James Joyce Pub, Paris

I was vacationing alone in Paris, and although I spoke enough French to do more than get by, I felt a sense of relief when I entered the James Joyce Pub and heard perfect English coming out of the mouths of everyone in the joint. The staff was friendly...and Irish, and the atmosphere was that of a true pub. I enjoyed the Fish & Chips as well as the beer selection. Someone once asked me, "Why on earth would you go to an Irish Pub in Paris?" I think it was a nice break from the all-things-French. It was like stopping for a drink of cool water (or cold beer) after a fun, but long hike. It's a very casual place, and young travelers stop there on the way out of the city -- a layover of sorts while they wait for their bus. If you are a lone traveler, it's easy to strike up a conversation with someone over a beer and a meal and then be on your separate ways.