Springtime in Paris can be just like the movies, but keep in mind that the city is located on the same latitude as Seattle,Washington. It is often cooler and rains more often than expected. Be prepared to carry your favorite rain gear, and in all seasons, we advise dressing in layers and having comfortable walking shoes.
How to find a taxi in Paris?
Unlike many American cities, it is not always easy to “hail or flag” a taxi on the street. You will have better luck if you find your way to one of the city’s taxi stands, usually near bus shelters, where taxis line up for passengers. A reliable call service is Taxi G7 – dial 39 39 and they will send a car to you. Late at night taxis are less available on the street but you can reserve in advance.
Private car services are also available in Paris.
If you want to use your smartphone abroad, the easiest way to do so is to pay your carrier an international roaming fee.* By doing so, you will be able to use your phone number and won’t have to deal with the hassle of installing a foreign SIM card. Using a foreign SIM card is a cheaper alternative, and is not difficult to set up if you prepare by doing the following:
■ Unlock your phone. Your phone must be unlocked to work with foreign SIM cards. Many newer smartphones come unlocked by default, but you should call your carrier to confirm that your device will work with other wireless carriers.
■ Order a foreign SIM card in advance. Often, you can buy a SIM card at the airport or a local cellphone store when you arrive in Paris, but we recommend that you purchase a SIM card online and have it shipped to your home before you travel.
■ Download important apps and maps ahead of time. Wi-Fi is readily available in Paris and most major French cities. If you have a favorite app or prefer having your own maps, download them before you arrive for convenience.
■ It may be helpful for you to print out a backup list of login codes to carry with you.
*Thanks to the NYT Personal Tech column for some of these helpful hints!
How do I get from the airport(s) to the city?
Meal Times: Parisians usually consult a 24-hour clock, eating lunch anywhere from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm and dinner from 8:00 to 11:00 pm. France has a distinction between different sorts of eateries and their hours vary accordingly. A “Brasserie” is a café-restaurant that is usually open from about 7:00 am until 8:00-11:00 pm and serves hot food all day. Many serve dinner but not all. Cafés, and more recently vegan eateries and juice bars, often serve lighter snacks and tend to be open all day and into the evening. Restaurants can be open at lunch and in the evening, and often require reservations.
Food Stores: Please be aware that food stores are usually closed on Sunday afternoons. Outdoor markets also close after 1:00 pm. From food emporiums to convenience stores, most stores are not open 24/7.
Other questions? Contact us via our online contact form and we will respond to your question within 48 hours.
The Metro (and the bus system) are the best way to navigate around Paris. Please be aware that pickpockets are prevalent and they are very keen at targeting tourists who are less familiar with the metro system. Pay close attention to your bags, phones, wallets, and purses on the platforms and in crowded métro cars. You should keep a photocopy of your passport with you and store your passport in a hotel safe or other safe location.
Picturesque Voyages Tours Adhere to Recommended Health and Safety Guidelines
