Oh la laaaa! Hi everyone, hope you’re all doing well! 😊
Today, I wanted to take a moment to share the story behind Not A Cliché—how it all really began. I know I’ve mentioned it on social media, but here, on the blog, I’ve never really taken the time to dive into the origins of this adventure. It’s like I assumed everyone just
knew… but in truth, telling the story is essential! How could anyone truly love or trust a brand without knowing its background? Just like friendships, that connection grows with real sharing!
So, as your Parisian Bestie, it’s time to let you in on everything…
We have to go way back—to the very beginning, when I first started traveling on my own! Before that, traveling with my parents, I didn’t plan anything—I just went along with the schedule. But when I picked up my backpack and started exploring the world solo, I wanted to experience things differently. I wanted to dive into each culture through the values my parents had taught me: getting to know a place through its language, its food, and its traditions. And to truly do that, I had to mingle with the locals. Of course, it wasn’t
easy at first… Approaching strangers in a foreign country and figuring things out on my own was intimidating. But little by little, what started as an “effort” turned into a natural habit. It became, to me, the essence of travel. When I go somewhere, the last thing I want is to find exactly what I already have at home. Even if some experiences can be surprising, and some tastes aren’t exactly what I’d choose, I savor every discovery with everything I’ve got!
And yes, I made my fair share of mistakes…
I’ve definitely fallen for a few tourist traps—who hasn’t?
I’ve followed a persistent restaurant host into a crowded spot more than once, and yes, I’ve visited places at peak hours without thinking about timing. But through my experiences and friendships, I realized the importance of having a local guide. And through my travels, I came to see: Paris is such a huge city with endless options. How do you even start without a genuine local’s advice?
And that’s when the idea for Not A Cliché Paris was born. I wanted to create an authentic experience that reveals the real Paris, far from tourist clichés. An experience where I could become that precious friend I’d found in each place that made me feel welcomed: the one who makes you feel safe, who gives you the best recommendations, who can snag a reservation at the hottest restaurants… the one who makes every trip unforgettable, who makes you feel like an insider in every city you visit….
I adore Paris and Parisians more than anything! (Well, maybe not more than my husband and my two dachshunds, Baguette and Bistrot, but it’s close!) And yes, I know the reputation Parisians have: apparently, we’re rushed, grumpy, never have time (unless it’s for a drink at the local bistro), don’t smile much, can be a bit snobby, a little lazy, and have a… unique sense of humor. I won’t lie to you and say none of that’s true—that would be dishonest! But this “rough-around-the-edges” side is part of the city’s charm.
And let me tell you, with a few insider tips from a seasoned Parisian, those little “barriers” quickly fade away, and that’s when Paris reveals its hidden treasures. Behind that sometimes distant exterior is a city full of warmth, passion, stories, and authenticity. There’s so much to discover, from hidden cafes to cobblestone streets, colorful markets to lesser-known neighborhoods—where every corner has a story.
I want to show you Paris as I experience it: a Paris far greater than the clichés, where every visit feels like a genuine connection. As we explore the city together, you’ll see that Paris isn’t just a place; it’s an experience, a state of mind. Through the eyes of a friend who knows all its secrets and, above all, loves sharing this Paris, I invite you to experience something truly unique. Because in the end, that’s what Not A Cliché is all about: the promise to discover a different Paris, to go beyond the postcard, and to create memories that will last forever. At Not A Cliché, I focus on offering an auth-
entic experience that goes beyond the famous landmarks. You’ll immerse yourself in the real Paris, visiting charming neighborhoods, enjoying hidden cafés, and learning about the city’s history from a local’s perspective. This journey is about creating personal memories that are far from the usual tourist trails.
So, ready to experience Paris like a true local? Together, we’ll go beyond the usual sights and dive into the soul of the city, beyond the postcards and the paths everyone else takes. I can’t wait to show you all of this… and so much more!
I’m so excited to meet you and share my best tips so you can explore and enjoy the city like true Parisians!
Sarah,
Your Parisian Bestie
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