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Paris
Beat Generation Paris: Literary Walking Tour
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Overview
The Beat Generation in Paris Walking Tour takes you on a journey through the haunts of iconic poets and writers. This walking tour explores the world of the Beat Generation in Paris. See where they lived, wrote, and found inspiration.
Walk in the footsteps of literary legends at key spots like the Beat Hotel, where William Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg once resided. Explore Shakespeare and Company, the famous English-language bookstore that served as a hub for these writers. You'll also discover legendary Paris Jazz Clubs and William Burroughs' Favorite Cafe. See English-Language Bookstore & Dive Hotel, Café Bonaparte, Le Select. Your expert guide will share stories about their lives, their groundbreaking work, and their lasting impact on literature and culture.
This small-group tour ensures a personal experience as you uncover the secrets and stories behind the Beat Generation's time in Paris. This tour includes guiding services and excludes coffee and tea. It explores the places where the Beat Generation thrived. 
Highlights
Walk the streets of the Beat Generation: Follow the footsteps of famous poets and writers.
Visit iconic literary landmarks: Explore Shakespeare and Company and the Beat Hotel.
Small Group Tour: Enjoy a personal experience with an expert guide.
Discover hidden gems: Uncover the stories behind the Beat Generation's Paris years.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers enjoyed learning about the Beat Generation from a knowledgeable guide, but some thought it was fast-paced and that it could use more visuals.
Customers loved learning about the Beat Generation's history.
Many enjoyed walking to the different locations and taking pictures.
The tour guide was described as knowledgeable and engaging.
Some visitors appreciated the small group size.
A few felt the tour could have included more visual aids.
Some reviewers thought the pace was a little fast.
The Journey
Beat Hotel
Step back in time at the infamous Beat Hotel, a legendary haven for Beat Generation writers and artists in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Though no longer a hotel, its spirit endures. Imagine William Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg, and Gregory Corso exchanging ideas amidst its cramped rooms and bohemian atmosphere. This area, peppered with cafes and bars where the Beats congregated, offers a palpable sense of literary history. Explore the surrounding streets, envisioning the artistic energy that once pulsed through them.
Shakespeare and Company
Immerse yourself in the literary magic of Shakespeare and Company, the iconic English-language bookstore on Paris's Left Bank. A sanctuary for writers and readers since 1951 (with an earlier incarnation dating back to 1919), it hosted Allen Ginsberg and Gregory Corso's 1957 Beat poetry reading, solidifying its place in literary history. Browse its shelves, attend a reading, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this beloved Paris landmark, a must-visit for book lovers from around the globe. Discover why it became a vital hub for expat writers and a symbol of intellectual freedom.
Paris Jazz Clubs
Delve into the smoky depths of Parisian jazz clubs, where the Beat Generation found inspiration and solace. Jazz was the soundtrack to their lives, influencing their rhythm and poetry. Visit two historic venues that served as gathering places for the Beats, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and soulful music that resonated with their rebellious spirit. These clubs offer a glimpse into the cultural landscape that shaped the Beat movement, a time when artistic boundaries were being pushed and new forms of expression were emerging.
William Burroughs' Favorite Cafe
Discover a cozy Parisian cafe that was a favorite haunt of William Burroughs, the groundbreaking and controversial author. Imagine Burroughs nursing a coffee, scribbling notes, and observing the world around him. This unassuming spot offers a glimpse into the daily life of a literary icon and provides a chance to connect with the more intimate side of Burroughs' Parisian experience. It's a reminder that even the most revolutionary minds find inspiration in the simple pleasures of everyday life.
English-Language Bookstore & Dive Hotel
Explore an English-language bookstore that dared to showcase the more controversial works of William Burroughs, pushing the boundaries of literature. Then, visit a no-frills hotel, a place where Gregory Corso found refuge when funds were tight, highlighting the Beat Generation's commitment to artistic pursuits over material comfort. This combination of intellectual daring and bohemian hardship offers a compelling glimpse into the realities faced by these groundbreaking writers as they challenged convention.
Café Bonaparte
Unwind at the Café Bonaparte, a relaxed hangout favored by Gregory Corso. This cafe offered a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling establishments on Boulevard St. Germain, providing a space for Corso and his fellow Beats to engage in conversation and creation. Enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine as you soak in the ambiance, imagining the lively discussions and artistic exchanges that once filled this space. The Café Bonaparte offers a more intimate and authentic glimpse into the Parisian life of the Beat Generation.
Le Select
Travel to Montparnasse and step into the hallowed halls of Le Select, a legendary cafe where Allen Ginsberg penned the first verses of his iconic poem, 'Kaddish.' This historic establishment has been a gathering place for artists and intellectuals for generations. Sit at a table, order a drink, and imagine Ginsberg capturing the raw emotion and spiritual depth that would define one of his most celebrated works. Le Select offers a tangible connection to the creative process and the enduring legacy of the Beat Generation.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes the guiding service of a local expert. Please note that coffee and tea are not included in the price of the tour. The meeting point will be provided upon booking and the tour concludes near the starting location. Please wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a moderate amount of walking.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. It's helpful to do some research on the Beat Generation writers before you go, to get more context of the experience!
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