I Went to Paris Alone!
Arc de Triomphe
I Went to Paris Alone!
During a chat with a friend about my 50th birthday, I was brainstorming what to do—take the kids to Hawaii, go to Disneyland, maybe go to Yosemite… I was trying to come up with something special, but everything involved factoring in my kids’ needs. Which is always fine, but I was feeling slightly selfish. At their ages, they still need me and need help with things, and I was thinking about the cost. We had just come back from Tokyo, and between plane tickets, hotels—everything was adding up.
My friend stopped me and said, “Do something for yourself. It’s a big birthday.”
So, I contacted my cousin who lives in Amsterdam. He and his wife have been asking me to visit, so I took them up on the offer. But first, I wanted to go to Paris.
Disneyland Paris, First Stop
I started the trip with two days at Disneyland Paris. I’d never been before, and I have a personal goal I’m working toward with Disney—so I had to go. After that, I had nearly three full days to explore the city.
I’d been to Paris once before, for my 23rd birthday, and I remembered how much I loved it. But it had been a long time, and I wasn’t alone then. This time, I watched a bunch of Instagram reels for travel tips and recommendations on what to do, see, and (of course) buy. I also asked friends for hotel suggestions, but got mixed feedback.
In the end, I went with a Marriott property—Courtyard Paris Gare de Lyon—because I had points, it had great reviews, and it was close to public transportation. I also felt more secure staying at an American chain since I was traveling solo. There were boutique hotels I would’ve chosen if I weren’t alone, but this felt right. I always go with what makes me feel comfortable to help with my anxiety. It’s in the 12th arrondissement, which is a bit farther from the center, but the trade-off in cost and comfort was worth it. I’d stay there again.
Wandering Without a Plan
I arrived in Paris with a loose list of things I wanted to do, but not many firm plans. I hoped to visit the Louvre, but tickets were sold out—and honestly, with only a couple of days, I didn’t want to spend an entire one inside a museum. I’ll save that for a future trip.
At first, I felt overwhelmed by all the options, so I went for a walk around the hotel and then asked the concierge for suggestions. Also… I hadn’t studied up on the Metro, and after watching a bunch of reels warning about pickpockets, I got in my head about it. I imagined someone stealing my passport and me being stranded, alone. Classic 0-to-60 spiral.
So, I skipped the Metro entirely. Not the most cost-effective move, I know—but I walked everywhere during the day and took Ubers at night when I needed a break. Ubers were reliable, but definitely an added expense. I walked about 8 miles a day—and honestly, I didn’t mind. I love strolling cities, popping into shops, eating whatever I want, and just taking it all in.
Was I Safe?
Yes. I felt very safe walking alone. I used common sense—stuck to well-lit, busy streets, even at night (including when I went to the Eiffel Tower after 11 PM). I kept my crossbody bag close, had zero issues, and avoided any neighborhoods I’d read weren’t the safest.
A Few Highlights
Notre Dame – I waited in line for about 20 minutes and walked through the stunning cathedral, admiring the stained glass. Then I grabbed a bite nearby and walked to the Louvre. Even without tickets, it’s worth seeing from the outside—the building and the park across from it are beautiful.
French Pharmacy Haul – My non-negotiable! I went to Pharmacie Forum des Halles with a list in hand and left with way too much skincare. I felt like I needed to stock up since I wasn’t sure when I’d be back. Totally worth it.
Le Relais De L’Entrecôte – Famous for steak frites (it’s the only thing they serve). I arrived around 8 PM (standard Paris dinner hour) and waited about 15–20 minutes. There are three locations in Paris and wait times can be long. Luckily, mine was pretty short. It was delicious—I’d absolutely go again, though you can find steak frites at most bistros.
Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées – The most beautiful mall I’ve ever seen. I browsed the stores, wandered across the street to the food hall, and tried some pastries. A must-visit. Also… go to the top floor terrace—the views are amazing.
Carette – I had to try the viral hot chocolate. It was very rich—good, but I couldn’t finish it. I sat outside to enjoy it and wait out a quick rainstorm.
La Grande Épicerie de Paris – I stocked up on French salted butter, Dijon mustard, madeleines, jam, and salts. I wish I had more time—and more hands. There was so much more I wanted to grab.
That night, I was so tired. I had dinner at the hotel around 9:30 PM, packed my bags, and got ready to catch the train to Amsterdam the next day.
The Final Morning
I needed a second suitcase to fit all my skincare and food purchases (no regrets). The hotel recommended a shop nearby, but of course, I detoured to another pharmacy first to compare stock and prices. I took my time packing, soaked in my last morning, and checked out at noon before heading to the train station for the Eurostar to Amsterdam.
Final Thoughts
Paris is my favorite city. I felt comfortable, safe, and surprisingly at ease doing everything solo—from walking around to eating in restaurants.
People often say the French are rude, but I didn’t experience that at all. It helps to know a few basic phrases:
Bonjour – hello / good day
Merci – thank you
Pardon / Excusez-moi – excuse me
Parlez-vous anglais? – Do you speak English?
Also, dressing like a local helps. Avoid standing out too much as a tourist and you’ll likely have a smoother experience. With a little research, a good attitude, and some common sense, you’ll be just fine.
I highly recommend visiting Paris—even if you go solo. You can do it! It was the most memorable and special birthday gift I could’ve given myself.
