Escape Paris While Still in Paris

Paris is the city of lights and love.  We go there to see the famous works of art, the Eiffel Tower, the cathedrals, the opulence.  We want to feel French so we buy baguettes, eat croissants, and read books in the parks.  We want to appear cultured so we try to speak French, dress a la mode, critique art.  But why visit the ethnic parts of Paris?  Leave behind the Parisian life.  See what makes up a modern Paris, a modern France. 

There is a growing Middle Eastern and Arab population in France.   This brings a unique cultural clash between theFrench lifestyle and the Arab culture.  Two distinct cultures trying to co-exists next to each other.  So here is to exploring the intermixing of French and immigrant cultures.

The first place to visit is the Arab World Institute, centered in the heart of Paris.  The purpose of this building is to expose the Arab culture to the French and whoever chooses to visits.  Built in collaboration with eight other Arab nations, the Arab World Institute wants to promote collaboration and exchange between the French and the Arab world.  

The Institute holds exhibits on Arabic art, dance, theater, and film as well as an extensive library on Arab culture, history, and development.  There are also instructors to teach Arabic to all ages.  It prides itself on understanding through education.

And of course, there is no better way to explore another culture but through food.  There are three different restaurants to try.  What is most popular is to order mint tea and sit in the rooftop terrace and look Paris.  This offers one of the best views of Paris, with the Seine River, Notre Dame, Île de la Cité and the Marais below you.   You can feel the cultures mesh together as you take part in an Arabic custom of drinking mint tea but relax like the French do with the quintessential French sights.