Things everyone should know before taking a trip to France

Depending on you who talk to, Paris is either the “City of Light” or something, well, not quite as passionately enthusiastic. Any way you cut it, there‘s nowhere in the world quite like it.

Unfortunately, we‘ve received plenty of pleas to take caution with your personal goods, as pick-pocketing is seemingly moving beyond petty theft to a national pastime, but we still feel privileged to bring you five (and a half) pieces of Parisian travel advice from those in the know.

Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Rental Car in France

Visiting the countryside: If you’re traveling by rental car, never leave valuables in plain sight when parking in tourist sites and villages. Aix en Provence, for example, is a must see but also one of the worst for petty theft by criminals praying on rental cars. The best advice is to just take all valuables from a rental car, don‘t leave anything important inside. So, leave luggage at the hotel first before visiting!

ETI’s tip: Sadly being a tourist makes you a target not just in lovely Aix en Provence. Find out where the other crime hot spots are in France, and stay clear of the crooks.

“The Ring Trick” in France

As you’re walking around enjoying the sights, someone passes you and appears to pick up a gold ring off the floor. They ask if it’s yours, and say, “It must be your lucky day,” as they give you the ring. Only then do they ask you for money, and their ‘family‘ may also appear at this time to pressure you in to paying. The ‘gold‘ ring is nothing more than a piece of brass or copper is totally worthless. You only realize this, of course, once you‘ve handed over your cash.

ETI’s tip: There are variations of this mean-spirited scheme, find out how to avoid falling for one of them here.

When in France, Say Bonjour!

When in France, I wish I’d known French. The French typically do not like speaking English – even if they can. Respect this and learn some basic French beforehand.

ETI’s tip: You can get a free French Lesson with our Language Guides.

French Transport Tips

Take the train. It’s the safest (not to mention quickest and cheapest) way to travel in France. Services run until very late and are often manned by security guards. We’d think nothing of eating out and getting a train home at midnight – Vive la France!

Except maybe if you are arriving at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport…

Train Crime in France

There are several ways to get into the city, the last choice we would advise is on the RER train. The RER is great for Parisians who know their way around, or experienced repeat travelers, but not at all great for arriving tourists from overnight flights. Tired and disoriented tourists are easy targets for baggage theft and pickpockets on that line. If you take it, always keep an eye on luggage at every stop all the way into the city.

Well, at least now you‘re equipped with a few tidbits of cautionary advice, and the ability to count to five (and a half) in French. In short, the best way to enjoy France is to keep your eyes on its cultural wonders, a croissant in one hand, and your wallet in the other.

Compliment the French

Compliment the French on the way they look, on the food, on the way they look, on the glass of wine you’re drinking, and on the way they look. Otherwise they will curse at you. They love to hear wonderful things about their country.

ETI’s tip: If you’re unfamiliar with the language the set lunch menu is a great way to order. But watch out for the prix fixe faux pas that could leave you out of pocket.