Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ron Modro, PARIS — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:17:10 GMT

As a new Parisian, recently transplanted from Los Angeles, I have to agree with this article. I love Paris, but quite frankly, it is a somewhat boring city that tries too hard to live in its past. Sin ce I have been living here (1 1/2 years), I have become somewhat disallusioned with the cultural puritanism I see all around me. Yes, Paris is a beautiful City full of history, art and architecture, but it is somehow stuck in the grandeur of its past and refuses to move into the future. With all great societies of the past, when they have refused to grow with the times, they have been destined to disappear. Will Paris become a museum of its own past? Or, will it remain a cultural asset to the world by embracing the future? I would hate to see Paris become just another ruined city of the past that will only be remembered in photos and history books.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ray Morency — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:21:21 GMT

I was stationed in Paris in 1944 and I Loved every minute of it. It would be sad to distroy the beautiful histroy of that wonderful City. I served with the 9th air force during W/W II . Please don't let them distroy the many fond memories I have. Thank You and God Bless Ray Morency USA

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jonny D, Boston, MA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:44:47 GMT

I totally agree, and I'm sure others who have been in Paris, London, New York, and Barcelona would too. Barcelona never sleeps, it's a 24 hour city, lively, grand and active, that just feels important; London has such a diverse vibe you can't help but be energized; and New York, well, it just kicks your butt and leaves you asking for more. But Paris, I was shocked, it's one of the most laid back, easy going places I've ever been. You would never suspect you were in one of the world's great capitals, just a "big small town", casual and relaxed, and best summarized with the following motto: "Those who pretend to be cool bother those of us who really are!"

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Larrisa — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:50:54 GMT

Who gives a D%$* about Paris?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Steve D. Allen, Houston, Texas — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:56:26 GMT

It is too easy to fall into much-hyped stereotypes, as Mr. Silvestre did in this article. Rude waiters and taxi drivers exist in all cities, I am sure, but I have yet to encounter one of either in Paris. I have encountered Parisians in all sorts of jobs who respond to others in the same manner in which they are treated. I find Paris to be a city of manners, and by speaking respectfully to waiters and others working with the public, I have been treated only with respect in return. On my recent trip to Paris, a local woman responded to my confusion on the train by volunteering to guide me to where I needed to be since she was going to the same place. While we were en route, she spoke about how difficult it has become to live in Paris due to high prices and other demands. But she ended with the typical Parisian shrug and said, "But at least we have good wine and good cheese."

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Avalee Cohen, San Diego, CA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:00:05 GMT

"Paris will always be Paris" -- well lets hope so. Why make Paris into another city that? It is perfect the way it is. That is why it has tens of millions of tourists every year. They are doing something right.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Michael J. Bernard, Minneapolis, MN — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:01:29 GMT

As a multi-faceted artist soon to move to NYC, it is still in my heart and blood to one day go to Paris---it is unrivled by any other city in the world, in the art and literature fields, as a place where one must make a dent to have a complete career. mB

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jennifer, TX — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:05:47 GMT

Maybe it's just because I haven't been to all the major cities in Europe, but when I visited Paris in 2005, I thought it was wonderful and beautiful. I was treated well, and enjoyed every moment there. Perhaps I would feel as the author does if I had lived there for many years. But Paris stole my heart, and I would gladly go back and visit such an incredible place.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

d.schilling grand rapids mi. — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:07:44 GMT

When France repays all its WWII debit to the USA, then I'll care about it's "lost" culture.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Chuck J. Orlando Fl. — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:16:54 GMT

Paris, France No thank-you. I lived in Germany for 3 years and every visit to France was more annoying than the previous one. France is a beautiful country but the problem is it's people. RUDE is the perfect description. A people so proud of nothing. Personally a root canal would please me more than another trip to France

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jennifer, Atlanta GA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:17:56 GMT

My family is originally from Paris, and one of the reasons Paris is my favorite city in the world is that it has held on to its glorious architecture, small cafes, and yes, rude (perhaps- justifiablity irriated) waiters. A "natural" evolution most likely means the appearance of Wal-Marts and other mega stores: exactly what makes most American cities undistiguishable.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Paul — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:26:19 GMT

Yeah...let's get Paris up to modern times. A McDonalds on this corner...a Wal-Mart on the Champs Elesys. I don't think it is such a bad idea to preserve one city out of the world to be free of the carnival atmosphere that passes for "culture" these days. After all, 70+ million tourists can't be wrong.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Vicki Hollandsworth — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:26:44 GMT

I will not travel to France, ever.... Why give American dollars to a country that cares nothing about our country? Let's spend our dollars in our wonderful country. These days our wine is better than theirs,anyway!!!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Frank, Washington DC — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:29:53 GMT

There are so many cities in Europe that offer as much as Paris, but are significantly less expensive and crowded. Paris is nice city to visit, as are twenty other cities in Europe, so why pay double on everything and deal with congestion. I have visited France four times in the last ten years and much prefered the small towns in the country compared to Paris. Paris is like many well-publicized tourist destinations, nice but doesn't live up to the hype. Anybody who lives in city with a lot tourist quickly gets tired of them, Paris is no different in that aspect. Overall I found the most of the Parisians nice and helpful. The 35 hr work week is frustrating though, going to a local cafe/bakery during my last stay I found it closed half of the time during the weekdays in the morning. Most Americans who visit Europe insist on seeing Paris or London, just amazes me how many other cities have as much to offer but are no even on their radar.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Beverly, CO — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:30:08 GMT

I must be in the minority. My husband and I visited Paris with high hopes, maybe that was the problem. We met 2 friendly, helpful people the entire time we were there. Not even our hotel staff was polite. We were treated as an inconvenience and yes, we were extremely polite. Oh well, at least we can say we got to see the Eiffel Tower,the Louvre and Notre Dame.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Kevin — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:30:14 GMT

This summer I visited Paris, living in an apartment for a week. I found the city to be better than say LA or even most recently Chicago and the Twin Cities! I encountered far fewer rude people in Paris than in those cities! I did hear people complain of high costs, but like many large cities you just have to know where to go. A recent change in Paris that I loved were the now free public toilets! I also found the streets to be much more clean of "doggies" and their droppings and even the trash that once was a part of visiting Paris--NY, Chicago and others are worse! No, I'd go back to Paris in a heartbeat. It will always have a place in my heart and soul. The only thing I wish they wouldn't do is loan out their works of art, sucks when you expect to see what should be there, and its not!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

ken Longman,Jr lincoln Nebraska — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:31:21 GMT

I went to paris many times while stationed in Germany and the USo was a lifesaver then for us GI's. Now My wife and I have been over twice and the last time took the eurostar in from england and we were sad to see so many people trying to sell beg or rip us off. AND the French waiters were snootier than befor. They all need to look at what they want again and settle on SOMEthing money or friends. The BEST deal is a opentop bus tour of the city.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jeremy — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:31:54 GMT

I've lived just outside London for two decades and travel there regularly, and I can see that its is nowhere as beautiful as Paris. But cities live thru their people, not its buildings. France has also frozen its language (from the corrupting English influence) ,it is slowly dying ,so will Paris - as all that will be left are tourists..

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ed Rapposelli, Dix Hills, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:33:14 GMT

When I was in Europe I noticed how my fellow Americans were so quick to rank and grade countries and cities. Why must we insist that everyone be like us, and all cities incorporate our values? Let the Parisians be Parisians. When in Rome.....

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Stuart Abrams, New York, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:33:57 GMT

The key is globalization. New York and London are so exciting because they are truly multinational, multicultural cities. (I don't know if this is also true of Barcelona; I liked it when I visited, but I don't know enough about it). This also makes LA exciting in a bizarre sort of way. Paris used to be an international city, but its "museumification" has also caused it to become segregated - the immigrants who recently were involved in riots live outside of the city. If the French don't come to grips with this, Paris will inevitably be nothing more than a pretty city with lots of monuments to European history, but not very relevant to today's world.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Edwards, DM — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:35:11 GMT

I have always wanted to visit Paris and I got the opportunity last summer. I found nothing exciting about Paris. Apart from the historic sites, I found Paris to be dull, lacked colour, laid back and stuck in the past.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

gary langley, Atlanta, Ga — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:35:33 GMT

It must be a slow day in the newsroom when stuff like this gets printed. Maybe Mr. Silvestre has been to paris so many times that he takes the beauty of the city for granted. I'm never sure what someone means when they say a city is open 24 hours a day. Who's awake 24 hours a day?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Patricia Gonzales, Sacramento, Ca — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:36:33 GMT

I waited a long time to visit Paris. My father was a POW during WWll. After being liberated he was in Paris. He was stationed outside of Paris again in 1956 to 1960. Unfortunately his family wasn't able to join him.So...I listened to his stories and dreamed of the day I would go. In Sept 2005 my daughter and son-in-law took my husband and me to France. We started in Nice, then on to Provence. I will never forget arriving in Paris on the train. On the taxi ride to our hotel I cried the entire way. I must have looked a mess when we arrived in the lobby of the hotel. The taxi driver was ammused.I loved every thing about Paris. We went to all the obvious tourist attractions. We loved the City Cemetery....weird, but true. It's beautiful. The people of France were so kind and friendly. Don't let anyone tell you that the French are rude. Some may be...just like any group of people.I love Paris.I wish I could have gone when I was much younger. I only hope it doesn't take me another 57 years to get back !!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Abe, Detroit MI — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:37:39 GMT

It's the yuppies vs. non-yuppies. The former want to "yuppize" Paris, the latter don't. I've read somewhere that French people are moving away from Paris to the south and southwest and the percentage of immigrants in Paris is increasing.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

CattieNess, Fresno, California — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:39:25 GMT

I am totally enamoured with Paris, love strolling the streets, and discovering new sites every time I visit. It is truly beautiful inside and out. I found it funny you would refer to rude waiters when everyone in London is rude and obnoxious, and the whole place smells like car exhaust. You don't get that in Paris. In fact these days, after a run in with the thugs who work at Heathrow, I don't even bother flying through dreary old London any more (not to mention the disgusting food)...I'll pay a little extra to not have to deal with that. J'aime Paris!!! See you next month, my beautiful adopted city.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

sarah may, Roma, Italy — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:41:25 GMT

I was just in Paris, a pilgrimage I make once a year to get out of Rome for the same problems. Rome, though capital city, lacks any kind of modern spunk. the mayor here has virtually turned his back on real romans, and focused only on the old center. Of course there is the problem of the Church having too much sway as well. I find Paris to be a breath of fresh air as a 30 year old. I really enjoy the quaint and young bars and hang outs. There is nothing like it in Rome. Sure Rome is the most fantastic and Eternal City in the world. As well, I find Parisian people to be charming. The waitors are punctual and friendly, as well I never had a bad taxi. Try Italy!! God forbid a waitor even talks to you!!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:41:40 GMT

I love Paris in the winter I love Paris in the summer I love Paris, yes I do and I always will

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Scott Albers, Great Falls, Montana — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:41:40 GMT

Several years ago the same sort of paranoia - "Paris needs to be more modern!" - led to the construction of the Tour Montparnasse. This stupid skyscraper has no business being in Paris. It represents a fear of falling behind rather than a determination to lead by example. People who think that a world capital has has to ape New York or Los Angeles are exactly the sort of people who should remain in New York and Los Angeles. They should be locked, hand and foot, to the miserable life styles which they would have Paris emulate and which have destroyed so much of what was fine in America. This leaves Paris for the rest of us, and good riddance to them. Paris goes to bed at a decent hour, it cares about families and children, it spends millions on parks and art, the crime rate is exceptionally low, the sprawl of American suburbs is non-existent, the architectual scale of the buildings visa vi people is lovely, the lifestyle is casual and always interesting, etc. etc. etc. (I do think that the French should do far more in fixing up their suburbs.) There is nothing worth noticing about Los Angeles unless you consider miles of freeway worthy of note. The only thing worth noticing about New York is Manhattan, and this portion of the city demonstrates why the French have it right and why we in America have it wrong. I will never forget the moment when I watched a woman walk down a Manhattan street towards some gargantuan building. As she walked away from me and toward the building she quickly assumed the relative proportion of an ant next to he building, and the building itself took on the proportion of a roach motel. Soon an entire line of little black specks - formerly human beings - were ascending into the building on a slanted stairway. They looked for all the world like a tiny flea circus entering some sort of antisceptic metal and glass container. And so I learned: Manhattan turns lovely young ladies in to fleas entering roach motels to their death. Such a monstrosity would never happen in Paris, or even be thought possible. In Manhattan apparently it happens all the time. New York of Los Angeles a rival to Paris? Not for one single moment on the very best of days.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Seth B., Fort Lauderdale, Florida — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:43:52 GMT

New York is no longer New York, but a Disneyana, plasticized, Starbuck laden, franchise riddled money pit that has lost much of its character as economics and mass cultural imperialism overwhelms local businesses and neighborhoods. Paris has been becoming the same as every other city as a matter of course. The homogenizing and the expansion of uniformity and mediocrity, sold by marketers, bought by sheep. Where Parisian politicians fail is from their colloquial mentality that attempts to stem the tide of change by tying it to a mythical past and delusions of their own grandeur. Nothing is as constant as change, accept it. Whether Paris and other cities can control the change and find a balance between what has made these cities the places they are, and what these places are on their way to becoming, will be determined by political ego, myopic economic and development policy, and the determination of the cities denizens to take back their own destinies.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Peter, Miami, FL — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:46:49 GMT

Like many large cities, Paris has an energy all its own, but seeks to preserve its culture while blending the present, such as the Eiffel Tower, considered both an industrial marvel and an eyesore; ditto for the Pompidou museum, and then the pyramid-shaped entrance to the Louvre to accompany expansion and increased visitor traffic. This suggests adaptability, as well as continuity of culture, and perhaps of human values. Maybe the Parisians are taking their time in life to both function as a thriving city, and to also smell the roses.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Felix, Chicago, Illinois — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:47:23 GMT

Now that you bring it up, I think New York is one of the most overrated cities in the world. Its finest restaurants are not that good. It continues to trumpet itself as the center of the universe - boosterism of that sort suggests the vibe has passed. Its theater scene is drek with most of the excitement coming from imports created elsewhere. Its infrastructure is tired and lurching. It is a center of old media - media that is increasingly out of touch and irrelevent. Its hype over buzz. Paris is Paris. It is French. French values and the French optique are not in vogue right now - but France is one of the centers of the new Meditteranean cauldron of Maghrib, Arab and Christian civilization and, along with the politics and violence, it has generated a lot of good music.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Scott Ward Dayton, Ohio — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:47:56 GMT

This is to Jennifer from Atlanta. You are wrong about American cities. Maybe the suburbs are all the same, but the center cities and downtowns all have their unique personalities. I have never seen a Wal-Mart ina downtown area. Also in France you have Paris and really no other big cities.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

j.p. fentress — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:48:32 GMT

What nonsense! If one cannot find joie de vivre in Paris it speaks to their ineptitude in travel.I was there with my new bride in March. Paris and Southern France are as wonderful as ever.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Michael DiPietro, Haverhill, Ma. — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:49:42 GMT

I've been in Paris, London, Rome, Venice and some of the greatest cities in the U.S. and Canada. Paris is without a doubt the finest of them all. As far as the wait staff in Paris they are the most professional of any place I've been by far. I meet people all the time who complain that the Parisians are rude because they don't speak english. Hellooooo......

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jose Peralta, Kew Gardens, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:52:11 GMT

Like every other city in the world, each of them have a unique culture,language, customs,history,etc. Although I do agree most of the things said in this article about Paris as soon to become more of a museum than embracing the future of yet things to come, I however prefer Paris to remain what it is today - filled with love, glamour,peace (isn't that we we are looking for), beauty,etc. Let's not forget that the French have style in most aspects of life from food to clothing to material things like arts, architectural designs, music,etc. Funny how everybody looks for the exact opposite of what they want in life...If you lived in busy cities like New York City, Barcelona, Madrid, Syngapore, Tokyo, where the marketplace is saturated with stores,movie theaters, transportation, jammed packed with thousands of people 24/7, you would rather go to peaceful and quiet places where you can finally breath, relax, and admire nature, beauty around you and savor the food without being rushed, to me that's a dream come true. So, Paris should be credited for not only being a glomorous and spectacle city amongst the biggest ones forementioned, but also for preserving its past (culture,language,the arts, music,architerural designs,cuisine,liquors,etc) after years of wars and revolution from their long history...

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Piotr — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:52:30 GMT

It is still a pleasant city but the the true intensity, not the tourist type, moved elsewhere long time ago. I fully agree with Mr. Abrams, a ride along the periferique gives one a more complete picture of the trouble that is yet to come.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Dave Miller, Marietta, Ga. — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:56:42 GMT

The museums and monuments were interesting,but as far as exporting French culture and art from the Louvre, most of the art and sculptures in Paris with the exception of Rodin's works were stolen by their armies from their rightful owners around the world. They have made some significant advances in Science but not in the last fifty years so what is the point? Paris is exactly what it is a storehouse of lost memories in a disfunctional city! If you go to France ignore Paris and get out in the country where the true French still exist.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

DD, Seattle, Washington — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:57:09 GMT

We visited Paris the year after 9/11. People were very polite but distant, but I have found that to be very common in New York, LA, Chicago, Barcelona, London, etc. Even my hometown of Honolulu, Hawaii is like that now. I would be disappointed, however, if we were not able to experience the wonderful culture, history and art that a great city like Paris has to offer. It would be ruined by coming into the 21st century with McDonalds and Starbucks on every corner. If you want friendly people, visit the countryside. The people in Provence were wonderful, had great senses of humor and there were things to see and do there as well.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Chris O, Chicago, Illinois — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:57:40 GMT

Paris WILL always be Paris. I've decided to live in Avignon when I had the choice to go to the Sorbonne and live in Paris. I have visited Paris and France in general prior to making that decision. I disagree with the rudness factor. It is not unique to Paris. You will find that in most big cities people are pressed for time. If that comes across as rudness, then what do we call New Yorkers? Pris, and France in general, isn't about waiters. France is about art, real French bread and crepes to me. The wine is great, but compared to other wines in Europe, it is highly over rated. Try some Portugese or Romanian wine. The cheese is also great, but so is Dutch cheese. As far as French food goes, it is mostly influenced by Italian food. Caterina De Medici brought most of the famous "French" dishes, as well as the fork and the napkin to France at her wedding. Why French wine and cheese has gained so much popularity in the US is beyond me. It's equal to the enigma surrounding the fascination of US-anians with Gypsies (who, by the way, originate in India). Florence, Italy, still remains my favorite when it comes to art and food however. I find Parisians tend to be polite and reserved. The younger generation tends to have a more sarcastic sense of humor. Remeber, that Jean Paul Sartre and Simone De Beauvoir used the formal "vous" in their letters to one another even though they had a relationshiop and were life long frineds. However, I don't expect everyone to understand that. I majored in French and Italian, so I see the nuance of a language and the culture of a people in a different light. Remeber, when In Rome, do as the Romans do. You'll make friends for a life time. Regardless what the media says, everybody does NOT hate Americans. Peace!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Frank, Colorado — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 15:59:25 GMT

My first trip to Paris was with my wife and two teenage children. We never met any rude locals in spite of a transportation strike and having kids along. My wife and I later went back just for a weekend. My daugter and her husband are visiting Paris in April due to her fond memories.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lynn Holbrook, St Paul, MN — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:01:39 GMT

There is an element within that draws and repels one simultaneously to the idea of separatism based on cultural identity. The ideal is to be aware of this tension and for all God's children, and their homeland by extension, to be able to maintain their unique qualities while appreciating those of others-a new meaning of separate but equal. Appreciation does not necessarily entail wholesale assimilation. I visited Paris in May, 2006. I was in a wonderland of the new and the foreign with a refreshing pace that seemed somewhat suspended-a city that demanded nothing other than to be appreciated. While the golden arches acted as a touchstone with home, it was also oddly out of place and distracting. Why would we want Paris to be like New York, London or Barcelona? Why can't Paris be Paris and why can't we be okay with that. Do we want this world to become a homogenous, banal pot of the fast-paced, the materialistic, the superficial, the entertainment-glutted and the sexually-charged?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

PeyotePipesmoker, SoCal — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:01:51 GMT

In order to SAVE the French, we should give them the U.N., so that we can give our UN building to the homeless.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Sean, Torrington CT — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:02:32 GMT

Parisians do things quickly and efficiently. If you are a slow-talker, or slow on the up-take, they will not spare your feelings in their persuit of the most efficient solution to a problem. Of course, it's a big city and a big city contains all types. I'm sure there are plenty of arrogant jerks just like anywhere. I suggest you learn some French if you are going to return. A friend of mine knows French quite well, and was amused to hear the Parisians mocking fat tourists for being so fat.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Sean, Torrington CT — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:02:32 GMT

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lynn Holom, Coeur d'Alene Idaho — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:04:55 GMT

You couldn't give me a "free" all-expense paid trip to France. After what they have done to America politically they don't deserve our tourist dollars. I won't buy anyting made in France.....period! They have stabbed us in the back several times.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lynn Holbrook, St Paul, MN — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:06:11 GMT

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Isabelle Mathews, NY, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:07:44 GMT

The very best thing about Paris is that it is so different from all the other globalized and over-commercialized international cities in the world. The other cities are running on adrenaline but Paris is fueled by inspirational sensuality that overwhelms the senses. Paris screams romance and the beauty makes you live each second a little longer. It feels like another planet and it is such a refreshing change to the rest of this world.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Patrick, Houston, Texas — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:09:13 GMT

I have visited more than 50 capitals and big cities around the world and I must say that to appreciate Paris and other cities you must have the right attitude and openess to blend and open up on cultural differences and history. Paris and other big cities have their beauty and charms, let enjoy them and not judge them. I'm sad to see so much ignorance and poor judgement. Their loss, our gain.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Kyle, Montreal, Canada — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:09:21 GMT

I don't know what people expect when they visit Paris. I was there for the first time (and definetly not the last) recently. On top of being the nicest city I have ever seen BY FAR, I can say with 100% confidence that every single person I met, from the hotel staff, waiters, cabbies and citizens were all friendly, accomodating, helpful and polite. I have to say that I'm shocked by some of the ignorant and arrogant comments on here. People like that need to get away from the Wal-Marts and Dennys and experience something other than their same old, same old. I definetly recommend Paris to anyone and everyone considering a European trip.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Tom — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:10:47 GMT

Of course we all know why the streets of Paris are lined with trees.........The Germans like to march in the shade!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Liz Beneski, Pine Lake, GA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:13:01 GMT

Why must Paris change? I think the "malling" of cities is horrendous. NYC's Times Square has simply become one big (albeit bright & exciting) billboard. The "vibe" there is pure consumerism. Paris still retains an elegance, a quiet charm, and quite frankly, a classiness that is refreshing. Sure some Parisian waiters are rude- but we have plenty of dumb & ill trained & indifferent food servers in the States. Paris survived Antionette, The Revolution, two World Wars, and it will survive this culture swing. It is true, Paris IS and always will be Paris. For those of you who dont like it, move/dont go there. That's the beauty of free choice. Everything doesnt have to be Disneyland after all!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Roxanne, Burlington, NJ — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:16:18 GMT

I adored Paris when we went there in 2002! The little bit of French I knew helped us out enormously! The French were not rude...they appreciated someone who loved their language and culture (moi!) and loved it when I even attempted to speak their language...I wasn't some ugly American who has a croissant stuck up in my derriere. I think the French are fighting the influx of Muslims from the North of Africa and are fighting (maybe to the extreme) of keeping their culture alive.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Stephanie Barbe — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:18:26 GMT

I live in a semi-rural area in the south of France ... and I can say we are independent of Paris, Toulouse is the city with "buzz" in France, the young people are flocking from all over the area to live there instead of Paris. All the tourists afraid of big city rudeness should just come on down here.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Bernie, Bayonne NJ — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:19:40 GMT

I've been to Paris 6 times in the late 1960s, and found this to be absolutely true: when I spoke only English and asked for directions or help, I got what appeared to be the cold shoulder. If I spoke French and asked for directions, I received more help than I would have gotten in America. What seems to be rudeness is simply a language problem. I haven't been there since but I imagine the food, wine, and cheeses; the museum, Churches, and history, the cafes, the Place Pigalle, the lights at night are still there. I've only had one embarrassing moment in Paris, if you like please read my blog post Dinner, Tuxedos, and the Eiffel Tower: http://plancksconstant.org/blog1/2007/02/dinner_tuxedoes_and.html

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

John, Evergreen, Colorado — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:19:54 GMT

This article is complete crap! My family and I spent the holidays in Paris - Christmas and New Years - and I could not believe how many people/tourists were there. It is the greatest city in the world and I have visited alot of the cities he mentioned. While I respect his opinion, he needs to spend more time in our major cities and then go back and stand on a bridge over the Seine and just look at the Eiffel Tower or walk down the Champ de Mar to one of the great restaurants in the 7th - not to mention the great places to go throughout Paris! I cannot disagree more with this guy!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Paul, Charlottesville VA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:20:21 GMT

A couple of years ago, I traveled with my aging father to Paris so he could revisit some of the places of the grand adventure of his life as a young GI who was among those who liberated the city in August 1944. He was delighted to see so much of the city he still remembered, and we were treated kindly by many of the French people we had opportunity to meet. At the end of our three days, I asked him what seemed different or surprised him. "Well," he said, "the prostitutes are much more attractive."

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Maria Evans, Houston, TX — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:20:44 GMT

I think any city is what you make of it. If I spent time in Paris looking to find flaws with it, I would. I've been three times in the past two years, and each time, I just had the attitude of surrendering myself to a wonderful experience and soaking up everything the city had to offer. It's been an amazing, magical experience each time. Rudeness? I can get that on this side of the pond. Dirty? No way. Cities will evolve over time with market forces and trends in immigration and tourism, but Paris will always be Paris. London and NYC may have more of an energetic vibe, but Paris has a romance and a magic all its own.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Scott Binns — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:24:29 GMT

Paris is like cotton candy...sugary rush with nothing to show afterward. It has alot in common with the famous macaroon sold along the Chems...They are both unsatisfying! The town is not warm and welcoming like Dublin or Edinburough...has nothing to offer a person whom seeks a soul. Paris is a pain in the ass for men...but, yet another opportunity to shop for women. I much prefer Lyon...a modern city with something to say...much more interesting is any small ville in the Rhone Valley...except Avignon, which also sucks!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Bryan, Cleveland, OH — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:25:03 GMT

I visited Paris in 2000, along with Dublin, London, Munich, Vienna, Warsaw, and Budapest. People define the city, and Parisians are most certainly not warm people.

The worth of Paris is solely its "objects", like architecture and art, not humans, which is indicative of a dusty antique culture that revels in yesterday (meaning the 19th century and earlier, certainly not the disastrous 20th century).

Give me Budapest, with the smiles and warmth, the genuine curiosity of a culture that welcomed tourists graciously and were anxious to test their English skills. In Dublin I shared a Guinness with locals in a pub, sharing jokes and stories. In Paris, the inhabitants shared indifference, impatience, and apathy - in my opinion; life is too short to waste another trip there!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lindsey, Littleton, CO — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:27:30 GMT

As someone who visits Paris and France regularly...if you haven't been...shut up and go. It is a great country with unbelievably great people! And the wine is fantastic!! Trying going to Provence!!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Van Smith Dallas Texas — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:29:45 GMT

The magic of Paris depends to some extent on who you are with. Having a loving spouse makes any trip better. It is true that there are some rude people in Paris, but I have found that if you make even a poor attempt to speak their language they will warm up. Having said that I still rate Paris a distance second to London.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

John Thomas — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:30:58 GMT

Paris is a beautiful city, truly one of the best in the world, and the fact that it ISN'T awake 24 hours a day is one of it's greatest appeals. On our last visit there we were able to stroll along it's beautiful avenues on the way to Mass at Notre Dame on an early Sunday morning, and we almost had the entire city to ourselves...it was breath-taking that such a huge and vibrant city could be so calm and quiet... And for the knuckle-draggers and their uneducated comments about the French or France, please stay in the U.S. you'll be doing both America and France a favour.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Sean T. McBeth, Harrisburg, PA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:32:33 GMT

What other people do in their countries doesn't really concern me, unless that "doing" involves chucking "large rocks" my way. Let Paris do whatever it wants, if it is the wrong decision they will fall on their face and hopefully learn from it. The problems come when a minority of people dictate to the rest on how to live their lives. This minority are the elitists, the people saying Paris is perfect as it is, when nothing can ever be perfect, or hope to maintain near-perfection. They are the new aristocracy making the same mistakes that led to the extermination of their class in Paris, 220 years ago. Suddenly, "off with their heads" becomes relevant again, when considering the recent riots, the ever growing Muslim immigration into France, the French Government's oppression of the Muslims (no head dress in schools? That's like saying the rest of us can't wear pants in school), and the Muslim Extremist's fondness of decapitating hostages. Seriously, what is with Parisians and their stubborness to enact change? If Parisian culture is strong, it will survive a WalMart and a public display of religious affiliation on the outskirts of the city. You people must jest, WalMart indeed. Show me ANY city that has a WalMart in the center of their cultural districts. Parisian culture will only vanish amongst a sea of corrupting English and American influences if the majority populace cares for those things more than Parisian culture itself. At that point, what right does France have to dictate their preference? We say "Live and Let Live," Paul McCartney said "Live and Let Die," and they both mean essentially the same thing. It's the way of Libertarianism, and it's just about people wanting to be left alone to do what they please. I am an artist (and a scientist, it makes for interesting weekends), though I don't care for the completely assinine and elitist attitudes of high artists, and if I lived in Paris I wouldn't want them telling me I couldn't have my "simpler" pleasures just because it wasn't up to their standards of culturalism. As it is, I don't live in Paris, so to hell with it, let them do what they want.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

chad, denver — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:32:41 GMT

Wow, if people go to visit Paris and are surprised that the people there are rude, they need to read a little more. This is to be expected and is VERY well-known. It amazes me that people still complain about this. Get over it, it's YOUR fault people are rude because you decided to go there!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Paul, Philadelphia PA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:33:03 GMT

I think there is a buzz. But its the buzz inside your soul. Paris stimulates the Romantic inside (if you've got one). If you don't, then you may be wondering what the buzz is all about.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Phil Fox, Chicago, IL — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:33:16 GMT

Banal, that is a perfect word for Paris. It is what you expect from a tourist Mecca. It would be better for people to explore parts of the world that actually provoke thought and action rather than sitting on your duff and sipping on a cafe au lait. Everyone feels that they have to visit Paris just because everyone says so. How about visiting lesser know locations that have a culture that is truly out of the ordinary; everyone knows what to expect in Paris. Let the truly unadventurous and sadistic visit that city, let the rest of us explore the rest of the world that really delivers a satisfying vacation that is more of educational and personally fulfilling experience than the banal crap that Paris delivers. I would rather go to Kabul.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

may,Jersey City, NJ — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:34:31 GMT

London and New York are driving away the middle class because of high cost of living. It's gotten so bad that even the Brookings Institution came up with a rpoert about the disappearing middle in New York. London is ranked up there as most expensive city in the world. A Texan friend of mine moved to paris in early 1990s. last year I asked her if she still liked Paris. She said that when she sees the Champs Elysee, she still gets goose bumps. There is a reason why so many tourists come to Paris:it offers something unique. The slums of Paris are no different than the slums of UK or US (also places that see riots). Just because they happened at different time than Paris, doesn't mean Paris is only city with slums. Hwoever, majority of paris slums are in outer suburbs, not in paris itself-that's where those riots were centered. it is not Paris fault that they happend, it is the fault of the French Government or at least the regional body who has jurisdiction over them not Paris. Unlike Lyon and Marseilles, paris has no intermunicipal link with its outerboroughs.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Angie, Jasper IN — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:34:58 GMT

I just returned from my second visit to Paris. I loved it just as much as I did the first time. Part of the charm is the fact that it isn't like every other city in the world. It has a charm that grabs you the minute you get there. I have yet to encounter the rudeness that everyone always mentions. In fact, some of the rudest people that I have ever met on vacation were New Yorkers. I'm thinking that if you don't like Paris don't go there.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Marilyn Gallup — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:35:42 GMT

Paris is the most beautiful city I have ever visited and I have visited many. Go to the open air market on Sunday morning and find a large group of parisians singing and dancing in the street. Paris can have faults but it is still magic.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lola, Seattle, WA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:41:19 GMT

When does "globalization" turn into simply "homogenous"? There is a Pizza Haven and a Burger King on las Ramblas in Barcelona. Does this make it more appealing to the entitlest American traveler? Perhaps Paris appears boring to many tourists because they expect to be entertained on demand, while sitting back, putting out no effort to discover, simply letting their travel guides act as remote controls dictating their time and attention. I very much agree with the person who wrote "let Paris be Paris." I've been fortunate to visit London, Paris, Barcelona, Florence, Rome, Prague, Salzburg, Athens and several of the small towns in between. I never felt they owed me anything. Simply discovering each for what it was and offered kept me busy and now rich with memories. Expectation breeds discontent.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Sam Stager, Riverside, CA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:43:53 GMT

My girlfriend and I visited Paris and London in December. We were disappointed in Paris for unexpected reasons. Actually, we never encountered rude people. They were not as friendly as the Brits but they weren't rude. We found Paris to be disorganized, somewhat dirty, and just lacking something. The buildings were lovely, The Louvre was fantastic. Why they would ban H&M from Champs Elysees is beyond me. There is already a HUGE Virgin Mega Store and a lot of other gawdy retailers on that street. There's a Starbucks IN the Louvre for crying out loud.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ray Evans, The Villages, FL — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:45:12 GMT

My wife and I have been fortunate enough to visit many of the so-called best cities in the world. While London and Paris are, indeed, beautiful and culturally stimulating, we find the people of Paris much more helpful and friendly than those in London. As for overlooked destinations, we found Prague both exciting and much less expensive than many of the highly promoted tourist destinations.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

JC, NYC, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:49:45 GMT

The other extreme from "museumification" is NYC, where money and "progress" Trump everything. The Brooklyn waterfront has been sold to developers to build luxury housing (with a bit of affordable housing thrown in). Donald Trump built (without a permit) on Manhattan's last open space on the Hudson. Enormous hotels are being built on the Lower East Side, against resident's wishes -- the skyline that millions of our ancestors saw is gone. Our mayor wants billionaire developers to build stadiums in Manhattan and Brooklyn -- essentially empty spaces that will clog the streets with traffic but bring only a few, low-paying jobs. The old Bowery is gone; the mayor saw no point in saving CBGB's, the landmark punk club, or what used to be McGurk's Suicide Hall, when huge, banal apartment buildings could be built. And landlords, when they want to jack up the rent in a building, will tear out the fantastic old moulding, floors, and fixtures in old apartments, put in drywall and plastic, and call it renovated. The city has become almost unaffordable for millions, and the artists who make it vibrant are being forced elsewhere (Philadelphia, anyone?). NYC has always been this way, but is there a point at which this city will become unlivable? Paris may be stultified, but it will always be beautiful.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Carlos Diaz , Fresno Califronis — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:50:34 GMT

I found the article to be interesting. However, for me Paris was and is the city of Dreams. When my wife and I went to visit last year it was amazing. It had always been my dream to go to Paris and let me tell you it truly fulfilled my every expectation. When I think of the Great Cities Paris is #1, London doesn't compare in my estimation and New York is fun but not even close ( and I was born in New York). Going to Paris was a life changing experience for me, so much so that my wife and I have been making life changing decisions that allow us to enjoy life more and forget about all the other stuff "that has to be done" in the end they always get done. That shift in our life is a direct result of our experience in Paris. So to me Paris is still the City of Lights, of Love and of Inspiration. My life was forever changed by Paris it's true even if it sounds HOOKEY. My hope and desire is to be able to live part of the year in France, mainly Paris and the rest of the time in the U. S. because of family. Paris still has the Jeux de Vivre it just might be in a place of transition and when it done evolving into the New Paris it will be Great than before.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Grady McFarland — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:52:41 GMT

The last time I visited Paris will be the last time I visit Paris - in additon to contending with the throngs, the rude Parisians, the inflated costs, and the Louvre closed because of a strike, my wallet was lifted at the turnstile departing the Louvre. It was not a pleasant trip, and in the future my wife and I will visit other great cities in the world that provide a much more pleasant experience, and we will not return.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ed, Austin, Texas — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:52:43 GMT

I've been to Paris 11 times since I was 17 (I'm 30, now) and everytime the city is more beautiful. In addition to that, the neighborhoods in the city-proper often have distinctive characters, similar to Manhattan. It is true, however, that Paris is culturally and architecturally conservative, at least in the sense that it controls too much what is built and done. Yet, in other areas, it's very liberal, particularly in sexual issues, to the point that Paris' mayor is openly gay (as is Berlin's), the gay scene is strong, and prostitution is clearly seen and practiced--in other words, Paris is not for the prudes and religious conservatives, and people in Paris are rarely religious. But again, in other issues, Paris and Parisians are conservative compared to other world capitals. I'm American and I don't find Parisians anymore rude than other big city dwellers. In fact, I've found many Parisians to be helpful, including state workers, and many Londoners and Madrileños...especially Madrileños and people from Barcelona, to be rude at shops. In Paris, you are usually treated rudely in shops when you as a client are rude. The other alternative is being a famous American singer or movie star--they love that. One problem that Paris does have, however, is it's slight indifference to tourists/foreigners who are not beautiful. It may be subconsciously associated with its fashion industry. Being beautiful in Paris, male or female...especially female, plus being polite but confident, can get you easy accesses to most places, and better treatement.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Nando Prudhomme, New York, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:53:54 GMT

I go to France every so often as I am married to a French woman. She never really took interest in Paris (not many French do out in the country) until I went there for the very first time with her. I actually like that "old, musuem feeling and look" of the city. I felt like I was transported back through history as I walked some of the obscured streets of Paris. The art and architecture is what continously draws me to this city. As far as rudeness goes, if you happen to be a rude American in Paris, you'll simply be given back a taste of your own medicine. One observation: I noticed that on Champs-Elysees there was a big McDonalds open. Why not an H&M?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Steven L. Rearden, Washington, DC — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:57:19 GMT

Whether Paris is not "keeping up with the times" is a matter of opinion and perspective. My wife and I visit Paris often and now spend most of our time on the Left Bank where the atmosphere is distinctly that of small villages linked together. Paris is a great city for walking and the more you walk the more you appreciate its charm, its attractions, and the people.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Eliza Anderson, Ny, Ny — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:58:37 GMT

Reasons to visit Paris: "Museumification" = preservation of architecture and institutions. French language = thank God for the L'academie Francaise...down with the vulgarization of French and English! Parisians = sophisticated and helpful with a healthy dose of character. Downside of a Paris visit: observing American tourists be rude,inflexible, and Anti-French. Simple solution: don't go to Paris (or anywhere else for that matter) if you are unwilling to experience a different culture and prefer to be educated by media stereotypes! Salut!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Dustin C — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:59:58 GMT

I've been to the 4 world cities (New York, Paris, London, Tokyo) many, many times, and honestly, Paris shouldn't be so quickly discounted. Yes, it does have a lot of old buildings, but there is a lot of modernity as well (la defense). Anyhow, the other world cities that are "evolving" are pretty much getting the same characterless glass and steel skyline created by international architectural firms. So, cheers to Paris for evolving, but keeping its own distinct character...all the tourists don't seem to mind.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Paul Wal — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:01:22 GMT

Let me put in my two cents here though I cannot afford two Euros ... Anyway, reading through the comments, it appears that there there are two elements of concern debate: The human perspective - - the people and the physical - - the buildings and the streets. Both of these combine together to create the experience, the "vibe', whether good or bad from a vistor's view point. I do believe that the architecture should be preserved and from a US perspective disliked the Dull Mart'ing with globalization. However, industry and commerce must continue ... The solution from an urban planning background is to not change the exteriors of the buildings and insist that new contruction blend in with the current architecture. New "economic drivers", i.e. the fast foods, the departments stores go into these buildings. Believe it for not, major businesses if they know there is a profit to be made in a specific location WILL adapt to the building design standards instead of using their cheap, generic designs which use garrish plastic and non-traditional building materials.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lee Quiñonez, Brooklyn, NYC — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:10:13 GMT

I'm an American who lives between Paris and NYC. I love that city as if I was born there. There is always something to do, something to see, someone to meet. I don't seem to have the bad experiences many claim to have with the "rude" French. They are not "rude" to me. This may be partially because I made the effort to learn and speak French (in addition to English and Spanish, my two native languages). I have found French people (of ANY background) to be nothing but cordial and interesting. They show interest in our culture and I show interest in theirs. It is a wonderful exchange. While Paris is a city full of history, there are a few things that stood out for me.... the erratic hours of the stores.... the beauracracy of everything.... oh, yeah... and some of those "chic" products. It seems to be about the LOOK of a product rather than its function... I can pay less for quality and function in the U.S. on certain items (maybe it's the Euro's value that gets my goat, 79 U.S. cents=1 Euro... or... the fact that our production system is vast due to the sheer size of our country, dunno). Nothing else gets to me. I keep myself in an upbeat mode whenever I travel there. I have many friends in Paris: French, African, Arabic, Turk, etc..... they are wonderful people, always friendly to me. But, I think it's because my attitude is not sucky like some folks who go there, thinking that even though they are French, they should be speaking English when spoken to in English, as if the WHOLE ENTIRE WORLD was a part of George Bush's Administration... NOT! They, in fact, DO speak English... but this is FRANCE, not the U.S. or England. It's like asking U.S. Americans to start speaking French when spoken to by a French person. That arrogance marks a lot of the people who go there from the U.S. It makes us look like cultural imperialists. Not all of us are that way. Some of us actually jive right with the people because... when in Paris, we do like the PARISIANS. They'll love you more for loving their culture , too. It's the same for any OTHER place around the world. Don't go with the attitude that you are BETTER than anyone else and you will have a WONDERFUL TIME!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Adriana McCormack, Riverside, Illinois — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:11:57 GMT

Paris will always remain a love for me. I love the city and remember fondly after spending a semester studying at the University of Strasbourg in 1988 and then traveling once a month to Paris. Paris has culture and a "je ne sais quoi." Versailles, le Musee Rodin, Musee de l'Orangerie are absolutely breathtaking. I really don't think the Louvre should be loaning so many paintings. I also never enjoyed the "Pyramid" entrance, but the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo will always be etched in my heart. Sitting at a cafe or park for 2 hours when everything closes in Paris is so relaxing. The French know how to enjoy life! French men are THE MOST romantic men on this planet. American men should take note of this! Strasbourg is a beautiful city too that many have not heard of it. The architecture of the buildings, the cathedral, and cute little shops have an Alscatian influence that makes you forget you are in France and think you are in Germany. Anyway, Paris will never lose it's flare and who cares if it's not up up 24 hours---at least the French know how to relax and have less heart attacks because of the wine they drink!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

tom clancy,new york city — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:14:38 GMT

it isnt just paris,its france..after decades of great art,there's nothing..where are the great plays,films,novels,music? france has lost relevance politically,militarily and economically..the loss of prestige for paris as a city is not cause,but a manifestation...

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Mark Dokurno, Toronto, Ontario — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:15:27 GMT

I have visited a number of cities in western Europe both small and large, with the exception of the museums Paris was disapointing. I am not sure what it was Paris just has no soul.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Danette, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:16:39 GMT

There's no other place like Paris. Why should it try to be like others? Thank god it's not joining the frenetic 24/7 go go go of other cities. Paris is the one world city I've been to most outside my home city of L.A., and I feel a certain "at home" feeling there. People aren't rude to me and never have been. Tourists on the other hand can be majorly rude no matter where they are! We all get frustrated when out of our ilk. Paris is America's favorite other city despite the kerfluffle over "french/freedom fries" and all that other silliness. As a country, we have a long and complex relationship with the French - but it's like family in my opinion.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ashlea Hilliard, Columbus, Ohio — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:17:43 GMT

I had the wonderful opportunity to study abroad this past fall. I lived and attended school in London. When my family came to see me during my fall break, we decided we HAD to go to Paris. I was hesitant, since my grandparents had gone to Paris in the mid-90s, and my grandmother was pickpocketed. However, my fears were quickly blown away when we caught sight of the Eiffel Tower, looming in the distance from our plane. I was in awe, and continued to be that way for the two days we were there. We stayed in a hostel near Moulin Rogue, and the people were fantastic. There were no rude people, they were only helpful. We were able to enjoy L'Open Tour, which gave us a view of the entire city from the top of a double decker bus. It was extremely amazing for me, a history major, to see all the things I have learned about in school. Paris is old, and has that feeling of antiquity, but that is what I liked about it. I felt like I was stepping back in time, seeing these landmarks and feeling all of the emotions tied to them.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Michael Zettler - NYC — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:19:17 GMT

You summed it up in the first paragraph - Paris (and the whole of France) Has chosen to bow out of the rough and tumble of the world and become a tourist destination - That is the mind set of tourist destinations world wide - Relax, have a good time, not much happening here. I lived there when France had some relevancy and the place was a wonderful, vibrant and exciting city. It's a shame.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

TJ Brown — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:28:41 GMT

I go to Paris at least once a year. I still love Paris and will continue to enjoy its quirks and culture. (I loved it more when the dollar was strong. For a change of pace, I go to Nice (my second favorite City.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ron, New York, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:28:52 GMT

I've been in Paris and New York is the greatest city in the world.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

David & Maryel, Folsom, Ca. — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:30:26 GMT

My wife and I travel to Europe each year. Having visited most of W. Europe,and Paris numerous times, we have found that if you behave in a civilized manner,dress appropriately, attempt to communicate in the native language, and greet people upon first contact(very important in Europe), not demand something, local people respond politely. The only time I can ever remember rudeness was at a cafe in the Loire valley by a waitress who was inundated by rude Brit and American tourists. After smiling and greeting her, she was very nice to us. It didn't hurt that our daughter spoke fluent French and exchanged sympathies. Modernizing Paris should be done, but in a way that harmonizes and compliments the storied history and culture of the world capital.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jose Lopez, Canoga Park, Ca — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:32:40 GMT

We travel to Europe from Los Angeles at least once a year and always make a point stopping in Paris. I have come to consider Paris a second home. If you think Parisians are rude, have you visited LA lately? The food, culture and architecture are first rate and the human scale of Paris is wonderful. We have always been treated courteously and that may be due to the fact that we speak some French and don't travel abroad expecting everyone to be awed by the fact that we are Americans. Can anyone tell me that a walk down Wilshire Blvd. compares in any way to a walk down the Champs Elysee? Your article's criticisms are just so much Paris Envy!!!!!!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

NYC girl — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:34:31 GMT

Change is essential for any thriving City- and balance is just as important. France has problems throughout with balance and change, why should Paris be any different. I'm even more disinterested in going to Paris now- if that was even possible. As to the rude waiters and other Parisians- just talk to Japanese tourists- many of who end up needing therapy after seeing dirty, rude Paris meanwhile they had built this city up in their minds to be something wonderful, beautiful and glamerous. I'll stick to my personal rule for a Paris day trip only and will stick to NYC anyday!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Nafi Adan, NYC, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:48:20 GMT

I don't think Paris is the most beautiful sight to see in France. For me, the Provence and the rest of the country side are a breath taking beauty. The French are rude by nature, it's their arrogance in believing in their superiority in the world finest things as much are the American in believing in being the best in the world but neither is true. If you like a laid back city with not much to offer after late hours, then go to Paris. If you want to party, make a quick run to a store in the middle of the night for anything, come to NYC. To each its own taste in life. I personnaly could never live in France. France is stuck in the past and can't seem to move in the 21 century. They love to blame USA for anything that goes wrong in the world but can't give credit to USA for the right things it does. As a foreigner living in NYC after having lived in Paris, i'll chose America over any other country in this world no matter what. The French love to blame others for their problems and that's why everyday some labor union strikes. They'll strike for a yes or a no and blame their government for everything wrong in their lives. It's increadibly frustating trying to do business with the French. They pretend to hate capitalism and yet cast aside minorities like incovenience in the job market. They hate America for having saved them from the nazi. You know when someone lends you a big sum of money when you need it the most...well, you start to resent that person because no matter how many payment you make, you always seem behind. Frankly, i'll discourage any investor to do business in France, it will be a lost of money, they refuse to progress and talk to much about nothing all the time. In the world of entertainment, the French are pratically non existent and live of American TV series, sitcoms and movies and yet, they have the nerve to criticise that too...really make up your mind France.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

kn, boston, Ma — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:52:14 GMT

I have never been to Paris, but I have been to some of the most beautiful cities and interesting cities in the world. My wife is from Saigon, Viet Nam which is a beautiful city but is more like a cross between NYC and maybe LA and lacks a true museum culture, but has the night life and beauty of those cities. I have also been to ST Pete Russia which is the Venice of the North and far more beautiful and culturally artistic than even Venice which I have been too as well. Even in St Pete they are modern there with an endless nightlife. I have also been to Oslo, Norway which is very modern with beautiful museums and an old an ancient history too. My home city of Boston I find to be very cultural, modern and with beautiful scenery and some of the best museums of the world and a great night life. It's one of the best cities in the world and knows how to blend the old with the new. So, if Paris wants to remain as Paris, that is their business, but it will also be their downfall too because romanticism can be found anywhere in the world and Paris does not have the market cornered on romance. I personally have no desire to visit, but my wife does and I will one day have to go there.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Danielle Sylvie — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:55:50 GMT

To the jingoists bashing France and calling it ungrateful for American help (and basing their entire negative opinion on certain political talking points-- it should be noted that France was one of the very first nations to show solidarity with the US after 9/11 and was one of the first nations to offer support in Afghanistan. Its position on Iraq then mirrors the American people's position on Iraq now. So you can't say that they're at odds, ungrateful, or have nothing in common with Americans. Many French, particularly if you talk to the older folks, still remember US/French solidarity in the world war with pride. Regarding rudeness: the French tend to give back to people what those people put out. If you come to a country and don't speak the language at all, if you act like a typical boorish tourist, and if you don't observe the local customs -- all of which you can look up online -- then they're going to treat you like you're treating them. It's jarring to many Americans, because they're used to people in foreign cities bending backwards to accommodate, even when people are being rude. France doesn't have to. Paris, especially, doesn't have to. Don't 'patriots' in the US always say that they're proud to be American? Don't they insist that one must 'speak the language' when coming here? Why is that okay in America, but not in France?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Helene Ly — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:57:10 GMT

Paris will not be Paris without her historical, cultural and architectural heritage. If people fail to appreciate these assets, they should move on to another parts of the world (ie. Shanghai). Does anyone remember the disastrous "modernization" attempt of Paris in the 1970's and 1980's, epitomized by the Montparnasse area (in particular, la tour Montparnasse), the 13th Arrondissement with again the Tours du 13eme, or the Georges Pompidour Museum ( entitled the refinery, which resulted in the destruction of a historical district and valuable buildings ), and the list goes on..... Do we really want this kind of Paris ?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

China Law Blog — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:08:42 GMT

Paris is so old Europe. It lacks vibrancy because France lacks vibrancy. You want vibrant, you go to HK or Shanghai. You want history, you go to Paris. I lived in France for two years and la plus ca change ....

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

RICK M — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:11:12 GMT

THIS IS POSSIBLY IN MY OPINION THE MOST BEAUTIFUL, VIBRANT, FUN CITY ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH. I AM FROM SAN FRANCISCO & LIKE NEW YORKERS CONSIDERED MY CITY THE GREATEST ON EARTH, BUT AFTER TRAVELING HERE & THERE PARIS STOLE MY HEART & MIND. I THINK THE COMMERCIALIZATION OF A CITY OF THIS MAGNITUDE, CHARM, & HISTORY SHOULD BE STOPPED. IT WAS BAD ENOUGH SEEING A FEW STARBUCKS THERE, BUT THE MCDONALDS OF THE WORLD NEED TO BE STOPPED ESPECIALLY DEFACING THE CHAMPS Elysées. AS FAR AS MODERN PARIS (LA DEFENSE) OFFERS A STARK CONTRAST TO TRADITIONAL PARIS AND IS PRETTY COOL, BUT THATS WHERE IT SHOULD STOP. ALL THE NAYSAYERS OF THIS GREAT CITY NEED TO LOOK AT IT FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE, TAKING INTO EFFECT IT GREAT CULTURAL & HISTORICAL PRESENCE IN OUR WORLD. IT IS TRULY A WONDERFUL CITY..

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

chris — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:12:08 GMT

Visited Paris twice and had fun both time. It wasn't dirty or overrun with rude people as many calim. They were there but they are there everywhere these days. However, it definately wasn't my favorite European city and wasn't even my favorite city in France.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

ShemyaSteve — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:15:56 GMT

I bet the Germans could give it some BUZ!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Raquel, Chicago, IL — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:20:54 GMT

This stands for all travellers: If you're going to leave you country to visit another one, then that is exactly what you are doing. You're visiting. Ergo, you are a guest to that country. If you don't like it, don't visit. Quite complaining. Vive la France!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Charles - New Jersey — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:22:33 GMT

I went to France last May and visited Paris, Lyon & Marseilles, I loved each city, they were all unique and vibrant in their own ways. I fell in love with Paris and am going back this May to spend 10 days just in Paris exploring the city in more depth. I think it's fine the way it is, but a little less American commercialism would be nice, one can modernize without selling out their soul. And to my fellow Americans who make ignorant comments about France, I wish you would just shut-up you're making the rest of us look bad, and we've had quite enough of that the last 6 years.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

David, NY, NY — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:26:05 GMT

The only problems in Paris from a tourist's perspective are pickpockets and no air conditioning in the subways. Otherwise the city is the most beautiful large city in the world (New York is the most exciting). And anyone who doubts Paris' economic viability should take a look at the number of world's wealthiest corporations with headquarters there.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Michael, DC — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:39:10 GMT

I lived in Paris several years ago and could never understand why there was so much hype about the place. Sure, it has the great art and museums but 'the most beautiful city' is largely an overstatement. There are more beautiful places even in France, further on in Europe - both in Western and Eastern and in other countries too. Prague, Bruxelles, Amsterdam, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Barcelona, St. Petersburg, Rome all have more interesting arcitecture than Paris and do not try to claim the status of the most beautiful place on earth. How more stuck up can you be?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Tim — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:42:49 GMT

Don't change anything...I'm heading there next week!! Paris is timeless and doesn't answer to human concerns of future vs. past.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

sekander ursani, port republic, nj — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:43:29 GMT

lovely, serene, sophisticated and friendly city

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

RTM Ray, Phoenix, Arizona — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:51:18 GMT

My wife and I are going to Paris this coming August. It is my first trip to Europe and we are very excited about the opportunity to see Paris. After reading some of these blogs, I'm a little disappointed to hear that there's a Starbucks in the Louvre, or worse, someone mentioned a Wal-Mart. Yikes! As a rule I'm not a museum-kind-of-guy. Meaning, I can't spend hour after hour staring at paintings and sculptures. But in this case, something tells me the Paris's museum's ambiance is what will intoxicate me. Therefore, obviously it's worth a look. I love ambiance, and I'm confident Paris will offer my wife and I that old-world atmosphere, ambiance and charm that comes with Paris's centuries old culture. As to the rude waiters, everyone has advised me to make a small effort to speak some French. Hmmm. That shouldn't be too hard. I can learn to say a few words. The point being, if I'm enamored with the ambiance of the place which I expect to be, I see no reason to be taken aback by someone because I'm not fluent in their language. I'll let you know if that's much ado about nothing. I just want to be blown away by Paris. What say you?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

John Marquez, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:53:54 GMT

Paris is a fabulous city for different reasons than why New York is a fabulous city. Same for Barcelona and London. European cities, of course, are steeped in rich history. But some are more eager to embrace modernism than others. France is not one of those countries. Their philosophy is simple: why become modernized when our past is so wonderful? That's evident when you walk the streets of Paris, a world-class city that's true to it's roots.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

James Davis, Cincinnati, OH — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:00:46 GMT

I have been to Paris twice and must disagree with this article that Paris is loosing Buzz. I found this City to be one of the Greatest places I have ever been. I am a world travel and have been too Tokyo, Sydney, Amsterdam, London and all sorts of US cities. I am from the USA and Paris offers something I couldn't find at any other of my travel destinations. Old world charm and class with the best food I have ever tasted. I love Paris for not selling out every street corner to Starbucks and McDonalds. London was like a flavored US city with the same corporate crap all over. Paris is a different world! The energy is something you cannot explain and I have found everyone I have met in this city to be very polite and kind if shown respect. Yes if the typical Nascar fan walked up demanding answers in there short rude American accent then you will get nothing but Rudeness back at you! Paris is great because it is a city where people actually take the time to be polite and hang on to the part which matters most. You will not find this in any other large City!!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

David E. Miró, San Juan, Puerto Rico — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:01:03 GMT

I actually felt rather unsafe in Paris when I visited in 1993. The Métro was smelly and dirty (except the Louvre stations), traffic was downright scary, and although there are a lot of charming man-made works of architecture and art (the usuals: the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d'Orsay, the Opera Garnier, the Madeleine, Notre Dame, etc.), besides that I found an overpriced city with empty and scary streets (except the museums and usual tourist trappy areas) and not much else to show. The French? Actually, they were pleasant (which may surprise some) but not very talkative. I physically got stuck on a Metro station near the Place de la Republique at 1:30 AM one Saturday night, and no one came by to help; I made it to the Etoile by jumping turnstiles, and the Champs Elysées were even scarier. Maybe that induces my answer, but I'm not visiting again unless I'm part of a decent-sized group...

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Michael Rennick, Cranston, RI — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:10:18 GMT

I visted Venice a few years back, and could not help but feel the surreal qualities of combined life and history the author alludes to above...It was beautiful and historic, but seemed dead. I was shocked when I saw locals "living" there. It seemed outrageous that anyone would live there...like living on Main Street USA in Disney or in Colonial Williamsburg. It will be interesting to see if Paris is doomed to become a Venice.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Zach, Vegas — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:12:27 GMT

...only think I can say about Paris is simply this. When you park your car... walk around ... say hi to Jim ... and head back to the car. If there is a moving van parked on the sidewalk - and you walk between the houses and the moving van... look back and make sure your car was not on the other side. Might save you half a day... oh - and Paris is a great Trip - but once you have seen it - done it - its one boring place. Compared to places like Amsterdam - where something like New Years felt like a little get together with a couple hundred thousand of your oldest friends... Paris is just dead.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Rich, Salt Lake City — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:16:01 GMT

Paris is a lovely city for strolling and for feeling history, I'd go back at any time. Parts of the city are over-commercialized; the Champs-Elysees is lined with gaudy department stores and touristy cafes, but as in most places around the world, wander off just a few blocks and you'll be able to find an authentic neighborhood and watch the locals living their daily lives. As a non-resident, I'm not qualified to judge if the city has 'lost its soul'; I'll leave that to the residents and expats. Everyplace I've lived in the past, here and abroad, has changed immeasurably over time. As someone else has said, it's the buzz that YOU feel when you are there. And those of you who hate France, stick with Disney World or someplace pretty much the same like Times Square. (Rudeness will readily come to you anywhere you go expecting it.) You'll be happier, and I'll toast to you with a glass of Bordeaux next time I'm in a cafe on the Boulevard Montparnasse.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

April C, Dana Point, CA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:16:18 GMT

After having lived in Europe for five years during the early to mid 80's, the only problem with Paris - in my opinion - is the French.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Patrick, Houston, TX — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:30:33 GMT

When I was stationed in Germany in the 1990s, I would frequently travel to Paris to visit the museums, cafes and cemetaries. I loved it. I didn't speak much French and what little I spoke was said slowly and with entirely the wrong accent. Not once did I encouter anyone that was and more rude than the typical resident of a big city. On the contrary, most were very patient and helpful. But I did get the same feeling about Paris as Mr. Silvestre. There is a bit of a "going through the motions" vibe about it even then. I found London and Amsterdam to be vibrant and accessable. I wrote it off to a language until I visited Rome this past fall. Rome had a definite buzz that overcame any language barriers. Regardless, I still love Paris. It may lack some buzz but it more than makes up for it with stately elegance and grace.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Peetr Staxen — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:30:47 GMT

A friendly reminder to D.Schilling in Grand Rapids. If it werent for the French support, The US might still be a Brittish colony. I am pretty sure the French people were greatful for the US support in the WWII and the liberation of France from the Nazi ocupation, but that is a resonable payback for the French support in the 18th century for helping the US to become independent from the Brittish crown. Let's be fair, or is is too much to request?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Anonymous — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 19:40:05 GMT

Paris is timeless. Too much so, according to Bruno Silvestre in his NBC Blog post Paris: City of Museums or Museum City?

&#8220;Over dinner, Parisian friends confirmed that they too feel the capital is gradually turning into a gigantic open-air

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Christine, SLC, UT — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:07:04 GMT

Ah, the supposedly rudeness of the French. Well, here, a few samples of the comments that I get when people hear I am from France: “Oh, I understand French people are rude”. How about this one: “I hear that French women don’t shave.” My personal favorite: “Someone told me French people smell bad”. I rest my case, if there was ever one to make. I am a French immigrant now living in Utah. I am not Parisian. I went back to France, after over a decade being gone, with my American husband and our young daughter. We visited my family in the “countryside” as many of you call it. Interestingly enough, not many Americans know that there are big cities in France other than Paris. When people hear my accent and ask where I am from they always ask if I am from Paris. Maybe the subject of another blog… The two-hour train ride to Bretagne where I had never been was amazing, the countryside beautiful. I cried a little. My daughter was in awe. She loved the smells, the stone buildings, the numerous cathedrals that she insisted we go in so she could take pictures of every stained glass window, the narrow cobble paved streets, the little cars, the people who are so different what she is used to, the clothes in the shops, meeting her cousins for the first time, my sister and her family’s little apartment where we all crammed in for a few days, the three bakeries a few doors down, every piece of food she put in her mouth, pastry or otherwise. She even loved that the beach looked different there. She loved that there were no McDonalds at every corner, no store that she recognized. We spent every second of the waking hours “playing tourists”. We walked miles and miles and took pictures of everything that moved and did not. We did the French thing, sat at cafes and watched people. We had wonderfully animated conversations with friends of friends about sport, politics, religion, art and history. My American husband was treated like a friend, even when not with me. Paris was wonderful, the museums, the history. I had been craving it more than I can say. We visited more cathedrals, more “famous” buildings, ate foods from all over the world, even French, heard dozens of different languages. My daughter begged for a few more hours at the Louvre. She could not believe the size of the paintings, how old some of them were and all the different styles of art. She was really excited to recognize a few paintings during the visit. My husband and I were able to tell her stories about others. She was amazed at the talent of the kids, some of them no older than she, sitting there after school, drawing sculptures or parts of paintings. During the nine days we were there, she asked thousands of questions or sometime stood there with eyes as big as saucers. When we finally boarded the plane at the end of our vacation, she turned to me and asked: “Mom, when are we going back?”

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

John — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:10:25 GMT

I'm a simple guy. If I went to Paris, I don't know what I would do. Eat and look at art? I can do that in New York City! I would rather go to a city that has some sort of exciting and entertaining activities for adults, like Las Vegas! And Las Vegas has it's own version of the Eiffel Tower and is much cheaper than Paris!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jan, Irvine, CA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:10:48 GMT

Show respect to others and they will respect you in return - especially when you go to visit their city. You are a guest so show some respect. I can't believe the arrogance of some Americans (not the majority, of course, but still a signifficant number) who expect Prisians or anyone else to understand and speak English?!?!?! Has anyone tried to speak german or French in LA or NY? Good luck, you will be totally helpless. Then you will think how rude of them to not understand me... that's the lesson, learn languages, try to respect your hosts and then expect them to respect you.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lenhart Cochran — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:13:09 GMT

I served in the US Army in France, north of Bordeaux at a base called Landes de Bussac, for half of 1954 and nearly all of 1955. I learned to speak fairly decent French, and I look back with fond memories of my time there. I never found the French to be particularly rude, and they were helpful when I tried to speak the language. I spent many days in Paris on several leaves, and could not wait to visit it again with my wife in 1994. Some of the same charms were evident, and some were not. Still, to walk the Champs Eylises (?) once more was a big thrill. We have been there again, in 1998. A big difference in attitudes back in the 50's was apparent between the large cities and the small ones. One weekend a buddy and I traveled to Pau, and as usual, wore our off base clothes (tie and jacket). As we walked into this nice restaurant one evening everyone burst into applause - down in that part of the country they appreciated what the Americans had done. The French may have their problems, but so do we Americans. Too bad we can't all just get along, whether red or yellow, black or white, this world would be a better place to live.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Dan B, Barrington, IL — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:23:48 GMT

I must be one of the lucky ones. I went to Paris with my wife and the people were great. We did try to use the little French we know but people rightly assumed we spoke English and when they found out we were from the United States they were just as gracious. When we traveled to Carcassonne in southern France we were equally pleased with how friendly everyone was. I do agree that the city feels a little sleepy. It is not N.Y. or Barcelona but on the other hand they are not Paris. This is a good thing. Paris is unique and its numerous museums, architecture and history are all part of the attraction for me.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

B. Tyre — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:45:56 GMT

This problem of the "museum city" can be linked to ideas about the decline of the West, or at least the dimming of its lights, as notions about a "world culture" come to the fore. Paris still seems unique -- let's hope it forever stays that way -- but maybe its current sufferings reflect a hope (vain?) to avoid "lasvegasization" as much as anything else. (It makes one wonder how American culture would deal with a similar development. Reactions to the disneyfication of Times Square come to mind.) It appears the French basically have updated and alas, even marketed a fear of identity loss that historically often was balanced by a tendency toward cultural appropriation. It amounts to another wave in the ebb and flow of France's famous cosmopolitanism, which in the past has been challenged periodically by the idea of “true France.” It’s worrying, all the same, to read of such lassitude in the birth place of the avant-garde -- but then again, that show, too, is over, and so the feeling among many that Paris lost its edge a long time ago. Our view of a Paris in decline intensifies and broadens when you consider that, in a world becoming more culturally and economically integrated every day, we may never see so much creativity and energy arise in a single city again -- predictions for New York and London also. It's clear, however, that this view of Paris is skewed from an historical perspective. There were many great cities producing great things even as Paris was enjoying yet another heyday -- and there have been so many great days for Paris! Beyond all that, and considering our rapidly changing world (not necessarily a good thing), perhaps the French should thank God that "Paris sera toujours Paris." A more serious question might be will France always be French? The answer could be tied to this long venerated concept of Parisian "light." Can Paris remain enlightened (we’ll let Vienna keep the "lights" on) even as it faces the prospect of losing sight of itself altogether?

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Geoffrey Skog - North Kingstown, RI — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 21:02:28 GMT

I just spent a week in Paris. If I never go back it would not break my heart. After having three dinners in nice restaurants that were unacceptable. Either bloddy pork or over cooked sea food I was not impressed with the French cooking. Added to that I found too many rude people that worked in shops or restaurants. We did have the individual that did offer us some help in the subway but it turned out to be an American going to school there. The art is unmatched in the museums but the rude people make it unpleasant

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Etchdi — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 21:13:32 GMT

I don't agree, as millions who come here every year and testify of its interest. What is at stake? You want a banana shape London building in the middle of the town? Is this a warrant for modernity? What is so wrong with keeping the past alive? What is wrong with Florence, Prague, Paris or Rome? Is Paris unlucky not to have been wiped out during WWII? There are a lot of wonderfully vibrant and avant-garde places here. Don't stick to the Louvre and what the guidebbooks say. Have a life of your own.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

M. Tobin — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 21:23:21 GMT

Any city is a living breathing thing. Just like a person. And Paris, because of its past, its personality,and its beauty should be like visiting with one of the most interesting people in the world. The problem with Paris is that they are so cuaght up in retelling the past that its more like a visit with your grandmother than a visit with a vibrant, outgoing friend. There is nothing wrong with a nice visit with grandma, we do it all the time and its very pleasant. But it is not exciting! I love Paris and would hate for the city to lose its pulse and heartbeat only to be checked into the old folks home. I might not always like French politics but that doesn't mean the French aren't a wonderful people who have made an invaluable contribution to human society. I hope they continue to contribute and that Paris is the hub of everything France has to offer.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

A. Bell, Harrisburg PA — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 21:29:15 GMT

Please tell me exactly WHAT the long-term value of "buzz" is. Centuries from now, will we be remembered by the greatness of our art and the depth of our humanity, or by the "buzz" we were able to generate? Why on earth does a city like Paris need a "big box" store on the Champs Elysee--those are exactly the stores that are gradually destroying every American city. Paris is surely the most beautiful city in the world, and beauty is worth saving for its own sake. Ask John Keats. And by the way, I don't know any rude French people. Every French person I have ever met has been absolutely lovely--in France, in the Caribbean, and in Canada.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Cornel — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 21:42:16 GMT

I am a tour guide who regularly leads tourist groups (mostly American and Canadians) to Paris. I have been doing this for over 30 years. I visit Paris at least 6 times a year for two to three weeks at a time. Each time I go to Paris, it is like seeing her for the first time. I am always amazed by her beauty. But, as in any large city, Paris has its share of problems. As for the cliches of rude waiters, etc., I always tell my tour groups that Parisians expect politeness from strangers. When entering a shop, for instance, it is expected to say "bonjour, messieur/madame". When leaving, a "Merci et au revoir" is not too much to ask. Americans always consider themselves to be open and friendly. These are not considered attributes in some countries. A cool reserve and a mannered approach will work wonders.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Joseph Somsan, Honolulu, Hawaii — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 22:17:40 GMT

I had lived in France and in Paris in the 1950's; and I had been back to Paris not very long ago, and I had the feeling that Paris the city I knew then is dying ...

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lisa Law, Red Bluff, California — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 01:37:22 GMT

Wow. It's very interesting to see such diverse opinions about Paris, from loving it to hating it. In particular, I was astonished by Larissa's vehement response (4th comment down the list) - so much so, I wonder why she chose to read the article in the first place. I am one of those completely enamored of Paris. I always thought I would live there (I didn't; I ended up living in London twice many years ago). But I have visited Paris and traveled throughout a few parts of France including Normandy; Cannes and St. Paul de Vence; and traveled the region from Verdun to Reims. France is a stunning country, and its people are wonderful and complex. I can say I've only had two "bad" experiences both of which occurred on our first trip, ironically one with a taxi driver and one with a waiter - the taxi driver was from either India or Pakistan, he completely ripped us off AND to add insult to injury, left us at the WRONG terminal at CDG nearly causing us to miss our plane! And the waiter story is just plain silly. But I also agree with those who mention language - if you make even a stumbling attempt to communicate in French, you will get help, assistance and pleasant conversation, even sympathy. Rude people occur everywhere (even in the US!). As much as I also love England, and I truly do, I got very tired of constantly being called a "Yank" or worse, a "Colonial" by MANY Brits who still haven't figured out they lost the war and would have lost the more recent conflicts (WW's I & II) without us. On our last visit to England, we had to endure the most rude and obnoxious comments about "Yanks" by British locals while eating dinner a ways outside of Salisbury. When in London, I rediscovered the polluted air you must breathe smelling of diesel and gas exhaust, but Paris... Paris is ---- Paris! Thank goodness there is the preservation of what's old, beautiful and good, with certain arrondisements having the gentle feel of small town neighborhoods, or the absolute grandeur of the Eiffel Tower looming over you, the smell of freshly baked croissants or pastry in a patisserie, or a serene walk along the Seine on a Sunday morning. I will never forget how I discovered my complete love of sculpture in the Louvre, standing at the bottom of the stairs and gazing up at The Winged Victory. The sight transformed me. I wish I could spend weeks in both the Louvre and the D'Orsay. Heaven forbid that Paris does any more modernizing (yes, i.e., La Defense) -look at all those horrid council flats (or concrete bunkers, if you prefer) around London. A Wal-Mart in Paris? Please no, anything but that. I'll stick to the Galleries Lafayette, thank you! We're going back to Paris this summer, taking my mother and oldest brother for the first time. I can't wait!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Sat, 24 Feb 2007 09:13:52 GMT

i am so envy of u, museum as it's, i would like to ,but no money

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Lisa McNeil, Alpharetta, Georgia — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 16:04:36 GMT

When I discovered this blog I just had to enter in a comment. I remember my trip to Paris extremely well because it was during a newsworthy time. I travelled to Paris with my mother for August 28th to September 8th 1997 when Princess Diana was killed in the tragic car accident. This tragic occurrence seems to overshadow my memories of the city yet I do remember going to the Louvre, Notre Dame, Musee D' Orsay, Giverney, and many other sights. I live north of Atlanta and have visited the High Museum of Art for all kinds of exhibits. It is a real treat to see paintings and other artworks from the Louvre in Atlanta. Because I am interested in art Paris was a city I really wanted to visit. When I think of Paris I will always remember that tragic event and the next day experience that my mother and I had during the day. I do hope to go back someday and revisit some of those sights. It is a beautiful city. I hope to say Bonjour to you again someday.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

James Arnold, Vermelles France — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 16:56:48 GMT

I have lived in France (not Paris, thank you) since 1986 and have visited Paris a number of times before and after moving here. Of the museums that I have visited in the world, I consider the Louvre to be the best. Some people will tell you who have visited this famous city that they will never go back; as some of the people living there seem to rejoice in being rude. If the Parisiens would treat people with respect--of course some do--how much more plesant would it make the visit of a tourist who spends money that helps keep the place up. In my own case from time to time, in visiting Paris, I try to overlook the ignorance of those people who are rude and out of the way.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

mimi taylor — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 17:44:27 GMT

I believe Paris is called the city of Light-no S!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Cheryl, NY — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:30:25 GMT

I think Paris SHOULD be a museum. I like observing the way French people live. Do people live better anywhere else? Everytime I visit, I learn something new about how to live well. Rude? They are only rude to people who trample all over their museum.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jo, Cape Town, South Africa — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 08:39:12 GMT

I'm moving to Paris in about 2 months time and am soooo excited about it, I can hardly wait... I wish it was tomorrow. I've been there a few times, most recently in January, and absolutely adore the place. Yes, I will miss my home town - Cape Town, South Africa - but, for the experience of living in one of the best cities in the world and being so close to the rest of Europe, I wouldn't say no to this opportunity if my life depended on it! And to all the people I know who think I'm crazy because I can't speak the language properly, the weather is shite and they think the French are rude... you know what I say? Get a life... live a little... you might just begin to like it!

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Ben Porter — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 21:29:38 GMT

The country people of France are more friendly than those of Paris, as are the country people of the US are more friendly than those of NYC. Its a lovely city frozen in time. But, as the banlieues empty out into the city, it will be overwhelmed. Demography is history.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Georgia Sugarbaker, Atlanta, Georgia — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 17:53:14 GMT

Although I'm from the American south, I lived in Switzerland for ten years, then married a Frenchman and moved to Paris before returning once again to the US. I loved Paris. There was always something to do, someplace to go. I don't find this in London and especially not in Barcelona. I love London and I love Barcelona, but they just don't have the beauty and charm and history that one finds in Paris. New York is more energetic, sure, but I love Paris' provincial qualities. They're part of what makes Paris, Paris. And to those who say the French are rude, everyone in Paris was always very polite to me, from the taxi drivers to the restaurant owners to the shop keepers and more. I also found CDG a very hospitable airport and one very easy to navigate. Paris will always be Paris and I can't wait to return, maybe even to live there.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Desmo, SG — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 19:23:39 GMT

LOL... They PRESERVE EVERYTHING. Soon, the WHOLE Paris will not have a single building that can be upgraded, torndown or rebuild. I hope they do that, so that I could visit Paris once in my life time. But then again, I am not Parisan.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

yane — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 19:46:33 GMT

It's Good.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

PJ — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 23:35:49 GMT

Paris (and France in general) cannot exist on the same level as London and New York because it does not embrace innovation and growth, and because France has not found a way to compete with the USA and UK in a global economy. It would serve France better to look to their neighbors (Belgium, Switzerland, Spain) for examples of how to find a niche and accept the status of being a less important country.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Louis V, New York, NY — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 18:48:26 GMT

Any culture (or indeed city) that does not evolve, dies. It is amazing to me how people say Paris is the most... blah, blah, blah and yet have not visited the other great world capitals. Yes, Paris is beautiful; yes, it has the best museum; yes, it has excellent cuisine, culture, literature. The point of the article is that it no longer has the energy to inspire new things or to dare young artists to dream, reach and be adventurous. In the 1920s and 30s, young artists from America and around the world flocked to Paris to feed off of this energy. That is no longer there. These same artists now go to New York, London or even Tokyo for inspiration.
Steadfastly refusing change to take place dooms Paris to stagnation and finally death as a cultural capital. Not to say that all the changes that have ocurred in New York or London are necessarily good, but at least they're changing...allowing their peoples the freedom to try new things. And for those that rant against that favourite of all buzzwords "globalization"... keep in mind that it is globalization that has allowed all of us to be more in touch with each other and will eventually lead to better understanding between the peoples of the world. You can't understand what you don't know. Globalization (not in a corporate way) is the way of the future for our world. We are in the middle of the first baby steps and of course they're going to be unstable and unsure. But the answer is not to sit down and stop moving, but rather to keep doing it until we get it right.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

David H — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 01:54:53 GMT

In my trips to Paris I always found consistently gracious, polite, warm treatment from waiters, hotel clerks, store clerks, fellow passengers in public transport. And on one trip I arrived the first day after the U.S. invaded Iraq after Chirac had refused to support the move and Americans were calling a ban on French Fries or calling them Freedom Fries. You would have thought this was the time to see the maximum rudeness of Parisians.

Yes, there must be plenty of rude people in Paris, but, I have to say, if you are a person who keeps seeing "rudeness" in Paris, and it reinforces what you were expecting of Parisians, perhaps there's something about YOUR attitude towards life and people that attracts rudeness or provokes a so-called "rude" response. Or maybe you are just a little too sensitive and can't go with the flow. But then I also have a sense of humor about people and life. Paris is absolutely sensational.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

ehab — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 15:32:09 GMT

really rude people

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Boris, Florida — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:51:46 GMT

We just came back from a trip to Paris and Boudreaux - having the best time. After living in New York for 15 years (what a loss), I can not understand why would anyone wished to turn Paris into that… We spoke no French, other than “merci” to every helpful person, and saw no evidence of rudeness or arrogance. The waiters had no problem understanding our polite gestures with smiles; besides, all restaurants had their menus in both French and English, - so much for not willing to change. What a gentle and a monumental city! - Breathe of fresh air. I genuinely wish them the best for their hospitality and hope that Paris stays Paris.

Paris: City of Museums or Museum city?

Jackie P...Virginia — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 01:09:54 GMT

I love Paris,,,,I was there this past spring and I fell in love with their culture, the history. The people were really nice to us...I'm thinking about visiting again.....