Paris is celebrated as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, often conjured up in dreams of beauty and romance. However, when reality fails to live up to those lofty expectations, disappointment can set in. This letdown, when Paris does not meet one’s hopes, is commonly referred to as “Paris Syndrome.” Salvador Ordorica, a cultural and language expert, experienced this firsthand during his inaugural visit to the iconic Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe. “The place was as crowded as Disneyland and didn’t offer the charm I anticipated from Paris,” remarked Ordorica, as reported by Travel + Leisure on July 8, 2025.
Long before the show ‘Emily in Paris’ heightened the city’s allure, Paris was already considered a dream destination. Millions flock annually to gaze upon the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles or to admire the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum. Yet, not every visitor returns home with a heart full of joy. Many find themselves disillusioned upon arriving in Paris, confronting a reality that contrasts sharply with their expectations. The term “Paris Syndrome” was first introduced in the 1980s by Hiroaki Ota, a Japanese psychiatrist working in France, who noted that many tourists, particularly from Japan, experienced symptoms like anxiety, dizziness, and even hallucinations upon realizing that Paris was far removed from their ideal images.
Today, Paris Syndrome affects not just Japanese tourists; many anecdotes of similar experiences can be found on forums like Reddit, where individuals feel misled by their own expectations. Paris is often portrayed as a city brimming with beauty, romance, and visual wonder in films, social media, and luxury brand advertisements. “Paris is glorified in film and media, creating a mental image of a perfect city filled with allure and romance,” explains Ordorica.
Yet, upon arrival, visitors encounter the city’s gritty realities: congested streets, rainy weather, and occasionally unwelcoming locals—which can lead to disillusionment. “When people arrive with hopes of perfection but are faced with the everyday reality of life in Paris, the contrast can be quite shocking,” he adds.
Before embarking on a journey to Paris, it’s wise for travelers to cultivate more grounded expectations. While the city does indeed boast charming locales like the serene Île Saint-Louis, the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, or the cobblestone streets filled with street musicians in Montmartre, it’s essential to remember that Paris is home to over two million people, and like any major city, it has its bustling, noisy, and less-than-ideal facets.
“Paris can be chaotic and poetic, angry yet generous. It’s a typical city in many respects—traffic-clogged, noisy, politically charged, with rainy days and less-than-pleasant locals,” Ordorica reflects. “Yes, the city is stunning in countless ways, overflowing with beauty, delicious cuisine, and extraordinary architecture, but don’t forget there’s a real, imperfect side to it. Acknowledging this will likely enhance your experience.”
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