Paris Is Hotter Than Taipei

By Chen Chi-Hsiang

This year’s summer in Paris has been particularly scorching, with temperatures hovering around 30°C (the city government has issued emergency heat advisories), breaking records from previous years. For several days, it has been hotter than Taipei; at 7 p.m., the outdoor thermometer read 35°C (I checked online that Taipei was at 34°C). Worse still, during these periods of intense heat, air pollution plagues the city center, urging residents to avoid outdoor activities.

In a place without air conditioning or electric fans, how do Parisians escape the heat? They hide in shady spots, drink plenty of water, seek refuge in public buildings (with AC), stay indoors unless necessary, look out for elderly neighbors, read and cool off under trees in parks, immerse themselves in swimming pools, play in the sea or by lakes, and maintain a calm state of mind.

Despite the blazing sun and hot weather, many people still choose to sunbathe outdoors, seemingly unconcerned about ultraviolet rays. For those with fair skin, this is necessary to produce Vitamin D; moderation is key. Applying sunscreen and then sunbathing like dried fish results in a bronze complexion, which appears healthy and serves as a social marker for those on vacation.

My remedy for the heat is to wear only shorts and hide in my studio to carefully cultivate my paintings or writing. I often take the opportunity to sneak into art museums or galleries to savor them quietly, leaving me refreshed and mentally cool.

Wishing everyone peace during the heat.