France, home to Eiffel Tower, is generally thought to be the symbol of love of the world. With its internationally acclaimed art, architecture, and culture, France has diverse beauty to await the visitors. Hike up to the Alps in the north or the seashores along the South, swim, snorkel or fish – there's something for all. Apart from the typical touristy things to do like visiting the Louvre or Versailles Palace, the nation also has a set of sweet surprises wrapped around its waist. If you are a foodie, fashionista, and beauty lover, France will never disappoint as a travel destination. There are several easy France holiday tips that you should, nevertheless, keep in mind before heading to the nation to enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable vacation.
10 Helpful France Holiday Tips
For example, the French do not like being noisy in public! Another such helpful travel advice to take note of in France is to understand that the majority of museums are closed on Tuesdays. Please read further to discover more about such beautiful France travel tips which will help you enjoy a great French vacation.
1. Pick up some basic French words so you can be courteous
One of the most basic France travel tips is to remember that you must sprinkle your conversation with some French phrases. In general, do not say English to a French person from the start. You can pick up some simple easy French words which will be like magic in helping you get around when you are there. For example, Bonjour is hello. As you greet someone, try to start the conversation using the word Bonjour. Merci, thank you, is another easy French word that you can use in your daily conversations. You can definitely switch back to English after you've said the magic words, but use these icebreakers as often as possible because they work!
2. Keep your wallet in position in all circumstances
Since the touristic region is Paris, you need to keep your wallets and everything else important in close contact with your body carefully. The bigger touristic places have pickpockets who are outrageously adept at picking pockets, so never ever wear your wallets in the back pocket. Take Louvre, subways or other museums and restaurants – it is convenient and safe to carry a bag, with all the valuables stuffed inside, in front of you, is the mode of transport when Paris is being traveled to. Believe us this is one of the most important of all Paris France travel tips!
3. Stock up with all the wonderful French pharmacy products
For you light travelers, France is heaven. The French popular pharmacies have fragrance-free cult products – from face wash to shampoo and what not. So it is quite convenient to travel light to the country without any ado. Generally, French shops close by 7 P.M. so kindly take care of that. It also means that when in France, you should stock up on all the products that you need while traveling or otherwise, if you are a beauty and skincare fanatic!
4. Take the subways whenever possible and skip whenever not!
France is extremely well connected by trains, and therefore France train travel tips never go out of fashion. Try to buy a MetroCard, which is an affordable method of getting around Paris. But remember, it is not required to book the tickets in advance. All Parisian stations (and stations of the surrounding area – usually 30 minutes from the center) are equipped with self-service kiosks and ticket windows, where you can simply get the tickets. One of the most important France train travel hints is not to forget not to catch a train from the CDG international airport. As a general rule, French subway stations have far too many stairs, which would be you stuck lugging all your luggage alone after a long, exhausting flight. And then there is the terror of trying to navigate the confusing subway system, which is something you do not want to find yourself doing on your first day in Paris.
5. Call 112 in case of an emergency
The emergency phone number in France and the rest of Europe is 112. You are supposed to call instantly if you find yourself in a dangerous situation. Remember this number can be used on both landlines and payphones. You can even use 15 in case you need medical assistance, 17 if you need the police and 18 if you need the fire department. It is also vital to have your emergency contacts with you in the phone or the travel diary when you are by yourself while on the move. In either case, it is always advisable to save emergency contact numbers in the phone while moving to foreign destinations and unknown destinations.
6. Dressed up, shop till you drop
No account of France will be complete if you don't talk about shopping and fashion. They are what France is renowned for. If you are traveling in the country, Paris specifically, during fashion week, you are in luck. Or you might still go out and visit shops of iconic houses such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and many more in the Le Marais area or any other high-end fashion streets.
It is also necessary to dress up when going out in France, particularly when eating out. One of the most basic Paris France travel tips is to pack smart casuals (try LBDs for women) in your suitcase. People usually don't wear jeans, sweatpants or very short shorts when outdoors in France.
7. Don't leave your passport/picture IDs behind in the hotel
As part of an initiative to improve security, there are constant checks being conducted in cities like Paris around malls and other places. You should thus carry a picture ID wherever you go. You should also carry your passport since you will be asked to produce it when required to. Assisting such controls from time to time is essential and patiently returning their queries. Don't forget these basic South of France travel tips as they are as much a lifesaver as the language is. Forgetting your passport at the hotel, nonetheless, would be sheer folly on your part.
8. Keep in mind that South of France can be traveled anytime throughout the year
The prettiest and most glamorous part of France, the French Riviera or South of France, is still pleasant in terms of climate all year round. Think of places like Cannes, Monaco and Côte d'Azur. You can travel to these beautiful towns on a Mediterranean vacation at any point in the year. Take smaller renting cars because the villages here have narrow roads, hunt for secluded places which are less congested, let loose and relax. There are private as well as public beaches here where you can make the most of your holiday, so go ahead and try. After all, that is what French spirit is famous for!
9. Adapters are a MUST
Like much of Europe, French power adapters differ from those used in many other parts of the world.The French appliances run at 230 V and 50 Hz. It means you will have to carry an adapter with you. Most of these kinds of adapters are available at airport shops so don't forget to buy a pair before arriving in Paris. After all, keeping your devices charged and connected is one of the biggest hassles while traveling. So, make sure you have planned to have such adapters beforehand.
10. Cheese and wine are the perfect French pairing
When in France, do as French do!Savoring cheese and wine is one of the most authentic ways to experience French culture.
You can find various wines available in the cafes and bars in Paris. Among the simple cheese rules is that the more horrible it smells, the better it will taste. The South of France is a suitable place to test mulled wines, particularly around Christmas. Although it isn't necessary, failing to do so could open a lot of local eyes, which we are certain, you don't need. You may also try wine pairings in decent restaurants in Paris to start your French affair!
