A special series of posts delivering money-saving travel tips.
- November 2009
- October 2009
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
- February 2009
- January 2009
- December 2008
- November 2008
- October 2008
- September 2008
- August 2008
- July 2008
- June 2008
- May 2008
- April 2008
- March 2008
- February 2008
- January 2008
- December 2007
- November 2007
- October 2007
- September 2007
- August 2007
- July 2007
- June 2007
- May 2007
- April 2007
Meg Zimbeck
In this photo…I'm in downtown Paris, near the Seine River, attempting not to look like a tourist.A Kansas girl at heart, Meg Zimbeck moved to France five years ago and isn't looking back. She writes a personal blog about her adventures in Paris and beyond, and has freelanced for the Wall Street Journal, BlackBook, and Gridskipper.
My biggest travel gripe is…The punctuality of European trains; I'm always running about five minutes late
The sexiest accent in the world is…A girl from Kansas when she's trying to speak French; at least that's what I tell myself in order to get through the day
My favorite travel inspiring movie is…Il Postino; the story and setting inspired a trip to the Aeolian Islands just to see for myself
Meg's Posts
November 5, 2009, 9:40 AM
What's better than free? Free in the City of Light, that's what.
What's better than free? Free in the City of Light, that's what.
Comments (1)
November 3, 2009, 1:25 PM
Once upon a time, at least according to Paris legend, it was possible to dine exceedingly well for not a lot of money.
Once upon a time, at least according to Paris legend, it was possible to dine exceedingly well for not a lot of money.
October 22, 2009, 9:01 AM
There are 400 public restrooms around town, but how do you find them? We point you to several, plus offer tips on where and how to find bathrooms.
There are 400 public restrooms around town, but how do you find them? We point you to several, plus offer tips on where and how to find bathrooms.
October 2, 2009, 10:40 AM
The 8th annual celebration of contemporary art, nuit blanche means sleepless night and—naturally enough—takes place in the wee hours of Oct. 3.
The 8th annual celebration of contemporary art, nuit blanche means sleepless night and—naturally enough—takes place in the wee hours of Oct. 3.
September 29, 2009, 10:42 AM
The Musée Picasso, which houses the most extensive collection of Picassos in the world, is now closed for renovation.
The Musée Picasso, which houses the most extensive collection of Picassos in the world, is now closed for renovation.
September 21, 2009, 10:07 AM
They have tables, waiters and menus, for sure. But in reality, French restaurants run by very different rules. Improve your experience by following our ex-pat blogger's advice.
They have tables, waiters and menus, for sure. But in reality, French restaurants run by very different rules. Improve your experience by following our ex-pat blogger's advice.
September 3, 2009, 9:42 AM
The Rentrée du Cinéma festival runs in theaters across town from September 13–16 and features tickets for only €4 ($5.75).
The Rentrée du Cinéma festival runs in theaters across town from September 13–16 and features tickets for only €4 ($5.75).
September 2, 2009, 11:39 AM
It seems that every year a fresh crop of bloggers has arrived on the electronic scene to share the ecstasies and agonies of life abroad.
It seems that every year a fresh crop of bloggers has arrived on the electronic scene to share the ecstasies and agonies of life abroad.
September 2, 2009, 9:22 AM
The post-summer rentrée (think "back to school" for grown-ups) is in full swing, with crisp autumn air and a slate of cultural activities.
The post-summer rentrée (think "back to school" for grown-ups) is in full swing, with crisp autumn air and a slate of cultural activities.
August 25, 2009, 9:53 AM
Wondering how prices may have changed since 2002, I selected three hotels Budget Travel reviewed back then and checked prices for now. The difference is rather shocking.
Wondering how prices may have changed since 2002, I selected three hotels Budget Travel reviewed back then and checked prices for now. The difference is rather shocking.
August 24, 2009, 10:10 AM
We found you can save up to 40 percent off the cost of intercity train tickets in Europe by booking on European websites. The catch? You'll need to know a little French.
We found you can save up to 40 percent off the cost of intercity train tickets in Europe by booking on European websites. The catch? You'll need to know a little French.
August 21, 2009, 9:41 AM
Paris is moving forward with a car sharing program called Autolib'.
Paris is moving forward with a car sharing program called Autolib'.
August 19, 2009, 8:41 AM
Look beyond picture postcard Paris and visit the "Little India" neighborhood northeast of Gare du Nord train station, home to hundreds of Indian and Sri Lankan businesses.
Look beyond picture postcard Paris and visit the "Little India" neighborhood northeast of Gare du Nord train station, home to hundreds of Indian and Sri Lankan businesses.
August 7, 2009, 9:20 AM
During the hot month of August, the Paris art scene sheds pretension almost as fast as the French shed excess clothing. Here are some shows to check out.
During the hot month of August, the Paris art scene sheds pretension almost as fast as the French shed excess clothing. Here are some shows to check out.
August 6, 2009, 11:17 AM
Our ex-pat blogger in Paris found four leafy spots where you can sip some wine, beer, or coffee and take in the scene.
Our ex-pat blogger in Paris found four leafy spots where you can sip some wine, beer, or coffee and take in the scene.
August 4, 2009, 9:37 AM
The city of Paris cut its sales tax, but bistros aren't always passing along the savings.
The city of Paris cut its sales tax, but bistros aren't always passing along the savings.
July 31, 2009, 9:25 AM
The French get more vacation than you do. Even chefs and restaurant owners. So where can you eat during August? Our expat blogger in Paris serves up a list of the best spots.
The French get more vacation than you do. Even chefs and restaurant owners. So where can you eat during August? Our expat blogger in Paris serves up a list of the best spots.
July 24, 2009, 9:50 AM
Winding gracefully through the 10th arrondissement, Canal Saint-Martin is a haven for foodies and cosmopolitan-types. Our expat blogger in Paris gives a brief walking tour of the neighborhood.
Winding gracefully through the 10th arrondissement, Canal Saint-Martin is a haven for foodies and cosmopolitan-types. Our expat blogger in Paris gives a brief walking tour of the neighborhood.
July 23, 2009, 3:56 PM
Our ex-pat blogger in Paris samples the bread at a bakery named "the best" in the city by many chefs and gourmands.
Our ex-pat blogger in Paris samples the bread at a bakery named "the best" in the city by many chefs and gourmands.
July 21, 2009, 9:42 AM
Through mid-August, Paris is having one of its many free summer festivals. I'm such a fan that I want to nudge twice and tell you how to make the most of this fun occasion.
Through mid-August, Paris is having one of its many free summer festivals. I'm such a fan that I want to nudge twice and tell you how to make the most of this fun occasion.
July 20, 2009, 8:32 AM
This quirky outfit lies dormant during the cold months, then gushes anew when the weather is warm enough to eat outside. The real draw is their delivery along the banks of the Canal Saint Martin.
This quirky outfit lies dormant during the cold months, then gushes anew when the weather is warm enough to eat outside. The real draw is their delivery along the banks of the Canal Saint Martin.
July 17, 2009, 9:11 AM
Advice on where to find sublets for the summer in Paris.
Advice on where to find sublets for the summer in Paris.
July 16, 2009, 3:33 PM
The opening of retail stores without special permission has been illegal under a 1906 law that established Sunday as a mandatory day of rest. But that law may soon be changing.
The opening of retail stores without special permission has been illegal under a 1906 law that established Sunday as a mandatory day of rest. But that law may soon be changing.
July 14, 2009, 12:28 PM
For those who are planning a Paris binge or simply want to digest the food scene vicariously, these blogs are totally delicious.
For those who are planning a Paris binge or simply want to digest the food scene vicariously, these blogs are totally delicious.
July 10, 2009, 9:24 AM
From outdoor concerts to movie screenings, it's going to be a fun summer in Paris. Our ex-pat blogger dishes up the best offerings.
From outdoor concerts to movie screenings, it's going to be a fun summer in Paris. Our ex-pat blogger dishes up the best offerings.
July 9, 2009, 11:49 AM
The annual Bastille Day party will kick off early at 9:00 a.m. with a parade of tanks and soldiers downtown. Get the details…
The annual Bastille Day party will kick off early at 9:00 a.m. with a parade of tanks and soldiers downtown. Get the details…
June 26, 2009, 9:28 AM
Palais du Tokyo, the edgy contemporary arts museum, is offering dinner, with a rooftop view of the Eiffel Tower, starting July 1.
Palais du Tokyo, the edgy contemporary arts museum, is offering dinner, with a rooftop view of the Eiffel Tower, starting July 1.
June 19, 2009, 12:58 PM
Mama Shelter in Paris's 20th arrondissement has a fun summer rooftop party series.
Mama Shelter in Paris's 20th arrondissement has a fun summer rooftop party series.
June 11, 2009, 4:46 PM
The stylish and affordable Le General is well situated in downtown Paris near the Republique Metro stop and is on a nearly 40 percent off sale.
The stylish and affordable Le General is well situated in downtown Paris near the Republique Metro stop and is on a nearly 40 percent off sale.
June 5, 2009, 9:07 AM
If your hometown has a one-time industrial area that's recently been remade into a public park, its predecessor is this spot in Paris, which winds through the 12th arrondissement.
If your hometown has a one-time industrial area that's recently been remade into a public park, its predecessor is this spot in Paris, which winds through the 12th arrondissement.
June 4, 2009, 9:02 AM
The dollar's buying power in Paris has weakened in the past month, as the exchange rate with the euro shifts. Be careful of price quotes you see in guidebooks…They may no longer be accurate.
The dollar's buying power in Paris has weakened in the past month, as the exchange rate with the euro shifts. Be careful of price quotes you see in guidebooks…They may no longer be accurate.
June 3, 2009, 9:24 AM
The only thing better than visiting Paris is being able to enjoy free events in Paris. Here's a round-up of activities for the lovely month of June.
The only thing better than visiting Paris is being able to enjoy free events in Paris. Here's a round-up of activities for the lovely month of June.
May 29, 2009, 9:19 AM
Alain Ducasse, the famous chef, has just opened a school for non-professional cooks in Paris.
Alain Ducasse, the famous chef, has just opened a school for non-professional cooks in Paris.
May 15, 2009, 1:47 PM
The Rue Charlot in the upper Marais district (not far from the city's most famous sights) is home to some great boutiques. Our Paris-based blogger, Meg Zimbeck, gives a rundown.
The Rue Charlot in the upper Marais district (not far from the city's most famous sights) is home to some great boutiques. Our Paris-based blogger, Meg Zimbeck, gives a rundown.
May 15, 2009, 12:20 PM
Enthusiastic ex-pat bloggers are covering just about everything that's worth seeing in the art scene. Find out their picks for spring and summer shows in the French capital.
Enthusiastic ex-pat bloggers are covering just about everything that's worth seeing in the art scene. Find out their picks for spring and summer shows in the French capital.
May 15, 2009, 11:39 AM
The eastern Parisian neighborhood around the rue de Belleville has garnered attention as a foodie mecca. Our ex-pat blogger gives us a first-hand report on whether the district is worth a stop on your next trip.
The eastern Parisian neighborhood around the rue de Belleville has garnered attention as a foodie mecca. Our ex-pat blogger gives us a first-hand report on whether the district is worth a stop on your next trip.
May 14, 2009, 3:44 PM
Get a taste of one of the most buzzed about restaurant debuts in this capital city: Frenchie.
Get a taste of one of the most buzzed about restaurant debuts in this capital city: Frenchie.
May 5, 2009, 4:21 PM
A guide to worthwhile sales of antique furniture, charming old posters, and obscure collectables. Even if you're not in the mood to shop, these (mostly) outdoor sales offer a peek at Parisian life.
A guide to worthwhile sales of antique furniture, charming old posters, and obscure collectables. Even if you're not in the mood to shop, these (mostly) outdoor sales offer a peek at Parisian life.
May 1, 2009, 10:08 AM
Two new "boutique" hostels have opened in Paris. Trying to shed the granola image of yesteryear, both promise free Internet, clean bathrooms, and dorm beds in stylish rooms starting at $30 per night.
Two new "boutique" hostels have opened in Paris. Trying to shed the granola image of yesteryear, both promise free Internet, clean bathrooms, and dorm beds in stylish rooms starting at $30 per night.
April 30, 2009, 11:54 AM
The only thing better than visiting Paris is being able to enjoy free events in Paris. Here's a round-up of activities for the lovely month of May.
The only thing better than visiting Paris is being able to enjoy free events in Paris. Here's a round-up of activities for the lovely month of May.
April 28, 2009, 4:38 PM
To celebrate its anniversary, meals at the top of the Eiffel Tower just got cheaper. Our "Paris embed" offers some other tips for recognizing this architectural landmark.
To celebrate its anniversary, meals at the top of the Eiffel Tower just got cheaper. Our "Paris embed" offers some other tips for recognizing this architectural landmark.
April 21, 2009, 1:47 PM
The best sidewalk cafés in the world's best city for sipping coffee.
The best sidewalk cafés in the world's best city for sipping coffee.
April 20, 2009, 11:59 AM
The city's museums are closed on certain days of the week. So before setting off on a Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday check ahead, or consult our list in this post.
The city's museums are closed on certain days of the week. So before setting off on a Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday check ahead, or consult our list in this post.
April 20, 2009, 9:55 AM
Anchored by a sprawling market, this district is a mix of working class families and visitors tasting the area's gastronomic delights.
Anchored by a sprawling market, this district is a mix of working class families and visitors tasting the area's gastronomic delights.
April 9, 2009, 1:57 PM
In the French capital, 22 museums offer free entry daily. Other museums have free days and nights. Our ex-pat blogger reveals her favorites.
In the French capital, 22 museums offer free entry daily. Other museums have free days and nights. Our ex-pat blogger reveals her favorites.
March 26, 2009, 4:12 PM
Some of Paris's finest restaurants are running great deals right now, but you have to know where to look.
Some of Paris's finest restaurants are running great deals right now, but you have to know where to look.
March 16, 2009, 12:10 PM
You can get out of most Paris restaurants for around €10 a head, but it'll take a bit of planning.
You can get out of most Paris restaurants for around €10 a head, but it'll take a bit of planning.
March 13, 2009, 10:33 AM
For those who like to get their cuisine in secret.
For those who like to get their cuisine in secret.
March 10, 2009, 1:31 PM
Most people don't turn to the arts when they're looking for late-night action. Paris's national gallery is out to change that.
Most people don't turn to the arts when they're looking for late-night action. Paris's national gallery is out to change that.
March 6, 2009, 1:22 PM
It's becoming cheaper and quicker to find a bite to eat for lunch in Paris. Look for these up-and-coming spots for the best in sandwiches, the latest culinary rage.
It's becoming cheaper and quicker to find a bite to eat for lunch in Paris. Look for these up-and-coming spots for the best in sandwiches, the latest culinary rage.
March 5, 2009, 2:17 PM
The famous foodie guide doesn't just pick $300-a-meal restaurants. It also recommends places offering good food at moderate prices. Our Paris blogger notes a few of her favorites on the list.
The famous foodie guide doesn't just pick $300-a-meal restaurants. It also recommends places offering good food at moderate prices. Our Paris blogger notes a few of her favorites on the list.
March 4, 2009, 12:00 PM
A fine way to experience authentic French culture is to catch a performance of modern ballads, called chanson. Luckily, the shows are affordable.
A fine way to experience authentic French culture is to catch a performance of modern ballads, called chanson. Luckily, the shows are affordable.
February 26, 2009, 11:07 AM
It isn't the menu that defines a zinc bar, it's its slightly nostalgic feeling and its motley mix of regulars.
It isn't the menu that defines a zinc bar, it's its slightly nostalgic feeling and its motley mix of regulars.
February 24, 2009, 3:02 PM
A guide to one of the best street foods in town.
A guide to one of the best street foods in town.
February 19, 2009, 5:46 PM
Presents that won't hurt your budget or your back.
Presents that won't hurt your budget or your back.
February 17, 2009, 6:12 PM
If you want to use Paris's most famous sights as a backdrop for wooing, you're going to need a plan.
If you want to use Paris's most famous sights as a backdrop for wooing, you're going to need a plan.
February 13, 2009, 11:35 AM
For savvy gastronomes, going to an extraordinary restaurant for lunch rather than dinner is a no-brainer.
For savvy gastronomes, going to an extraordinary restaurant for lunch rather than dinner is a no-brainer.
February 4, 2009, 1:31 PM
January 29 marked the first French strike of 2009, and it's already being referred to as "Black Thursday." What's the best way to deal with one if it happens to you?
January 29 marked the first French strike of 2009, and it's already being referred to as "Black Thursday." What's the best way to deal with one if it happens to you?
January 22, 2009, 12:41 PM
Sunday in Paris doesn't have to mean settling for a meal of fast food. With a little planning, much better options are easy to find.
Sunday in Paris doesn't have to mean settling for a meal of fast food. With a little planning, much better options are easy to find.
January 15, 2009, 3:35 PM
There's lots to do in Paris, even when there's a chill in the air.
There's lots to do in Paris, even when there's a chill in the air.
January 13, 2009, 8:42 AM
Tips from a Parisian on how to book hotels and short-term apartments.
Tips from a Parisian on how to book hotels and short-term apartments.
January 6, 2009, 5:02 PM
It's time again for France's twice-annual sales, which are a competitive sport in Paris. Give yourself a fighting chance with our tips.
It's time again for France's twice-annual sales, which are a competitive sport in Paris. Give yourself a fighting chance with our tips.
December 5, 2008, 10:37 AM
Getting through the Louvre can be a slog. Here are some nearby restaurants and bars to either get ready or to get a second wind.
Getting through the Louvre can be a slog. Here are some nearby restaurants and bars to either get ready or to get a second wind.
November 19, 2008, 11:30 AM
Beaujolais nouveau makes its appearance in France tomorrow, and that means fireworks, feasts, and, of course, lots of tastings.
Beaujolais nouveau makes its appearance in France tomorrow, and that means fireworks, feasts, and, of course, lots of tastings.
November 13, 2008, 1:31 PM
Our Paris embed reports on the restaurant scene.
Our Paris embed reports on the restaurant scene.
November 6, 2008, 10:12 AM
Paris in the fall: a great time and place for a glass of wine and an order of raw oysters. Here are two two places worth seeking out.
Paris in the fall: a great time and place for a glass of wine and an order of raw oysters. Here are two two places worth seeking out.
October 31, 2008, 9:38 AM
Coffee's not the main thing when it comes to going to cafés in Paris
Coffee's not the main thing when it comes to going to cafés in Paris
October 30, 2008, 9:42 AM
A couple of hotels with high style and low prices in Paris, as seen by our Paris embed.
A couple of hotels with high style and low prices in Paris, as seen by our Paris embed.
