It's difficult not to feel lost and a little out-of-sorts in a foreign country. You arrive with jet lag and never quite shake that dream-like feeling. Let these travelers tips serve as "pinches" of reality.
The idea while traveling is to be smart and safe about your explorations, to assimilate but never forget that you're not at home. Things happen when you travel. Unless you're on a huge tour bus where you are escorted from place to place, you will get lost once or twice. If you're not careful, you might encounter a pickpocket, some sort of harassment or, at the very least, a person who will be less than helpful.
It helps to speak French in Paris, although no matter how well you speak the language, you'll still be a tourist. Even so, knowing a few key words in the language of the country you visit goes a long way. Travel armed with a map of both the streets and the key attractions. Carry a map of the public transportation system as well, with stops clearly labeled. Also carry a piece of paper or business card with the phone number and address of your hotel clearly printed-out and spelled correctly.
Carry wallets in front pockets and purses slung across you, with a firm hold on the strap. The same goes for cameras. Always be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
In Paris, assume that people you encounter will not speak English, except in the travel-related businesses. Most cab drivers will not understand you, but will take you to a printed address, or one that is pronounced correctly, and do understand when you ask for a receipt. Consider asking for directions in a business that is frequented by tourists, like a restaurant or area attraction.
You'll get the best exchange rate with your credit card, and short of that, at a bank. A hotel will give you the worst exchange rate and currency exchanges can tack on a hefty service charge. You may want to consider changing a small amount of money at the airport on arrival to have change for tips.
When dining, check to make sure a tip has not already been added to the bill. Europeans are not accustomed to tipping and, in some restaurants waiters will not even accept them. It's always nice to offer them, and to remember to tip at hotels as you would at home.
Plan at least one day's worth of rainy-day activities to insert into your plans in case of inclement weather. Try to plan to visit attractions that are in close proximity each day, and allow for lines and extra time to travel in an unfamiliar place. There will always be more to see than you have time for during a trip. Don't wear yourself out with an overly ambitious schedule.
Lastly, remember to have fun and even enjoy the strange or new circumstances that present themselves. It's all part of the experience and the memories of what is sure to be a memorable trip in Paris!
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