How does Paris syndrome affect some visitors to the French capital?

Some visitors can be so shocked by the reality of Paris compared to their expectations that they can experience psychiatric breakdowns or symptoms such as hallucinations, depersonalization, anxiety, dizziness and nausea. This is known as the Paris Syndrome.

Romance, sophistication, croissants and sipping fine wine with the Eiffel Tower in the background spring to mind when thinking of a visit to Paris. With such a romanticized notion of the French capital, it’s no surprise that this remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with 33 million expected in 2022, according to Le Monde. But it seems that the reality of Paris is more than what some visitors’ stomachs can handle.

Why do some visitors have such unrealistic expectations of Paris? How do you actually explain the physical symptoms? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !

Date of first release : August 24th, 2022

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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.

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