France attracts many tourists from across the world due to its stunning countryside, numerous restaurants, and charming towns and cities. So, if you’re planning a vacation to Western Europe, and are considering France as a potential destination, here are the top France travel advice. Here are some of the most important things that everyone needs to know before first trip to France. If you study up on French culture beforehand, you may have an unforgettable experience no matter where in France you go.
Some things you should know about lifestyle and rules.
As a foreigner you must know some of unusual things in social or personal life, in the other countries is really common and it’s a part of their lifestyle. For example, if you have a plan for going to France you must know The French are notoriously slow. You might be surprised by how fast things go, especially during the summer, but remember that life isn’t all about cramming as much as possible into each day.
While this trait is not universal, the French are often seen sitting down to lengthy meals without any sense of urgency. It’s ingrained in the tradition, therefore shops may be closed for shorter hours than you’re used to especially on Sundays and during lunch.
Moreover, casual attire is permitted. The French definitely dress casually. Not everyone has impeccable taste in clothing. Wear whatever makes you feel most like yourself while sightseeing on a daily basis. There is a complete prohibition on smoking in enclosed public spaces such as buses, trains, museums, restaurants, and bars so if you broke the rule it makes you feel uncomfortable during your trip.
So don’t pass judgement while you immerse yourself in French culture. We should be mindful of the locals and the place we’re visiting.
You should know some keywords
Acquire a basic command of several essential French expressions. The great majority of French people do not speak English outside of the hospitality and tourist industries, and this is especially true in smaller towns. It’s true that no one expects visitors to France to speak French fluently, but even knowing a few essential words may help you show proper deference to local customs and make a favorable impression.
After all, there are still lots of Parisian eateries whose menus are written exclusively in French, and in some small places you’ll have a tough time getting by without knowing at least a few words of the local tongue.
So it is better for you to learn the basics of the language and use them frequently: hello, thank you, please, and goodbye. Don’t worry too much about how you sound. What matters is how hard you try.
Security Tips for Traveling to France
Pickpockets and con artists thrive in Paris and other French cities, as they do in many other major cities throughout the world. Stay vigilant in Paris, especially around the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Coeur, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Élysées.
It’s easy to get distracted by the sights but resist the urge to join petitions, wear bracelets, or accept “found” jewellery from strangers. None of them are legit.
Also, keep your cell phone within reach at all times and never set it down unattended. Thieves can steal your phone in the blink of an eye if they can distract you long enough. Pacsafe is my go-to when I need an anti-theft bag, purse, or other item. Their items have served me well for many years and in many different countries. You should memorise the number 112, which is Europe’s counterpart to 911. All public payphones, landlines, and mobile phones are compatible. In the event of a medical emergency in France, call 15, for the police by 17, and for the fire service by 18. It’s simply for your own protection; hopefully, you’ll never have to use this information, but it’s best to be prepared.
You should know about the costs
Depending on when you travel and where you stay, France might be one of the most costly European countries to visit. France is not significantly more costly than other Eurozone countries, and many regions provide comparable or even lower prices for lodging and dining out. Hotels in Paris and the Cote d’Azur are usually more costly than those in other locations, but between July and August costs can increase by as much as a third. St. Tropez, like any other trendy tourist destination, can be extremely demanding on your money.
Budget around €120 (£100/$155) per person, per day, assuming two people share a mid-range room, for moderately pleasant living (hotels, lunches and dinners out, transportation, café breaks, museum admission, etc.). You could definitely get by on €75 (£55/$85) a day if you scrimp and save by living in youth hostels or camping and avoiding unnecessary coffee and cultural experiences.
One of the most crucial aspects of any vacation is having enough money to get by, but you need not worry. Postal centres and some BNP Paribas offices also accept travellers’ checks in addition to banks and major post offices. It’s in your best interest to compare prices and fees. Even though they may not have the greatest exchange rates, most French airports, major railway stations, and even the downtown areas of most large cities all have currency exchange counters (bureaux de change).
Have a complete plan for your trip
There are a lot of things you must visit, so it’s a good idea to plan your route in advance and bring along maps. A excellent, up-to-date road map of France is the only map you might need in addition to the ones included in this book and the complimentary town plans and local maps you’ll be provided along the route. Michelin and the Institute Géographique National (IGN) both provide excellent road maps, and you can buy them separately as sheets or together as a comprehensive spiral-bound atlas routier.
You should know the store’s hours and any applicable holidays. The standard business hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 am-12 pm and 2-6 pm. During the months of July and August, many attractions and businesses remain open late in major cities.
You should know all of these stuff before you go on your trip since it can come in handy. Figure out how to get where you want to go, pick the spots you want to see, and learn about French culture. With the right preparation, traveling to a foreign nation need not be so daunting.
