Just back from an absolutely marvellous time in Paris. Many thanks to all the posters on this forum who helped make our trip such a success.
A bit of info for those on their way to Paris. Avoid La Corona Cafe near Pont des Arts --- a real tourist ripoff! My wife stopped there briefly for a small glass of coke and was charged 38FF!
La Corona -- A tourist trap!!
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All I can say is, welcome to Paris...
That's how it is all over the City of Light. When in Paris, $8 cokes at the cafe are just one of those things you have to accept if you want to sit and people watch while sipping. And don't think it's just that cafe.
There are a few things I found disenchanting while there but they are trivial in comparison to the beauty and history of the city. Now, I just accept the few things I don't like and cannot change and enjoy all the things I love.
Lynn, well said.
Tony, on one of my earlier visits I ended up paying $25 for 2 hot dogs and 2 cokes in the Tullerie Gardens as well as $8 for lemonade at a few cafes until I learned where to buy my snacks and beverages. La Corona which I know and have had dinner at a few times is not really a tourist ripoff. There are many other Paris places that would charge the same. Your wife was not charged 38FF just for the coke. A good portion of it was the "rent" for the privelge of sitting there for as long as she desired.
Hi again -
Tony, John is right on the money. One of the tricks to Paris is knowing where to get snacks, water, drinks, etc. without having to pay the full tilt price. Vendors sell sodas for about $2. We found a little "Quickie Mart" type of place a block from our hotel and would stock our frig with juice and water for at least 1/2 the price, maybe less. When you're out and about, sometimes you are just paying extra for the convenience. With us, our hotel was centrally located so we would stop 2 or 3 times during the day for restroom breaks and a drink. The rest of the time, we just ate or drank whatever we walked by.
On your next trip, just remember to budget a little extra and when you know what to expect, you'll be less likely to be upset. At least, that's how it worked with me!
Have a great weekend...