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Visiting Paris is an experience like no other. From the landmarks to the food, everything about the city is special and unforgettable. But if you’re planning a trip here, there are some tips and tricks you should keep in mind before you go. Here are 7 things tourists should remember when visiting Paris for a truly magical vacation.
1. Book In Advance
The first thing to remember when visiting Paris is that you should always book your desired attractions in advance. There are a few reasons for this. First, by booking your tickets in advance, you can be sure to get the dates and specific times that you want. Second, you can often get better prices by booking in advance. And finally, by booking in advance, you can avoid the last-minute rush and the possibility of sold-out shows. So if you want to visit the Paris Catacombs, for example, you should get your catacombs Paris tickets early on to avoid any disappointment. Just be prepared to walk down a long flight of stairs to reach the Catacombs. For this reason, this attraction is not suitable for young children or those with claustrophobia!
2. Do Your Research
When visiting any new city, it is always important to do your research ahead of time. This is especially true for Paris, as it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. There are a few things you should keep in mind when researching your trip to Paris. First and foremost, be aware of the current political situation in France. While Paris is generally a safe city, there have been a few terrorist attacks that have shaken the country. Before traveling to any new destination, it is always best to be informed of the current political climate. Similarly, take some time to learn about the history and culture of Paris before you go. This will help you appreciate all that the city has to offer and make your visit even more memorable.
3. Pack Light
Similarly, when packing for a trip to Paris, remember to pack light! Avoid overpacking by only bringing items that you know you will need and use. A good rule of thumb is to pack clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. For example, bring a few versatile pieces that can be worn day or night, such as a blazer, black pants, and a white shirt. If you are planning on doing any shopping while in Paris, leave extra space in your suitcase so you can bring home your new purchases.
4. Be Prepared For Pickpockets
When planning a trip to Paris, it’s important to remember that pickpockets are common in tourist areas. There are a few things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing:
- Keep your valuables close to your body and out of sight. Pickpockets often target people who are carrying wallets in their back pockets or purses that are hanging off their shoulders.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you’re stopped by someone asking for directions or money, keep your guard up.
- Don’t flash your cash. If you need to take out money, do it discreetly.
- Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, walk away.
5. Don’t Expect Everyone To Speak English
Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Paris is still a very French city. This means that many of the locals you’ll encounter in day-to-day life may not speak much English. While this can be frustrating at times, it’s important to remember that you’re the foreigner in their city – not the other way around. Make an effort to learn some basic French phrases before your trip, and you’ll find that most people are happy to help you out if you get stuck.
6. Know The Basic Etiquette
When in Paris, remember to greet people with a bonjour or bonsoir followed by a kiss on each cheek. You might also hear “salut” used informally. It’s considered impolite to begin a conversation with someone you don’t know without first greeting them. If you need help, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask a stranger for directions or advice. The French are generally helpful and willing to offer assistance. Similarly, smoking is banned in all indoor public spaces in Paris so don’t be surprised if you see people smoking on the sidewalks and in parks!
7. Do As The Locals Do
And finally, to fully immerse yourself in Parisian culture, it is important to remember to do as the locals do. This means that you should dress like the locals, speak like the locals, and behave like the locals. Dressing like a local in Paris means dressing chic. The French have a saying, “l’habit ne fait pas le moine,” which means “clothes don’t make the man.” However, clothes are important to the French and they take great pride in their appearance. If you want to blend in with the locals, you will need to dress your best.
Make Memories In The City Of Lights!
By keeping the above seven tips in mind, you’re sure to have the best vacation you could imagine in this gorgeous city. From dressing like a local to learning some basic French phrases to help you get around, you’ll have a truly magical experience in the city of lights. Enjoy!
