a bit exaggerated.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your response.
ReplyDeleteAfter the first night of mishaps in Paris, I really enjoyed my stay and the city. I loved all of the touristy spots like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame. The cafes were a dream and the romantic side is definitively there. Even the way the French speak is so beautiful, as long as you are talking to the right person.
I hope to return someday with my husband, but my next visit will be more planned and will allow for a bit more of a budget.
I guess the saying, "you get what you pay for" really applied to my first night in Paris.
I'll be sure to check out your blog and I appreciate the comments. :)