I have to admit that Paris was rather overrated for me and not because of the residents' poor social skills. I just didn't find it all that pretty. This exchange between me and my cousin kind of says it all:

(We're at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, our first trip to Europe)

Her: I thought it would be bigger...

Me: For whatever reason, I thought it would be black...

Me: You feel like walking all the way up?

Her: Not really. Let's just take a picture in front and to prove we actually here.

All the hype and it was a bit of letdown when we finally saw it.

Now for the remark about seeing only monkeys in the Costa Rican rainforest, I have to wonder if this traveler even knew of a handful of things that he/she could look for or even know where to find it. I recently came back from a trip to Manuel Antonio Park. We made the very wise choice of hiring a guide to show us where to find the wildlife and believe me, we would have never known that these animals were there if it hadn't been for Mop (yes, that's his name). That man must have had bionic vision because we spent 90 minutes on a 1/2 mile stretch of path and got some many photos of birds, lizards, sloths, insects and yes, monkeys (5 different types). So just because you don't see it, doesn't mean it ain't there.

Posted By Anabel on December 9, 2008, 4:22 PM

I am going to Paris - and the Eiffel Tower is not the only thing in Paris to see. I want to visit coffee shops, eat pastries, crepes. I want to visit restaurants to taste typical Parisian fare. I want to sit at a cafe and watch people walk by. I want to see the very old buildings, I want to walk along the narrow streets. Oh, there is so much more than just the Eiffel Tower etc.. I went to Athens, I saw ugly buildings, but I also saw beautiful buildings - in fact I saw a lot of beauty. I saw the Acropolis, Parthenon etc... I was in awe. I was amazed at the stray dogs and cats in Athens. There is so much to enjoy in even 'overrated' Cities. I visited Honolulu twice, and hanging out at Waikiki beach was great! The locals are so laid back and friendly. Riding on The Bus was a terrific experience. Each time a local would chat with me, share their thoughts and just make me feel so special. Next I am going to Dubai!! How different will that experience be to my trip to England & Ireland for instance (Desert, as opposed to rain, but I loved the rain). I am looking forward to it.
Perhaps my expectations are not too high?? I don't know, but I do know that no matter where I go, I can find beauty, fun, great (or weird) food, and most of all - wonderful culture. 'Overrated'? Not for me, no sirreee....

Posted By Debi on December 10, 2008, 7:34 PM

For anyone to say Paris is overrated is appalling to me. I am in love with Paris and in my opinion no other city can touch the magic of Paris. Anyone who is not impressed with Paris did not see the Paris I know. To stand at the Eiffel Tower and not go up? You missed out on the prettiest view of the most historic and gorgeous city there is.
Paris is delectable and delicious food, from the mouth watering pastries to the rich red wine, Paris is Fashion, everything is stylish, the way people dress to the store-fronts, so beautiful! The wide promenades decorated with lights, the old courtyards and majestic palaces. The warm cafes and the people watching. The history, the language, the culture. I could go on and on. Please visit Paris and let the magic and romance take you away. Don't let one person's negative opinion sway you, you will miss out on the experience of a lifetime, Everyone should see Paris!

Posted By Jennifer Miller on December 11, 2008, 4:47 PM

I just returned from Paris on 12/1 and found it to be everything I had imagined. Besides seeing the usual sites, I stayed in Montmartre, rode the Metro, dined wonderfully in the neighborhood bistros and treated myself to one very expensive meal. Went to the post office, pharmacy, did laundry and shopped for groceries. I enjoyed Paris and Versailles and just seeing all the ethnically diverse people going about their daily business. My next trip to Paris will be for at least a month. I'm hooked.

Posted By Sheila on December 11, 2008, 7:12 PM

Paris is overrated as a toursity city but underrated as a real city. The fact is that Paris IS NOT A TOURISTY CITY. Paris is a very multicultural working city of 12 million people.
Tourism is only 3% of the city economy.
The fact is that Paris is the third most important city of the world after New York and London.
It has the 5th largest city GDP desepite being only the 25th most populated city.

If toursit would go outside touristy spots like the Louvre or Notre Dame (no Parisian here). they would see the real city.
If resident are quite rude, it is because the life is rude and fast paced, 3 hours of overcrowded transportation everyday and could maybe understand.

There is fast food, ethnic restaurant everywhere, some french restaurant.
There is many old beautiful bulding but alos many modern building and skyscrapers (La Defense)
In many part of the city white people are largely a minority.

This is the Paris that I love, no the touristy one but the real city.

Posted By Vincent on December 11, 2008, 10:12 PM

Paris overrated? Not a chance. It is a magical city and obviously the writer of such an article can't appreciate the beauty and charm .I'm also tired of hearing about the poor social skills of the people, and tired of hearing people repeat these lies....people who have never been to Paris. We have been 3 times and hope to return many more. The city is beautiful, the museums, parks and streets are all wonderful to explore. The food and wine....well what can I say? People were invariably charming and helpful. ...and speaking of social skills, I loved the people in New York too! You get what you give...don't expect the French to start speaking English to you, admire the city, join in, and you will wonder how such an article could ever have been written.

Posted By Susan Haggarty on December 12, 2008, 8:07 AM

I have been to Paris myself about 4 and a 1/2 years ago on a trip to several European countries. Yes, it may be overrated, and in some parts touristy, but I think it is extremely beautiful - especially at nighttime (just like Melbourne). It also helps to learn some words in the local language. I have also been to Germany, where most of the young Germans know English well, but some of the older ones don't. Likewise in Vietnam (when I went there in 1999). So, they respect you if you can speak in their language.

I think if you want people to be friendly to you, you also have to be friendly to them also, and look around and see what the city also offers, apart from the Eiffel Tower (which I loved, but I also loved other stuff).

cheers,
Colleen

Posted By Colleen Sedgwick on December 14, 2008, 6:04 PM

I'm sick of hearing about Parisians and their poor social skills. It's not them. It's the "ugly Americans". If anyone has poor social skills, it's the Americans...far more noticeable in the cities. We go to foreign countries demanding they speak English. I'll bet the vast majority of us don't speak French! Lighten up, and learn a little more about countries you visit not demand everything go your way under your terms. Remember you are a guest. By the way, Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Posted By Rick Tello on December 15, 2008, 12:15 PM

Paris is considered overrated by someone who chooses to live in L.A.? What's overrated is Leon Logothetis.

Posted By Roy on December 15, 2008, 12:28 PM

Paris/Prague overrated? Not from my travel experiences. I've been to Paris at least a dozen times and have never tired of it. Museums alone are worth the trip. But then the food: restaurants, bakeries, patisseries, etc. make it a gourmet delight. The author must never have gone to Pere Lachaise Cemetery to wander and find the famous, infamous and forgotten in a marvel of a necropolis. I will go again and again to find many new and exciting things.
To include Prague must be a cynical slap at the rise of tourism. There must be a reason people want to go there. It might just be the sites, food, beer, music and culture. But then, I'm not sure why the author went there because if it was for any of the above, Prague would not be included.

Posted By Jim Bartok on December 15, 2008, 12:32 PM

I have been to Paris several dozens times and always love it. Great museums, catacombs, metro. If you want to go to a region where the nationals are, for the most part, friendly, go to Belgium---just about any city, any region(Flanders or Wallonie). Brugge, Gent, Antwerpen,Brussels, Bastogne etc..
are great cities and offer a great deal.What can you say about a country known for their chocolate, beer and frites?

Posted By Barbara Calder on December 15, 2008, 12:33 PM

I just returned from my 26th trip to paris and the city has magical powers and I am under her spell. Just walking the different neighborhoods and buying at the outdoor markets olives,cheese and wine and sitting in a little park watching the world go by is the most relaxing and rejuvenating thing I can think of. I also visited Prague germany, austria and budapest on the trip as I drifted down the Danube but the best was Paris.

Posted By Nancy on December 15, 2008, 12:38 PM

I don't mind the author's opinion of Paris. I think people tend to project their own prejudices when visiting any place. However, I'm seriously concerned that he is encouraging people to visit places that are being damaged by uncontrolled tourism of the most destructive kind. Cities can easily be visited by millions of people and will still thrive; the Gallpagos islands will not.

Posted By Kerry on December 15, 2008, 12:41 PM

Everyone seems to be getting very upset over Paris being overrated. I have to agree with a little of everything people have said. I have ventured to Paris three times now and in ways it is overrated. Paris's tourist attractions are over hyped and overpriced. However if you look harder and learn more about the city and it's surrounding areas before you go you can find some wonderful experiences. My first two trips made me almost not try a third time but the third trip made me see the local people and splendor.Just be careful of the cab drivers they will rip tourists off if they think they can. The metro was easy and cost effective.

Posted By Stephanie Shepherd on December 15, 2008, 12:41 PM

To Rick Tello:

We took a 3 week tour around the Western Mediterranean this summer and studied Italian and Spanish before we left. Apparently we were not the only Americans to do it, because everywhere we endeavored to speak the local language, local people smiled and said thank you for the effort, but we speak English. They also said that they appreciated the fact that, in recent years Americans have become very respectful about local customs and trying to speak the lingo(as opposed to some travelers from other countries).

Frankly we were surprised about the warm feelings we got from the Italian, French and Spanish people toward Americans.

Posted By Tim on December 15, 2008, 12:48 PM

Paris overrated? No way! Paris is one of those places you assume must be overrated the way everyone talks about it, then you get there & find it to be even better than you had hoped for. Cant think of another big city as beautiful as Paris. The people were VERY nice to my family & me. Maybe my experience was unique, but I was amazed at how nice the people were. The eiffel tower is even more beautiful in person.

PS - stop bashing Americans in these boards. travel industry surveys dont put us anywhere near the bottom in "ugly-ness." pretentious americans love to bash other americans, maybe they should appreciate american culture (for better or worse) just like they do for every other culture.

Posted By stuart on December 15, 2008, 12:58 PM

I agree about Prague; it's cute and all but way too touristy. I don't agree about Paris as it is a wonderful city. Two others I really like are Budapest (lots to see and do) and Amsterdam (so easy to get around and great day trips from the rail station).

Posted By Jan Ligon on December 15, 2008, 1:12 PM

I love Paris and think it's a wondeful place to visit. I've been there 4 times and not quite seen all there is to see. I just returned from France in Sept. and my sister & I rented an apartment there for a week. It was wonderful having a set place to return to and unwind with food and coffee in the morning. We also had a free use of a computer. We did take a night out and take the train to the Loire Valley and stay there and saw as much of the Chateaus as we could cram in in one day with a rented car. We both agree that the South of France is overrated. Beautiful to see once, but that's enough.

Posted By Marilyn on December 15, 2008, 1:17 PM

A city or any other locale is only "overrated" if you travel on someone else's agenda. Why would you do that? You must ask yourself: why am I going here, and what do I want out of it? If you want the Paris of the movies, stay home and watch the movies. Perfect example: The San Francisco of the movies? That's not the San Francisco I've known for over 10 years now; sure, I recognize the landmarks, but this place is tiny - you can see them all in an afternoon!
Of the 100 or more places on my to-do list, most of the "Must See"s are pretty close to the bottom. The things I need to see and do are based on my needs, and mine alone.

Posted By terryg on December 15, 2008, 1:18 PM

I went to Ireland in August 2008 when they were having the worst rains in over 20 years. We thought it was one of the best trips we've ever taken -- yes, in RAIN! The people were lovely and the scenery FABULOUS (even in the rain -- or maybe made greener because of it -- and the few times the sun came out, everything sparkled and we could see for miles with the mist lifted). We even had a tailgate picnic in the rain -- cause for much laughter. The pubs had good food and entertaining music & conversation! Get off the "beaten path" and discover idyllic spots & lovely people on your own!

Posted By M on December 15, 2008, 1:19 PM

Have been to Paris 5 times over a 50 year span...and it has changed a lot and for the better. The last trip two years ago was the best...people very friendly,gardens exquisite, everything clean, shining and beautiful...so beautiful. I didn't want to leave. I missed the French food however as Paris is now inundated with Chinese Restaurants on every corner and Asian cafeterias. Never found one of those famous large deli gourmet food halls. If you arrive on a Sunday watch out as things are closed on Sunday and Monday and hard to find a place for either purchase of food or restaurant. BUt Tuesday AM... Paris comes alive...like a curtain opening on the first act of a wonderful play ..and Paris is there in all of it beauty, everyday activity and glory for you to enjoy. There is no where else like it.

Posted By astrid on December 15, 2008, 1:21 PM

San Francisco.

Not all bad, but not the wondrous place that residents and many guidebooks would lead you to believe it is.

Posted By John on December 15, 2008, 1:23 PM

Paris is a beautiful city full of rich history. I have visited 9 or 10 times - the last time for one month with my husband and three year old in 2007. If you want to get a real feel for the city, besides the wonderful architecture, great food and culture, go a on guided walk. This inexpensive way to pass two hours and will give you a glimpse into the real history of the city that we here in America do not have. It's also a great way to meet fellow travelers and exchange tips and advice. Paris is not over-rated!

Posted By Lisa Flaherty on December 15, 2008, 1:28 PM

My wife and I were in Paris the last week of October. Definitely not over rated. We did find most waiters to be rude, and the Louvre overwhelming and really not worth the time. However, the people were friendly, the d'Orsay museum worth a couple of visits, the military museum was very educational and moving and Fat Tire walking tours educational and fun.
Eating in small local restaurants and bistro, walking the streets, visiting museum and eating in a three star Michelin restaurant, how can it be over rated. Don't listen to this guy, just go and enjoy. Buy Rick Steves guide book on Paris and you'll know where to go and what to see.

Posted By Tom Martenson on December 15, 2008, 1:30 PM

I do not agree that Paris is overrated; it's a lovely city and a joy to explore. However, I neither understand nor share the architectural tastes of President Mitterrand, who is most responsible for I.M. Pei's abomination in the Louvre courtyard, and of La Defense, the section of Paris the French strangely tried to make look like Albany.
For me, the most overrated city is Naples. London's charms certainly exist, but are somewhat obscured by the dirtiest subway.

Posted By Steve on December 15, 2008, 1:44 PM

I have traveled extensively in Europe, America, and the Caribbean and can't disagree more with the comment about Paris being overrated. While my wife and I enjoy the smaller cities, we found Paris to be romantic and wonderful. It was better than we expected. there are so many thigns to see and do there - and not all on the typical tourist itinerary. We walked all over town and enjoyed just soaking up the atmosphere and people. You get out of an experience that which you put in. We stayed in an apartment, which only added to our enjoyment. The walk back from the Eiffel Tower to our apartmetn late at night is something we will hold dear forever. We can't wait to return some day.

Posted By Mike on December 15, 2008, 1:50 PM

I have been to Paris twice and absolutely love it. I would go back any time - it is beautiful, easy to navigate the food is beyond compare and it is full of wonderful museums and interesting sights. I found the people to be very friendly and helpful.

Posted By poodle boy on December 15, 2008, 1:55 PM

For sheer misery, vacation in Los Angeles. Never will I return there unless upon pain of death! The traffic was the worst I have ever experienced EVER and I have driven all over the USA. Nothing was easy to get to, long lines, and if you are in a traffic accident there, good luck. The cops don't come unless you need an ambulance...

Posted By EASY on December 15, 2008, 2:04 PM

PARIS: Itself is still fabulous, granted its native population are snobby grunts and their physical unattractiveness detracts greatly from the city's beauty but if you can somehow manage to push their icky behavior aside, the city is still quite beautiful.
ATHENS: It's not over rated because I don't think anyone ever rated it as anything special in the first place....seriously....when all you have to brag about is a pile of rubble and a huge touristy, tee-shirt, coffee mug souviner quarter then its worthy, at the most, of only a one day stop-over.

Posted By Bill on December 15, 2008, 2:20 PM

Ok, Ok...enough about Paris...we get the point...

Posted By craig on December 15, 2008, 2:42 PM

PARIS: Have been there many times and I never tire of it. With 68 museums listed in the "Plan de PARIS par arrondissement, L Indispensable" how could anyone get bored? That pocket-sized book IS indispensable and will help anyone find things to do in Paris. It is available in any bookstore or most magazine stands. But as another person commented, Paris is a working city. Not everyone is a tourist, especially September through June. As for being snobby grunts I've never encountered that. Act polite and you will get what you need. It helps to speak French (I do) but it is certainly no more necessary in Paris or other parts of France than it is in the rest of the world.

Posted By retireandgo on December 15, 2008, 3:00 PM

Paris overrated? I think not. I have visited Paris at least 6 times over the past 20 years and every time I found it to be more enjoyable than my last previous visit. The food is to die for, but just walking the various districts is a treat by itself. Buy oneself a loaf of great bread and then take a walk along the West Bank stopping to enjoy the river views and Notre Dame will fill a lifetime with wonderful memories. Stop in a cafe or bistro and spend several hours sitting, eating and watching the Parisian life pass by is something that can't be enjoyed as well any place else. I can't wait for my next trip to Paris when I hope to rent an apartment and enjoy a district even more closely.

Posted By John T Loughney on December 15, 2008, 3:29 PM

I have very many fond memories as a teenager/young adult from living in Dubai between 1981 and 1992 when it was a small unknown, fabulous place to grow up in. It saddens me that it's become another concrete jungle with super high prices. Sheikh Rashid would be shocked that the wonderful trading port has become a ritzy, glitzy, crowded menagerie struggling to hold on to its identity.

Posted By Michele Motley on December 15, 2008, 3:34 PM

Paris overrated? A travel experience that GREATLY exceeded my (and my wife's) expectations. Went there (first time) last year the end of November for a 5 day weekend. It is a beautiful and exciting city and - such a pleasant surprise - the people were wonderful!
I don't speak the language other than BonJour and Merci and Parlez vous? and a SMILE - the people we encountered - almost without exception - couldn't have been nicer. We didn't DEMAND they speak English but, of course, most do.
We can't wait to return - maybe the temperature will be warmer and the sky less overcast.

Posted By Jim Gunther on December 15, 2008, 3:36 PM

If you want a taste of rude take your lessons in New York City, Boston, Chicago, or Los Angeles for that matter! NYC's taxi cabs would rip off their own mothers! Paris can only be overrated in the mind of the totally ignorant. The city, its culture and its people are an unending source of enrichment opportunities for everyone but the most obtuse minds.

Posted By Danielle on December 15, 2008, 4:07 PM

I think it all depends on your reason for going. I found Paris to be enjoyable, all my husband saw was a dirty city. I actually olyn ran into one rude person and gave them what they gave me...if you get my drift.

Costa Rica is more for the nature loving type or the very laid back. It rained a lot and the beaches leave a lot to be desired but I still enjoyed it. The people were great.

Cancun, now there is a place that is over rated. If you like to get drunk then you will have the best time of your life. Otherwise, it was a Huge disappointment because I could have gotten more culture in Miami. It is so commercial.

I did not like Jamaica because the people who have taken over the commerce on the island treat the Jamaicans like dirt. That made it very hard for me to enjoy the country. Like I said, it depends on what you are looking for.

Posted By T Turner on December 15, 2008, 4:16 PM

Paris over rated? Please!
The most magical romantic city in the world,bar none. My wife and I must have gone to Paris a dozen times and each time it has proved delightful.Walk the City and be charmed by its architecture, its culture, its history. Visit its museums and churches and be awed by their riches. Visit the haunts of the writers and artists that have made it the creative capital of the world.
Don't go with a chip on your shoulder and you will find that the Parisians can be as helpful and simpatico as in any city anywhere.

Posted By Gary Tomei on December 15, 2008, 4:18 PM

I have traveled to nearly 40 countries on 5 continents and can say with all sincerity that there are very few--maybe 3--that I just don't feel like I need to see again. I made a decision many years ago to travel with no expectations, so as to never be disappointed. There is always something to learn and something enjoyable to see or do. You just have to embrace your experiences for the better or the worst. Like people, every town, city or country has it's own story which becomes interesting if you become a part of it instead of remaining an "outsider". There have been many times when something hasn't gone as planned or you feel at the time that it was a horrible experience, but I find that those are just the experiences that make you remember a place and get the best laughs at for many years to come. So, embrace place like Moscow, Paris, London, Beijing, Cairo, and be glad you have such an opportunity to experience them all when many others around the world would like to, but can't. And remember, foreign countries are not the only places you can find people who are rude. I have experienced rudeness traveling in my own country, so it is not exclusive to foreigners. I find, for the most part, that you will be treated by people like you treat them. If they're rude anyway, just keep being nicer to them until you wear them down!

Posted By Debbie on December 15, 2008, 4:23 PM

It doesn't surprise me to learn that tourists who rush around Paris, checking off "highlights" on their "must see" lists, think it's overrated. Paris is about the ambiance, the pace, the beauty in the tiny details. Sipping a coffee or glass of wine at a sidewalk cafe on a leafy boulevard, strolling through one of the many gardens, frequenting the same tiny bistro every day and becoming one of the "regulars" (and being greeted and treated like one) -- that's the charm of Paris. Pretty little un-touristy corners that you discover by chance and savor for an hour or two... visiting one of the many "less known" art museums (or spending an hour visiting just a single room in the Louvre). The Eiffel Tower isn't what Paris is all about! I feel sorry for those two women who spent the time & money getting there, and then just didn't "get it". (And to all those who've been to Paris in spring, summer or early autumn -- try a winter trip! A whole new experience, and with many special charms -- not to mention less expensive, and fewer tourists. I love going in mid-December, when the Christmas lights are sparkling and everyone's in a festive mood.)

Posted By Tammy on December 15, 2008, 4:29 PM

We spent 8 days in Paris two years ago while spending a month throughout France. In Paris we stayed at a B@B in the Montparnasse area, which was ideal, as we felt part of a neighbourhood. I agree with Vincent (above) - Paris is not by necessity a "tourist" city - like Venice,for example - it is simply one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in the world and would remain so even if the tourist industry dried up.It is a perfect rendition of French culture, past and present. The French believe their culture is the greatest in the world; perhaps it is!.Also-in Paris and throughout France we had no problems with language even though we have the usual limited Canadian high-school French (50 year's ago!)-

Posted By Peter Ferguson on December 15, 2008, 6:01 PM

Leon is crazy. Prague is magnificent and the people even nicer.

Posted By Julian Freund on December 15, 2008, 6:53 PM

I went to Paris. I was disappointed, impressed, and awed. The disappointment came when the Eiffel Tower was under construction. There was also some sort of union strike, so employees at the Louvre and Palace of Versailles were on strike so I was not able to into either. I did see Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde's grave(did not put lipstick on). I did have trouble finding a hostel and hotel the second night I was there and a gentlemen working at the hotel, that was full, made a large effort to find us a place for the night. He even had his boss on the line calling other hotels!! We were two blonde hair 25year old boys with huge backpacks. I would not have expected that kind of service anywhere. Those are just a couple of experiences I had in a large city.

Posted By Trent on December 15, 2008, 7:11 PM

I found London to be incredibly overrated. I pictured it as a cross between the way it looked in Mary Poppins and 101 Dalmatians. Instead it was a less impressive New York City.

Posted By Ann Parker on December 15, 2008, 7:59 PM

Parisians rude? Paris, Texas, maybe. Our first trip to France I tripped and fell on the sidewalk in Paris, busted an ugly hole in my jeans and tore my skin. A middle-aged lady walked us to a pharmacy and explained everything. We were patched up and on our way in no time. We have returned many times and have always felt welcomed and our language skills are basic. We have found the French to be among the politest and most gracious people in the world.
If you want a city that has no manners from the airport to the shops to the hotels, may I suggest my adopted home town of Miami? Yet it is a wonderful place to visit and see.
Wherever your travels take you, lighten up. If you want the same life as at home, stay home.

Posted By Lee Kline on December 15, 2008, 8:19 PM

Funny, every time I've been in Paris I felt right at home, no sense at all of people being unfriendly or anything of the sort---maybe because I was born in and grew up in New York City where most people behave exactly like Parisians? Or is it
Parisians behaving like New Yorkers?

Posted By Irving Gershenberg on December 15, 2008, 8:43 PM

my vote for most over-rated city has to be quebec city, quebec... sure, it's architecture is gorgeous, it really does retain some 17th century aspects, but when i was there last summer, every time i bought anything- ANYTHING- w/us dollars, when they were at parity w/canadian dollars, the clerks kept a buck or 2 as a "fee"... when i complained, the response was invariably "you do it to me in your country..." , which i've never done-
having grown up on the canadian border, i've always done my best to out-polite our northern neighbors & have never excessively discounted $ can... once i was out of quebec city on my way back to new england, i spoke w/many quebecois who told me of their distaste w/q.c., all w/the same complaint- "they live off of tourists, they take advantage of everybody, it doesn't matter to them that i'm from montreal/ sherbrooke/ trois rivieres,
i never go there!"- next time i drive north, i stay in montreal...

Posted By spudmuffin on December 15, 2008, 9:23 PM

I love this provocative topic! This might have been the best dialogue I've seen in some time on this site. Some loose thoughts in no order of coherence:
1) I want to travel with Debi! She understands that you can find the best part of any city by asking the locals and riding the same transport they do. She gets it!
2) In Paris, I share Sheila's and Vincent's sentiments...get into the town, shop in the grocery stores, ride the metros, develop a relationship with the local espresso shop and boulangerie...PUT DOWN ROOTS. Stay at a neighborhood hotel, eschew the Hilton Eiffel. Develop a feel for the rhythm of the city as the locals live it, and you will fall in love...with the city...as Vincent said.
3. Dubai is depressing...artificial as Las Vegas or Atlantic City. If you've been in Congo for a month...it's perfect to go to Dubai to "feel American" for a day and meet Ex-Pats...but then you have to get out of Dodge. There is the COOLEST place in Dubai..past SkiDubai on Sheik Al Zayed Road but buried in a warehouse district, which is the biggest antique/junk market I've ever seen by a factor of 10. Ask about this place when you're there. Also, get out of Dubai and visit Abu Dhabi...or get more ambitious and drive to Muscat, Oman. Muscat is worth the trip, and so is the trip through the desert, which is an eye-opener! The border crossings alone will remind you of Mission Impossible (TV Series)!
3. Moscow: deserves the scorn. I went to school in the Soviet Union in 1989, and I just don't know this place anymore. I speak the language...have been to 50 countries...traveled to "dangerous" cities...but Moscow feels unsafe, expensive, and exploitive. You MUST go once to experience the culture and the great people...but I feel so disappointed at how Moscow has turned into Chicago of the Roaring 20's.

Posted By Michael from Minnesota on December 15, 2008, 10:05 PM

I love Paris very much it is very beautiful, but my favorite city is and always will be San Francisco, this is a place so unique that every time you visit there is always something new and wonderful to see, and the people are very friendly, there is nothing in the world like the Cable car rides taking you up and down the hills as you explore the bay view and all else there is to see, I will always love San Francisco!

Sherron from North Carolina

Posted By sherron teal on December 15, 2008, 11:10 PM

Love Paris and Prague. I think Prague is the "new" Paris. Dubai is definitely over rated. I predict it will go bust!

Posted By susanne on December 16, 2008, 12:49 AM

"... I found London to be incredibly overrated. I pictured it as a cross between the way it looked in Mary Poppins and 101 Dalmatians. Instead it was a less impressive New York City. Posted By Ann Parker"

Wow, Ann, you have to be kidding me ?! I adored London, and found New York to be just massively, massively over-rated. London drips history, has great museums that are open free-of-charge to the public, and I hate to say it, but the West-end talent beats Broadway by miles. New York was fun, but there's really not as much to do there that's any different than what I can do at home in San Francisco; the people aren't as interesting (to me) and it lacks a certain cultural depth that many of the older Cities have. As an American I'd take London over New York any day!

Posted By KB on December 16, 2008, 3:42 PM

Paris is one of the most richly textured cities in the world, beautiful, a fascinating blend of historic and totally contemporary. And that is not even touching on the culture, food, wine, art, architecture. I love France generally and adore Paris specifically. After multiple personal and professional visits, Paris and Parisians just never cease to amaze and delight. Get beyond the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre (though do go there too!) and experience this multi-cultural according to your passions and interests.. it likely will not disappoint in the slightest!

Posted By Sally Peabody on December 16, 2008, 5:34 PM

This guy is nuts, he better stay home and watch TV, don't mess with Paris again. Next time you go to Paris try jumping off the Eiffel Tower, but please use a parachute. Everybody loves paris.

Posted By Jose T on December 16, 2008, 6:17 PM

I can't believe some of the comments on the site linked in the post and some of the comments here. Canadians want tourists to pay in Canadian money, how dare they not accept American dollars? Don't they know Canada is the 51st state??!

Athens is just a pile of rubble!

The Eiffel Tower was so small!

Everyone has opinions. Feel free to disregard any or all of them and form your own by traveling and experiencing these cities for yourself and don't expect any cities to be just like home.

Posted By Jennifer on December 16, 2008, 7:03 PM

Paris can be overwhelming, but as so many have noted, her charm makes up for any faults. My husband and I have visited Paris 13 times in the past 12 years and always arrive home planning our next visit! One can only really get the feel of Paris in the neighborhood shops and cafes. We have found the people to be friendly and helpful--so helpful that we are hesitant to get out a map in public to check our next destination because one or two people always come over to "help" when they see us with a map. We have explored every corner of Paris and much of the surrounding Ile-de-France using the wonderful metro, RER, and trains. Before you go, learn a little bit about the cultural "rules" of politeness, learn a few words like bonjour, merci, pardon and when to use them and don't expect everyone to speak English! We've always felt safer in Paris late at night than in any American city, and we hope to visit many more
times if we survive the current economy!

Posted By Bev Smith on December 16, 2008, 8:43 PM

Paris is our favorite city. The city is drop dead gorgeous. If you try a few polite French words, along with being pleasant and blending in with casual attire, you will find most Parisians friendly and helpful. Getting around the city by water taxi (Batobus), or the Metro, is easy, even for a first time visitor. We like to stay in the 7th Arrondissement (SW corner near the Eiffel and Seine) and our favorite routine is to walk to the Champ De Mars park after dinner to see the the Eiffel tower at night. Our guide book is the Rick Steves' Paris guide

Posted By Jerry on December 17, 2008, 9:30 AM

Paris is our favorite city. The city is drop dead gorgeous. If you try a few polite French words, along with being pleasant and blending in with casual attire, you will find most Parisians friendly and helpful. Getting around the city by water taxi (Batobus), or the Metro, is easy, even for a first time visitor. We like to stay in the 7th Arrondissement (SW corner near the Eiffel and Seine) and our favorite routine is to walk to the Champ De Mars park after dinner to see the the Eiffel tower at night. Our guide book is the Rick Steves' Paris guide

Posted By Jerry on December 17, 2008, 10:21 AM

13 days in Paris was 12 days too many. The best way to have a good time in Paris is to go to Prague instead. On the other hand, the French are polite and friendly if you aren't an obnoxious American and French waiters are the best in the world. AS others noted, learn a few words in French. It opens the doors. Makes 'em feel superior because the French speak English a lot better than Americans speak French.

Posted By keith baker on December 17, 2008, 10:54 AM

How can any of these destinations be considered overrated? Travel is such a privilege; you have to be prepared to absorb, learn, and enjoy. Anyone who compares a travel destination to his hometown and finds it lacking should stay in his hometown. Vive le difference!

Posted By Steve on December 17, 2008, 11:06 AM

I went to Paris last summer with my family and we really enjoyed the city. The locals are not at all snobby. They are nice and friendly! The museums are overwhelming. The METRO is a lot better than NYC subways. The view from the top of the Eiffel tower is amazing. It was a pleasure just to sit down in the park and look at the Parisians and the tourists passing by. We also liked the food, most especially the pastries! Will definitely be back again soon!

Posted By Maria on December 17, 2008, 1:26 PM

Dubai? Please..never been and NEVER will. This city is trying to be 100 yrs ahead of everyone..when in fact they are 200 yrs behind when it comes to certain things....like being gay. You can still be put to death or imprisioned for something like this. What a joke!!! They can have the sand..the heat..the monye and all their backward thinking!!!

Posted By Tim Sanford on December 17, 2008, 9:54 PM

I have to chime in on the anti-Paris side. My partner and I have traveled extensively in Europe for 15+ years, and only went to Paris two years ago. My first impression was the filth - dog feces covered the sidewalks, people brought their dogs into restaurants and grocery stores, and the restaurants were unbearably smoky. We speak French, but still encountered rudeness from virtually everyone we met, particularly hotel & restaurant staff. The museums were nice, but nothing special compared to Rome, Berlin or London, and very expensive in comparison. We had an okay time, but given the amount of money we had to spend to stay in the city, the trip was really a letdown. And nothing ruins romance more than having to scrape smelly doggy do off your shoes every night in your hotel room.

Athens I liked - other than the Acropolis, there are many small museums worth visiting and it is very easy to navigate the central tourist areas on foot or by the subway. The people were also very friendly, although we spoke 0% Greek. A bit expensive, but all of Europe is these days.

Posted By Alex M on December 18, 2008, 2:29 PM

Speaking for my wife and I, our summer 2007 trip to Paris was wonderful. We had great experiences seeing the major landmarks, but also in exploring places "off the trail". We found the French people to be warm, gracious, and very helpful. We stayed in a very small, plain hotel that was rather inexpensive (~$100 USD/night). We enjoyed walking both the main avenues and the side streets. I feel sorry for those on this blog who made their first trip to this, one of the world's great cities, and came away disappointed. Perhaps they were looking for a French version of America. I think G. K. Chesterton had it right when he said, "The traveler sees what he sees; the tourist sees what he has come to see."

Posted By Steve on December 18, 2008, 4:31 PM

First off, to the other reviewer(s) who said the problem with Paris is the "ugly Americans", I can't help but wonder why you are so bitter. When I was in Paris I had already taken 2 years of French and carried a phrase book with me. While most Parisians were actually pleased to see an American attempt to use the language (something you claim none of us do) I tried very hard. However, one incident involving a duffle bag, a metro station, and the bomb squad left me not only scared but scarred by a woman who after I asked for help - IN FRENCH - called me in ENGLISH a "stupid American". So let's be honest, not all Americans behave badly overseas, not all the French are rude, but there will always be those few who ruin it for many others.

As for Prague...overrated??? What? Prague is a beautiful city, filled w/ friendly folks, and amazing theatre. For the tourist on a budget it is still relatively inexpensive to visit and money aside, offers so much culturally & historically that I recommend Prague to every person who says, "I'm going to Europe."

Posted By Debbie on December 20, 2008, 11:26 AM

I wholeheartedly disagree about the comment about Quebec City. I stayed there for a month and a half in the summer of '06 and found everyone to be incredibly warm and friendly. Of course, like the French, the citizens of QC expect you to speak the language...I was never ripped off by anyone. I find the Quebecois to be very hospitable.

Anyway, about Paris, I'm going there in a couple of weeks to visit some friends. It's going to be a blast!

Posted By Arvin on December 20, 2008, 11:31 PM

Overrated cities? How patronizing!!
I guess your writer thinks he sounds cooler if he finds fault.
Actually nothing is overrated if you approach it with an open mind and a sense of wonder and the possibilities....
Paris, Prague etc. satisfied my expectations and I some claim to travel cool since I hitchhiked across Tunesia in the 60's, studied and worked in several European counties, spent a year and a half in behind the Iron Curtain in the 70's, traveled solo to Senegal and Gambia, spent time in Tibet....

Posted By Lois on December 21, 2008, 12:26 AM

Beauty really is in the eye of the beholder. I loved reading all the comments, and people's opinions vary so much - and that is what makes this world so darn interesting! I guess I am a traveler, not a tourist. And I travel solo - which makes it that much easier to actually notice everything around me. I agree with Lois above 'Overrated cities? How patronizing!!,' and I agree with many others that actually enjoy the experience of traveling. I just love immersing myself in different cultures - I just don't have time to find many things that I dislike. It just struck me, maybe I enjoy so much, that I forget the unpleasant things! Michael from Minnesota - thank you for the compliment! I will go to Abu Dhabi as well as Dubai - good idea. Happy travels, all!

Posted By debi on December 22, 2008, 3:44 PM

Prague is at the bottom of the heap. The concept of customer service does not exist in that backward city. Sure Prague is pretty, without the scars of WWll, but that is not enough for a satisfying stay. There is still a lot of the rude service in the city. When we visited the old town hall, I said to our wonderful guide "at last, a pleasant helpful person in this city".

I have never had that feeling in la belle Paris in more than 30 visits.

Posted By lawthomas on December 22, 2008, 4:28 PM

Over-rated cities are in the personal experience of each visitor. There is ugliness and beauty in all cities. As for Paris, I think I've experienced both. Unfortunately, I got to experience the ugliness on my most recent trip this last month. Throughout the last twenty years, I've been to Paris about every four years. The first few times I went to Paris I got to see mostly beauty...in its monuments, museums, even most of the people I encountered with my limited high school french. However, this last time I saw less beauty and more ugliness...in its service without a smile or even lack of service altogether. I saw it in a waitress that would not take our order in a tea house because, I think, we weren't quick enough for her (there were six of us). I saw it in a an Air France customer agent who yelled at me "Maybe in America you do that, but not here !!!" when I politely asked about an upgrade for my parents, who had been bumped off their flight the day before due to Air France's fault. I never told her I was American, nor "how we do things in America", but I did make the mistake of speaking English. In Lourdes, we experienced bad attitudes in the hotel staff. I can't believe it was because they were overworked, it was the off-season. Until proper training is normal for this hotel, it will never improve. A van driver that took us to the airport asked me what I thought about Obama being elected. Tiptoeing carefully through this minefield of a subject I answered a simple, "We hope for good things from him". This wasn't enough for our Pakistani driver who, without any prompting, calmly told us he didn't like Americans and would not ever want to go there. I smiled and replied, " Ahhh, the freedom of choice !" (he didn't get the irony). Obviously good manners are not genetic, they must be taught. None of these situations had to "be". Good service in the hospitality industry is paramount to get return customers. Although I can't hate all of Paris for these people's bad attitudes, I can say that I have no desire to return. I feel done with this country; I've experienced its' beauty and its' ugliness. Perhaps it's the general deterioration of common courtesy or maybe, just maybe, I had just been pretty lucky up to this trip.

Posted By Liz on December 22, 2008, 5:11 PM

I do think that Paris is overrated as a tourist city, though there are some lovely things there. I disagree about Prague. There are a lot of wonderful things there and the people are wonderful. The only problem with Prague is that it becomes overrun by Americans in the summer.

Posted By sarah on December 26, 2008, 5:21 AM

A week in LONDON this October with my son and grandaughter was one of the best vacations ever. Tourist sites, theater, and very friendly and courteous people. A number gave up their seats on the underground to this Grandma.
I enjoyed PRAGUE, about 10 years ago. The mostly empty Jewish quarter was an emotionally charged and spiritual experience, and cheap and even free music was readily accessible. I remember a fascinating Celtic museum, too.
Haven't been to PARIS in years. It is a city of romance for me, because of who I was with. What's with the Eiffel Tower folks? Did you miss Notre Dame, the Louvre, Rodin's museum, Sacre Coeur, the Champs Elysees, Arche de Triomphe, the Bastille, Montmartre, Versailles, the Left Bank, the Seine,the BREAD?

NEW YORK has everything. I go back whenever I can.

Usually, if you are respectful of people (including service people) and their culture, and try to learn their rules of courtesy (ask), you'll have a good time. There are rude and nasty people everywhere in the world, and gracious and good people, too.

Posted By Dr. Joan B. Diotte on December 26, 2008, 3:31 PM

The residents poor social skills? who do you think you are???. Paris does not need people like you. Stay home ! you sound so ignorant !!

Posted By Anne Suire on December 26, 2008, 9:07 PM

The residents poor social skills? who do you think you are???. Paris does not need people like you. Stay home ! you sound so ignorant !! I appreciate the comments that other people made and I have a travel business and I take extremely good care of my guests and all the staff is bilingual. I also love the US & would do anything I can to help people.

Posted By Anne Suire on December 26, 2008, 9:21 PM

Paris is not overrated! Great city to walk around. Many museums but for me, just walking there is great.
Lots of cheap but excellent food. Get an orange card and use the metro. It goes everywhere. Sometimes the people are rude but that is just how they treat each other.
I had a series of one week meeting there and always took at least a few days (plus evenings) to play tourist. I'd love to go back.

Posted By Steve Silverman on December 27, 2008, 9:35 AM

LIke 90% of the people above, I have had some amazing visits to Paris.

I'd like to suggest that the people who listed Paris as "overrated" (and possibly those who listed the Louvre as "overwhelming") may have been wanting a trip to a tourist site, rather than a real city (as Vincent suggested above.)

I recommend a little of both when you visit a city, so you can see how people live, but also learn something about the culture and history of a place. (e.g. in Boston, it's great to see the Museum of Fine Arts, Gardner Museum, and a walking tour of Harvard University; but also drop into a couple of Irish bars and restaurants at random, don't go to the "Cheers" bar, except to buy T-shirts. Go window shopping and wandering in a few different neighborhoods, not just along the Freedom Trail.)

Here are my recommendations for Paris, that I have stumbled across during various trips:

1. if you speak French, try to find the "adult ed" walking tours of the city organized by the city (the commune) itself. A great insight into the French way of thinking and learning: no tourists at all when I was there.
2. If you are interested in contemporary art, go to the Palais de Tokyo and the Museum of the City of Paris: not heavily visited, and the Palais de Tokyo is popular with Parisians.
3. Make sure to bring good walking shoes and do as much walking as you can. Once your feet are exhausted with walking, take a bus ride across the city to rest and look out the window as you crawl through the terrible traffic. You need to find a bus with seats available, so get on near the beginning of the line, and give up your seat to an old person if they board later and are standing: the better your own manners, the better your experience of a city. The exception is for humorous wisecracks, as described below.
4. The best time to go to the Louvre is on a weekday, during the winter: you can commune all alone with the art. Don't try to see everything!! take your time with a few works that catch your eye. It is always worth a visit: if you are human, this is your cultural patrimony!
5. I think the "rudeness" is a complex issue: they speak very, very quickly and it has been a great big city for millennia, so the residents have less time for visitors than in a random town elsewhere in France. There are a lot of non-verbal cues that people in France use to communicate,too, that just go right over our heads: I've seen a lot of well-intentioned misunderstanding in Paris. Also, there are important verbal cues: you should try to show good breeding by saying madame and messieur (pardon my spelling) to people where you are a customer, or when requesting information: it's much, much more common than in the states, except perhaps for the rural south where people still say ma'am to me a lot. You may sound a little too formal, but you don't sound like a slob. This is doubly true if you are young (or look very young.) Also, some of what is taken as rudeness is a kind of pointed humor: one time a cafe worker (he may have been the owner) made fun of my politeness and French class enunciation to a regular customer standing nearby, but I knew that it was a way of inviting me to join in the joke. You will see the same kind of (fast-paced, blunt) invitation to humor if you visit Boston or New York.
5. If you take with you a really complete guide to the architecture of Paris, you will see very ancient buildings everywhere you go: when you think they may be 150 years old, they are actually 600-700 years old. It's humbling.
6. Don't worry about the Eiffel Tower: it's more wonderful as a sight that you see from elsewhere than as a viewpoint onto Paris. Still, the sparkling light show each night at 6 (in the winter, don't know about the rest of the year), is magical.
7. Stroll along some of the boutique shopping streets (little ones, NOT the Champs Elysees) Marvel at how chic the Parisian women (of all ages) can be.

Plus, do all the things the other writers have listed above. That should keep you too busy to worry about whether the place is overrated and it's just YOU who loves it.

Posted By Susan Navarre on December 29, 2008, 2:43 PM

Having visited Paris twice, I would highly recommend it. It is a very beautiful city (not to say it doesn't have it's run-down parts) but it has such a wide variety of historically beautiful things to see in and around the city. Learn a few French phrases before you go and you'd be surprised at how that helps.

Posted By Bart Mortensen on December 29, 2008, 4:14 PM

Grab a Rick Steves book on Paris and France, leave your closed mind at home, go see the city of Paris and the country of France and THEN come back to this website and leave your comments. Rest assured you'll be changing anything negative you posted here before!

Posted By Lyon Rhone-Alpes on December 30, 2008, 1:35 PM

Paris is simply magic....anyone who goes and is disappointed should probably stick with places like Dollywood and Las Vegas.

Posted By gale on December 30, 2008, 5:38 PM

No city is "overrated". It's all on what you make of your trip wherever that may be. People have to make their own good time. It's not just the sites of a city or country but the sounds,smells, people. One must really "look" and "listen" when visiting a new place. Yes, there are the tourist attractions but one must look beyond that. I find oftentimes that many Americans expect other countries to be as they are in the U.S. One just has to travel in the U.S. to see that there are different customs in our country as well. Those of us who are fortunate enough to be able to travel should be appreciative of the privilege of being able to do so.

Posted By marion m on December 31, 2008, 5:08 PM

I totally agree with Marion M above - the fault is with the man himself, not the cities. I believe that its the people who make places and if you take time to learn a few words of the local language and get to know some locals your trip will be so much more meaningful and enriching.

I also find that the people of Paris and Dubai (for instance) have some of the most impressive social skills in the world. The Parisians are courteous, gracious, and engaged, and there can be no more hospitable and generous people than those of the Emirates (of which Dubai, and also Abu Dhabi are city states). It has been my home for over 10 years and I am continually impressed by the kindness of the people. Once a friend with an Emirati, you become family - for life.

The more I travel, the more I realise having a good time, i.e. having your expectations met, when you travel, has as much to do with the people that you meet as anything. I think somebody needs to stay at home...

Posted By lara dunston on January 1, 2009, 9:00 AM

I agree that as a touristy city, Paris is overrated. I agree to that because like NYC (where I was born & raised) Paris is a living city where the people and monotone colored architecture (there's a reason why most buildings in paris are the same color) are part of its charm & annoyance.

My first trip to Paris was nice because I have lots of Parisian friends but it was also a bit weird because I went there with American expectations (i.e.: "even though I speak 5 languages speak English, please" & why are they so unfriendly?). They are NOT anti-social, they just have different cultural norms. My next trip to Paris was one of my all time favorite trips because I let go of expectations & went with the Parisian Flow

In short, you cant go to Paris thinking French fries & guided trips. All you need is an appetite, sunglasses, a French phrase book and a relaxed frame of mind

1 huge recc is a picnic on the lawn of the Eifel tower. its probably the coolest thing to do because you get to soak up the most important parts of French culture: wine, food, sounds and people, oui, bien sur!

happy travels!

Posted By jesika on January 2, 2009, 10:42 AM

my response to Jennifer:
i don't expect Canadians to NOT want to get their own $'s as payment, although $US are usually accepted simply because they're usually worth more- if you'd read my comments, you would've noticed that i stated that i grew up on the border- i could literally see Ontario from the classroom window of my elementary school... it's NOT the 51st state, that's what i LIKE about the country!
what i objected to was the sense of entitlement in quebec city- specifically quebec city, nowhere else!- when convenience store clerks arbitrarily helped themselves to my change, several times, saying they were adding an "inconvenience fee"- w/in days, $US were worth more than $CAN again, so i basically got double- & triple-dipped... & i only paid w $US because i arrived at night, w/no time to change currency. if people from Montreal agree w/me on the prevailing "vampirize the touristes" sentiment in cite' de quebec, maybe there's something to what i'm saying, & you should read the posts all the way through before you start dismantling other posters opinions...

Posted By spudmufin on January 7, 2009, 8:29 AM

New York without a doubt. Smelly and dirty with expensive hotels and poor food. Tourist spots are okay for a few photos but unlike Dubai, Paris, Barcelona, Shanghai, Beijing and many other cities I have enjoyed I will never visit New York again.
A week there was too long. A mistake I will not repeat.

Posted By Steve Castle on January 8, 2009, 6:51 AM

Overrated? There's no such thing as an overrated place; it's one's thinking that's so narrow-minded to categorize people and places within their very narrow purview. That guy from LA who 1st thought of the list? I lived in both LA and New York and I can tell you New Yorkers think LA is soooooooo overrated (and having lived in both I agree in most cases)

I've been in Paris 3 times (one time lasting 8 days) and I can tell you it's an absolutely fascinating and wonderful city, particularly if you go out of the main tourist-y areas. The Eiffel Tower as commented by that "Anabel" to be a letdown? she's a letdown to go to Paris and visit only the tower. and I wonder what does she expect from a steel tower built over 100 years ago? at that time, it was the tallest structure in the world and it held that title for over 40 years! Anabel, you're such a moron!
The best way to see these cities is to walk. During my 8-day stay in Paris, I walked through all the 20 districts (took the metro only once), discovering little streets and nooks inhabited by real people and finding how wonderful the city is - the cuisine, the culture, the diverse population, the age-old structures that were lovingly kept and maintained instead of being razed to accommodate ugly new buildings the way they do here in the US. Rude French people? There are rude people all over, and New York is so well known for it too!
You have to go beyond the tourist-y areas to discover a city, particularly its true personality and soul. And this is true whether you go to Paris or Athens or Salt Lake City or Boise, Idaho. And then you will find there's no such place as an overrated city.

Posted By Jun Camus on January 8, 2009, 2:24 PM

I agree with the commenter above about San Francisco. It seems like a perfectly nice city, but somehow with all the hype, I was expecting Shangri-La.

Posted By Erika on January 9, 2009, 3:36 PM

I am currently in Paris on business. I am from New York. I have been here for 3 weeks. It is my first time here and I can honestly say its not that cool. Its like any other city. Sure, the architecture is nice, there's alot of history, and there are actually trees, but I find that it doesnt make sense to get all giddy because you can see certain structures or locales specific to one city (by the way, the trees are a double edged sword; theres bird droppings everywhere!). Also, it's not that the french are rude per se, they are just not as accommodating as we are used to in the United States. Waitstaff would at least pretend to be nice in the US. The french people in the office seem to not even care that I am here, whereas the Lebanese are actually really friendly. I could really care less about the food and wine, I dont find it any better. All in all, I didnt really do any tourist stuff (I dont like to, at all), and when I did just kind of looked at it from a distance rather than say go up the eiffel tower or walk through the Louvre.

If you like seeing things you wouldnt normally see, sure, go to Paris. I wouldnt mind returning, but could do without it. But if you inherently think its some magical city and act like going up the Eiffel Tower is an experience you cannot miss, youre just making out to be something its not. Its just another city with its own things to do, just like any other.

Posted By Nick M on May 6, 2009, 10:21 AM

Paris, was a beautiful city, full of history, culture and good food. However, I do feel it is overrated. There are far grander, more mystical cities in the world, with citizens who appreciate that you are visiting their city. Paris is one of the most travelled destinations in the world and it shows! Whether you try to speak French (by the way, unless you speak with a good accent as well as grammar, you will be treated as such). Think of people living in your home country how you look at them with disdain as they speak English poorly. Include Paris as one of your destinations, but don't use it as your yardstick either. You'll miss out on very fascinating cities.

Posted By Andrew on July 18, 2009, 10:52 AM

I Love Paris! But, indeed, it is overrated! Every time a TV show or Commercial endeavors to appeal to ones senses of the ultimate city - it's PARIS. ADNAUSEUM! My Breakdown: Beautiful City - Black roofs and beige buildings. Rather boring after a while. At night - nice from the Eifel Tower, but where else? I'll take NY or Hong Kong at night anyday. Food: Great. But, why are there so many ITALIAN restaurants in Paris, including the Champs Elysees. Italian food in Italy is preferrable. Friendly - Why yes, on both visits I found them very nice, especially for such a large city. Sorry to disappoint many of you with that revelation.
Culture and Museums - Outstanding but once again, Italy comes to mind. Louvre's most revered piece is from Da Vinci and the Italian Painting Collection is the most impressive display at the museum? Overall Atmosphere - Wonderful. So, yes I love Paris, but is it head and shoulders over the rest, the ultimate? No. I think there should be a underrated list, and in view of the foregoing, I think I'd nominate Florence, Italy.

Posted By JK Henschel on December 20, 2009, 5:59 PM