Become a True Flâneur

Paris: On Foot: Walking & Hiking: Become a True Flâneur

The French verb flâner is loosely defined as “to wander,” somewhere between structured strolling and disinterested loafing. Parisians have it down to an art, and so should anyone who wants a unique insight into the city. It goes like this: spend a day – or at least half a day – wandering around the city without a map, simply going down any street that looks interesting. It helps if you start in a place you’re not familiar with at all. It’s really quite simple in concept, but most time-and-schedule-driven Anglo-Saxon types find it impossible to leave their exploration to fate. But it will all be worth it when you discover that little café with the most amazing cappuccino, a shady courtyard hidden from the main road, or a dusty shop where locals-in-the-know stock up on handcrafted copper pots. Even the most insignificant-seeming places hold surprises if you keep your eyes open – and don’t walk too fast! And when you’re ready to return to the familiar, use your best French and ask someone “Où est le métro, s’il vous plâit?”

BE PREPARED For those not used to walking six to eight hours a day (especially with the inevitable backpack full of necessary supplies), Paris can do a number on the feet. Anyone with an ambitious sightseeing plan should buy the most comfortable pair of walking shoes, and – most importantly – break them in before coming to Paris! Companies like Mephisto and Timberland make stylish walking shoes, and even Birkenstocks have come back into fashion in Europe (sandals are always okay, but without the socks if you’re under 75). Almost anything is preferable to those big, snow-white sneakers that scream “American tourist”! By all means bring your dress shoes, but save them (and your toes) for your night on the town.

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