SUMMER SKINS IN PARIS

If you haven't noticed, then I certainly have. As soon as summer arrives, the French men put their winter coats away and return to the streets in shorts and t-shirts with the perfect bronzed complexion to compliment their outfit. Like, perfectly bronzed.

I'm sure some of them get their tans from a bottle and others from a solarium, but some look like they've been on a month-long vacation in the sun (but you know they probably haven't left Paris). If you're wondering where they go and would like to join them and maybe see how they gain that perfect golden hue, we've got a list for you. But if you're anything like us, you will be sure to pack some SPF...

QUAIS OF THE SEINE

Long before parks and tanning beds, there were the quais of the Seine. They are still popular today as a place to sunbathe, even though I wouldn't think about cooling off in the water. Bring your towel and your speedos and prepare to glisten in the sun as you sweat and tan with the other men who frequent the quais. The eastern tip of Ile Saint Louis is a particularly popular spot to get your bake on.

PISCINE JOSEPHINE BAKER

Also along the Seine, but with a lot more comfort and swimmable water (but just as much speedo action) is this floating swimming pool. For the summer months the roof is retracted to make the perfect open-air pool-side hangout and popular among the gays.

PARIS PLAGE

It's not so easy to get from Paris to the beach, so the beach comes to Paris! Again, the Seine is the main location of this sunning spot. If you love the feeling of sand between your feet when you catch some rays, this is the place for you. Set out a towel, or use the chairs provided for maximum enjoyment and sprinklers will help keep you cool and refreshed during the hot August days. There's a second location along the Canal as well in the 19th arrondissement.

BUTTES CHAUMONT

A change of scenery, in the north of Paris, this park is the perfect spot for a picnic and lazing in the sun. The steep hills means no one will block your sun, and might even give you a nice view of Paris and your fellow sun lovers. You're also likely to see the shirtless runners doing their laps.

LAC DAUMESNIL (BOIS DE VINCENNES)

Out in the Boise de Vincennes, the large, less manicured park to the east of Paris, you can get away from the urban hustle and relax. At Lac Daumesnil, you can sit along the water on the grass and bask in the sun. There are row boats for hire and plenty of space to spread out a picnic blanket. You may even see guys engaging in some shirtless sports activities. 

No matter where you lie in the sun, be responsible. Burns don't look good on anyone. Happy tanning!