“Surviving la Vie en Rose: Living Luxe in Paris on a Shoestring”

**Living in Paris on a Budget: A Practical Guide**

Living in Paris can be a dream come true for many, but it’s often perceived as an expensive and exclusive lifestyle. However, with some creativity and willingness to adapt, it’s possible to experience the City of Light on a shoestring budget. In this article, we’ll explore the ways to live in Paris with just about $1,500 a month, just like I did during my 10-month stay in the city.

**Accommodations**

To make it in Paris without breaking the bank, finding an affordable place to live is essential. We rented a compact 120-square-foot studio apartment, which may seem small, but it worked for us despite the lack of luxury. Our $595 monthly rent may seem cheap, but it’s worth noting that we could have gotten a one-bedroom apartment for less than $1,000 in 2019. To secure this apartment, we relied on Airbnb and negotiated a month-to-month rental agreement with the landlord.

**Transportation**

Commuting in Paris is relatively easy and affordable, especially when using the city’s public transportation system. For $85 per month, I had an unlimited, one-month travel pass, which allowed me to take the train and bus whenever I pleased. With the rise of ride-hailing services, walking, and cycling are excellent options, too.

**Food**

Cooking at home is a challenge when you live in a foodie city like Paris, but we managed to save money by cooking at home and limiting our visits to more affordable restaurants. Some of our favorite budget-friendly spots include Justine for pizza, Holybelly for breakfast, and L’As du Fallafel for falafel sandwiches. You can also opt for a picnic in a park or try some street food to save on dining costs.

**Sightseeing**

While Paris’s famous landmarks can be expensive, there are plenty of free or low-cost attractions to explore. We took advantage of museums like the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris and the Jardin des Plantes, and enjoyed leisurely strolls along the Seine or in Buttes-Chaumount park. Visiting lesser-known museums and spending time with friends and family helped us explore the city without overspending.

**Budget Breakdown**

Here’s a rough breakdown of my monthly expenses:

* Accommodations: $595
* Transportation: $85
* Food: $455
* Sightseeing: $375

Total: $1,510

**FAQs**

Q: How did you secure a rental apartment in Paris as a foreigner?
A: We used Airbnb and negotiated a short-term rental agreement with the landlord to get our accommodation on a month-to-month basis.

Q: What’s the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Paris?
A: According to our friends, you can find a one-bedroom apartment for less than $1,000 in Paris.

Q: What are some affordable places to eat in Paris?
A: Try restos like Justine, Holybelly, L’As du Fallafel, and Bocamexa for budget-friendly meals.

Q: Can you visit Paris’s famous museums for free?
A: While the Louvre and other popular museums have paid entry fees, many free museums and galleries can be found throughout the city.

**Conclusion**

Living in Paris doesn’t have to break the bank. By choosing affordable accommodations, adopting reasonable transportation and dining habits, and exploring the city’s many free attractions, you can have an unforgettable experience in the City of Light. If you’re willing to be flexible and open to new experiences, your own Parisian adventure awaits.

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