How to Survive a Paris Heatwave

Paris façade in full sun in July. Buildings have zinc rooftops.

If you’ve never experienced a Paris canicule, it’s easy to underestimate it. Temperatures climb into the 90s or even over 100°F, and many apartments don’t have air conditioning. Those iconic zinc roofs in Paris that everyone loves? Beautiful until you realize you could literally fry an egg on them in the summer. Suddenly, that picturesque top-floor apartment doesn’t seem quite so picturesque.

Paris Saint-Ouen Flea Market Guide: What to Expect

Bicycle shop, art vendor, and antiques on display in the marché vernaison, one of the open-air markets at the Paris Saint-Ouen flea market

Curious about the world’s largest flea market? Vibrant and historic, the Saint-Ouen flea market has a diverse range of offerings. For some, it’s a treasure trove of vintage finds and Parisian charm. For others, it’s a crowded maze that eats up half a day. So… is it worth your time? Let’s break it down—what to expect, how to navigate it, and how to decide if this Parisian institution belongs on your itinerary.

10 Little Ways Paris Has Changed in the Past 15 Years

Two lattes in cups on saucers, side by side on a wooden table in a café in Paris with a view out the window of a rainy day

I first lived in Paris in 2009 as an undergraduate student. Since then, I’ve traveled to and stayed in the capital multiple times before calling the city my home a few years ago. It’s been interesting to see firsthand how Paris has evolved over time. Here’s a list of some little changes that have stood out to me over the course of the last 15 years.