Category: France

5 Things Tourists Love & Hate about Visiting France

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit France! We’ve been to France several times over the years and we keep coming back! France is more than just Paris; you really have to get out and explore the country on a trip to France. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit France.

Hate #1: Your Grasp of the French Language

Not to say that they don’t speak English in France, but knowing just a little bit of French can entirely change the experience you have on your trip to France. If you know a few French phrases, it will really get people to open up and be more welcoming to you. So, if you don’t know any French, we recommend brushing up a bit before you go so you can improve the experience you have in France.

Hate #2: Hotels in France

Hotels in France are small and expensive. A lot of times if you are looking for budget accommodation, you’ll have shared bathrooms. It’s kind of quaint the first few hotels you have, but after a while, it becomes a bit annoying. It’s worth asking at the hotel before you make reservations to find out if you have shared accommodations or not. You will have to pay more for private room and bath, but sometimes it’s worth it, especially if you’re traveling for a long time. Expect to spend about 20% more on hotels in France than you would pay for a similar hotel in Germany.

Read: Everyday Annoyances of Long-Term Travel

Hate #3: Service in France

Service in France can be …offhand. The people in France are super friendly and are happy to make recommendations for you while you travel through France. Somehow, though, this friendliness does not translate to the service industry. A lot of times when you are receiving a service, it can feel like you are a huge burden to the person serving you. This is a big reason why France has a reputation for being rude; it’s just from service interactions, while the everyday residents are perfectly pleasant.

Hate #4: Tourists in France

France is the number one visited country in Europe, so be prepared to deal with a lot of tourists. Tour groups can easily overwhelm a place like Versailles, but you just have to know going in that you’ll be dealing with crowds and be prepared to just get out of their way. Either try to get ahead of them, or just take a break, let them go through and then continue your sightseeing.

Hate #5: Traffic in France

Whether you are driving or walking, the traffic in France is a pain. If you rent a car in France, make sure you get the extra insurance that will cover you for bumps and scratches, because they are inevitable. As a pedestrian, always keep an eye out when crossing the streets and never cross right away when you get the light, as someone is always going to zip through and run their light. Wait a few seconds before crossing or better yet, watch what the locals do and take note.

Love #1: Food & Wine in France

France has some of the best food and wine in the world. Even simple basics like the bread and cheese in France is better than 50% of all the food in Europe!  Each region of France has different food, but it’s all incredible. From foie gras to frog legs and duck, make sure you branch out and try the regional foods wherever you travel in France. I recommend getting the daily special, because it usually comes with an appetizer, entree and dessert for a good price.

Read: What to Eat in Normandy, France

Love #2: French People

Outside of the service industry, the people in France are fantastic! Just walking down the street, or riding the Metro, you will meet the most helpful people in France. If you ask for travel advice, they love to share their favorite spots in France with travelers!

Love #3: Atmosphere in France

Whether you are strolling the boulevards of Aix-en-Provence or walking the beaches of Nice, there’s just a special atmosphere in France that you can’t find anywhere else. For the most part, people make a good wage, they live in a beautiful country surrounded by art and culture, and it’s just a really cool thing to experience.

Love #4: France Attractions

Between the chateaux and world-class museums, there are so many cool things to do in France. It’s not just Paris with the Musee d’Orsay or the Louvre, there are great museums all over the country. Of course, there’s Versailles and Fontainebleau in Paris, but there are castles all over France, especially the Loire Valley. You could visit France many times and never run out of things to do.

Love #5: Regions of France

There are so many unique, distinct regions of France. From Normandy, Provence, Bordeaux or elsewhere, the food and the people are totally different. Each region of France almost feels like a new country that you are visiting, which is another reason it’s so important to see more than just Paris when you come to France.  Even if you feel like you’re short on time, you can visit another region as a day trip from Paris on the TGV.

France is a great country and we love visiting over and over again. The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to visit France. Are you ready to start planning a trip to France? Check out these other blog posts:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Normandy

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Ten Things That Shock Tourists who Visit Normandy, France

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re in Normandy, which is most famous for the D-Day beaches. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks for visitors to Normandy.

Visit Normandy Shock #1: The Moving Experience of the D-Day Beaches

When you visit the D-Day beaches and the cemeteries, it’s an incredibly moving experience. You really get a feel for what happened during World War II on D-Day. You can visit Omaha Beach, where the Allied troops landed on June 6, 1944.You learn the stories of the soldiers, and how much they sacrificed. You will tear up at the stories.

Tip: Visit some of the Normandy museums before you visit the beaches and the sites; you’ll have a better understanding of the background.

Watch: Visiting D-Day Beaches: Advice and Tips on Visiting the Normandy Beaches

Visit Normandy Shock #2:  The Number of Museums and Memorials

You will be shocked at how many D-Day and Battle of Normandy museums and monuments there are in the area. There’s an insane number of museums; it can be hard to decide which ones to visit. There’s one just about paratroopers, one about Operation Overlord, an Omaha Beach museum, a Battle of Normandy museum, and so many more.

Visit Normandy Shock #3: There are German Cemeteries in Normandy

When you think about D-Day, we usually think about the Allied troops, the Brits, Canadians, Americans and others. But Germans died at Normandy, too, so there are German cemeteries here.

Visit Normandy Shock #4: Your First Glimpse of Mont St. Michel

One of the most photographed places in France that is outside Paris is Mont St. Michel. Mont St Michel is an abbey on a rocky island, and it stands alone on the horizon. You can see it for miles as you approach, and it’s really cool when you get your first glimpse.

Visit Normandy Shock #5: Wine Isn’t the Drink of Choice

When we think of France, we think of wine. Surprisingly, the beverage of choice in Normandy is cider. If you want something a little stronger, there is Calvados, or apple brandy. For the kids, there is apple juice. You can find wine, but cider is definitely the local specialty in Normandy.

Visit Normandy Shock #6: Rustic Beauty of Normandy Landscape

If you rent a car to travel around Normandy, you’ll see amazing villages, with manor houses and stonework barns surrounded by nature and wildlife. It’s fun to see the unpolished, rustic version of France, especially in comparison to the polished, sophisticated France we usually think of. It can make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.

Visit Normandy Shock #7: Variety of Things to do Besides D-Day Beaches

Of course, the D-Day beaches are a main attraction for visiting Normandy. But you’ll be shocked at how many other things there are to do in Normandy. In addition to Mont St. Michel, there are cool towns like Rouen, where Monet painted the cathedral.  Or check out Honfleur, to see the fishing villages, or the beaches at Deauville. It’s shocking how much this quiet area of France has to offer.

Watch: What to See & Do in Rouen, France

Visit Normandy Shock #8: Seeing the Bayeaux Tapestry

This is the history of how William the Conqueror became King of England in 1066. The tapestry shows the Battle of Hastings, and shows the history of England over 70 meters. The whole museum is the tapestry wrapping around. The detail of the embroidery is amazing; and depicts battles in graphic detail.

Visit Normandy Shock #9: It’s OK if You Don’t Speak French

French is of course the official language here, and you won’t hear very much English spoken in this area. However, the locals will gladly help you, and they won’t give you a hard time if you don’t speak French. The people of Normandy are shockingly awesome! You might even have a stranger hand you a bottle of Calvados!

Watch: Learn French: Basic French Phrases for Tourists

Visit Normandy Shock #10: How Relaxed You Can Be

Often when you picture a vacation in France, you picture hustle and bustle, surrounded by tour groups, but Normandy isn’t like that. It’s so easy to relax, and much more laid-back than other destinations in France. There are good museums, great food, but most importantly, a very chill vibe that allows you to relax and enjoy your Normandy vacation.

We hope these ten tips help you better understand Norman culture, and lessen the shocks you have when arriving in Normandy. Have you been to Normandy? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Paris for the First Time

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Ten Things That Will Shock You When You Visit Paris, France

Bonjour from Paris, France! Today, I’m sharing Paris travel tips and 12 things that will shock you when you visit Paris. Paris is my favorite city in all of Europe, and it’s well worth visiting, especially if you are prepared for these shocks!

Paris Travel Tip #1 Parisians Are Nice People

 

With all of the rumors you hear about rude people in Paris, you will be shocked at how friendly the people in Paris are. They are mostly super helpful, and very friendly. Don’t let a stereotype inform how you interact with Parisians and you just might be surprised. That said…

 

Paris Travel Tip #2 Parisian Service is NOT Friendly

 

While Parisians are generally very friendly, you will be shocked at how unfriendly the service can be in Paris. Something happens when Parisians enter the service industry that all of a sudden, they are very unfriendly. This is especially true of servers in restaurants and bars, and is likely the reason for the stereotype of unfriendly Parisians. They have an uncanny ability to scan the room and yet totally avoid eye contact when you need something. To make your interactions slightly better, I recommend learning a bit of French to soften the edges of the rough service you’re going to get.

 

Learn French: Basic Phrases for Tourists

 

Paris Travel Tip #3 Parisians Smoke. A Lot.

 

You will be shocked at how many people in Paris are smoking. Before breakfast, during breakfast, after breakfast, and on and on. If you’re coming from the U.S. or other parts of Europe, it’s a big surprise at all the smokers in Paris. There’s no point in complaining about the smoke, it’s just all part of being in Paris.

 

Paris Travel Tip #4 Dog Poop is Everywhere, So Watch Your Step

 

Paris has so many beautiful sights, and you will be busy trying to take it all in, with amazing attractions in every direction. Inevitably, if you don’t watch where you’re walking, you’ll end up stepping in dog poop. The amount of dog poop on Paris streets is truly shocking. It’s gotten better in recent years, but it’s still advisable to keep an eye out on the sidewalk in front of you so you can avoid any unpleasantries.

Paris Travel Tip #5 So Many Things to See in Paris

 

The amount of amazing sights in Paris is very shocking. There’s the sights you’ve heard of, like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre. Then there are the amazing sights you might not have heard of, like smaller museums, interesting arrondissements, or even lesser-known parts of the Louvre. No matter how long you spend in Paris, you’ll never run out of fascinating sights to visit.

Read: 13 Ways Pickpockets Rob Tourists Without Them Even Knowing It

 

Paris Travel Tip #6 Paris Can Be Affordable

 

You might be shocked that you don’t actually have to spend a lot of money to enjoy Paris. With all of the things to see and do, many of them are free to see. Hotels may be slightly more expensive than elsewhere in Europe, but it’s easy to save money by just enjoying the sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysees or the many parks and gardens of Paris. Wandering around Paris is one of the best things you can do. Some of the museums and attractions will also have free or discounted admission days, so you can plan ahead and save money that way.

What To Know Before You Visit Paris

 

Paris Travel Tip #7 Paris Hotel Rooms Are Small… (tiny)

 

Yes, it can be a shock when you see how small the hotel rooms in Paris are. You may even find the bathroom is down the hallway, but it won’t matter. The point of coming to Paris is not to hang out in your hotel room. With so many things to do in Paris, you won’t be spending much time in your room at all. If you’re traveling with more than two adults, though, make sure you get a triple room, as a double just means two twin beds.

Paris Travel Tip #8 Paris is Huge, But Neighborhoods Make it Feel Small

 

It’s shocking how huge Paris is, but equally shocking is how at home you can feel once you find a neighborhood that suits you. If you find a great neighborhood of Paris to call home, it really begins to feel like a small city. You’ll still have all the great attractions of Paris at your doorstep, but a neighborhood like Montmarte feels like a completely separate city. You can get to know the local cafe and bakery. Getting to know the “local’s Paris” is one of the best things about visiting this city.

 

Paris Travel Tip #9 The Metro is Everywhere

 

You’ll be shocked at how extensive the Paris Metro is. There’s a Metro stop every 500 meters, no matter where you go. Public transportation in Paris is amazing and helps save a ton of money over taking taxis everywhere. Purchasing Metro tickets in Paris is super simple, but remember to hang on to your ticket as you might also need it when exiting the station. Another shock might be the number of steps you’ll take at these stops. If you have mobility issues, be sure to look for a Metro stop with an elevator.

Read: 10 Culture Shocks Tourists Have When They Visit France

 

Paris Travel Tip #10 Beggars With Children

 

This is a shocking sight for anyone who comes to Paris. You’ll most likely see a lot of beggars on the street, with children. This is especially common in the heavily touristy areas. The French will tell you these people are not French, but regardless, it’s a shocking sight. Most sources recommend not giving these beggars any money, but it’s a very personal decision to make.

 

Paris Travel Tip #11 Crowds of Tourists

 

Another thing that will shock you when you visit Paris is the insane number of tourists. Paris is the most visited city in the world, for good reason! The city is gorgeous, the food is amazing and the people are wonderful. Because of this, there’s not really a low season in Paris. There’s high season and then there’s “oh my God” high season. Where ever you go in or around Paris, be prepared for crowds and tour groups. You may have to wait in line to enter attractions, or to get a table at a restaurant. (Side note: some restaurants do not serve dinner until 7p.m.)

 

Bonus Paris Travel Tip: Park Rules

 

You might be shocked that some parks don’t let you walk on the grass. It’s a little surprising when Paris has so many parks, but many don’t actually allow you to walk in the grass or sit on the benches. Keep an eye out for signs so you can know where to walk and where not to walk.

 

I hope these shocks help you be better prepared for your trip to Paris. Paris is such a great place; everyone should visit at least once in a lifetime. If you want to learn more, check out some of our other travel videos:

 

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit France

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Twelve Facts About France That Shock Tourists

 

Greetings from Paris, France! Today we’re sharing ten things that will shock you when you come to France. We have been in love with France since our first visit many moons ago. Hopefully this will help you be ready to enjoy more of your next visit to the fantastic country of France.

French Culture Shock #1: The French Smoke… a Lot… a Lot a Lot

 

Whether it’s a cigarette with coffee in the afternoon, or after a meal, even during a meal, the French love to smoke, heck maybe even at breakfast! You have to deal with it. While smoking isn’t allowed indoors, it’s very common anywhere outside, so if you’re used to smoke-free air, you’ll be shocked at the smoking. And no one will twice about lighting up right next to you at an outdoor café.

 

French Culture Shock #2: French People are Very Friendly

 

You will be shocked at how friendly and helpful French people really are, as opposed to the rude stereotype they are known for. The rude French stereotype is totally unfounded (except for waiters in Paris) and French people are fantastic. Even in Paris, the locals are much nicer than you would expect. If you speak a little bit of French, you’ll be even more shocked at how friendly everyone is.

Watch: Basic French Phrases for Tourists

 

French Culture Shock #3: Business Hours are Lax

 

French businesses often closed for an hour or two at lunchtime. Most museums have one day they close; for many, it’s Thursday, for the Louvre, it’s Tuesday. You might be shocked when you are used to 24/7 businesses and you try to go shopping in France on a Sunday. Make sure you check business hours online in advance so you don’t miss out.

Read: What to Know Before You Visit Paris

 

French Culture Shock #4: Look But Don’t Touch Policy

 

You might be shocked when you are in France at their “look but don’t touch” mantra. You’ll see this in a couple of places. At the markets, when you see the fresh produce, you’re not supposed to touch it. The shopkeeper will get the items for you. This also applies to some of the parks and gardens in France. You will see a beautiful park that is empty, only to find out you’re not allowed to sit there. Check for signs or see what the locals are doing.

French Culture Shock #5: Dog Poop is Everywhere

 

People in France love their dogs, and you can see evidence of the dogs everywhere. A lot of people in France don’t pick up after their dogs, so pay attention when you’re walking around. When it rains, it gets a little slippery, so be careful! You have been warned.

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists about Visiting Paris

 

French Culture Shock #6: Topless Beaches are the Norm

 

Going topless at the beach is pretty normal in France. They don’t have “topless beaches” it’s just a regular beach. Not everyone goes topless, but it’s so common enough that the locals don’t even notice. If you see someone gawking or trying to sneak photos, they’re probably not a French tourist.

 

French Culture Shock #7: Restaurant Hours

 

Restaurants in France often close between the lunch and dinner shifts, and dinner is typically served later in France than in the U.S. If you want to eat dinner at 5:00 or 6:00, you might have trouble finding a place to eat, other than in the tourist areas.

French Culture Shock #8: The Food In France is Fantastic

 

You will be shocked at how good the food is in France. French food is some of the best in the world. Even the simple food, like a baguette and cheese makes an excellent meal. It’s possible to eat very well in France on a simple meal, or you can have a fantastic feast at a restaurant. Another shock might be how long it takes to eat in France. If you choose a multi-course menu, it can take a couple of hours. The French love to linger over a meal. Even when it’s obvious you’ve finished your meal, you have to ask for the check; they don’t automatically bring it to you.

Read: What to Know Before You Visit France for the First Time

 

French Culture Shock #9: Speaking A Little French is Helpful

 

You might be shocked at the need to speak a bit of French when visiting France. It can make a huge difference in your experience if you speak even just a little French. Older people in France typically don’t speak English. Younger people are learning in school, so they can usually speak some English if needed, but a Merci or Bonjour will definitely improve your chances of meeting those friendly French people.

Watch: 4 Phrases Every Tourist Should Know in French

 

French Culture Shock #10: Free Range Children

 

If you are from the U.S. especially, you’ll be shocked at the free-range children running around in France. The French let their kids be kids. They ride their bikes and scooters around with no helmets, and you won’t see helicopter parents in France. Visiting France with kids is a great chance to let them learn some independence.

 

French Culture Shock #11: France is More Than Paris

 

There is so much more to see in France outside of Paris. Of course, Paris is iconic and amazing, but there are so many great places in France. Avignon, Bordeaux, Toulouse and Mont Saint-Michel are all fantastic destinations in France. A lot of people only ever come to Paris and never see the rest of France, so you’d be shocked at all the amazing destinations around the country.

 

French Culture Shock #12: The Number of Beggars

 

You will be shocked at the number of beggars, including children, in France. The French people will tell you they’re not French, but regardless, be prepared to see them everywhere. You’ll see children asking for money, street musicians or beggars in the Metro. Giving them money only encourages the practice, so just keep walking. And the government asks tourists not to give them money. You will also likely encounter pickpockets at major tourist sites, so keep an eye out for that as well.

 

The biggest shock for us is that we keep returning to France and falling in love with it every time. I’ve been to France probably three dozen times, and I already can’t wait to return. It’s a great country, and I hope these fun facts help you prepare for your first trip to France.

 

If you found these tips useful, check out some of our other travel tips:

 

What You Need to Know Before You Visit Paris

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What To Know Before You Go: Paris

 

 

Greetings from Paris! Today I want to share with you some things you should know before you come to Paris. Especially if this is your first or second visit, this will give you a good background of what you should know when you vacation in Paris.

 

What is the Best Time to Visit Paris?

 

It’s always high season in Paris, there’s not really a low season. Just realize that Paris will always be busy. I recommend visiting Paris in the early Fall, or late Spring. Paris in March is the low end of high season, as is Paris in September. If you come in July or August, Paris is swarmed with tourists. Expect long lines, crowded attractions and higher prices. Paris at Christmas-time is beautiful, but also a very popular time to visit.

What to See in Paris

 

Whether you’re coming for a long weekend, or a week or longer, you’ll have many places to visit in Paris. It’s important to plan out what you want to see in Paris ahead of time, so you aren’t overwhelmed by all of your options. Some of the museums include the Louvre, the Musee d’Orsay, and the Rodin Museum. Then there are the churches in Paris. Saint-Jean-de-Montmatre, Saint Denis and of course, Notre Dame are some of the beautiful churches in Paris.

 

Of course, you will most likely want to visit the Eiffel Tower. You have to pay to go up the Eiffel Tower, and the lines and elevator ride are extremely crowded. If you are at all claustrophobic, be prepared for this. Jocelyn only made it to the first level on our first visit because the elevators were so packed. You can go to different levels of the Eiffel Tower, and price varies based on how high you go.

 

Tip: Many Paris museums are closed on Mondays, the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. If you are visiting Paris with kids, many Paris attractions offer free admission to children under 12, sometimes 18.

 

There are Many Free Things to do in Paris

 

Paris can be expensive, but you can have a great time without spending a lot of money. If you are visiting Paris on a budget, you can still have a great time. It’s free to wander around, take in the architecture and admire the neighborhoods of Paris. Grab a baguette and some cheese for a picnic lunch in the park behind the Eiffel Tower. After hitting the highlights like the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees, find some more unusual things to do in Paris.

 

Tip: Paris is a living city, be sure to explore the neighborhoods beyond the tourist zones.

 

Day Trips From Paris

 

If you have a longer time in Paris, I recommend taking some day trips out of the city. One of the best day trips from Paris is the Palace of Versailles, which you can reach via RER train. Monet fans can visit Giverny. Paris is well-connected to the rest of France via train. The TGV’s, or high speed trains, make a long journey feasible in a day trip from Paris. The Loire Valley is just 90 minutes from Paris by train. There are Paris day tours for visiting the D-Day beaches. If you’re visiting Paris with kids, you might want to see Disneyland Paris.

 

Where to Stay in Paris

 

Hotels in Paris are more expensive than the average Europe hotel. However, the rooms are pretty small. A double room will be two single beds. If you have two adults and some kids, you will need two rooms, or at least a triple room. Renting an apartment in Paris is a much better alternative for families. A Paris apartment gives you the freedom to come and go, but you can also save money by eating a few meals at home. One of the best things about Paris is shopping at the fruit stands, the boulangerie, patisserie, and the markets.

 

Tip: Remember Paris is meant for exploring, your hotel room is just for sleeping. You’ll be so happy to be in Paris, you won’t care how small your room is!

Electrical Outlets in Paris

Plugs in France are the same as mainland Europe, with two round plugs. You will need an adapter for charging any electronics from the U.S. Your laptop or phone will have a converter built in, so you just need the adapter part.

 

Currency in Paris

 

The currency in France is the Euro, just like other EU countries. Sometimes you’ll see two totals on your bill, as some places will show the amount in francs. You can use credit cards at most places in Paris, but make sure your card has a chip. Some vendors prefer cash, but most will accept cards.

 

Tip: You’ll get the best exchange rate if you use your debit card at an ATM machine.

 

Service in Paris

 

First-time visitors to Paris often worry about the people being rude, or that nobody will speak English. Paris has a reputation for rude people, but the people here are actually very nice, aside from a few servers here and there who deal with tourists every day. Sometimes restaurant service can be a little slow, and make sure you ask for your check as they won’t automatically bring it to you. (L’addition, s’il vous plait) I’ve found that just knowing a few words or French phrases really softens people up and makes for a better experience.

 

Tip: Taxes and service charges are already included in your restaurant bill, so tipping in Paris is not required.

 

Eating In Paris

 

Visiting Paris is a gastronomical experience; there are so many great foods, and wines, throughout Paris. For the best value, and to experience multiple courses, I recommend the “menu” a prix fixe that includes a starter, a main plate and a dessert. This is a great way to get a three-course meal for 15-30 Euros. Ask the restaurant for the plat du jour, or plat du maison. If you are visiting Paris with kids, a lot of places will have a kid’s menu or kid’s version that is cheaper, so be sure to ask for that as well.

 

Some traditional French foods you should try in Paris:

  • Start at the patisserie or boulangerie for baked goods! Try a baguette, croissant, pain chocolat or macarons. You can find tarts with different fruit flavors, too.
  • Some popular starters at mealtime include French Onion Soup, Escargot, cheeses, and oysters. Frog legs are also great, but are becoming less common at French restaurants. Check out our Five-Year-Old’s Advice for Eating Frog Legs!
  • For your main course, steak is always an option. Entrecote, or steak frites, is very common. If you like duck, try the confit de canard.

 

Many restaurants close between 3 and 7 pm. If you get hungry in the afternoon when restaurants are closed, you can grab a jambon-beurre, a ham and butter sandwich. Quiche is also a popular snack, make sure to order it “chaud” or hot, or just grab a croissant. There’s always fast food; Quick is the French version of McDonald’s.

 

The beauty of Paris is that is has amazing French food, but it’s an international city, so you can enjoy many cuisines in Paris. You can find Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese, American, whatever you have a taste for.

 

Tip: Make dinner reservations, especially on a Friday or Saturday night!

 

Getting Around Paris

 

Public transportation in Paris is fantastic. You can get almost anywhere using the metro, city buses, or the RER/city train. You’re never more than 500 meters from a Metro stop anywhere in the city. Make sure you get the best Paris Metro ticket for your visit. You can buy 1-day, 3-day, 7-day passes. Metro passes are not that expensive, about 1.70 Euro each. You insert the card upon entry, but make sure you keep it as you might also need it to exit the station.

 

When arriving or departing Paris, it’s easy to reach both major airports on the the local train, the RER. The RER goes to both Charles de Gaulle and Orly. There are two stops at CDG, so know which one you need ahead of time. You can also take taxis, or Uber, anywhere you need to go in Paris.

 

If you are leaving Paris by train, keep in mind that there are several train stations in Paris. If you are going elsewhere in Europe after your stay in Paris, be sure you know the correct Paris train station. If you are transiting through Paris, you may need to take the Metro to transfer between stations. All the train stations are connected by Metro, so it’s not difficult, just pay attention to your tickets, and allow enough time.

 

Tip: On the Metro, lift the handle to open the doors!

 

Is Paris Safe?

 

A lot of people wonder if Paris is safe. There is police and security presence, but we travel here with our kids and parents, without worry. The only thing to be alert about are the beggars and pickpockets, especially at the busier metro stations and tourist attractions. Pickpockets don’t always look like pickpockets, so just be wise.

 

Tip: People approaching you to sign a petition may be scoping you out to rob you.

 

Additional Resources for Planning Your Paris Vacation

 

Don’t miss our other videos on France and Paris!

 

 

What to Know Before You Visit France

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What Americans Should Know Before Visiting France

We love visiting France, and wanted to share with you some differences between French and American culture.

Not Everyone Speaks English in France

 

You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing some basic French phrases will make a huge difference in your French experience. The people here are very nice, but they don’t speak a lot of English. The more touristy an area is, such as Paris or Avignon, the more likely you will be able to find English speakers. However, if you want to get off the beaten tourist path in France, a bit of French is a must.

 

Tip: Younger people are more likely to speak English as they learn it in school!

 

Bad Service is possible, but it’s not the norm.

 

Rumors of terrible French attitudes and service are far from the truth. It can happen sometimes, especially in Paris, just like any other major international city. Generally, the people and the service in France are fantastic, so don’t be surprised by this. There is no tipping in France, as the service (15%) and tax is already included in your bill. If you want to leave a little extra above the 15%, leave it in cash for your server. Keep in mind, food can take a long time to prepare in France, so be prepared to order your food and wait a bit.

 

Tip: You have to actually request your bill (l’addition) at the end of the meal. It’s not automatically brought to the table once the plates are cleared!

 

Spending Money in France

 

Cash is preferred, but credit cards are usually accepted. Make sure you get a chip card or you may not be able to use your credit card in some places. If you can, ask your bank for a chip card ahead of your trip, or plan to use more cash. There are ATM’s everywhere you go, in both French in English. Take out your money in Euros, rather than dollars, as your bank will likely provide a better rate than the ATM bank. The Euro comes in several bills (500, 200, 100, 50, 10, 5) and the coins here are actually valuable. The 2 Euro coin is worth more than $2, so keep track of them.

 

Tip: Your bank, and most likely the ATM bank, will charge you fees, so take out larger amounts to avoid paying multiple fees.

 

Avoid Beggars and Travel Scams in France

 

You will see a lot of beggars in France. Not all of them are necessarily French, but you will see them, and notice that quite a few are children. The best advice is to avoid them, do not give them money. Avoid pickpocketing scams. A common one is someone with a clipboard asking you to sign a petition. While you are distracted, your pockets get picked.

 

Tip: Just say “non, Merci!” to travel scams in France

Accommodation in France

 

Hotels rooms in France are much smaller than hotel rooms in the United States. A double room will actually be two single beds pushed together, so beware the crack in the middle of your double bed. If you are traveling as a family with children, you will need to get multiple hotel rooms.

 

Tip: Apartment rentals are easy to find in France, and a great idea if you are visiting France with kids.

 

Everyday Differences Between France and the USA

 

  • You can drink the water here, and you will normally be served tap water at a restaurant.
  • In the bathroom, the 2nd “toilet” in the bathroom is a bidet. Read up on how to use it ahead of time if you wish, otherwise it’s best avoided.
  • The Toilets themselves may have two flushing options. The larger button, or it may have two dots, is for going #2. The smaller button, or just one dot, is if you just have liquid waste.
  • Plugs in France are the same as mainland Europe. You will need an adapter for charging any electronics. Your laptop or phone will have a converter built in, so you just need the adapter part.

Tip: Don’t bother bringing small electronics such as hair dryers or curling irons as they’ll get fried with the voltage difference. Easier to buy a cheap one when you arrive.

 

Using Your Mobile Phone in France

 

I recommend getting a data package from your carrier before you leave, as it can save you a lot of money. If you plan to calling numbers in France from your U.S. phone, you need to add a “+” before the number. The International Code for France is “33.”

 

Tip: Sometimes phone numbers in France will show a “0” at the beginning. This isn’t necessary on a mobile phone, so drop that off when dialing.

 

Getting Around France

 

Anticipate a lot of walking in France. Make your trip more pleasant by starting a walking regime at home before you go. Being conditioned for walking will help you avoid shin splints, sore muscles and achy feet. Public transportation in France is fantastic. Buses and trains go all over the country, so it’s very easy to rely on public transportation in France. Just make sure you stamp your train tickets before you board, or you can be fined. Car rental is also a fun option, but the cars (and trunks!) are much smaller than the U.S., so plan your luggage accordingly.

 

Tip: You will need a reservation for the TGV, even if you have a EuroRail pass.

 

Family travel in France is easy!

 

People in France go out of their way to ensure kids are well taken care of. You’ll often see kid’s menus (des enfants) at restaurants in France. Oftentimes, kids under 8 or 10 are free at many of the tourist sites in France.

 

Taxis in France

 

Taxis in France are notorious for not always providing good or honest service. If you speak a little bit of French, or know where you are going ahead of time, most of these issues can be avoided. If you don’t know where you are going, sometimes you can be taken advantage of. Don’t be afraid to make a fuss with your driver if you feel you are being taken advantage of.

 

Tip: Ask your hotel for an estimate of taxi costs so you have a rough idea of what you should pay.

Don’t miss our other videos on France! Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About France and Ten Things That Will Shock You When Coming to France.

A Few Other Helpful France Videos

 

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists about Visiting France

 

What to Know Before You Visit Paris for the First Time

 

9 Things You HAVE TO DO The Night Before You Travel (Besides Pack)

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9 Things You HAVE TO DO The Night Before You Travel (Besides Pack)

Packing? Dog Sitter? What Do You Need Get Done the Night Before You Travel So You Can Have the Smoothest Travel Day Possible? Here we go through 9 things (besides packing) that travelers should do the night before they leave so that the day they leave and the day they come back from their vacations are not stress inducing times. These are things that Jocelyn and Mark do before they travel to make things easier. 

What To Do the Night Before

1. Stop the Mail and the Newspaper

(if you are still getting the newspaper) and have someone cut your grass while you are gone. Those are give aways that no one is home. It is simple little things like this that can really give away that you are gone.

2. Let a Trusted AND Liked Neighbor Know You Are Leaving:

They can check on the house and deal with any issues while you are away. Maybe give them a key as well in case any incidents occur. We have certain neighbors we always let know when we travel so they keep an extra eye open and sometimes pick up the mail when the mailman eventually forgets we are having our mail held.

3. Get a Manicure and Especially a Pedicure:

with all the walking you do while you travel or even if you are just sitting on the beach having your feet cleaned up before you go can make traveling so much better. This helps to keep your feet healthy and to keep you from ingrown toenails and other funky feet problems.

4. Set Your Light Timers:

timers can help make it appear that someone is at your home even though you are gone in Cancun. However, trying to figure out how they work the morning you are traveling is a lost cause, so try to get that done the night before. It is best to have them set on a slight variation of on and off times to make it seem more “natural.”

5. Get The Garbage Out & Ask Your Friend to Take It Out:

Do you really want to have to air out your house from the smell of rotten food when you get home? You may want to make sure you run the dishwasher as well as there is nothing quite like coming home to a mold covered mess in your dishwasher, on your counter, or in your sink.

6. Clean Your House or at Least Pick It Up:

this will make returning from your trip much more relaxing. Coming home with two weeks of laundry and then having to put it with the other two weeks of laundry that are still sitting there really is not a way to start your day back home. We aren’t perfect so we don’t always get all the laundry folded and away, but at least we have a laundry room full of clean clothes piled up 🙂

7. Clean Sheet Day:

Wash your sheets so when you come home from your trip and all those hotel beds you can come home to your bed with clean sheets, I mean who doesn’t LOVE clean sheet day? That is probably the best part of coming home. Back in my own bed and with new or recently laundered sheets. The best night sleep is when you get back home.

8. Call Your Bank, Credit Card Companies and Mobile Phone Provider:

let them know you will be gone and get a data package for your phone, also so your credit cards and debit cards will work while you travel. Some credit card companies track your travel based on if you bought your tickets with their card. This is not always the case though so make sure you let your credit card company and debit card company know where and when you will be traveling as those foreign ATMs may just eat your card if you don’t advize your bank.

9. Have Your Clothes, Passport, Wallet, Purse & Tickets Ready to Go:

the day you travel things get even crazier, so having those clothes out and other important things make it less hair raising of a travel morning. We have clothes out for ourselves and our kids in the hallway all ready to go that way when we get up it is one less thing to think about or worry about. It is just pull on the pants and hit the road.

How To Keep Your House Safe While You Travel

What to Eat in Normandy, France

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The Must Eats of Normandy, France

 

France is famous for its duck (confit de canard), it’s entrecote, it’s wine and its cheese, but you may not know that each region of France has its own specialties. Here we discuss the food and drinks you should enjoy when you visit Normandy, The D-Day Beaches and Mont Sant-Michel. From the cider and apple and pear centric desserts to the seafood and oysters to so much more. What to eat in Normandy will get your ready for your next visit to France.
Filmed in Normandy, France
Copyright Mark Wolters 2018

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