Things To Know About Paris

GENERAL INFORMATION ON PARIS

Paris is the capital city of France

Food

Food in Paris is well.....French....so expect to find fine dining as well as amazing bakeries selling great baked goods and whoever you ask will tell you to try the bread, croissants and patisseries. There are many North African influences these days as a lot of people from the old French colonies have made their way to the bright lights of Paris and they blend well with traditional French fare. Options like many European countries are diverse, you can eat as cheaply or as expensively as you would like, however be aware that sometimes it is about where you sit not what you eat which can determine price of food as it is cheaper to eat at the counter than outside at a table on the street.

Language

The official language is French and although many people speak English you won't hear many people using it.

Currency

The currency is the Euro consisting of banknotes for E500, E200 E100 E50 E20 E10 and E5 and coins for E2, E1, 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c and 1c

ATM machines can be found on nearly every corner but make sure that you only have a 4-pin code as they will not accept longer pins. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted but remember that you may be charged conversion rates if you are using your usual bankcard instead of a travel money card.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN PARIS

There are many options when traveling into Paris' airports Orly (Orlyval metro to the Anthony station and transfer to the RER )(E12.20) and Charles De Gaulle, taxis (the most expensive at E60) buses and trains (E1.50 and E10)

Travelling around Paris is easy if you use the public transporting with buses, trams and the Metro (14 lines) which covers most of Paris. and it is a good idea to get a Paris Visite Travel Pass (for 1-5 day pass costing from E12- E26)

3/ ELECTRICITY

You will need an adaptor to charge your electrical goods (remember that if you are using London as a stepping stone into the rest of Europe you will need different adaptors than what is used in other parts of Europe)

TIPPING

Tipping is expected between 10-15% although do check your restaurant bill which may already have a 12.5% service charge on the bill so be aware and don't tip twice. If you are using a cab round the cost up to the nearest pound

TOILETS

Make sure you carry tissues and wipes because toilet paper may not always be available. Be prepared though, that some public toilets will ask you for money to use them, so be prepared with between 50p to £1 to use the toilet.

MOST IMPORTANTLY WHEN YOU ARE IN PARIS HAVE FUN AND SOAK UP EVERY EXPERIENCE THERE AND YOU WILL BE A BETTER PERSON BECAUSE OF IT!!!!

#pAriS #fRanCe