And Paris is an architectural masterpiece. Tourists from all corners of the globe come to the city to experience its museums, cathedrals and the famed Eiffel Tower.
But, for me, the genius of Paris does not extend to its residents' social skills. For some reason, the cultured and sophisticated Parisians seem unable to transcend the vaunted history and beauty of their beloved city. These locals are a proud bunch who suffer no lack of self-esteem.
Most of all, they seem to have an absolute disdain for those who speak English. French waiters seem never to want to speak with me in English, even when it's clear they speak English as well as I. I know that trying to speak the language is part of the experience, and I do try. But apparently, listening to my French makes a meal far more entertaining.
Not everyone was quite as churlish. On a trip in May, I met a student named Pierre whose generosity and kindness transcended the stereotypes that Parisians have fought so hard to earn. He put me up in his uncle's house and traveled with me down south to Toulouse. But Pierre, I'm sorry to say, seemed the exception.
So there it is -- my highly subjective list. You may not agree with it -- in fact, I'll be surprised if you do. You can register your opinion at latimes.com/overrated.
I'm looking forward to the e-mails -- except maybe the one from my father, who, I am sure, is crafting his even now.
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travel@latimes.com
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Londoner Leon Logothetis made his foray into television on the Discovery Channel's "Destination Future." From there, he developed the series "Amazing Adventures of a Nobody," in which he travels on $5 a day. His journeys have taken him around Britain, from New York to Hollywood and Paris to Moscow. Season 3 begins Jan. 25 on Fox Reality.
