Discovering the Best Suburbs of Paris

Living in the suburbs of Paris offers a unique blend of city accessibility and suburban charm. The suburbs provide more space, affordability, and a quieter environment while still being close to Paris’s hustle and bustle. Here are eight of the best suburbs of Paris that offer a perfect balance between city life and a calmer escape. 

 

Neuilly-sur-Seine

Neuilly-sur-Seine is a prestigious suburb located just west of Paris. It is renowned for its upscale vibe and is often considered one of the wealthiest residential areas in France. The suburb’s history dates back to the 12th century and saw significant development in the 19th century as Paris expanded. Today, Neuilly is a haven for affluent families and professionals who appreciate its proximity to central Paris and its serene environment. 

Key Features:

• Proximity to Paris: Located between the Bois de Boulogne and La Défense, Europe’s largest business district.
• Educational Excellence: Home to several international schools, making it ideal for expat families.

Lifestyle:

• Neuilly offers upscale amenities, including designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Théâtre des Sablons.
• The streets are lined with elegant Haussmannian buildings and modern residences, offering a blend of historic charm and contemporary living.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit the Bois de Boulogne: Enjoy outdoor activities such as rowing, cycling, and picnicking in one of Paris’s largest parks.
• Explore the local markets: Experience French culinary delights at Neuilly’s lovely open-air markets.

 

Le Bourget

Le Bourget is a suburb with a rich aviation history, located northeast of Paris. It gained prominence in the early 20th century as the site of Paris’s first airport. It is also known for hosting the biennial Paris Air Show. The suburb is home to a diverse population, including many young professionals and families attracted by its affordable housing and ongoing urban development projects. 

Key Features:

• Aviation Hub: Home to the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, one of the world’s oldest aviation museums, showcasing historic aircraft and space artifacts.
• Urban Development: Recent projects aim to revitalize the area with new residential and commercial spaces.

Lifestyle:

• Le Bourget offers a mix of industrial heritage and modern living, with a strong community spirit.
• The suburb is becoming increasingly popular with young professionals and families seeking affordable housing near Paris.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace: Explore the fascinating history of aviation and space exploration.
• Attend the Paris Air Show: Experience one of the largest aerospace events, attracting industry professionals and enthusiasts from around the globe.

Curious about housing options in Le Bourget? 

• Check out our apartments for rent in Urban Campus Le Bourget Gare

 

Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Saint-Germain-en-Laye is a picturesque suburb located about 20 kilometers west of Paris, known for its rich royal history and beautiful landscapes. Once a royal residence for French kings, the suburb attracts a mix of affluent families and history enthusiasts who appreciate its cultural heritage and charming environment. The suburb offers excellent schools and ample green spaces, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Key Features:

• Historical Significance: Home to the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, the birthplace of King Louis XIV.
• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by expansive forests and parks, perfect for outdoor activities.

Lifestyle:

• Saint-Germain-en-Laye offers a great cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, and music festivals.
• The town center is filled with charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and cafes.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye: Explore the National Archaeology Museum housed within this historic castle.
• Stroll through the Saint-Germain Forest: Enjoy hiking, cycling, and picnicking in this serene natural setting.

 

Colombes

Colombes is a lively suburb located northwest of Paris, known for its blend of residential charm and urban convenience. Its history dates back to Roman times, and it experienced significant growth during the industrial revolution. Today, Colombes attracts a mix of families and young professionals.. The suburb is known for its community spirit, with numerous parks, schools, and local markets contributing to its appeal.

Key Features:

• Strategic Location: Close to La Défense, making it a popular choice for professionals working in the business district.
• Sporting Legacy: The Yves-du-Manoir Stadium hosted events during the 1924 Summer Olympics.

Lifestyle:

• Colombes offers a strong sense of community with numerous parks, schools, and local markets.
• The suburb is undergoing revitalization, with new cultural and recreational facilities enhancing its appeal.

Top Things to Do:

• Explore the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium: Visit this historic sports venue and enjoy local sporting events.
• Discover Parc Pierre Lagravère: A beautiful park offering walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
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Curious about housing options in Colombes? 

• Check out our apartments for rent in Urban Campus Colombes

 

Versailles

Versailles is a world-famous suburb located southwest of Paris, known for the iconic Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The suburb’s history as the center of political power during the reign of Louis XIV gives it a unique charm and grandeur. Today, Versailles attracts a diverse population, including historians, tourists, and families drawn to its cultural heritage and elegant lifestyle. 

Key Features:

• Cultural Heritage: The Palace of Versailles and its stunning gardens attract millions of visitors each year.
• Educational Institutions: Home to prestigious schools and universities.

Lifestyle:

• Versailles offers a blend of historic charm and modern living, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
• The town is known for its elegant architecture and peaceful residential neighborhoods.

Top Things to Do:

• Tour the Palace of Versailles: Explore the opulent rooms and extensive gardens of this iconic landmark.
• Visit the Versailles Market: Experience local French cuisine and fresh produce at the bustling market.

 

Boulogne-Billancourt

Boulogne-Billancourt is a dynamic and modern suburb located southwest of Paris, known for its thriving business environment and cultural venues. Once an industrial hub, it has transformed into a vibrant residential and commercial area, attracting young professionals and families. 

Key Features:

• Cultural Hub: Home to the Seine Musicale, a major concert hall hosting a variety of performances.
• Business Center: Houses numerous corporate headquarters and startups.

Lifestyle:

• Boulogne-Billancourt offers excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options, attracting young professionals and families.
• The suburb is known for its green spaces, including the Parc de Boulogne and Parc des Glacières.

Top Things to Do:

• Attend a concert at the Seine Musicale: Enjoy world-class performances in a stunning architectural setting.
• Explore the Albert Kahn Museum and Gardens: Discover the beautiful gardens and photographic collections of this cultural institution.

 

Levallois-Perret

Levallois-Perret is a suburb located just northwest of Paris, known for its proximity to the city and strong residential appeal. Developed in the 19th century as one of the first planned suburbs of Paris, Levallois-Perret is now a thriving community with a cosmopolitan population. The suburb attracts families and professionals looking for a safe, clean environment with modern amenities and easy access to Paris.

Key Features:

• Residential Appeal: Offers a safe, clean environment with a strong community feel.
• Modern Amenities: Well-equipped with shopping centers, schools, and parks.

Lifestyle:

• Levallois-Perret provides diverse dining options, local markets, and cultural activities, making it a desirable place to live.
• The suburb is home to several multinational corporations, attracting a cosmopolitan population.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit Parc de la Planchette: Enjoy outdoor activities in this well-maintained park.
• Explore local markets and cafes: Experience the charm of French culinary delights and local produce.

 

Vincennes

Vincennes is a historic suburb located just east of Paris, renowned for the impressive Château de Vincennes, a medieval fortress and former royal residence. Adjacent to the château is the expansive Bois de Vincennes, Paris’s largest public park, which provides residents with walking trails and boating lakes. This suburb is particularly attractive to families due to its excellent schools and safe, welcoming neighborhoods.

Key Features:

• Historical Landmarks: The Château de Vincennes is a medieval fortress with a rich history.
• Natural Attractions: The Bois de Vincennes offers extensive recreational opportunities.

Lifestyle:

• Vincennes provides a strong community vibe with excellent schools, family-friendly amenities, and cultural activities.
• The suburb is well-connected to Paris via Metro Line 1, making it ideal for commuters.

Top Things to Do:

• Tour the Château de Vincennes: Explore the historic castle and learn about its fascinating history.
• Enjoy outdoor activities in the Bois de Vincennes: Hike, cycle, or relax in this expansive green space.

 

Photo Credits: 

• All photos used through Canva Free Media License

All about the Le Bourget Airport

Navigating the Parisian airport landscape can be overwhelming! But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

The Le Bourget Airport is one of Paris’ key airports, catering primarily to business and private travel. Its close proximity to Paris city center makes the location more than ideal. Plus, the airport is steeped in fascinating aviation history, including being the landing site for the first solo non-stop transatlantic flight in history. Let’s dive in!

 

How far is Le Bourget Airport from Paris city center?

Le Bourget Airport is conveniently located just 11 kilometers (7 miles) northeast of Paris city center. This close proximity makes it an ideal choice for travelers in need of quick access to the city. 

Transportation from Le Bourget Airport to Paris City Center:

• Taxi: A taxi ride to the city center usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is approximately €35-€50.
• Public Transport: The RER B train line connects Le Bourget with central Paris, offering a travel time of about 30 minutes. Additionally, buses and shuttles are available for a more economical choice. A train ticket costs around €10, while buses are even cheaper, typically costing around €2-€5.
• Private Transfer Services: Numerous private car services and ride-sharing apps offer direct transfers to various parts of the city like Uber, Bolt, and Blacklane. Prices typically range from €40-€70, depending on the service and vehicle chosen.

 

Le Bourget Airport: What is a Business Aviation Airport?

A business aviation airport is an airport that primarily serves private, corporate, and charter flights rather than commercial airline traffic. These airports cater to the needs of business travelers and private jet owners, offering specialized services and amenities that are different from those found at commercial airports. Here are some key characteristics and services typically associated with business aviation airports:

• Private and Corporate Flights: These airports handle flights operated by private jet owners, corporations, and charter companies. They provide a more exclusive and personalized travel experience.
• Quick and Efficient Services: Business aviation airports often offer expedited services, including faster security checks and customs processes. This minimizes wait times for travelers.
• Flexible Schedules: Unlike commercial airports with fixed flight schedules, business aviation airports can accommodate more flexible travel plans. Flights can depart and arrive at times that suit the passengers’ needs.
• Exclusive Facilities: These airports often have luxurious lounges, private meeting rooms, and dedicated facilities for business travelers.

Services and Amenities

• VIP Lounges: High-end lounges with comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms for passengers to relax or work while waiting for their flights.
• Concierge Services: Personalized services to assist with travel arrangements, ground transportation, hotel bookings, and other needs.
• Aircraft Maintenance: On-site maintenance facilities and services to ensure the aircrafts are well-maintained and ready for flight.
• Security and Privacy: Enhanced security measures and private terminals to ensure the safety and privacy of passengers.

Examples of Business Aviation Airports

• Le Bourget Airport (Paris, France): Primarily serves private and business jets, offering top-tier services and amenities for business travelers.
• Teterboro Airport (New Jersey, USA): Located near New York City, this airport is a major hub for business aviation.
• London Biggin Hill Airport (London, UK): Known for its exclusive services and proximity to central London, catering to business and private flights.

 

Le Bourget Airport History & Origin

Le Bourget Airport has a rich and storied history that dates back to its founding in 1919. Initially serving as a military airfield, Le Bourget quickly evolved into one of Europe’s key airports during the early days of commercial aviation. It was the first civilian airport in Paris and played a crucial role in the development of air travel in the early 20th century. 

The Historic Transatlantic Flight

Le Bourget’s most famous moment came in 1927, when American aviator Charles Lindbergh landed there after completing the first solo non-stop transatlantic flight in history. On May 20, 1927, Lindbergh departed from Roosevelt Field in New York in his custom-built monoplane, the Spirit of St. Louis. After flying for 33.5 hours over 3,600 miles of ocean, he landed at Le Bourget on May 21.

Charles Lindbergh, a 25-year-old U.S. Air Mail pilot at the time, achieved this groundbreaking feat to demonstrate the potential of long-distance air travel. His successful flight earned him international acclaim, a $25,000 Orteig Prize, and cemented his place as a pioneering figure in aviation history. This historic event highlighted Le Bourget’s importance in the world of aviation and its role in one of the most significant achievements of the 20th century.

 

Aerospace Museum

A visit to Le Bourget would be incomplete without exploring the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace (Air and Space Museum), one of the oldest aviation museums in the world. Located on the grounds of Le Bourget Airport, the museum boasts an extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and aviation artifacts. From early aviation pioneers to modern space exploration, the museum chronicles the remarkable journey of flight. 

Highlights include historic aircraft like the Bleriot XI, World War I and II fighter planes, and a Concorde supersonic jet. The museum also features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a planetarium, making it a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. 

Looking for a place to live near Le Bourget? 

• We have apartments for rent!

 

Photo Credits:

• All photos used through Canva Free Media License

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Olympics are almost here!

Can you believe the time has come again for the Olympics? Parisian leaders have been preparing tirelessly to host the most respected athletes from across the globe for the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics 2024. As anticipation builds, the city is set to burst into a spectacle of speed, strength, and spirit. 

Are you ready to watch history be made? 

 

Paris Summer Olympics 2024: What Sports Will Be Competing?

A wide variety of sports will grace the Paris Summer Olympics 2024. Fans can look forward to thrilling competitions in gymnastics, swimming, track and field, and much more. Newer sports like skateboarding and sport climbing will also be featured, showcasing the evolving landscape of Olympic competition.

 

Paris Summer Olympics 2024: Top Athletes

The games will spotlight world-class athletes, each with compelling stories and impressive skills. Fans worldwide are eager to witness these top competitors push the limits of their sports on the grand world stage.

Fan Favorite #1: Simone Biles (USA), Gymnastics 

Simone Biles, a gymnastics legend from the United States, is not just a four-time Olympic gold medalist but also a beacon of resilience and skill. Throughout her career, she has won a remarkable 32 combined total of Olympic and World Championship medals. She is the most decorated gymnast in history. 

Simone Biles has pushed the boundaries of gymnastics, performing tricks so advanced that they were once deemed too risky for competition. She even has multiple skills named after her, including the “Biles” on the floor exercise and the “Biles II” on the balance beam.

Simone’s Struggle with “The Twisties”

Simone’s journey to the Paris Summer Olympics 2024 follows a brave battle with the “twisties” during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she prioritized her mental well-being over competition. The twisties are a phenomenon that can occur in gymnastics where athletes lose their sense of orientation or mid-air awareness in the air. This disorientation makes it extremely difficult and dangerous to land safely.

If you want to follow along her journey, her Netflix documentary “Simone Biles: Rising” has been praised for highlighting her struggles and triumphs. 

Fan Favorite #2: Caeleb Dressel (USA)

Caeleb Dressel, a phenomenal swimmer from the United States, enters the Paris Summer Olympics 2024 as one of the most anticipated athletes in the pool. Known for his explosive speed and versatility, Dressel has earned seven Olympic gold medals and holds world records in several events, including the 100-meter butterfly. His incredible performances at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics set high expectations for his races in Paris, where he aims to further cement his legacy.

Fan Favorite #3: Armand Duplantis (Sweden)

Armand Duplantis or “Mondo”, a pole vaulter from Sweden, has redefined the limits of his sport. At just 23 years old, Duplantis is the current world record holder and a gold medalist from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. His ability to consistently clear heights above six meters has made him a fan favorite and an impressive competitor. With his eye set on breaking his own records, Duplantis will be one of the most thrilling athletes to watch.

Fan Favorite #4: Yuto Horigome (Japan)

Yuto Horigome made history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by winning the first-ever Olympic gold medal in men’s street skateboarding. Hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Horigome’s victory was a landmark moment for the sport and his country. Known for his technical precision and out-of-the-box tricks, Yuto has dominated the skateboarding scene with multiple X Games medals. As skateboarding continues to grow in popularity worldwide, all eyes will be on Yuto to see if he can defend his title at the Paris Summer Olympics 2024.

 

The Schedule for Paris Summer Olympics 2024

The Paris Summer Olympics 2024 will run from July 26 to August 11, 2024. Here is a brief outline of the schedule.

• July 24-25: Preliminary events before the Opening Ceremony, including Rugby and Football (Soccer).
• July 26: Opening Ceremony
• July 27-August 11: Main Competitions
• August 11: Closing Ceremony

The Schedule for Fan Favorite Events

Gymnastics:

• Artistic Gymnastics: July 27 – August 5, 2024
• Rhythmic Gymnastics: August 8 – 10, 2024
• Trampoline Gymnastics: August 2 – 3, 2024

Triathlon:

• Individual events: July 30 (Men), July 31 (Women)
• Mixed Relay: August 5, 2024

Swimming:

• Pool Events: July 27 – August 4, 2024
• Open Water Swimming: August 8 – 9, 2024

Cycling:

• Road Cycling: July 27 (Men’s Road Race), July 28 (Women’s Road Race), August 3 (Time Trials)
• Track Cycling: August 5 – 11, 2024
• Mountain Biking: July 30 (Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country)
• BMX Racing: August 1 – 2, 2024
• BMX Freestyle: July 30 – 31, 2024

Skateboarding:

• Street: July 27 – 28, 2024
• Park: August 6 – 7, 2024

 

Swimming Competition in the Seine

Would you swim in the Seine River? 

The plan to hold swimming competitions in the Seine during the Paris Summer Olympics 2024 has sparked significant controversy. These events include both the open water swimming competition and the swimming segments of the triathlon. While this initiative is part of a broader effort to clean up the river, concerns remain about the water quality and safety.

The Mission to Cleanup the Seine

Historically, the Seine River has suffered from severe pollution, making it unsafe for recreational activities, including swimming. To address this, Paris officials launched an ambitious cleanup campaign as a critical part of the city’s Olympic preparations. The project involved a substantial financial investment of €1.4 billion aimed at improving water quality and environmental conditions. The goal was to ensure the river could safely host Olympic events and become a swimmable resource for the public in the future.

Is the Seine Really Swimmable?

In a symbolic gesture to demonstrate the success of the cleanup efforts, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo famously swam in the Seine on July 17, 2024. This event was intended to reassure the public about the river’s safety. However, skepticism remains high among Parisians and environmental groups. These doubts have fueled rumored protests, highlighting the ongoing debate about the effectiveness and transparency of the cleanup efforts.

 

A Brief Recap of the Tokyo Olympics

The Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, held in 2021 due to the global pandemic, were marked by unprecedented challenges and a unique atmosphere. The games lacked the traditional pomp and circumstance, with many events taking place without spectators. Let’s revisit some key winners and memorable highlights from Tokyo:

• Simone Biles’ Courageous Withdrawal: Simone Biles, the U.S. gymnastics superstar, withdrew from several events to focus on her mental health, sparking a global conversation about the pressures faced by elite athletes.
• Caeleb Dressel’s Dominance in Swimming: American swimmer Caeleb Dressel won five gold medals, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greatest.
• Sifan Hassan’s Triple Medal Feat: Dutch runner Sifan Hassan achieved an extraordinary feat by winning gold in the women’s 5000m and 10,000m, and bronze in the 1500m.
• Neeraj Chopra’s Historic Gold for India: Neeraj Chopra won India’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics by triumphing in the men’s javelin throw.
• Skateboarding Debut: Skateboarding made its Olympic debut, with young athletes like Japan’s Momiji Nishiya and Yuto Horigome capturing gold and showcasing the sport’s future.

The Paris 2024 Olympics are set to be the first “normal” Olympics since the pandemic, promising to bring back the full spirit and excitement of the games. 

 

Best Ways to Enjoy the Olympics

The excitement of the Paris Summer Olympics 2024 can be experienced in various ways, whether you plan to watch in person or from the comfort of your home. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy the games:

• Attend Live Events: If you’re in Paris, attending the events live is an unmatched experience. You can purchase tickets from the official Paris 2024 Olympics website.
• Television Broadcasts: Major networks such as NBC in the United States, BBC in the UK, RTVE in Spain, and France Télévisions in France will provide extensive coverage. Check your local listings for schedules to catch all the live action and highlights.
• Streaming Services: Many events will be available for streaming on platforms like Peacock (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), RTVE Play (Spain), and France TV Sport (France). These platforms often offer live streams and replays, so you can watch events at your convenience.
• Olympic Apps and Websites: The official Olympics website and mobile app will provide live updates, schedules, and highlights. For comprehensive coverage, visit the official Olympic website.
• Social Media: Follow the Olympics on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactions with fans and athletes.

Looking for a place to live in Paris? 

• We’ve got apartments for rent!

 

Photo Credits: 

• All photos used through Canva Free Media License