4 minute read
Meet The Low Season Travellers
Originally hailing from the States, Jay Swanson dreamed of living in France. An initial visit to Nice failed to ignite a love affair with the country, though travelling back through Paris was the beginning of a journey that would result in a move to the French capital. Giving advice and creating content on his favourite places he discovered in the city, Jay launched the popular platform Paris in my Pocket to showcase the Paris he loves. In this interview, Jay shares how Paris in my Pocket came about, the cultural differences he faced between the US and Paris, and some of his recommendations and tips for first time or long time visitors.
Tell us about your early travels and fascination with Paris.
Jay: I never got to travel when I was a kid - unless you consider camping out of the back of the family station wagon in the nearest state park ‘travel.’ Despite being bound to the Inland Northwest of the US, I had an inexplicable desire to go to France. It led me to study French. Eventually it led me to live here. I first moved to Nice and while I don’t know what I expected, Nice wasn’t it. At the time I thought ‘Well, at least I solidified my French.’ But then I passed through Paris on my way back to the States and realised THIS was what I’d always wanted. Paris was what my heart had been yearning for. I made it my mission to move back.
What are some of the cultural and lifestyle differences you faced in Paris?
Jay: Nothing happens on a reasonable time scale in Paris, by my American ‘can-do-attitude’ standards and expectations.
You’re more likely to be told something is ‘impossible’ by any French service staff as you are to see them jump to attention at the opportunity to help you. But the slower pace of life has major benefits. It gives meals space to breathe, friends time to connect, and your stress from city life the chance to properly dissipate before it gets too far under the skin.
What is Paris in my Pocket and how did you come to start it?
Jay: When daily vlogging my life in Paris I got asked for recommendations every day. Everything from where to eat to where to stay and how to avoid the scams that were certainly lurking around every corner. Eventually I wised up and put my regular responses, and eventually so much more, into a PDF that grew into a 140 page book. That book has evolved from “Jay Swanson’s Guide to Paris” into the online, dynamic guide that exists at parisinmypocket.com today. It means I can add and remove places at will, and we have so much planned for its future.
What are some of your favourite off-the-beaten-track things to do in the city?
Jay: Get to Canal Saint Martin while you’re in Paris. It’s become a highway to delicious food and makes for a fantastic stroll in any season. With the little bridges crossing every hundred metres, boats passing through locks, and locals drinking along its banks, you can’t go wrong. And as you’ll be coming in colder weather (if you’re seeking the true low season) then sneak into some warmth at the Atelier des Lumieres for an hour long immersive art experience. Just get your tickets online (and at least a few hours in advance).
Where are some of your favourite non-touristy places to eat and drink?
Jay: If you’re craving French classics, then I’d head to Brasserie Dubillot on Rue Saint Denis. The street itself is famous as the former backbone of prostitution in the city and still has some signs of that history, which makes it a fun if ridiculous stroll, but it’s also loaded with great restaurants I’d recommend in a heartbeat. Including Petit Bao - a Chinese delight at the southern end of the same street.
Do you have any tips or tricks for first-time visitors to the city?
Jay: It sounds obvious but you’d be surprised how often this is overlooked: Always say “Bonjour” when entering an establishment. It announces your presence but, more importantly, fulfills a French ritual that outsiders are mostly unaware exists. You’re stepping into the extension of someone’s home, and it’s considered polite to start with a “Bonjour.” Keep that alongside a few phrases to try in French and you’ll quickly see an improvement in your interactions across the board.
