The Paris interview with Nikki Vargas

Nikki Vargas – travel blogger

Every other week, Discover Walks will share with some great insight from Travel bloggers from around the world who fell in love with Paris. They will share their favorites addresses and things to do while in Paris. Because genuine advice and stories are so important to us, in addition to our born-and-raised Parisian tour stories, we now bring you real advice from fellow travelers.

Bonjour Nikki, can you tell us more about who you are?

My name is Nikki Vargas and I live in New York City. I am 29 years old and originally from Bogota, Colombia.

Why did you start writing thepinthemapproject?

I began The Pin the Map Project about 5 years ago while I was working full time in advertising. I was unhappy in my job and dreamed of traveling and writing more, so decided to create a blog as a creative outlet for my writing. The Pin the Map Project started as a passion project but eventually blossomed into something much more than that. Eventually, I quit my job and started travel blogging full time while pursuing a career as a travel journalist, eventually landing my dream job as Travel Editor of Culture Trip.

Why did you start traveling?

I first began traveling for pleasure, out of a desire to simply see more of the world. Then I started traveling more to grow my blog, gain more experiences and, yes, continue to see the world. Now I have more of an even balance between traveling for pleasure and business, which is to say when I go on assignment as a journalist.

What’s special about your blog?

I think what sets my blog apart from the rest is the fact that I’m a formally trained journalist. While I do publish listicles, I tend to prefer stories that are smart, well researched and have an opinion, which is a nod to the journalist in me. I try to be honest in my writing and blend personal story telling with useful information. I also cover topics some other bloggers might not such as human rights, politics and social issues, again a nod to my journalism.

What would be your top 3 things to do in Paris?

Top 3 things in Paris would be:

• A visit to Shakespeare & Co. by Notre Dame;
• A stroll through Montmartre;
• And people watching at a sidewalk cafe while having a glass of wine over a good meal.

Your favorite landmark in Paris?

The Eiffel Tower of course!

What is your favorite neighborhood in Paris?

I love the Latin Quarter, although all Parisian neighborhoods seem beautiful to me.

Could you give us your recommendation to first timers in Paris?

Don’t plan your days. Rather, just arrive to Paris and let your trip happen naturally. I think the worst thing in Paris is to have an agenda. Some of the best things in Paris are discovered on foot while aimlessly wandering. Let Paris reveal itself to you.

Thank you so much Nikki, keep on enjoying Paris!

Merci beaucoup :-)