EMILY IN PARIS While the show encountered criticism for its romanticized depiction of life as a young marketing slash social media maven , there ’ s no denying the success of Netflix ’ s “ Emily in Paris ” majorly impacted tourism in France ’ s capital city . The uptick has been so staggering , in fact , that Parisians have taken to calling it the “ Emily in Paris effect .” However , the new trend comes with a complicated catch as some locals argue that the show touts an idealized portrayal of the City of Lights , leaving some tourists feeling perplexed when their lived experience fails to fulfill the fantasy of Parisian life .
Interestingly , this isn ’ t a new dilemma . The City of Love ’ s idyllic depiction is often a stark contrast from reality — i . e . the streets can be dirty ; people can be rude ; the crowds can be big — alas , the Netflix hit is changing perceptions , and there ’ s data to prove it . According to a 2023 IFOP poll for Bonjour New York , 73 % of Americans have a good opinion of France and the French , nearly double the country ’ s 39 % rating in 2007 . Of those surveyed , 47 % watched “ Emily in Paris ,” and 17 % did not . Additionally , 67 % of respondents believe Paris to be clean ; 35 % said there are almost no rats , and 30 % stated there are no homeless people . Perhaps most interestingly , 83 % of poll-takers believe the image of Paris as portrayed in “ Emily in Paris ” is an accurate depiction .
Despite its quirks , Paris is a truly unique and beautiful destination worth visiting . However , instead of taking media portrayals of the city at face value , locals recommend remaining open to the realities of city life . With that in mind , set-jetters inspired by the show will want to add several locations to their Paris wish list including Place de l ’ Estrapade , Place de Valois , Jardin du Palais Royal , Rue de l ’ Abreuvoir and Café de Flore .
Place de Valois was used for exterior shots of Emily ’ s office in “ Emily in Paris .”
SUMMER 2023 / THE COMPASS / 51