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A tourist from the United States was recently disappointed when her dream trip to France did not meet her expectations.
Angela, a blogger from San Francisco who wore a beret, emotionally shared on TikTok her feelings of being excluded while visiting Lyon, France during the New Year because she didn’t speak the local language.
She expressed feeling foolish for spending money to come here, and then stated that she came to learn and explore, but the experience is not to her liking.
The video, titled “France Made Me Cry,” has received over 6.8 million views since it was uploaded last week. It has sparked a debate on cultural etiquette when traveling in foreign countries.
It is unexpected that Angela is not the only one experiencing culture shock during her city break, particularly in France.
Tourists who do not land to an idealised image of French cities, particularly in the capital – the affluent and attractive metropolis primed for romance we’ve watched for so long on-screen – note how a filthy, loud and overcrowded underbelly of Paris has left them underwelmed or even deeply shocked.
When a shock is severe enough to cause noticeable symptoms, it is referred to as Paris syndrome.
Can you explain what Paris syndrome is?
Paris syndrome is commonly described as a condition of intense culture shock.
Symptoms of both physical and psychological distress may occur when Paris falls short of expectations, such as experiencing hallucinations, a fast heart rate, dizziness, and nausea.
When was its initial appearance?
In the 1980s, a psychiatrist named Hiroaki Ota coined the term for the disorder that emerged in the late 20th century.
Several factors are believed to contribute to the prevalence of the syndrome among Japanese individuals. These include the idealized image of perfection in Parisian culture portrayed in Japanese media, challenges posed by the language barrier, and significant cultural differences.
Since the early 2000s, a number of Japanese travelers have been seeking treatment at psychiatric clinics in severe cases.
Is it real?
Yes, it is uncommon.
Approximately 20 Japanese visitors experience this condition annually. There are unverified claims that the Japanese embassy in Paris offers a 24-hour emergency hotline for individuals experiencing legitimate symptoms of shock caused by travel trauma.
Does it apply only to Paris?
Tourists who visit Jerusalem may experience psychiatric symptoms similar to those experienced by locals. These symptoms, triggered by the close proximity to holy sites, can result in a psychotic state of paranoia for travelers and pilgrims. This is often associated with a strong religious experience.
In other parts of Florence, tourists who are overwhelmed by the city’s art and architecture may suffer from Stendhal syndrome – a condition characterized by paranoia and heart palpitations caused by the historical significance and beauty of their surroundings.
Ways to prevent experiencing Paris syndrome.
Paris, like many cities (including London), has its own shortcomings. Acknowledging the reality of overcrowded tourist areas and distant attitudes from residents instead of viewing it through a romanticized lens may prevent potential letdown.
Please refer to our Paris travel guide for information on the best time to visit and tips for planning a trip to this beautiful city.
If you’re unable to give up your dreams of experiencing Paris on-screen, here’s a guide on how to have a French capital adventure like Emily in Paris, no matter your budget – whether it’s champagne or something more modest.
Source: independent.co.uk
