We show lots of pictures of container loadings here in the USA of all shapes and sizes but it’s nice when we hear from happy customers at the destination. The pictures here show a 20 ft container positioned for customer to unload in the middle of the French countryside. It took them 90 minutes to unload themselves and probably saved them at least 1000 euros by not choosing a mover to unload for them!

Any questions about UPakWeShip self load container services, take a look at www.upakweship.com

I do hope you have a French bakery within walking distance!

Thanks for moving and shipping with UPakWeShip. Bonne Chance with your new adventure!

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Exploring the best places to live in Paris can be exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re after vibrant nightlife, historic charm, or a family-friendly environment, this guide will introduce you to Paris’s top neighborhoods. Dive into this list to find the perfect place that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Key Takeaways

• Paris is divided into 80 unique arrondissements, each offering different atmospheres suitable for various lifestyles, from vibrant and cultural to peaceful and family-friendly.
• Popular expat neighborhoods include Le Marais for its historical charm, Saint-Germain-des-Prés for upscale living, and Montmartre for its artistic vibe and affordability.
• When choosing a neighborhood, consider factors like cost of living, safety, and the desired lifestyle to find the best fit for your needs.

Discovering the Best Neighborhoods in Paris

Paris is divided into 80 districts, known as arrondissements, each with its unique charm and characteristics. The arrondissements are numbered in a snail-like pattern, starting from the center and spiraling outward. This setup means that central Paris houses historically rich and culturally vibrant neighborhoods, while the outer arrondissements offer more residential and quieter areas.

The left bank of the Seine is known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere, attracting creatives and free spirits. In contrast, the right bank is considered more bourgeois and sophisticated, drawing those who prefer an upscale and polished lifestyle. This duality is part of what makes living in Paris so fascinating; there’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re an artist, a professional, or a family.

When choosing where to live in Paris, consider the cost of living. In 2022, renting a non-furnished apartment in Paris averaged €32 per m2, while furnished apartments ranged from €35 to €40 per m2. Central neighborhoods like Les Halles are known for their high rental prices due to their prime location and extensive amenities.

Neighborhoods like Batignolles-Monceau stand out for their bilingual schools, green spaces, shopping streets, and museums, appealing to both families and professionals. Oberkampf is known for its lively atmosphere and authentic local life, making it popular among singles and socialites.

The Opéra neighborhood offers a vibrant lifestyle with lively nights, high-life thrills, and numerous cafes and bars. As we delve into specific neighborhoods, you’ll see how each one has its distinct personality and offerings.

Le Marais: Historic Charm and Modern Vibes

Le Marais, located in central Paris, is a neighborhood that perfectly blends historical charm with modern vibes. Historically, Le Marais was an aristocratic area, and it became home to the Jewish community after the French Revolution. Today, it is known for its trendy boutiques, vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, and rich cultural history. The neighborhood’s streets are lined with art galleries, trendy cafes, and traditional French bistros, offering a mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair.

One of the most appealing aspects of Le Marais is its central location, which makes it highly walkable and close to many of Paris’s cultural landmarks, including the River Seine. The upper part of Le Marais is particularly notable for its young designer boutiques and art galleries, which contribute to its vibrant atmosphere. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to its lively streets, which are always buzzing with activity.

However, living in Le Marais comes at a higher cost due to its central location and high demand. For those who can afford it, Le Marais provides an unmatched blend of historical landmarks, cultural richness, and modern amenities, making it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Paris.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Artistic Legacy and Upscale Living

Saint-Germain-des-Prés, located on the left bank of central Paris, is a neighborhood steeped in artistic and intellectual history. It was a significant cultural hub for literary and artistic figures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore have a storied history, frequented by famous personalities such as Hemingway and Sartre, adding to the area’s rich intellectual heritage.

Today, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is known for its upscale shopping experiences, attracting luxury enthusiasts. The neighborhood features chic boutiques and gourmet food shops, reinforcing its upscale reputation. High-end shopping, world-class dining, and an engaging cultural scene make it a sought-after area for those who enjoy the finer things in life.

Housing in Saint-Germain-des-Prés features expansive pre-Haussmannian apartments with rustic exposed beams and picturesque bay windows. However, the rental prices are high due to the neighborhood’s prestigious reputation and central location. For those who can afford it, living in Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury.

Montmartre: Bohemian Atmosphere with Stunning Views

Montmartre, situated in the northern part of Paris, is known for its rich artistic heritage and bohemian atmosphere. The neighborhood has long been a haven for artists, attracting both established names and newcomers to its vibrant streets. Street art, local galleries, and a general artistic vibe permeate Montmartre, making it a unique place to live.

Despite being part of a bustling city, Montmartre maintains a village-like feel, with local cafes and markets fostering a strong sense of community and interaction among residents. This neighborhood offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, especially from the iconic Sacré-Coeur basilica. The stunning vistas from various vantage points within Montmartre add to its charm and allure.

Montmartre offers more affordable housing compared to central districts, attracting a diverse group of residents. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring numerous bars and music venues that keep the streets lively after dark. For those seeking a bohemian atmosphere with stunning views and a strong sense of community, Montmartre is an ideal choice.

The Latin Quarter: Vibrant Student Life and Rich History

The Latin Quarter, located in the city center, is characterized by a vibrant student life and rich history. Home to notable educational institutions such as Sorbonne University, the Latin Quarter exudes an energetic student life that permeates its streets. This mix of students, young professionals, and affluent Parisians creates a lively and diverse atmosphere.

The Latin Quarter hosts a variety of cultural experiences, including jazz clubs, art galleries, and trendy cafes that attract a young clientele. The area is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to access cultural venues and events. Its central location and vibrant atmosphere make the Latin Quarter popular for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

The Latin Quarter features charming apartments that mix character and modern conveniences. The area’s rich history and vibrant student life make it an attractive option for young professionals and students looking to live in a dynamic and culturally rich neighborhood.

Canal Saint-Martin: Trendy and Youthful Vibe

Canal Saint-Martin, located in central Paris, is known for its trendy and youthful vibe, attracting a younger crowd, including artists and professionals. The area boasts vibrant cafes, picturesque canals, and bars, contributing to its hipster appeal and lively atmosphere. This combination of trendy cafes and traditional French bistros makes Canal Saint-Martin a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.

Excellent public transport access, including metro lines 3 and 57, makes Canal Saint-Martin easily reachable within walking distance. Rental prices in Canal Saint-Martin are relatively affordable compared to other central districts, making it appealing to young professionals.

The vibrant atmosphere and relatively affordable housing options make Canal Saint-Martin ideal for those seeking a trendy and youthful place in Paris.

The 16th Arrondissement (Passy): Peaceful and Family-Friendly

The 16th Arrondissement, particularly the Passy area, is a favorite among expat families due to its peaceful environment and access to highly-regarded international schools. The neighborhood provides a calm and elegant atmosphere, ideal for retreating from central Paris’s hustle and bustle. The champs de mars Gardens provide recreational spaces, including playgrounds and picnic areas, which are perfect for family outings.

The 16th Arrondissement offers spacious family dwellings and Haussmann-style apartments for elegant living. While the cost of living here is on the higher end, the amenities and quality of life justify the expense. The combination of excellent schools, green spaces, and a family-friendly atmosphere makes the 16th Arrondissement a highly desirable neighborhood for expat families looking to settle in Paris.

Despite being in western Paris, the neighborhood maintains a village atmosphere with local shops, traditional French bistros, and a strong sense of community. This mix of tranquility, elegance, and family-friendly amenities makes the 16th Arrondissement ideal for those seeking a peaceful and refined living.

Belleville: Multicultural and Affordable

Belleville stands out as one of the most multicultural regions in Paris, with over 20% of its residents born outside France. This diversity is evident in the neighborhood’s cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues, offering a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Belleville is also recognized for its vibrant street art scene, particularly along Rue Denoyez and its emerging creative community.

Belleville has excellent public transport, with metro lines 2 and 11 providing easy access to other parts of Paris. This accessibility, combined with relatively affordable rental prices, makes Belleville an attractive option for young professionals and creatives looking for an affordable yet culturally rich neighborhood. The area is also home to one of the two Chinatowns in Paris, enhancing its multicultural atmosphere.

Belleville offers various street markets, with the most popular one operating on Tuesdays and Sundays, providing residents with fresh produce and a vibrant community atmosphere. Belleville is an excellent choice for affordable housing in a culturally diverse and vibrant area.

Bastille: Nightlife and Historical Significance

Bastille is a neighborhood that seamlessly combines historical significance with a lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring numerous cafes, bars, nightclubs, and concert venues. This bustling nightlife scene ensures that the Bastille remains lively and energetic well into the night.

The historical significance of the Bastille is deeply rooted in its past, with the area playing a pivotal role in the French Revolution. Today, it continues to be a cultural hub, hosting various cultural events and boasting several historical landmarks that attract visitors from all over. Bastille’s mix of history, culture, and nightlife makes it a unique and exciting place to live.

For those who enjoy a bohemian atmosphere with historical significance, Bastille blends the old and the new perfectly. Its vibrant nightlife and cultural landmarks make it one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in Paris.

The 7th Arrondissement: Iconic Views and Refined Living

The 7th Arrondissement is one of the most prestigious and iconic neighborhoods in Paris, known for its blend of historical landmarks and refined living. Notable sites in the area include the Eiffel Tower, Invalides Museum, Ecole Militaire, and the National Assembly, making it a culturally rich neighborhood. The area also offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, charming streets, and a village-like atmosphere.

The lifestyle in the 7th Arrondissement is quiet and convenient, with necessities easily accessible. The area is famous for being one of the safest and most prestigious neighborhoods in Paris, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a refined living environment. Amenities in Quartier du Gros-Caillou include schools, parks, and excellent public transportation.

However, the rental prices in the 7th Arrondissement are expensive, reflecting its prestigious reputation and central location. For those who can afford it, the 7th Arrondissement offers iconic views, historical landmarks, and a refined lifestyle.

Oberkampf: Lively and Authentic Local Life

Oberkampf is known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options, making it a popular destination for younger crowds and party-goers. The neighborhood is distinguished by its lively nightclubs and quirky bars, which attract a youthful and energetic crowd. Despite its vibrant nightlife, Oberkampf also has a quieter side, offering a balance between excitement and tranquility.

The artistic spirit and youthful energy of Oberkampf make it a lively hub within Paris. The area is home to a variety of trendy bars and concert halls, contributing to its reputation as a cultural and social hotspot. Popular residents in Oberkampf typically include young people looking for an authentic local vibe and a dynamic social scene.

Oberkampf is an excellent choice for a vibrant nightlife and an authentic local experience. Its lively atmosphere and diverse dining options make it one of the most exciting neighborhoods in Paris.

Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Paris

Choosing the right neighborhood in Paris is crucial as it significantly affects your lifestyle and overall experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own unique charm and personality, which can make the choice particularly challenging. Consider your lifestyle preferences, budget, and priorities when selecting a neighborhood to ensure it aligns with your needs.

When choosing a neighborhood, think about rental prices, amenities, and atmosphere. Starting your apartment search early and taking your time can help you make better choices. Safety is another key consideration; some areas in the 19th arrondissement, for example, are known for having negative factors like a bad reputation and homelessness.

For families, neighborhoods like the 13th, 14th, and 15th arrondissements are considered safe areas and are popular choices. Being aware of the vibrant atmosphere in neighborhoods like Montmartre can enhance your overall Parisian experience. With careful planning, you can find a neighborhood that suits your lifestyle and preferences perfectly.

Summary

Paris offers a wide array of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and character. From the historic charm and modern vibes of Le Marais to the artistic legacy and upscale living of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a bohemian atmosphere in Montmartre or a multicultural and affordable option in Belleville, Paris has a neighborhood that can cater to your lifestyle and needs.

Finding the right neighborhood to live in Paris is a journey of discovery. By considering your lifestyle preferences, budget, and priorities, you can find the perfect place to call home in the City of Light. We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and inspiration to help you on your journey to finding your ideal neighborhood in Paris.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Our website has never been more user friendly. We listened to our customer feedback, and we are confident to say that we have delivered.

So, what’s changed?

Well to start with, we’ve changed up the design to maximize efficiency and offer a better online experience for all of our customers – everything is displayed in your dashboard as seen below.

We now have the option to book insurance directly through the hub, rather than by reaching out to your shipping coordinator. You set the value of the insurance, and our insurance policy costs 2.5% of the values you put on your items and only 2% if the value is over $30,000.

Unsure of your customs forms? Don’t worry, simply select which applies to you and your move through our Customs Forms page.

Need to reach out to the UPakWeShip team? We’re right on hand with our Customer Support forms – you can even secure your collection date online.

And if you’re looking to transfer your USD into a foreign currency, our friends at CurrenciesDirect can help.

Our new Customer Hub was designed for you – our customers. We want your moving experience to be as smooth as possible, which is why it’s important your online experience is too.

You can access the new dashboard here. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

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Whilst others are out looking for the best school districts, you’ll most likely be looking for cities with the best expat communities or those which are renowned for being friendly and safe.

Your destination city will make all the difference to how the rest of your stay plans out. Which is why it’s so important to make an informed decision.

If you have the means, it’s highly recommended to visit wherever you’re seriously considering moving – although, this isn’t always possible.

In the meantime, with a lot of internet research and chatting to anyone you know who may have visited, you should get a solid idea of your new home before visiting.

Here are our top European cities for solo travellers:

Vienna, Austria

Full of beautiful architecture and limitless coffee shops, Vienna should be the destination of choice for any expat who dreams of lazy Sundays on European plazas, drinking cappuccinos and surrounded by buildings which are hundreds of years old.

The Viennese are extremely friendly, there’s a great expat community and, on the border of not just one or two – but seven countries, (Italy, Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Switzerland), you will have plenty of opportunities to explore the rest of Europe.

Lyon, France

Those who believe Paris is the be-all-and-end-all of France, are very much mistaken. France has a number of beautiful, vibrant cities, but the one which comes out on top in our opinion, is Lyon.

Don’t let the size of Lyon put you off, it’s very bike and pedestrian-friendly, so you will rarely need your car within the city. The city isn’t too far from the Italian/Swiss border and is perfectly situated for a quick ski-break to the mountains. As is the way of France, expect bakeries on every corner and a 35-hour working week, ideal.

Bruges, Belgium

If your European dream resembles cobblestone streets, fairytale-esque buildings, and picture-perfect buildings along canals, welcome to Bruges.

The Belgians are a notoriously friendly bunch, and are extremely proud of their country and heritage. Bruges offers a more laid-back expat lifestyle but is the perfect place to meet locals and other expats alike, as people are very friendly. If you’re stuck for directions or inspiration, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a local who isn’t willing to give you some guidance.

Stockholm, Sweden

Scandinavia is renowned across the world for its progressive reputation on equality and tolerance, which makes it an extremely safe area of Europe for expats. However, Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, has our hearts.

The main drawback of Stockholm (or any Scandinavian country), is that the language is notoriously difficult. If you can’t be persuaded by the laidback aesthetic Swedish life, perhaps the proximity to the Northern Lights will persuade you. A quick trip to the North of the country will provide you with one of the most incredible experiences of your life.

Dublin, Ireland

Ranked as Number 12 in the Global Peace Index, Ireland is one of the safest countries to visit in the world – and where else to live but the nation’s capital, Dublin.

With thousands of expats each year, it’s impossible to walk the streets of the city without hearing a different accent or language. From Temple Bar, notorious for its pubs and clubs, to the beautiful squares, with buildings covered in Ivy, there’s something for everyone, and you’re bound to have the time of your life.

Looking at moving to Europe? If moving across the pond is on your horizon, it’s important to find a reliable international mover with no-hidden-costs to take you through the paces of emigrating.

The post The Best European Cities for Solo Travellers appeared first on UPakWeShip.

From the local boulangerie with its daily baked pastries and bread to the incredible amount of cheese – literally, cheese is EVERYWHERE – the food is enough to tempt you by itself, let alone the 35 hour week, the higher average salary…

…And don’t even get us started on the wine.

But before you do jump on the next plane over to France, we’ve got some tips on how to make the process to the land of berets and baguettes as easy as possible, ooh la la:

The Regions

Most of us know that France is roughly the same size as Texas, but the weather variant is actually more extreme from north to south. The north of the country is extremely close the UK (you can actually sometimes see France on clear days from Dover), whereas the south is on the Mediterranean.

Obviously, the climate differs, but so does the culture, the people, and to some extent the dialect.

In Northern regions, such as Brittany and Normandy, you can expect to find architecture which reflects neighboring Germany and across-the-channel-Britain. Old, brick houses on winding roads, with century-old castles and fortified towns.

Further south, Provence and the Pyrenees offer castles and homes influenced by the Roman empire, the renaissance period and hilltop villages which continue to reflect the Italians influence.

Each region is very different and very proud of their origins.

The Work/Life Balance

The French have truly got the work/life balance right, with 5 weeks vacation time per year.

The minimum wage is objectively higher than that of the US and the UK, despite the working week only being 35 hours. (The US is 40, the UK 37.5)

And all of that alleviated stress is clearly working, as the French, on average, live longer, healthier lives than Americans. If you do fall ill though, don’t worry, as according to the WHO (World Health Organisation), France has the best healthcare system in the world.

In terms of healthcare, it’s actually a legal obligation to have health insurance in France in order to access the system. Most people will automatically qualified for the state French health insurance, but you’ll need to register with CPAM (Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie).

You can also purchase private healthcare, as CPAM doesn’t actually cover 100% of medical costs, but it does reduce them significantly.

French isn’t the only language of France

Whilst it is the official language of the country, the borders of the country dictate the dialect and languages spoken. In the north, it’s not uncommon to hear German, Flemish or Breton, whilst in the south-west, the ‘Basque Country’ (on the border of Spain), speak Catalan and Basque.

In fact, the likelihood is most of the people you come across will speak more than one language – which puts a lot of us to shame. Wherever you are in France, French will be the most widely understood language, so ensure you know the basics.

Renting will be hard

A heads up for those renting before moving. If you don’t have any French family or friends, you’ll find it extremely hard moving.

French laws around renting are also reflected in neighbouring countries, in that basically, once you’re in, it’s almost impossible to get you out.

Because of this, landlords will expect references of a certain calibre, almost always from a French individual and/or company. If you’re moving for a job, talk to your work about this.

On top of references, as an expat, don’t be surprised if you have to pay 6 months up-front for rent, it’s the landlord’s assurance that no matter what happens, you’ve already paid and won’t be doing a runner.

In cities like Paris, this makes renting extremely difficult and expensive. The competition for apartments and your disadvantage in being from the US will make things even harder. For this reason, it’s strongly advisable to look into the Paris suburbs, commuting by public transport is extremely common across all of Europe and is the preferred route to work in big cities – even if you can drive.

For this reason, it can be extremely hard to know where or when you’ll be moving into a home with your belongings. But with a great international mover, you’ll be able to change your shipping address once you know where you’re headed!

The Paperwork

Unsurprisingly, it isn’t as simple as settling into your new place and boom! becoming French.

On arrival, it’s a legal requirement to register with the French authorities within three months. Because of the procedure, which includes an interview and a medical, it’s advisable to register with the OFII (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration) asap.

Setting up a French bank account should, in theory, be easier, but to do so you’ll need to have with you your ID, proof of French address, and a residence permit if you have one. This will take a week to 10 days to open, which means in the meantime, you’ll be needing your US PIN number, and some euros in cash.

The French Life

Maybe the most obvious of them all – learn the language!

The French have a bit of a rough reputation as being rude or blunt, but the truth is, when you live there you’ll understand it’s just like any country, there are some nice people and some rude ones.

The translation of French to English often leaves out the niceties, so whilst people may sound like they’re being rude, they’re usually just directly translating what they’d say in French, which doesn’t hold as well in English.

There will be other culture shocks you’ll need to adjust to, almost all restaurants are closed between 2-6, between lunch and dinner. All grocery stores shut down on Sundays and Public Holidays, and their breakfast often consists of cold meats and cheese.

However, the lunches are long, the food and wine are great, and you’ll be supporting two of the best national soccer (sorry, football), and rugby teams in the world. We don’t think you’ll regret it for a second.

Don’t forget, if you’re looking to move to Europe, it’s important to find a reliable international mover with no-hidden-fees to take you through the paces of emigrating.

The post Moving to France: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on UPakWeShip.

I wanted to thank you so much, you and your team, for the great support and service you provided.
All my goods were delivered in time and most important, without any damage.
Moving, and especially overseas, is a long and fastidious process, but finding THE right partner to make this happen is for sure a key of success.
Thanks again, you made it so simple!!

Kind regards,
Tor-Rolf

This is Tor and Pete at our terminal in Charleston SC, USA, having just filled up his U Crate.

We are confident that if you want to save money when choosing an international moving company, UPakWeShip is the right partner and the key to a successful international move.

Moving Doctor says thank you Tor for the great feedback and enjoy your stay in France.

The post Finding the right partner when moving overseas is the key to a successful move! appeared first on UPakWeShip.

Maersk Alabama

We watched Captain Philips last night at the movies. What a great movie and a good insight into what goes on behind the scenes with ships and its cargo. Captain Philips is a very brave man and played so well by Tom Hanks. Next time you are moving overseas give UPakWeShip a call and we will put your belongings into one of these shipping containers. No containers were hurt during the filming of this movie!

The post Moving Overseas? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

upackweship.com

Great Moving Review for moving to England

From beginning to end, this was an extremely professional service.    Nothing was too much trouble for any of the staff involved.  Alicia in Customer Services deserves a special mention – I agree with other reviews, this lady is the most helpful customer services rep I have ever come across.  We used a container in the past for our larger items (using another firm) and some items were damaged in transit.  However, our cardboard box and it’s contents arrived completely intact!  Fantastic service from beginning to end – thank you!

The post Moving to Europe with a U Box, “Extremely Professional” appeared first on UPakWeShip.

Aug 03, 2013 by Ally

We moved from California to Sweden, and had been searching for moving companies (frustratingly) for a long time. I’d received lots of crazily high quotes from movers until I stumbled across the UBox flat rate service.

I was skeptical that the reasonable price would truly include everything, but was happily proven wrong! Our UBox was delivered to our US apartment, cleared customs at both ends and came straight to our new place in Malmö, Sweden with no extra charges.

We loved the concept of being able to pack your own stuff in your own time (we managed to fit quite a lot into our box), whereas other companies tried to force you to use their packers.

Only had a couple of small hiccups with the UBox being collected in the US after we’d packed it (the company used to transport the box to the port got lost and never showed). However, after speaking with the UPak team the pickup was rescheduled for the next day. I’m glad the UPak ‘tips’ said to add an extra day or so before our flight out of the country!

On the Sweden side we had a little communication confusion with the delivery day, but it was rescheduled and the box arrived safe and sound.

Overall, great communication, rates and service! Tack så mycket!

International Moving To Sweden

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