Stereotypes

Being that this is the the third time that I have visited Paris, I already knew what I was getting myself into when I signed up to study abroad in Paris. The people, the culture, and the place have proven to be an enchanting package of magic that has enticed me over and over. I just can't get enough.

However, when I first came to Paris 7 years ago I definitely had a lot of worry and stereotypes in my head about the French. I had heard horrid stories about the French hating America and Americans in general, that they were stinky, and that they were rude. Although, I have experienced some truth to each of these stereotypes, I have also experienced the greater part of the French culture and people. While in Paris the past 2 times, I enjoyed the wonderful weather of July in one of the most romantic cities in the world: Paris. Although the weather resembled San Diego weather of beautiful days and the warm sun, the metro and the intimate spaces between people made the city smell an awkward and horrid smell of body odor. Sweating was a big factor in this smell and because I was not used to having my personal space violated like in the metro in the summer, the myth about the bad odor turned out to be true. Now having experienced Paris in the winter, I realize that body sweat is a large part of the city's odor. Sweat plus the various smells of the metro can provoke a person to try and hold their breath for a long time.

The other stereotypes was about the French people's demeanor towards Americans and towards foreigners. While it's true that Parisians are very busy, often times to say excuse me or to lend a helping hand, I have also learned that Parisians aren't true French. They are a special kind of breed of human species that are unlike anybody else. They are fashionistas who are always on the go. My first trip to Paris was surprisingly good but that had to do a lot with the fact that the whole trip was already taken cared of by a tour guide. The second time I arrived in Paris, I reserved a shuttle to take me to my residence on rue de condé because I was studying in the Institut Catholique for the month of July in 2007. I was on my own while roaming the streets of Paris, here to fend for myself. It was a growing experience that taught me the ways of the French. At first and even now, if they don't understand my French I tend to speak in Spanish because for some odd reason they love Mexicans. So while I'm here I embrace my ethnicity and use it to my advantage. I tend to notice that they will react nicer and more attentive, for example at a restaurant.

While the rudeness continues to be a part of the French culture I have come to understand it and embrace it as their way of being. It has also been countered by some great acts of thoughtfulness and helpfulness of complete strangers. Like for example when I took my luggage on the metro. A man offered to take up the stairs and up the stairs at one of my connections. I found that refreshing and it made me smile.

Every time I come to this magical place where Parisians live I am faced with all kinds of people that surprise me. I love this city with such a passion that I have come to accept that even though Parisians aren't "les vrai francais" they also possess a unique charm on top of their stereotypes.