Hey, it’s Wes and Chanda, and welcome back to DinkLife! We recently returned from our trip to Paris, and after reflecting on our experience, we wanted to share some tips and tricks that might help if you’re planning your own adventure. We had previously visited Paris for a day in 2018, but this time we stayed for three and a half full days. We learned a lot more about the city, its culture, and the expectations when visiting. While Paris is undoubtedly beautiful, there are some things you should know before you go.
One of the things we immediately noticed was how stunning the city is. The architecture and landmarks are truly breathtaking, and it’s an incredibly picturesque place. But like any travel destination, there are cultural differences that might throw you off a bit. For example, when dining out or at a bar, the payment process can vary—sometimes you pay as you order, other times they run a tab for you. It’s best to watch what locals are doing to figure out the right approach. Another thing that stood out was the tipping culture, which isn’t as common as in the States. While tips are not expected, a 10% tip for great service is appreciated, and this is partly because service workers are paid a living wage. We didn’t need cash much at all, which made things easier, especially when avoiding the street vendors selling inexpensive touristy trinkets near landmarks.
Public transportation in Paris is top-notch, and we were able to get around the city easily using their Metro system. We opted for the €30 unlimited travel card, which covered both the Metro and suburban trains for the entire week. It’s a great value if you plan to use public transport frequently, but keep in mind that purchasing the card can be a bit tricky, especially if you need a photo ID for the pass. Speaking of travel, you don’t need a car while in Paris. The public transport system is convenient, and you can get almost anywhere quickly without the hassle of parking. Just be cautious of pickpockets—it’s always wise to keep your belongings close to you.
However, no trip is without its challenges. Unfortunately, we encountered some rude customer service on a few occasions, which made the experience a bit frustrating at times. It wasn’t always the case, but we did notice that a lot of people were not as friendly as we’re used to. This isn’t to say everyone was like that, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to customer service interactions. Despite the occasional rude encounter, we found the city to be full of character and beauty.
Pros of Paris:
- Stunning architecture and landmarks.
- Excellent public transportation system.
- Delicious wine, cheese, and craft beer options.
- Beautiful, walkable city with lots to explore.
Cons of Paris:
- Language barrier and occasional rude customer service.
- Potential for pickpocketing in tourist-heavy areas.
- Can be expensive, especially near major attractions.
Overall, our trip to Paris was memorable, but it’s a place that’s not for everyone. If you’re prepared for some cultural differences and potential frustrations, it’s definitely worth visiting. Let us know in the comments if you’ve been to Paris and had a similar experience or if you’re planning a trip! Remember, as always, whatever you decide to do, just get out there and do it!
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