When I'm in Paris

To AC or not to AC? That’s the question.

Without a doubt, it’s always nice to have air conditioning. Especially for those who are accustomed to having it during the summer months.

However, it’s worth knowing that most native Parisians still live without air conditioning, or make do with fans or smaller AC units that can be rolled into individual rooms.

When looking for an apartment in Paris, it’s often best not to rule out an apartment for lack of air conditioning. After all, the fact that most Parisians still live without AC it is somewhat indicative of how necessary it tends to be. However, each person has to gauge this for him or herself. As with all things, ask yourself the right questions:

Are you very heat sensitive, or perhaps in a physical state that makes you more sensitive than usual? How important are other considerations in terms of price, location or other amenities? Lack of AC for a healthy individual staying in early June, for example, may not be a deal-breaker if the price is right and the location is ideal.

And finally, how warm does it get where you live, in comparison to Paris?

To that end, Welcome2France Luxury Apartment Rentals presents the following “warmer months” seasonal overview, to be used with the questions posed above to help you make the best decision:

Spring in Paris (March 21 – June 21)

Paris reawakens, both literally and figuratively, with an explosion of color. Rains pick up a bit, and the temperatures rise slowly between March and June. Days get longer and there’s a noticeable increase in cyclists and joggers along the banks of the Seine. A sense of fun is in the air, and the city begins rolling out Spring-themed events, from fashion shows to museum openings.

March means 35 mm of rain average, and temperatures 39 – 53 F.
April means 42 mm of rain average, and temperatures 43 – 60 F.
May means 57 mm of rain average, and temperatures 50 – 68 F.

Summer in Paris (June 21- September 21)

Summers means basking in the sun in sidewalks cafes all over the city, and fun at the “beaches” set up all along the banks of the Seine. Concerts and cinema events abound, there are fun citywide events, warm summer showers and of course the Tour de France in early July.

June means 54 mm of rain average, and temperatures 55 – 75 F.
July means 59 mm of rain average, and temperatures 59 – 77 F.
August means 64 mm of rain average, and temperatures 57 – 75 F.

As a general rule of thumb, middle- to late-July and early- to middle-August are the peak times. A trip in early June is rarely cause for alarm. And it pays to keep in mind that, generally speaking, the fact that rains coincide with the hotter times tend to help. If you find an apartment you simply adore, consider that a fan may be all you need. But if you know temperature is difficult for you, consider an apartment with air conditioning.

No matter what you choose, Paris presents all travelers with the opportunity to have the absolute trip of a lifetime!