Paris would not be the same without the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, but there are places off the beaten track and “Hunting for the Treasures of Paris” is one of the most enjoyable ways to find them.

The rules are simple: all the participants are registering through a website (http://www.tresorsdeparis.fr) or go in front of the town halls of 3rd, 6th, 13th, 18th or 19th districts of Paris. They are given different enigmas and the competition begins. Players can be individuals or teams.

Following their enigma, the participants are guided to various points of Paris where they meet strange characters with stranger tests. Each successfully passed test brings indices in the form of bit of paper.

After the players pass all the tests, they have to associate the indices which they will have collected. This reveals the answer of the last enigma and guides them to the point of arrival.

The last test is at the point of arrival. To multiply their chances to gain, the participants have to answer a question. It is about the course and places they just made and been to. If their answer is correct, they will gain additional coupons to place in the ballot box for the final winner of “Hunting for the treasures of Paris”.

Shortcomings

• It seems that players should speak at least basic French to be able to play.
• There is quite a chance to be lost.
• Actually, I do not speak French and I couldn’t get what is the prize for the winner.

Advantages:

• Communication is possible even if you do not speak French (use your non-verbal armor)
• Being lost is great. You will have the chance to meet local people, local shopkeepers, artists and craftsmen.
• You will explore Paris. Really! E-X-P-L-O-R-E!
• Even if you do not win, surely you will have fun.

Have you ever taken part in this? How was it? How many times you were lost? Are you looking for a team-partner for this year?