Ask an Au Pair: Dean discovers the music scene and L’Avant Comptoir

Ask an Au Pair: Dean discovers the music scene and L’Avant Comptoir

This week, we asked Dean, a 22-year old from Chicago. He lives with his host family near Montparnasse. Here are excerpts from his responses:

What inspires you about Paris?
The music scene

What do you dislike most about living in Paris?
The prices, the absence of 24/hour diners

What is the best way to meet Parisians?
Going to bars, expos, just generally being extroverted.

How do you improve or master your French language skills?
I listen to a lot of French music. Meet a Parisian friend with whom you can practice your French in exchange for letting them practice English.

What is the best meal you’ve had in Paris?
Terrine de boudin noir at L’Avant Comptoir, magret de canard with my host family, et foie gras fait a la maison.

What is your favorite neighborhood?
Odeon, Oberkampf, Notre Dame

What is your favorite café?
L’Avant Comptoir

What is your favorite shop?
L’Avant Comptoir

What advice would you give to incoming au pairs?
Save up some money before coming over, it’s difficult to not spend money in Paris