5 Tips for Paris

Paris is beautiful, with its ornate street lamps, elaborate sculptures, and intricate stonework. The city is a true work of art. It was named the “La Ville Lumière” (“City of Light” in French) in the 1800s, when it became one of the first cities in Europe to light up its streets with gas lighting. The city now glows at night with beautifully lit streets and bridges. It has become a favorite destination for romantics, but has something for everyone to love.

Here are 5 tips for your next visit to the beautiful “City of Light”:

1. Eat At A Cafe For A Quick Meal

It can get very expensive eating out for every meal while on a trip in Europe. One way to save money (and time!) is to stop by a café for a meal. Cafés offer prepared food for you to dine in or take with you. They have great selections all day, and are ideal for a quick meal or stocking up your hotel fridge with a meal for another day.

2. Try French First

Contrary to what some say about Parisians, many are very friendly and polite. They appreciate your efforts to speak French, regardless of how you sound. When you order your meal at a restaurant, try to pronounce it rather than point at it on the menu. Most are happy to help you learn the proper pronunciation. A lot of time, they will repeat it after you, so you will learn the proper way to say it. It is polite and appreciated by locals when you try.

3. Tipping Isn’t Expected

At restaurants, it is required by law for service to be included with the cost. However, if you were happy with your experience, it is polite to round up to the nearest euro with cash.

4. Skip Car Rental

Traffic is frequent in Paris, sometimes causing locals and tourists to drive aggressively. It’s best to take a bus, taxi, or to book an Uber when visiting.

5. Tour Bus To See Sights

If you want to see multiple landmarks and have easy transportation to get around, a tour bus is a great option. You will pay a set price for tickets and can “hop on and hop off” anytime you’d like until the last bus runs.

Bon Voyage!