Navigating Summer Heatwaves in Paris Without a Meltdown
Summer in Paris is glorious, isn’t it? Long days, vibrant streets, the scent of fresh pastries wafting through the air… and occasionally, a heatwave that makes you question your life choices regarding central heating. While Paris in July and August is utterly enchanting, it’s worth noting that this old dame wasn’t built with modern air-conditioning in mind.
Many classic Parisian buildings, with their thick stone walls, were designed to retain warmth in winter, which can be less than ideal when the mercury decides to stage a coup. So, how does one avoid melting gracefully into the pavement?
The key, my friends, is strategy and a healthy dose of pragmatism.
First off, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room – or rather, the lack of a fan in your charming, non-air-conditioned hotel room. Expecting ubiquitous Arctic blasts is a fool’s errand. Instead, rely on the natural cooling properties of ancient stone and clever scheduling. Museums, churches, and grand department stores often offer a blessed reprieve. The Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and the Centre Pompidou, for instance, are generally climate-controlled to protect their precious artworks (and, thankfully, their visitors). Ducking into a magnificent church like Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Sainte-Chapelle offers not only spiritual solace but also a blissful drop in temperature thanks to those colossal stone walls. Think of it as cultural cooling.
When you’re out and about, hydration is paramount. Paris is remarkably well-equipped with public drinking fountains – those iconic green Wallace fountains are everywhere, offering fresh, cool (and perfectly potable) water. Some even dispense sparkling water, a truly civilised touch! Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it constantly. Forget the stiff upper lip; if you feel yourself wilting, find a fountain and splash some water on your face and wrists. No one will bat an eyelid; it’s a Parisian heatwave ritual.
Dress for success, which in this case means dressing for survival. Light, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibres like linen or cotton are your best friends. Think light colours to reflect the sun. And a hat – a proper, wide-brimmed one – isn’t just chic, it’s essential for protecting your head from the direct sun. Sunglasses are also non-negotiable, unless you enjoy squinting your way through a city that demands to be admired with wide-open eyes.
Embrace the “siesta” concept
The hottest part of the day is typically between 2 PM and 5 PM. Instead of slogging through crowded streets, retreat. Go back to your accommodation, draw the curtains, and have a leisurely rest. Or, find a cool spot in a park – Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, with its grotto and waterfall, offers natural coolness, as do the shaded avenues of the Bois de Boulogne. Even just finding a café with a shaded terrace (and ideally, a misting fan, a growing luxury!) for an iced coffee can be a lifesaver. You’re on holiday, after all, not competing in a marathon.
Finally, remember that the Parisians themselves are masters of coping. When a heatwave hits, they flock to the public pools or they make a beeline for the “Paris Plages” along the Seine, where you’ll find misters, deckchairs, and a surprisingly authentic beach vibe. Follow their lead!
A summer heatwave in Paris might throw a charming curveball your way, but it’s nothing that a bit of forward thinking, a strategic approach to shade, and a constant supply of chilled water (and perhaps a cheeky glace or two) can’t overcome. It’s all part of the authentic Parisian summer experience, a truly memorable adventure, even if it requires a slight recalibration of your internal thermostat.
Aeroplane
Copper wire, wood base. I created this piece in late 2008. For this work, I aimed to convey both the industrial heaviness of an aeroplane, but also the cloud like floating quality you feel when you’re in one.