Chic and cheerful life in Paris
‘‘Paris so rich in culture and arts - something I felt I was missing out on in NZ,’’ says Ainsley Duyvestyn-Smith
Where are you from?
Pukekohe.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been there?
I was travelling around Europe and Africa for about a year and a half and constantly found myself coming back to Paris. For some reason, I felt so at home here and was always so excited by it. I could not get enough of the city, so I eventually decided to move here. It was never my plan, but I’ve been here for three years now.
What do you do there?
I am a freelance photographer and travel blogger.
What are the greatest advantages to living there?
One of the best things is being so accessible to the rest of Europe and North Africa. I can jump on a train and be in a different country in an hour and a half or fly to North Africa in a few hours. It’s so easy (and cheap) to travel. On top of that, this city is so rich in culture and arts which is something I felt I was missing out on in New Zealand.
Disadvantages?
Living in a big city so disconnected to nature is my biggest challenge. Never before have I lived so far away from the sea, and living in such a bustling, vibrant city can get exhausting very quickly. I need my little weekend breaks to reconnect with nature sometimes.
How expensive is it compared to New Zealand?
For me, I feel like the cost of living in New Zealand (especially Auckland) is more than in Paris. You can live well on a budget here. A beer can cost anywhere between 2.50 euros ($4.30) and 8 euros ($13.70) depending on where you go. Health care is very well subsidised, we have unlimited travel on public transport for 75 euros a month, food can be super cheap if you shop well, and rental prices fluctuate depending on where you live and the size of your apartment.
What do you do in your spare time?
I travel (a lot), take photos, explore jazz and cocktail clubs and have picnics in our many beautiful parks. I also try to make the most of the museums, art exhibitions and many palaces we have in the city.
What’s the local delicacy?
Obviously, croissants here are like nowhere else in the world…Then the cheese, the wine, the baguettes! Everything, eat everything!
Easiest way to get around?
Metro and bicycle.
What’s the shopping like?
I’m a big vintage shopper, so it can either be amazing or expensive, depending on where you go. Otherwise, there really is everything here from budget to couture.
Best after-dark activity?
Having a cocktail in a swanky bar like Maison Souquet or Prescription Cocktail Club.
Best time of year to visit?
May or October.
Your top three things for visitors?
Opera Garnier, Musee D’Orsay and Montmartre.
Besides family and friends, what do you miss most about home?
The ocean! I’m a big beach lover so my biggest struggle is being so far away from the ocean. Also, I really miss the relaxed and friendly culture of New Zealanders. It’s always nice to go home for a bit.
How easy is it for you to get back to NZ?
It is a nightmare. It normally takes about 36 hours door-to-door.
For Kiwis looking to move there, which industries are seeking fresh talent?
Unfortunately, unless you have a very rare talent and are employed before moving over you pretty much must be able to speak French to get a job in any kind of corporate work. For English speakers, there is high demand for childcare workers and hospitality staff. If you speak French, Paris is your oyster!