Useful Tips For Travelers In Paris Overview Paris is the City of Light, City of Love and fashion capital of the world. Beyond your passport--and, of course, your camera, as every corner of the French capital is photo-worthy--there are items to pack that will better prepare you for your journey. Phrasebook If your French is not beyond beginner level, bring a French phrasebook to Paris. The stereotype regarding the French reluctance to speak English certainly exists for a reason. It is respectful for tourists to attempt to speak the language of the country they are visiting, and the French appreciate the effort. It is especially important to learn vocabulary of basic manners, as French culture values greetings (even in cafes and shops) and gratitude in high regard. Barrons French at a Glance is a useful French phrasebook. Currency Exchange at least some of your dollars for Euros (the French currency) before arriving in France, for reasons of both convenience and exchange rates. Taxis and public transportation require cash, which youll need to leave the airport. Airport currency exchange shops often dont offer the best exchange rates, with high interest and fees, and many banks charge higher fees for ATM withdrawals from foreign bank cash machines. Dinner Attire Paris is the fashion capital of the world, and although tourists are not expected to constantly dress to the nines in Chanel or Dior, there is a caliber of attire expected for dinner that exceeds that of American culture. Men should, at the very least, pack a button-down shirt and jacket, and women should pack a simple cocktail dress or blouse and pair of slacks. Arriving at a restaurant with a neat and trim appearance is considered respectful and is part of French culture, regardless of the restaurant. Sneakers, denim and sweatshirts are unacceptable. Umbrella Paris experiences light rainfall year-round, so youll need to pack an umbrella. A small, compact umbrella is ideal, because it will fit in a satchel and the rain rarely exceeds drizzle. Footwear Consider a couple of things regarding footwear in Paris. The first is that you will be working your leg muscles plenty, because this is a city of walking and bicycling. Comfortable shoes are essential by day. The second consideration concerns looking presentable, especially for your evening exploration of restaurants and bars (though French fashionistas will make you wonder how their feet survive all-day treks in fancy, small-heeled shoes). If you can find the balance between comfort and sophistication, then voila. Winter and Summer Seasonal Wear Paris seasons are milder versions of the basic four-season cycle of the Northeastern United States. Winters rarely drop below freezing temperatures, though lows range in the 30s and 40s (degrees F), so pack a coat, gloves, scarf and hat. The cooler seasons are also wet, and boots make for practical footwear. Summer temperatures dont reach sweltering heights, yet the humidity can be uncomfortable without ultra-light summer attire, including sandals. Spring and Autumn Wear Its all about removable layers in spring and autumn. Pack short-sleeved shirts and shawls for spring, and button-downs and cardigan sweaters for autumn. A light jacket will be useful for evening strolls during both of these in-between seasons. Scarves are always practical (not to mention a staple of French fashion). Satchel Touring the city all day will require a handbag or satchel large enough to carry your camera, wallet, compact umbrella, map, literature from the many tourist attractions and any other items you need to be accessible to your throughout the day. A satchel will also be useful for carrying picnic items. Documentation Copies Make a copy of your passport and birth certificate. Keep these copies in a place separate from the originals, such as your hotel room drawer. Should you lose your passport, having these copies will save you a significant amount of time obtaining a temporary identification from the embassy. City Map Pick up your Metro Parisien when your arrive in the city, rather than packing a Paris map purchased in the United States. World-famous museums, unforgettable cuisine and picturesque locales are just the beginning of what this cosmopolitan city offers. So, dont miss a chance, come to Paris and watch everything with your own eyes.
Posted on: Thu, 02 Oct 2014 07:54:00 +0000