Tips for when in Paris
Traveling to a foreign country for the first time can always be a scary thing. It is good practice to know a few of the things you will encounter as a tourist when traveling in a country where you might not know the language or the culture. Paris as beautiful as it is can be tricky, so we have put together a few tips that will ensure you to make the best of it.
1. French people love it when you try!
It is okay not to be fluent in French, however using few words when greeting people will go a long way! The French will highly appreciate it when you show such interest in their language. Not only will they become friendlier, but they can help you with any questions you may have. A few of these words can be:
“Bonjour”– Hello
“Ca va ?” – How are you?
“Merci”– Thank you
“S’il vous plaît”– Please
“Au revoir” – Goodbye
2. You have to ask for the check
Most Cafes in Paris won’t give you the check or wont assume that you are finished and want to go home. They are used to people taking their time, such that you can sit at a café or restaurant for many hours and they will not say anything. Also, it may happen that because they are used to people taking their time to enjoy a meal or a drink, they might take a while to serve you. So, if you happen to be on a rush, ask and you shall receive.
3. Using the Metro is easy and cheap
Using the metro in Paris might seem a little intimidating at first, but once you take a look at the map it is easy to get used to it. The map is marked with different colors and names for routes and it is also available in English. Also, the metro has 300 subway stations, so you can go around the city with no difficulty. A day pass is only six euros.
4. Check out different views
If you want to enjoy of the best Parisian views but do not feel like making long lines at the Eiffel Tower, we recommend for you to go to Montmatre. This districts has spots where you can truly enjoy of gorgeous views without being overwhelmed with lots of people in an enclosed area. Montmatre is also known for all the artists that used to live there, such as Picasso and Pissarro. It is a tip that will create amazing memories.
5. Beware of pickpockets
Like most touristic cities in Europe, pickpocket thieve are no strangers to Paris. A few things you can do to take precautions will help you avoid getting stolen from. Ladies: if you are planning on wearing a purse, take ones that will zip, that way they won’t be able to steal anything from you. Also carry it under your arm, especially in crowded places. Ladies and Gentlemen, don’t carry anything extra that you do not need in your wallet, just take the essential (one ID, one credit card, and no more than 70 euros). Mostly, just be very aware and keep all your belongings in your reach.