I'm no expert but my one trip to Paris mostly we walked to everything. We just used a city map (all the museums, monuments etc. were marked) that we got free at the hotel. We were only on Metro a couple times so just paid as we went.

You misunderstand what you are reading about a pass saying you are allowed ¨three lines¨¨ of the metro. That is impossible, it would be three zones, I´d have to guess. Why are you buying that product, anyway, I´d suggest you don´t. If it really only allows you to use 3 particular lines of the metro, that is totally bizarre and you shouldn´t get it. You only need 2 zones for normal use within the city, although there are a few odd RER destinations in zone 3, where you probably won´t go. The regular tickets are good for the entire metro line wherever it goes (zones 1 to 3 are the only ones with metro stops as far as I know and most are in zone 1) and the RER within zones 1 to 2.

You can use a regular ticket to transfer buses or bus to tram and vice versa but you cannot use it to transfer between the bus and the metro/RER.

A ticket has no time limit unlike some cities, it is good for your entire trip and as many metro changes you make as long as you dont leave the station, so you only need one ticket per trip even if you transferred to several different lines during that trip.

You´ll have to figure out for yourself your likely cost differences, hard to say. A Navigo pass could be useful for four days but you´d have to be using it a lot those days (it runs around 20 euro now). But if you took at least 4 trips it would be about break even over buying the carnet of 10 tickets. If you need other days, youd have to buy a carnet or if you really wanted to use transporation a lot, there is an all day pass called the Mobilis which is convenient. Unlimited travel all day on the bus/metro/RER for 6.4 euro. No worry about transfers. That is for zones 1 to 2 (the price). You have to specifiy the zones you want when you buy it, that is the most limited one.

Where do you plan to go in zone 5 anyway? Versailles is zone 4 unless they moved it. (they have moved zone 5-6 I believe or zone 6 doesnt exist any more) You cannot use the Mobilis to go to the airport even if you bought one for zone 5, though.

I wouldn´t buy something called a Paris Pass.

Buy carnets. One book of carnets contains 10 tickets, good for 10 rides. If you go to Versailles, go on the RER.

If you go further, say to Chartres, buy a train ticker.

We always use carnets but buy only one book at a time - we walk so much that we normally don't have to buy a second book.

@ Christina

Sorry, I wasn't clear. The Paris pass allows you to go on lines 1, 2 and 3 of the metro, but it's mostly a pass that allows you to go over 60 monuments and museums. I'm not buying it for the use of the metro lines, but for entry into monuments and museums.

I put zone 5 down, because I though I could take the metro to the airport, but you've told me that this is not possible. So, I guess that I will not necessarily need zone 5. I'm planning on travelling mostly because I feel like the hotel we booked is too far out of the city center, so transportation is a must.

Oh the hotel location is definitely important to the decision. When I say I walked most places, we were staying on St Mich in the heart of the Latin Quarter.

We bought our tickets as needed. You need to buy at the airport to the city and at the station to go to Versailles -all simple. Paris otherwise is an easy walking city and use the Metro if you need to go across the city. Otherwise you can walk easily and won't be missing what might be just around the corner. It was really fun that way for us.

There is no pass that allows you to go on lines 1, 2 and 3 of the metro. Any ticket will allow you to use all 14 lines of the metro and any RER station inside the city limits once you have entered the system.

If you have misunderstood something so basic (or if the document that you read is so hopelessly incorrect!), I suggest that you read all of the documentation carefully again.

Oh, and while having a pass that allows you to visit 60 museums and monuments might sound appealing in the abstract, I very much doubt that you will be visiting all 60 of them. Many of these passes charge a high fee because they include things that you don't want or need. If your only fear is not knowing how to buy a ticket in a museum, let me assure you that there are machines in the big museums and the smaller ones have a ticket desk with a price sign. And the municipal museums of Paris are all free anyway.

I say this gently and kindly, I think maybe because you are 1st time traveler you are being over-enthusiastic about purchasing tickets, passes, etc. in advance and in large quantity.

Truly you could land at the airport with nothing planned and be OK.

Since it sounds like your hotel may be quite aways outlying the center of the city(?) I do think it's smart to figure out how you'll get into the central area where most sights/sites are you'll want to be visiting. But as far as just getting around Paris, going to the gardens, museums, momuments, that's easy and can mostly be done on foot.

If you think you will be using metro and buses a lot (and the Paris bus system is really easy to use and really good) then I am a huge fan of the Mobilis pass. You can buy several at a time and just validate them each day by writing your name and the date on them.

Now I have an idea which perhaps Kerouac can confirm or not, that if you have a Mobilis Zone 1-5 you can also use this on the Roissy Bus which takes your from Opera to CDG. In fact I think I have done this a few years ago.

In December, it is more likely that you'll use public transportation than if you were traveling in the spring or summer. Even if it is only for 4 days, the Navigo pass may be worthwhile.

Anything for zone 5 works to and from CDG. The only thing on which the passes are not valid is the Orlyval at Orly.

Do you care to share where your hotel is. A central hotel is very important - esp in winter - so you can walk to some sights and are close to the Metro. (On a post perhaps a year ago a new traveler had booked a hotel not even IN Paris and had to change at the last moment.)

We just buy a carnet of 10 tickets - each one of which lets you ride the entire Metro system - changing from one line to another at the transfer points. As for other types of passes - we never use them - since they rarely pay for themselves - and often push you to visiting places you're not that interested in since they're on the list. IMHO - better to just go see what YOU want.

Do NOT buy "the Paris Pass." It is a complete waste of time and money, giving you entry into a thousand things you won't want to go to or will never have time to make it to.

The museum pass may be worth it, depending on how many museums you will visit. Do NOT confuse the museum pass with the useless Paris Pass.

Just get a carnet of tickets. You haven't understood what the Paris Pass offers in terms of transportation, but since it's an utter waste of money anyway, I wouldn't bother reading the fine print at this point. Just don't buy it.

I agree that a central hotel is very important. Are you on the outskirts to save money or because some travel agent booked you there. There are all prices ranges for hotels within central Paris - you do not have to spend a lot of money.

Some of the benefits of being centrally located are to return to your hotel and relax after a day of sight seeing and before dinner. You'll be able to walk around after dinner, perhaps stop in a cafe for a late night coffee or wine, and easily return to your hotel. You'll have the vibrancy of Paris at your front door.

<< The Paris pass allows you to go on lines 1, 2 and 3 of the metro, >>

It's zones 1,2,3, not lines 1,2,3. There's a huge difference. You need to look at a metro map and see that there are many lines. Lines 1,2,3 would not get you very far.

http://parisbytrain.com/files/2008/06/metro.pdf

A better idea than the Paris Pass is to buy a Museum Pass (much less expensive) and then metro tickets or metro pass. You need to compare costs on these.

http://en.parismuseumpass.com/

I have a non-transportation suggestion. You have plenty of time. Cancel the booking at your current hotel and book in the center of Paris. You will save time, money and hassle. There are many on this board that can recommend a nice, safe, clean hotel in the center from which you can walk to many sights.

No need for Paris Pass. Just buy carnet of tickets at a station, although you will likely need Euros or buy at a tabac. Use the same tickets on the Metro or buses...very easy. Make sure you hang onto to your ticket on the Metro until you leave the train (throw it away as you exit the station)

You can print out individual bus routes/stops before you leave. It's great to have those as a refernce while you are there.. The bus is a great way to get around and it allows you to see the city while you go. It helps me learn my way around....you miss that in the Metro.

http://www.ratp.fr/en/upload/docs/application/pdf/2011-07/paris_public_transport.pdf

I do love the Paris Museum Pass for the convenience of not buying tickets at every place you want to go. It allows you to skip long ticket lines at many places. Just know it must be used on consecutive days (2,4 or 6 day options).

Long lines in December???

I am now aware that I misread the details of the Paris pass. It's Zones 1 to 3, not line 1 to 3. However, since most of you are suggesting not purchasing it, it hardly matters.
Many of you have suggested walking. Walking is very economical, but I'm nervous about the weather. Does it get very very cold in the winter? Too cold to stay outside too long?
Any suggestions on good, cheap, centrally located hotels?
I appreciate all your responses!

How outside the center is your current hotel?

I've been to Paris during Christmas/New Year's and it was not too cold to be outside (except for hours one night), but of course every year is different. I think you will probably use public transportation more than you would if you were visiting in June. Re-read some of the tips above about passes/carnets. I have always only bought carnets, so the nuances of the various transport passes are beyond me.

I have bought a museum pass more than once; getting it only makes money-sense if you plan to visit several of the museums within a few days' span. And yes, Dukey, there can be mighty long lines in Paris during the Christmas/New Year's break.

In terms of hotels, what is your budget? You might do a search for two long-running threads here: Paris Left Bank Hotels and Paris Right Bank Hotels. I usually rent apartments so don't have much inexpensive hotel advice.

You are going to have a great trip! It's a beautiful, beautiful time to be in Paris--how exciting for you.

Two hotels that have been recommended regularly on this board in response to requests for inexpensive hotels are the Hotel Familia and the Hotel Grandes Ecoles, both in the 5th.

The hotel I've booked is near CDG airport, and about 25 km awway from the city center. I will definetly check out the Hotel Familia and Grandes Ecoles. Thanks so much!

Check eurocheapo.com for hotels. And search here for budget hotels Paris. I'll see if I can dig any old threads up.

CDG really seems far to me, especially for two young women who will probably want to enjoy some nightlife. (I saw your NYE post.)

"The hotel I've booked is near CDG airport"

Oh - that is a really REALLY terrible idea. You aren't staying for one night w/ an early morning flight. You are staying seven nights. Why ever did you book at CDG? It is an hour from the center and the travel is expensive.

In case you didn't realize it - the Metro does not go to CDG.

janis, maybe you could try to be helpful and post some alternative hotels?

Since I don't yet know the OPs budget - that is pretty difficult at this point . . .

(What is w/ all the lectures lately? I've given thousands of useful/helpful recommendations/suggestions. So shoot me if I didn't this time)

passionfruit, here are the Left Bank/Right Bank hotel threads.

http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/paris-hotels-right-bank-thread.cfm

http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/paris-hotels-left-bank-thread.cfm

You and your friend could buy one carnet and share the 10 tickets. If all 10 are used and you just have a day or two left, buy single tickets as needed.

I've never stayed in a Paris hotel but I pass by this hotel on occasion and it is about as centrally located as you can get. The cheapest double is 85€ a night:

http://www.hoteldenesleparis.com/

The Hotel Beaugrenelle Saint-Charles in the 15th not to far from the Eiffel Tower is 81 Euro a night for a twin room.

While it is not the most central location, it is near a metro station and an easy trip to most sights.

<The hotel I've booked is near CDG airport>

You need to change hotels. Truly. Besides learning about the various transportation options, this is the very best piece of advice you can take from this thread.

Move somewhere anywhere closer into the heart of Paris. Take a look at a map. There are "arrondisements" (neighborhoods) which are numbered. 1 is in the center of Paris then it goes out like a spiral/snail. Most people try for 1, 4, 5, 6 to be most central. 7 is by the Eiffle Tower. You can even be a bit further out in some of the teen-numbered arrondisements and use metro to get around. But NOT at the airport. Cancel the booking and find something actually *in* Paris.

Oh and I do agree about the comments about walking and weather. I was there in August when we toured around mostly on foot. But in December I'd bring comfortable boots, coat, scarf, hat, gloves and still plan to walk a good bit.

Thanks so much for the advice everyone! I really appreciate it and am taking steps towards improving my trip. I'm not getting the Paris pass anymore, and I am instead getting the museum pass and a carneet. I've also cancelled my booking and I am looking at hotels in the city center. Hopefully, I will be able to find something within my (meager)budget that's not too far out.

Tell us what your budget is and we can get specific about hotels. You do NOT want to stay at the airport - that would be a total waste of a trip to Paris. You're young and need to be in the city, not in some hotel wasteland 25 miles away. There are plenty of options, but we need to know what you've got in the way of a budget for accommodations.

"Hopefully, I will be able to find something within my (meager)budget that's not too far out."

You still haven't told us what your budget actually is --'meager' doesn't tell us anything. Once we knew how much you and your cousin want to spend per night, we can make specific recommendations.

Much better plan!! There are plenty of 2-star hotels in central Paris where you can get a simple room that doesn't cost a fortune. If you state your nightly budget people can make some specific recommendations of favorites.

Might be unrealistic, but we're trying to go for something under 100 dollars a night. (CAD) is that an unrealistic expectation?

OK so 79 euro/night. People above have suggested a couple in the 80-85 euro range. Won't be easy and won't be all that nice but if you are willing to take a very very modest place at least you can improve your location.

There's no price for which I would stay out at the airport when trying to see Paris is the goal.

It is very easy to find hotels for less than CAD 100 a night -- but not next to the Seine. You might have to ride the metro a whole extra 10 minutes!

Here is an old link with a lot of suggestions: http://anyportinastorm.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=paris&action=display&thread=3582&page=1

I remember a Fodor's poster always stayed at Hotel Tiquetonne. I bookmarked it in case I was ever looking for a quick-and-easy cheap hotel.

http://www.hoteltiquetonne.fr/

I highly recommend this hotel in the 11th: http://www.cosmos-hotel-paris.com/

You can get a room for about 65euros and it is very near to Oberkampf which is a great area for young people with late night bars and restaurants. The hotel itself is very basic, not a lot of charme, and you will likely need to take the metro into town, but its affordable, safe and near lots of metro lines at Republique.

Definitely buy a booklet (carnet) of tickets and you can share them. We end up walking, even in the winter when we visit Paris. If you are from Canada (I am from Vancouver) then you will probably find it a bit warmer than home, but bring a good winter jacket, hats, scarves and gloves and you will be fine. A good umbrella wont hurt in case of rain.

Have a great trip!

Here is our trip report and photos from our trip over NYE in 2009/2010 to give you an idea of what to expect:

http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/bikerscott-jamikins-in-paris-christmas-2009.cfm

I hope that we are at last on the right track to help passionfruit.

That looks like a great budget hotel, jamikins. And yes, a fantastic location.

I stayed at Cosmo's Hotel also called Cosmos Hotel last week. Terrific value and very clean. The rooms are fairly large in comparison to other hotels. 70 euros . Its right on the 96 bus route which takes you through the marais and place des vosges along the rue de rivoli and over the river to Ile de la Cite the
n through st germain and on to Montparnasse. Sorry for lower case but on my phone.
Also in the same area.is Hotel Alhambra where i've stayed as well but smaller rooms. Its recomended here in the destinations section under Paris budget h hitels

More than on the right track. You have all been so incredibly helpful, and I cannot thank you all enough! This will be my first trip ooutside of North America, and I'm happy I found this website.The advice I've gotten here will most certainly help make my trip as memorable as possible. Thank you all sooo much for taking the time to help!

Glad we can be of help! The Hotel Cosmos is now our go to hotel and we haev grown to love the 11th. Julia is right, the 96 takes you right into the Latin Quarter by City Hall and its also great to catch back at night if you are out around that area.

There is a great cafe on the corner for affordable breakfasts and it is also by Richard Lenoir market which is excellent: http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2008/nov/28/paris-markets-shopping-trips-france

I'm having an issue finding a suitable hotel in the city center. I've found several that were quite fine, but my cousin has different standards than me. Is there any chance of finding "generic" looking hotels in the city center? I don't think so, but it seems as though she's not willing to compromise.

What is a "generic looking" hotel? Most hotels in your price range will be small French style hotels.

We booked something in Montmartre. I'm terribly excited now.

Congratulations!

I'm now wondering if any of you have stayed in the hotel Geranddo in Montmartre? What was your experience like there?

Did you look it up on TripAdvisor? not so much the stars people give it but what they say about it. Sometimes people don't like a hotel for no reason that would bother me (i.e. couldn't get room service at 2am), but the good comments are for things I care about.

If your cousin has 'standards', the hotel Geranddo may not be the best choice for you. I really would look at the reviews on TA.

Did you try the hotel jamikins recommended/linked? The Cosmos gets MUCH better reviews on TA.

And the Cosmos is as generic as you get - think Hotel 8. Basic, white walls, white sheets, white bathroom. No charm. It is a basic, affordable, very clean hotel in a much better location I think. I find Montmartre difficult to get to and from but thats just me.

Why does she want 'generic' - is she looking for a chain hotel that is more american in style? I suppose you could check out Ibis Hotels...

If she is picky the Hotel Gerando is likely not going to be to her liking - first review on Trip Advisor is:

Spent my honeymoon in the grubbiest, dirtiest hotel ive ever been to...cigarette butts under the bed....grubby carpets, very dim lighting...there was prostitutes at reception when we arrived..it is centrally located but an awful experience....

Might want to do some more research...

Montmartre is not the place for a first-time visit to Paris. And I have no idea what "generic" means in relation to hotels in Paris, unless it means that she wants something like an American chain hotel, which is not what I'd ever be looking for in Paris. It's Paris. Get a Parisian hotel. I would scrap the idea of the Gerando and jump on the Cosmos as quickly as you can. Even a Formule 1 would be better; at least you can count on their "formula" to provide you with the basics.

I know it is hard to satisfy everyone when you are traveling but please, please cancel this hotel and move to a more central part of Paris. And do check Trip Advisor. Have you tried any of the recommendations given here? How about the Hotel Cosmos?

When I said generic, I was talking about the American style chain hotels, I guess. She's into that, even though I told her it would bedifficult to find something like that in Paris. I've booked Cosmos now, thanks to your advice, and hopefully I will not have to cancel another bookin (2 cancellations within 2 days is enough, I fell)
Now from the 11th, is it a long walk to the Eiffel tower, Louvre,Montparnasse, etc?or should we get aa carnet each?

A carnet is a group of 10 tickets. You can share them, so start out with one and buy another, or single tickets, if you need more.

You really need to familiarize yourself with the layout of the city, so next thing to do is get a detailed map and study it, and be sure you understand the scale. You'll see where the Tour Eiffel is in relation to your hotel and can then decide how you'll get there.

Then you need to learn how to get around it. Everything you need to know is at www.ratp.fr

Don't you have a city map? Again kindly and gently, taht's the first thing you need to plan a visit to a new city. You can find one online or in a guidebook with a scale so you can tell distances, and be able to figure out what's walkable and when you'll need to use Metro or bus service.

also you can use Google Search engine for some of your questions.

As a test I just typed "distance from montparnasse to eiffel tower" and a bunch of websites pop up (answer is 4.41 miles, so further than most folks would consider "walkable")

Yes get a good map and then group what you want to see so you arent running back and forth every day.

Get yourself a good metro map as well http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/

A good metro stop near you is the republique stop as there are many lines that go through there.

And the 96 bus will take you right to the river at St Michel in the Latin Quarter and Notre Dame.

Good call on Cosmo's. You'll be much happier there. I always spend some time in that area when I'm in Paris and find it easy to walk to le Marais, Place des Vosges, etc. But you will definitely want public transport sometimes, especially if it's late or very cold or if your feet start to give out on you.

StCirq has given you some sound advice. ratp.fr is a great tool--you can plan your trips online in near real-time. And remember to get a good street map.

There are also lots of apps to help you. We had a Metro Paris as well as the France Travel guide by Triposo (handy if you wanted to know more about a site while you were there but don't want to lug around a guidebook) as well as a French/English dictionary.

And don't worry about not staying in the center. You will see the center every day anyway and by staying out of the center you will see so much more than people who don't want to lose sight of the Seine.

You can buy maps in Paris at any news/magazine stand, bookstore, larger supermarket, tourist type stores and other places. I would recommend getting a large fold out map so you can see the city at a glance (a scale of 1:12,000 is good) but also get a small booklet called Paris Pratique Par Arrondissement or Paris Le Plan Pratique, which will fit easily in your purse. Each type of map shouldn't cost more than 5-6 euros.

http://www.amazon.fr/Paris-Plan-Pratique-2012-arrondissement/dp/2309120324

If you have an iPhone you can now download free city guides from Trip Advisor, including Paris. I am currently in Philadelphia and they are great for restaurants, sites etc and they work offline, so I dont need internet access - highly recommend them!

Just in case you want to splurge on one meal, a great restaurant near your hotel is Astier at 44 rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud. Go for lunch and it will be great fun...about 25 euros and well worth it.

My favorite map was a free one from the hotel lobby. I like to use folding paper maps because I make notes on them as I go along. I had a book I'd purchased by arrondisements but we never used it.

For me, I always prefer getting the mobilis (day pass for € 6)to the carnet(10 tickets)that cost €12,70. Yes, with the carnet, you can split it up -- BUT you use one on the metro, then one on the bus, then one on the tram, then back again, and you've used up 6 tickets.

Especially in December, when it's really chilly, you are probably going to be using the Metro, buses, and possibly the tram, going from one place to another, then returning to the hotel. So, if i'm going to be going to several places using public transportation throughout the day and perhaps evening, I get a lot more bang for my buck with the mobilis, since you can use the same ticket all day on just about anything that moves!

EAre there any amazing sights most people do not know about? I obviously want to some of the main ones but what are some great sights and experiences only an experienced traveller or a local would know about?

A lesser known and less visited site is St Denis. It's on the Metro (line 13, I think). It is the burial place of French Kings and a beautiful church....especially on a sunny day so the stained glass really lights up. We really enjoyed St Denis and most tourists don't know much about it and don't go there.

For local experience and perspective....search kerouac's reports on this forum. He lives in Paris and is always posting all kinds of amazing,, off the beaten path sites and trips.

Well, there are a gazillion amazing places most tourists don't end up in that are fascinating...but you're only going to be there for a very short time, so I would concentrate on the main sights. If you want to mix it up a bit you could go to the hammam at the Mosquée de Paris, or take a short ride out to Ile des Impressionistes and enjoy La Maison Fournaise, or check out some of the ginguettes, or go to the market in Belleville, or go to the top of the Tour Montparnasse (that's not so out of the ordinary, but I don't think a lot of tourists in Paris do it), or go to the Buttes de Chaumont, or head out to the Parc St-Cloud, or visit the Château de Vincennes....really, the possibilities are endless, but your time is short.

By the time you've been to most of the major attractions, your trip will be over. Decide whether you want a "traditional" sightseeing tour of the city, or something unusual. Given your traveling companion's hotel preferences, you might want to stick with the usual stuff.

Oh, and you might want to check out www.whatsonwhen.com for special things that are happening while you're there.

La tour de Montparnasse was already on my list of places to go to, along with St. Denis. I also want tovissit the Louvre, le Musee d'Orsay, Sainte Chapelle, Versailles. I was also intersted in going to Pere Lachaise, but my cousin apparently has issues with cemeteries.
I feel like going up the Eiffel tower is a waste of time. Aam I wrong? I have nodesire of wasting time there.

I am also very intersted in just walking around and justtaking things in.. I cannot put into words how excited I am for this trip.This has been my biggest dream, to go to France and see Paris.I would go and not come back, but I'm poor. Hahaha

If you are going to the top of the Tour Montparnasse, you do not need to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower. You will see a great view of the city with the Eiffel Tower included.

passionfruitdrink, don't miss L'Orangerie, where Monet's water lillies are.

I think because you and your cousin are young you should spend some time in the bars/clubs around where you will be staying and also over at Canal St. Martin. Or see what's going on live-music-wise while you're there.

http://www.timeout.fr/paris/feature/area/canal-saint-martin-ourcq-villette

Yes! I wonder if its included with museum pass.

And by it, I meant l'orangerie.
What happens for New Year's Eve in Paris, usually?

passionfruit - do you have a good guide book - that would be your best bet now. I like the Michelin Green Guide, or the Top 10 Paris might be a good one. Then go through it and pick what you want to see. Honestly you dont have to see anything you dont want to - if you dont want to go up the Eiffel Tower then dont!

NYE alot of people go out for set dinners which can be a bit pricey. I think there is also a big 'party' on the Champs d'Elysee. Google New Years Eve in Paris 2012 and you will get info. I found this: www.newyearseve2012.net/new-years-eve-paris-2012

passionfruit, the Top Ten Paris guide is excellent. It lists the top ten sites, fountains, parks, museums, etc with locations, hours and interesting facts. Has a street map and Metro map and is an easy size to carry.

I hope you have a wonderful time and come back here to tell us about it!

Typically, Parisians celebrate St-Sylvestre either at home with friends or at a restaurant they have booked well in advance that offers a prix-fixe menu including champagne, a nice meal, and papillottes. If you want to join in one of these communal feasts, you'd best book now.

Otherwise, just get out on the Champs Elysées and watch the madness. Fireworks are legal in France, so be careful. They will erupt at midnight (and before). There will be plenty of bars and cafés open late.

I'm confused. Are fireworks usually illegal?

They are where I live.

Oh. Where is that?

Washington, DC.

Personal fireworks are illegal in Paris. But they seem to magically appear on December 31st with impunity. I have no idea where people buy them, but I do know that they Chinese shops sell firecrackers under the counter.

Speaking of fireworks, there is no official fireworks display in Paris for New Year's.

Official? No. But an awful lot of people seem to appear on the streets with their own fireworks (happens on plenty of occasions, too, even at small village celebrations, and not just on New Year's Eve).

I don't think these things are any big secret but some of my favorite things were walking thru the parks and gardens (yes I know it's winter) and eating street food (crepes, "hot dogs", sandwiches, etc.) One of my favorite things I ate in Paris was a fabulous sausage, on bagette with incredible cheese melted over it. Another just a chicken salad sandwich from a bakery. Boy were they good.

Also sitting drinking wine from little clay pitchers in sidewalk cafes and walking Paris go by.

Fireworks are illegal in lots of places in the US, they are dangerous. I imagine they are illegal more than not, at least the ones that expload or are projectiles. Where I live in Maryland all fireworks are illegal, even sparklers, but I know a lot of Maryland allows those but not anything exploding.

From what I've read, there are a lot of people out on the streets partying on NY Eve in the Bastille area, around the Bastille column generally, head that way, it is close to where you will be.

I would recommend that you go on the Paris Museum Pass site for a list of museums and monuments that are included with the pass. http://en.parismuseumpass.com/

Another thing you can do on that site is to map out the museums you want to go to...it can help you decide which places to group together when you visit. Click on the interactive map.

Yes, L'Orangerie is included on the PMP.

I have never been up in the ET...just not my thing and after 4 trips to Paris, I still have no interest in that. For many, it's a must.

A great view of Paris for me is from the top of Notre Dame and you see the gargoyles up close! You can use the PMP for entry but it doesn't get you to the front of the line. Go early to go up first and avoid a wait. I think we got there at 9:30am to go up at 10:00am and were first in line. The view was amazing. It's a favorite thing that we have done in Paris.

Lots of things are included in the Paris Pass - that's the problem with it - it includes a zillion more things than anyone can possibly see in a short time, and costs a small fortune. Please understand that the Paris Pass is totally different from the Paris MUSEUM Pass, which IS worth it if you plan to visit a few museums (but you DO need to plan you visits carefully to take advantage of it).

For info the Paris pass made of The museum pass plus a travel pass and some added prive museum and attractions not than worth it

and if you wanna do the open bus tour ( be aware it expensive and public transport are cheaper but without audio guide ...)

if you want you can splash on the paris a la carte
http://www.batobus.com/english/PDF/Paris-a-la-Carte.pdf
an you will be able to avoid public transport for 1 or 2 days
the best option is the batobus on its own offer great vantage point and much cheaper than must cruise ....

I will advise you to do the Eiffel tower trip to the top not just the first floor
but prebook online or the queu will kill you
and take the stair case option ( no panic its stair only to the first floor then you get the lift to the top )

if you go with the Paris Museum Pass save on Montparnasse and go to the arc de Triomphe
Notre dame Tower
Sacree Coeur/ Montmartre
or at the heart of Paris on the roof of Beaubourg modern art museum you have a stunning cafe with terrace over looking the Marais
walk straight to the direct restaurant acces lift (outside on the left side of the museum entrance )
if ask you just going to restaurant ( if ask question about reservation, booking etc just anwser I guess as my friend already upstair ..... is not the police don't explane yourself to much once their have a drink or not enjoy the with then go back down through the tube staircase ...

don't miss the Christmas windows of the big department store and the great Xmas tree at gallery Lafayette (metro lafayette )
and as traveling goes Velib' paris bike system fab cheap, every where and best night transportation system !!!!!

enjoy

Are most things closed New Year's Day? I know they are, but I'm hoping ssomething will be open so I can do something those days.

A good guidebook will let you know what is open on New Year's Day. If you don't have one, get one asap. While we increasingly use the internet for trip planning, a good guide is invaluable.

A quick check of my Michelin Green Guide for Paris indicates that most everything is closed on New Year's but it seems that the Eiffel Tower is open and most churches should be open.

We found the area around the Eiffel Tower to be open, and the area around the Latin Quarter. Stick to fairly touristy places those days and you should find something open. You should check specific websites, like museums etc, if you want to do something specific that day.

Or ask at your hotel front desk. Sometime they can be very helpful with information about the neighborhood.

passionfruit - I'm so excited for you. Your first trip to Paris! I hope you love the city as much as I do. I think you are on the right track now staying IN the city. I also agree with your idea of walking and wandering. It's a wonderful way to really appreciate the city. I will agree with other posters that you will likely want to do most of the major venues & sites on your first trip. But.... if you want some other wonderful suggestions, check out this thread: http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/paris-for-the-repeat-visitor.cfm It contains great suggestions. I posted the one about walking down rue Mouffetard on a Sunday.

Enjoy your first trip and I hope you will enjoy many, many more.

Oh, I know I will enjoy this!
What about the jardin du Luxembourg? Has anyone ever been there? Is it nice, even in the winter? We might go there too!
There's so much to see and do, I am so tempted to go there and never come back!

passionfruit - one way to maximise your time [and money] is to try to group together sights that are in the same area eg the rodin museum with les invalides, st. Chappelle with notre Dame, Place des Voges and the Bastille, etc. etc.

also, make sure that you know the days on which places are closed - no point in turning up at the Louvre on a tuesday, but you might like the late night openings that some museums do, eg musee d'orsay on the thursday [I think] when they should hopefully be less crowded.

there is also a boat that goes up and down the Seine that is more like a bus - called the "batobus" which is reasonably cheap, and can take you from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame in style and comfort!

as for the jardins du Luxembourg, they will be in use every day of the year that they are open - for families, joggers, sightseers, and tourists like you!

bon voyage!

So, my cousin's dad just reserved the Hotel Champs Elysees Friedland. I'm assuming it's better than the Cosmos, in the sense that it is in the middle of a lot of places we want to visit. Anyways, I was wondering, how do I purchase the museum pass? I cannot find it with travel agents. Also, how long does it usually take for someone to get over jet lag? I'm not in the mood to sleep my first few days there. It'd be a waste of my money. Can I just arrive and start visiting things? My plane lands at 11:00 am Paris time. I don't want to sleep away a day.

Every one is different, no one here can tell you how your body will react to jetlag!

We find that staying up to a regular night time in the new location and then getting a good nights sleep helps, but others find taking a nap works well for them. You wont know until you get there.

Don't order the Museum Pass - you can buy in at any of the venues in Paris.

You don't want to sleep away the first day - just don't overdo things. Get lots of fresh air, a light dinner, try to go to bed at a reasonable hour and hopefully you'll wake the next morning relatively refreshed.

You can buy the museum pass at CDC airport in most of the terminals at the tourist information desk.

How is it that with your "meager" (your own word) budget, you are ending up at the Hôtel Champs Elysées Friedland (a much more expensive hotel than I have even ever stayed in)? That location wouldn't hold any appeal at all for me - totally sterile part of Paris, and you'll be surrounded by some of the most expensive cafés/restaurants/shops anywhere in the city. What was wrong with the Cosmos?

Get the Museum Pass when you get there, at any of the innumerable places listed on it, or at the airport information desk. You don't need all this stuff ahead of time.

First day I stay outdoors as much as possible (vitamin D is essential in getting over jetlag), have a fairly early dinner (8 pm or so), then get to bed by about 10 pm, and am good as new the next morning.

I would not like that location at all either -- and I certainly would never pay that much for a hotel in Paris as a tourist.

Well, you are receiving quite good advice from de Fodor community, and I think you should rely on them.
Hotel Cosmos and it's area was the place to be if you are in your early 20s. A lot of nice, cosy, cheap and lively bars and restaurants.
Hôtel Champs Elysées Friedland is located in a area where there is no point to go if you're not working in an insurance company or so. During winter holiday, it will be just dead (but with beautiful lights in the streets).

I didn't pick this new hotel, my cousin's dad did. He wasnt happy with the Cosmos, felt it wasnt safe enough. So he reserved the Friedland. I'm not too happy with it, because I was looking forward to the Cosmos based on everyone's advice, and also because it was within my budget. But he insists. He travels a lot(He's the CEO of a bank), so I suppose the Friedland is what he is used to.

I'm under the impression he isn't expecting money from us, I mean, my cousin made the reservations with him and I wasn't aware. So I'm not sure how much it will be, or even if he expects me to give him anything. Either way, I most certainly cannot afford it.

??? Not safe enough? It's right in the heart of Oberkampf in the 11th! No less safe than any other area in central Paris with the added bonus of people out and about late at night due to the late night restaurants and bars. If you are old enough to travel alone surely you are old enough to take responsibility for researching your own hotels!

Also as a bank CEO it probably is affordable for him...but it's in a posher area so expect your food and drink costs to go up in line with the hotel as the places in that area are generally pricier...

He wants her to be safe. Personally, I'm not too happy with this change, but I mean. It's done. He feels she will be safer in this area. I do feel uncomfortable with it, but there's nothing I can do.

passionfruitdrink37, it sounds like your cousin (with some help from her family) is making all of the decisions regarding this trip. You seem to be trying to accommodate her choices of lodging and activities.

You mentioned that you wanted to see Pere Lachaise but she didn't want to do so. Perhaps you need to make plans to do the things you want to do, tell her and she can accompany you if it suits her or meet later at the hotel. This is not just her trip.

<<He wants her to be safe>>

Well, choosing a hotel that's in a dead, sterile part of the city as opposed to one that's in an area that bustling with people most hours of the day isn't such a smart idea if safety is a concern. Is she supposed to stay locked in the hotel night and day? What if, god forbid, she ventures out on the métro to go to some part of the city where things are actually happening? Big Red Safety Flag?

This is YOUR trip, too. I don't understand, if you're an adult, why you are letting this cousin, who is already sounding like a huge PITA, dominate the logistics. Her dad's safety concerns are utterly ridiculous. And it's going to cost you money...it'll be cold in December, and you may not want to stray too far from your base during the day. Every cup of coffee, every baguette, every sandwich au jambon, every crèpe is going to cost you twice what it would in the 11th.

I guess the Père Lachaise bit should have been a big tip-off.

The Dad sounds like a controlling snob and a putz. And probably knows nothing about Paris except maybe business meetings.

And sorry to say your cousin sounds like a pushy/spoiled brat.

Of course you can't tell them that. But I'm afraid your wonderful trip to Paris is turning to a nightmare. You are not helpless here . . . tell them you don't like the area, and you want to stay at the more lively/actually safer Cosmos. A booking can be canceled as easily as it is made

Or--you can roll over . . . and get rolled over on every single issue that comes up.

Maybe I missed it - Just how old are you two anyway? Unless you are 17yo's why does daddy think he can/should take over?

I'm 20, my cousin is older than me by two years. But my uncle is very very protective of her. It slightly bothers me that she was so willing and comfortable to let her dad take the reigns on the hotel.

Is he paying for all of this? If so, you can put up with it this time. But be sure to spend a lot of time at Oberkampf where you can at least have some fun. And abandon your cousin if she is afraid to accompany you.

Frankly, I think you will be very uncomfortable at the Champs Elysées Friedland which will be full of lecherous bankers and petrodollar people trying to hit on you.

"It slightly bothers me that she was so willing and comfortable to let her dad take the reigns on the hotel."

Only 'slightly' (?) - then in a way you are also comfortable/willing to let her dad take over.

Then for heaven's sake book yourself a room at the Cosmos and let the older cousin stay in the business hotel and fend for herself. You said going to Paris has been a lifelong dream, so why are you letting her and her overprotective father spoil it for you? You said you've saved long and hard to be able to afford this trip - now it's just HER trip! Why waste your hard-earned dollars on that? Frankly, you should be more than "slightly" bothered by this, as she and her dad don't seem to have much of a clue at all when it comes to Paris (unlike all the posters here who have given freely of their experience to try to make this trip a good one for you).

Even if you don't stay in the 11th, you can still hang out there. Hop on the bus and the Metro and go experience the city.

Sounds like an uncomfortable dynamic with the cousin and her overprotective dad. Paris is plenty safe! Honestly, a 10 year old can make hotel reservations....why is she letting her dad do it, unless she needs his credit card? She doesn't sound like a very grown up 22 year old.

Make sure you don't let the cousin take over your trip! Have a plan of where you want to go and want you want to do and if she wants to tag along, great! If not, say, "no problem, see ya later and have fun".

If she does go with you, I recommend you have a carnet of tickets you can use for the bus or the Metro, so you can send her back to the hotel.

I wish you luck with this and I hope you have a great time. Make sure you have fun even if cuz can't!

I am not comfortable in any way with the new arrangements. I guess slightly was the wrong word to use. But either way, I don't want to come off as an ingrate since he's already reserved the hotel.
But, I don't think I'm making any more concessions here. I think she's trying to bully me into not going to Père Lachaise. Making comments, and making fun of me, essentially saying I'm into the occult or she doesn't want to get cursed or whatever.
I'm quite disappointed about not being in the 11th, but whatever. I don't want to insult anyone by complaining.

Anyways, What are some great restaurants in Paris? Obviously, none near my hotel, because from what I gather, I won't be able to afford that stuff. What french delicacies do I have to try? Ladurée, Pierre Hermé, or are there better macarons to be found? Nightlife?

Don't get all hung up on getting the "best" macarons. Just try them whenever you see them (same with chocolates and candy in general), same with cheese, same with bread. That way you can decide for yourself which is best! And the best croissants and deserts in general we had were from Le Pain Quotidien.

I think if they're footing the hotel bill it's not really that big of a deal where you're staying. I know if I were 22 again, or even at my age which is nearly 20 years older than you, I'd be pleased to have my generous uncle pay--especially if he wasn't coming on the trip. You can spend the money you'll be saving on lodgings eating, drinking and dancing.

Last time I was in Paris--and I am a food-focused tourist when I visit France and pay dearly if I feel like it--I enjoyed a great meal at Auberge du 15 in the 13th (classic food updated, pricey a la carte but worth it), a pleasant lunch at Septime in the 11th (I much prefer Le Chateaubriand for this type of thing), a relaxed meal up at Au Clocher du Montmartre (great food up by Sacre Coeur--a miracle!). And of course millefeuille and caramels at Jacques Genin.

http://www.laubergedu15.com/index.php
http://septime-charonne.fr/
http://www.auclocherdemontmartre.fr/
http://jacquesgenin.fr/
http://www.lechateaubriand.net/

Le Chateaubriand has a wine bar now, too, if you cannot get in for dinner.

Have fun!

Thanks!

Do I need an adapter?
How should I dress? I don't want to look like a tourist, so what kind of clothes should I bring with me?

I think the uncle should buy both of you a new wardrobe if he wants you to stay in a fancy hotel.

..okay.

Jeans, boots, scarf, hat.

Don't feel like you and your cousin have to do everything together. Simply say, "I'm going to Pere Lachaise this morning. Do you want to come with?" And then LEAVE! No discussion. She can go or not.
Ann Marie

I agree with Ann Marie. You need to do what you want to do. I travel with others a lot. We do some things together but not everything.

You should not give up something you want to do because a travel companion does not want to do it. You will both welcome the opportunity to be on your own after a few days together.

If uncle is paying, you are way better off than you would have been at the airport, even in a sterile luxury hotel. Have fun and do what you think is best.

Have you ascertained that the uncle is indeed PAYING for this hotel? If not, you're in for major budget issues. If he is indeed paying for it, sure, you've saved a bundle, suck it up, and get on the métro and buses and get to the parts of the city you'll actually enjoy.

Do NOT plan to be joined at the hip to this cousin during your stay. Do your own research and go off on your own. You shouldn't have to cow-tow to her desires. Saying you're into the occult wanting to go to Père Lachaise is just bizarre. It's a cemetery where some of the most famous people in the world are buried, and a really interesting venue just because of its layout. If she doesn't want to see it, ditch her and go yourself - you will no doubt find it fascinating.

Bring whatever clothes you'd normally wear in a cold winter climate. Unless you speak perfect French everyone's going to know you're a tourist anyway, which you are, and French people (except those who inhabit the area around your current hotel) dress like attractive slouches everywhere. Make sure you have what it takes to be warm and dry.

What do you need an "adapter" for?

A power adapter. To charge my phone, my camera.
I'm from a pretty cold place, and I'm almost certain Paris does not get as cold as where I'm from. Would just a wool jacket be fine? With a scarf and gloves? I'm not to keen on bringing my parka.

You will love Père Lachaise! Try to get a detailed map of it because it's a tricky place to negotiate. There are some good maps that you can download from the internet. Closing time in fall and winter is 5:30 PM but try to get ready to leave by 5 PM unless you want to be scared for life by the legendary lady warden... She is perhaps the rudest person I came across in my last trip to Paris. She comes running, screaming and waving her arms to expel visitors with maximum ferocity - a good half an hour before the official closing time!

Last time I was in Paris I chose a budget hotel near the Bastille and the Oberkampf area - and not far from Père Lachaise. I have never had such a pleasurable time. A terrific neighborhood and my best ever home away from home.

Have fun.

Passionfruit, How exciting for you to be going to Paris at your age, 20. But, as you are beginning to realize, there are now a few things to think about.

The location of your hotel: I agree with St. Cirq, Jamikins and Kerouac….the Champs d’Elysees area is dead, sterile and exorbitantly expensive. My last visit to the area (about 7 years ago) , was depressing. I didn’t bother to go my last 2 visits. And, I am older than you and your cousin. Somehow, the feeling of the Champs d’Eylysees that I was looking for ended about 60 years ago? Your uncle seems to have an outdated idea of what is safe and special in Paris. But, he is kind and generous to pay for your luxurious accommodations. Enjoy it.

To reverse the common advice: You will be in the key tourist arrondissements. Leap to the Metro to get OUT of your staid arrondissement. (8th) Sorry, but I wish that you had decided to stay at the Cosmos Hotel in the 11th.
Yes, it is a modest hotel...but the area is alive, vibrant, artistic. As are the 10th, 12th, 19th, 20th…at the very least, they feel fresh. (And, cheaper, leaving you money for great things to do in Paris!) However, just take the Metro and explore.(get OUT of your area)

Transport and passes? I think you should simply buy the weekly pass, Carte d’Orange, cheap, about 18 Euros. Go to museums when you are in the mood, most of them are free.

Passionfruit, this is a special trip for you. Do not be browbeaten by ANYONE (including me) or your uncle’s “hotel gift’. Ie: Pere La Chaise is beautiful and unforgettable. Your dreams are worth your efforts. You will remember this trip forever. Please, don’t diminish your dreams and ideas. Take care and have a fabulous trip!

Here is a video about Pere laChaise that I love, (long, about 25 mnutes)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBxywsQnVRQ

<<Go to museums when you are in the mood, most of them are free.>>

That is not true. They cost a lot. Hence the Museum Pass.

>.Sorry, but I wish that you had decided to stay at the Cosmos Hotel in the 11th.<<

Check out that area for another visit. You'll be back.

A couple of museums that are free:
http://www.petitpalais.paris.fr/en
http://www.paris.fr/english/museums/municipal-museums/p8229F

The municipal museums are free, the national museums are not.

Passionfruit, for most current devices you will not need a currency converter but you will need a plug adapater. For France, it will will have two, round holes and I recommend you buy two of them. You should not need to pay much (a few dollars each) for the plus adapters. The reason I like to have two of themis that some of the receptacles are recessed, and you needtwo of them plugged in for you to plus in your device,

Check the items you will need to charge to be sure they are dual currency...things like ipods, iphones are. If youi have items that are not dual currency, then you will need a currency converter. Don't get the all in one $50 variety...have never seen one work!

I wouldn't feel bad about your uncle making a hotel reservation. Anyone can make a hote reservation in about 2 minutes online. He didn't go to any trouble. If he is paying for your room, well that's lovely and be gracious about that. But, you don't have to eat at the hotel or spend your time in the hotel area. So, you won't need a new wardrobe. (Incidentally, there is nothing wrong with staying in a nice hotel, if that's what you like)!

Regarding macarons, my favorite are in the 6th at Un Dimanche a Paris right by Cafe Procope. The ginger/citrus and strawberry are my favs! The shop also has a restaurant and they also serve afternoon tea. The desserts are works of art. I don't love Laduree even though they are very famous. The macarons I got there were stale.

Check out this website for advice on the best patisseries and desserts in Paris.
http://www.parispatisseries.com/

I love Gerard Mulot for pain au chocolat, but I haven't had a bad one (that I can remember) in Paris! Try as many as you can. I enjoy the quest of nfinding the best one in Paris and I don't mind the research at all!

My only issue with Le Pain Quotidien is that it is a Belgian chain with locations everywhere in the world. If I am in Paris, I want to sample the Paris patisseries and boulangeries.

I second petit palais...free, nice and uncrowded! I love the garden courtyard there. Musee Carnavalet is also free of charge. It is located in the Marais and is worthwhile.

Check this link for free options:
http://en.parisinfo.com/guide-paris/money/free-admission-and-good-deals/

Thanks!
From the municipal museums, which are some must sees? I've always wanted to visit the catacombs, but apart from that, what should I go see?

Passionfruit - you will have a great time so don't worry!

As for clothes, I see you are from Canada (so am i) so you just need to bring a winter jacket, gloves, warm shoes, and maybe some layers so if the weather is warmer or cooler than you expect you can take a layer off or put it on under your jacket. You may want to throw in a toque just in case it's cold and definitely pack a scarf. Also bring an umbrella. no need to buy a new wardrobe - jeans, sweaters, cords or whatever you wear at home is just fine.

Cold weather is the perfect excuse to slip into a cafe for a coffee, hot chocolate or glass of wine and watch the world go by!

Hope you fall in love with Paris!

Well, what you should visit is so individual...the answers will be different depending on who you ask.

Click on the link gave you and take a look at the individual museums, click on the name to bring up info on that particular museum.

For me, Petit Palais, Carnavalet and Cognacq-Jay might be the most interesting. I have not been to all of them. Your interests may be entirely different.

For museums you would have to purchase admission, I would recommend the combo ticket for D'Orsay/L'Orangeriie...I love both museums, because I love Impressionism. Buy the ticket at L'Orangerie, as it is far less crowded. It is 14 euros. I believe you have four days to visit the other museum.
http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/visit/admission/admission-fees.html

Passionfruit:

Among the museums and exhibits in Paris, the following are described as being free by the Office de Tourisme de Paris:


Free permanent collections

Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris – 16th
Maison de Balzac – 16th (free admission to the collections, except during temporary exhibition periods)
Maison Bourdelle – 15th (free admission to the collections, except during temporary exhibition periods)
Musée Carnavalet - Histoire de Paris – 3th
Musée Cernuschi – 8th
Musée Cognacq-Jay – 3rd
Mémorial du Maréchal Leclerc de Hauteclocque et de la Libération de Paris - Musée Jean Moulin – 15th (closed for renovation)
Petit Palais, Musée des Beaux Arts de la Ville de Paris – 8th
Maison de Victor Hugo – 4th
Musée de la Vie Romantique – 9th
Musée Zadkine – 6th (free admission to the collections, except during temporary exhibition periods)
Musée national Jean-Jacques Henner – 17th


Free entry

Musée national de la Légion d'honneur et des ordres de chevalerie – 7th
Musée Bible et Terre Sainte – 6th
Musée – Librairie du Compagnonnage – 6th
Musée Curie (Institut du radium) – 5th
Musée du Parfum-Fragonard – 9th
Théâtre musée des Capucines-Fragonard – 2nd
Musée de la Préfecture de Police – 5th
Arènes de Lutèce – 5th
Atelier Brancusi (Musée national d'art moderne - Centre Pompidou) – 4th
Le Plateau – Centre d’art contemporain – 19th

Best of luck!

Okay, so with the museum pass, I'm planning to get the 4 day one, spanning from Friday, the 28, til Monday the 31.
I was wandering if this a bit too ambitious:

Day 1(Friday)
-Versailles
-Musée du Louvre

Day 2(Saturday)
-Arc de Triomphe
-Chapelle Expiatoire
-Musée de l'Armée et la tombe de Napoléon

Day 3(Sunday)
-Basilique de St. Denis
-Musée d'Orsay

Day 4(Monday)
-Musée de l'Orangerie
-Sainte Chapelle
-Les tours de Notre Dame
-Panthéon


Is this too ambitious? I'm going to try to stick to this, and get my money's worth with the Museum Pass.

Also, since it will be during the holiday, can I expect the nightlife to be booming every night I'm there? Where I'm from, no one goes to clubs or bars apart from Friday and Saturday evenings. Can I expect the nightlife in Paris to be there every night?

You need to familiarize yourself with a map of Paris and group things that are close to each other. Your plans at the moment have you zig-zagging all over Paris and make no sense logistically.

I did the best I could, taking into account all I wanted to see and opening hours. I did Versailles on the first day with the Louvre, because on Fridays, the Louvre stays open til 9:45 pm. This way, I can go to Versailles early, around 8 am, and have enough time to go to the Louvre. Since most everything else closes around 6, I figured the Louvre was the best option.
The Chapelle Expiatoire is open on the Saturday, but won't be again until Thursday, and by that time, my pass will have expired. But since it doesn't open until 1:00, I thought visiting the Arc de Triomphe, which is walking distance from my hotel, would be fine to do before heading there. I don't plan on spending too much time there, so I thought le musée de l'armée would be the best option.
On the Sunday, I figured since the St. Denis Basilica is outside of Paris, I'd head there and back, and spend the rest of the day at the Orsay museum, since it is my last chance to do so, as it is closed on Mondays.
For the Monday, I thought going to l'Orangerie first would be ideal, since it opens at 9:30 am. I would then go see la sainte chapelle, les tours de notre dame, and the panthéon, in whatever order, since they are in walking distance from each other(at least, they seem to be, as far as I can tell).

I tried to organize it as well I could, and I didn't just put things that are close together on the same day, since opening days and times are a factor. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I could schedule those 4 days in a more efficient way?

And also, with the nightlife, can I expect it to be alive every night?I've also decided, the for transportation, I will get the carnet for the first four days, and then get the weekly pass. I feel as though that is the best option.

Yepppp

You know, discoverng Paris is not just visiting a place (museum, church or whatever is on the pass), then rushing to another one. That's in between that you will get a real feeling of the city.
Another point : i find it strange to start your stay in Paris by...taking the train to go and visit Versailles, which is actually another town (beautiful indeed, but much more something you should experiment after a cople od days within centrl Paris. But you're idea to go to Louvre on friday evening is the best option.
For the first day I would start walking to Arc de Triomphe, buy my pass there (if you really think you have to have one), climb and have a first look of the city and its geography.
Then stroll a little down the Champs Elysees, take a bus to Notre Dame or Saint Michel (you'll have a quick look at the Seine, maybe Place Concorde, the National Assembly...it depends on qhat bus you take).
Then you'are in the very center and can choose between Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle, maybe walk to Pantheon (and you will find something cheap to eat). If it's a little sunny, don't hesitate to enter the Jardin du Luxembourg. You'll always find Parisians there, sitting on a chair for 15 inutes, or watching the kids having fun with the small boats (especially during holidays).
Then you walk towards Odeon, take the Pont des Arts and enter the Louvre for 2-3-4 hours.
That woul be quite a busy fist day, but a wonderful first glance at the city.

Concerning the other days, there are options I wouldn't consider, like the Chapelle Expiatoire (I'm french, I've been living in Paris for 17 years so far, but hardly know what and where it is?)
If you want to see Napoeleon's grave, why not. But are you sure to spend time in the Army Museum (very interesting if you realyy know your french history). The best option in the same area would be to have a look at the Rodin Museum...

Anyway, I think you should buy a good guidebook, and read most of it to have an idea of what you really want to see.

Another thing : if you want to see la Basilique Sait Denis, go there on the sunday morning. You will experience the market which is taking place 3 times a week. You'll see the world there, and the vast diversity of its citizens.

Well I did plan to see St. Dennis on the Sunday, so that works out. I am arriving in Paris on the 27,and that day, I plan to just walk around and see the city. I do want to see the Army museum, but noww I'm wondering, why do you think the Rodin museum is a better option? Is the army museum not very good?

Well, it's a very good...Army Museum, if you're interested in armours coming from the Middle-Age (fantastic collection), battle plans or innovative weapons. And once again, you have to know your french and european history very well to really enjoy it.
But with the pass, why not have a look? The building itself is something. And it's almost the same place as Napoleon's grave.
Rodin Museum has a more romantic flavor, especialy the garden (I have no idea what it'll be like in december).

"I do want to see the Army museum, but noww I'm wondering, why do you think the Rodin museum is a better option? "

Total apples and oranges. The Rodin Museum is . . . well, Rodin. Very beautiful and thought provoking sculptures. If the weather isn't horrid the sculpture garden is an absolute must IMO.

The Army museum is good too -- they are quite near each other so you can do both. But one can't be compared to the other.

well, passionfruit, this is when the museum pass comes in handy - you can do both for no extra cost and see which one you like best - perhaps you'll like them both!

They are both good museums, different though, obviously. I agree with not rushing off to Versailles right away.

Though there are some disadvantages to your hotel location, you're right by the Jacquemart Andre museum, which has a terrific permanent collection and often fantastic temporary exhibits. It's only about two blocks from your hotel, so I'd definitely try to visit.

http://musee-jacquemart-andre.com/en/home

I have been to Paris 109 times now and never even heard of the Chapelle Expiatoire. I'll definitely check it out when I am there again in March, but I suggest you cross that right off your list unless there is something unique about it that speaks to you.

Don't go rushing off to Versailles on Day 1.

I love the Army Museum, especially all the fabulous exhibits in the lower level. The Rodin Museum simply cannot be compared to it - it would be like comparing the Newseum and the Sachler here in DC. As noted, apples and oranges. If you have a guidebook, you should be able to distinguish among the various museums and choose what appeals to you.

I would definitely visit the Jacquemart-André. They have a wonderful brunch on Sundays, too. And the Parc Monceau right nearby.

I don't understand why the carnet for the first 4 days, then the pass, but maybe you've researched that.

For the carnet and the weekly pass, I thought that was the best option. Since you've been to Paris so many times, maybe you have a better idea?

The Chapelle Expiatoire is something I want to see, so I don't think I'll be crossing that off. I guess I will take a look at both the Rodin and the Army museum. And since it's a bad idea to go to Versailles on the Friday, is there a better option?

And again, the nightlife, can I expect to find bars and clubs open every night?

Christmas Holidays is not the best moment to party, but there is always something going on.
If you want a big club, there is the Queen, on the Chamsp Elysees, not so far from your place. Very famous all around the worl when it was a gay club some 15 ou 10 years ago. More conventionnal now, but still a clubbing experience.
There are some others in the Champs Elysees district, but not very friendly, and sometimes very expensive (but if you look like a 17 year old russian model and like older rich men...)

For another big club, there is actually one called Showcase, right under the Alexandre III bridge (quie a spectacular venue)
Those one are definetly clubs, starting late till early in the morning.

Otherwise you'll find bars near...Oberkampf for example. Some in the same street as Hotel Cosmos...
I can mention a human size club like Nouveau Casino in the same area.

I most certainly do not look anything like a 17 year old Russian model haha.
I don't want to party so much as I want to find places in which to socialize, meet new people.
I don't plan on doing anything near my hotel, it is much too pricey for me, so going to the Oberkampf area does not bother me at all.
Do you have any recommendations for New Year's eve?

If you've done your research and determined the carnet, then the pass, will work for you, that's fine. I don't use the métro or buses much when in Paris - I'd rather walk all day - so a carnet usually lasts me at least two trips.

Versailles is fine any day; I just can't see rushing off there on Day 1 when you'll be jetlagged.

It seems as though there's a Louis XIV-Marie Antoinette theme here, in which case the Chapelle Expiatoire makes sense.

A suggestion for you re: your plans...

I woukd go to the Notre Dame towers or Ste Chapelle first on the day you are planning that. The security line for Ste Chapelle can get long (part of the justice complex), so I would go there first. Then Notre Dame, I think the towers open at 10am and the line there can get long, since only a few people are let up at a time (worth the climb)! There is rarely a line of any kind at L'Orangerie, so save that for last.

I like the Army museum and Rodin but they could not be more different. From my perspective, I would sane the ADT for night or skip entirely.

Well, i guess the Pantheon IS within walking distance of Ste Chapelle and Notre Dame, but it's a long walk. I would take the Metro line 10 or RER B rather than walk thw whole way, to save time.

How long will you be in Paris? If you won't be there for a full week, don't bother with the Navigo pass, just get a few carnets for the Metro and buses. The Navigo is for Monday through Sunday night, so unless will be there to use it Monday-Sunday night, it's probably not a cost saver. You have to pay 5 euro for the card itself, get a picture made and then also pay for the week of use. We stick with carnets.

I can't help with nightlife...we always go to a local cafe for drinks after dinner, but that's it. I don't want to speak for everyone here, but Fodors does tend to have a demographic than it is bit more "experienced" than you. So, many of us have left the partying days behind! Oberkampf and Bastille are probably the best areas for finding nightlife.

It might be possible to meet some people, even parisians. For this to happen it has to be quite a small place, if possible crowded so that people don't sit but stand (or danse). And there is always something happening when you have to queue with other people at the bar.
Do you speak some french? Anyway you'll find young people always willing to practice their english (like me, even if I'm not young anymore).
I can think of many bars or restaurants like that, but not in every neighborhood.

Concerning New Year's Eve, I have no idea (but to try to make some friends before to get invited somewhere). The champagne driking option on the Chams Elysees or under the Eiffel Tower might not be funny just the two of you (and it's getting wilder and wilder every year).

I'll be in Paris from Thursday til the following Friday. So 8 days. I think I will go to the ADT at night! Thanks! I'm thinking the view will be better at night

Where do a lot of young Parisians hang out? I do want to meet lots of people from Paris. I'm not particularly interested in meeting other tourists; I want to experience Paris, meet Parisians.

They hang out near the Hotel Cosmos.

Head to Oberkampf...you will find lots of late night cafes, restaurants and young Parisians.

Well, exactly
This one would be a favorite of mine.

http://www.lesamisdelapero.fr/paris/bars/463-la-caravane

And on the left side there is a list of nice/friendly/cheap/trendy bars in the same area.
If you can manage it, surf the website to find out cool places.

I add something else : there is one area very special and dear to my heart to hang out when you're young. The area is La Butte aux Cailles in the 13th arrondissement. Two or three streets where you will find small bars and many friendly young people.( far from you're hotel, but you'll surely see and meet france's youth there.

Thanks for that link! Very helpful!

I’m sorry to say this, really, but I fear your cousin is going to ruin your trip.

"my cousin made the reservations with him and I wasn't aware"

Really nice of her

"I think she's trying to bully me into not going to Père Lachaise. Making comments, and making fun of me"

You’re making all the arrangements, all the planning and that’s what you get from her!!?

Another point: do you think your respective budgets are in the same range? If she has more money than you, and with her father paying for the hotel, you will end up being her hostage.

I’m reading through your posts that you are capable to do this trip on your own. Dump her and go back to your initials plans.

Mieux vaut être seul que mal accompagné as we say in French (Better off alone than in bad company)

Good luck

I appreciate your advice, but I cannot dump her. I don't want to insult anyone and come off as a brat. However, I will be following my set schedule, regardless of her. I know she likes to sleep, and I have the feeling she will sleep in a lot. I'm not going to make concessions for her or force her to wake up. I'm not going to surrender on visiting certain areas because of her weird hang ups about dead people.
Anyways. Yeah.

The first time I went to Paris I was 20 and had a wonderful time. I would not worry too much about having your hotel chosen by your uncle - if he is paying for it. I would encourage you to spend some time in the Marais, which is one of my favorite areas in Paris. You can easily go on a morning stroll here for a great flavor of Paris. To find out where the students hang out in Paris, pay no attention to the old folks on this site (and I am certainly in that category). Get the Let's Go! Guide to Paris. It will tell you where the students hang out (it's written by Harvard students). You can also check out their website. Read as much as you can before you go and you will be as prepared as you can be. Have your cousin choose her top five must sees and you do the same, then alternate. That way, you will both get to the things you really want to see. Go with the flow. Some of my best experiences were places I knew nothing about before I went to Paris. Walking around Le Sacre Coeur I met a British student and his girlfriend whose was working as an au pair and they let me join them in going to clubs, cheap! restaurants and some of the more touristy sites, as well. It was the trip that whetted my appetite for a lifetime of travel. Have a wonderful time; I am very envious - not only of your trip, but seeing Paris for the first time at your age.

Passionfruit:

With regard to nice and cozy bars, I once went to Chez George (not the bistro, but the wine bar at rue Mabillon, 6ème) and had the time of my life. It's a classic of its kind. Lots of colourful types: some old bohemians, scores of young students, relaxed Sorbonne scholars, quite a few would-be artistes, etc. To me it was the most cheerful and vibrant crowd of friendly Parisians ever. Highly recommended (and, in my case, a great locale to celebrate my birthday .

I agree with ECG. I used to go there a lot when I was in my twenties (10 yeard ago), as I lived quite close.
So much fun (downstairs). And in the winter, they have a fire down there. It is really small, but where can you sing on a Edith Piaf song (or pretending to), then dance on Emmenez-moi by Charles Aznavour.
A good place for its mix of parisians and tourists and whoever else.

Fodor's tends to skew old (I'm including myself here). In addition to the above suggestions, you might take a look at time Out Paris for events during your stay.

http://www.timeout.fr/paris/en

Great! I will check that place out! Sounds like aa great time!

http://www.sortiraparis.com/loisirs
http://paris.angloinfo.com

http://paris.angloinfo.com/whatson/featured/24532/hideout-bastille-blind-test-every-wednesday

seems like a fun way to meet people: every wednesday

Also I recommend the area around Canal St Martin.

And if your cousin likes to sleep in, you could make an agreement to meet for lunch together, have lunch, do a sight in the afternoon, have dinner, and sometimes to things together, sometimes apart. But that way, you have mornings to yourself to wander around, enjoy the morning rush hour in a neighbourhood cafe, have a coffee and a croissant, visit a museum, just people watch. Precious time to yourself.

The sortir à Paris website has a lot of stuff on it! Ill browse it to see what events will be taking place on the days I will be in Paris! Thanks.
The other one, do only english expats frequent those events?

While you are at the bookstore getting your guide, pickup a Paris map by Map Easy. They are detailed maps with places to see, eat, Metro stops etc printed on the map. I don't think I will ever visit a big city without one.

I have not been to Paris since 2004 so I cannot remember exact places to go but I do remember wondering through a little market along the Seine across from Notre Dame. It was fun and gave us a chance to catch our breath.

Do not be afraid to do things on your own. Just be aware of your surroundings. You will know when you are in an area that you should not be in. Also be very mindful of your purse, etc at all time.

Lastly, I do not know what the drinking age is in Paris or if you would be allowed in bars and clubs if you are underage. Maybe someone can help with that.

"Lastly, I do not know what the drinking age is in Paris or if you would be allowed in bars and clubs if you are underage."

They are not underage - both are adults.

I'm an adult.

I'm 20, but I'm terribly inexperienced, expecially when it comes to travel. I hope I don't come off as a child with all my questions.

Do not plan to go to Versailles on your first day. You will be tired from jet lag. Just walk around, get the lay of the land, and relax. Sit in a cafe with a book. Talk to people. There will be plenty who want to speak English if you don't speak French. I have spent a lot of time in France and found everyone to be nice if you say "bonjour" when you walk into a shop and "au revoir, merci" when you leave, and keep a smile on your face. You will have a wonderful time!

Versailles is for my second day in Paris. My first day, I will not be using my museum pass. I was planning on just walking around and getting a feel for everything. Versailled is the first day, of my four days with the museum pass. Which I won't start using until my second day in Paris.

passionfruit, you definitely don't come off as a child. You come off as a very mature, thoughtful traveler who is going to Paris for the first time under some rather unusual and perhaps stressful circumstances. I admire your fortitude in dealing with the cousin, the uncle, all the rest. Just go with the conviction that you can do this on your own if necessary, and you will be so well rewarded. You are Going to Paris! It will be wonderful!

passionfruit, you don't come off as a child and we all start off inexperienced but I do hope you are doing a little research on your own! That's the only way to really determine what you really want out of your trip and the must sees, etc...

I really hope you enjoy your trip. Don't worry too much. Honestly, you could just let the day take you where it wants to in Paris. I could totally be happy in Paris just wandering around and people watching in cafes!

Okay, that's nice to hear. I'm quite self-conscious about coming off as some inexperienced kid.
Anyways, for those of you used to travelling to Paris, is the threat of pickpockets a legitimate one? How many of you have been pick pocketed before? I'm considering getting the money pouch, either the one that hangs from your neck or that ties around your waist.
This is one of the reasons why I want to blend in as much as possible. I don't want to be some thief's target.

Are you a city person? Accustomed to riding subways, public buses, etc.? If so, I'd suggest you just use common sense and keep your eye on your belongings, especially in crowded, touristy areas. No need for a money belt or whatever. Though if it will make you more secure, there's no reason not to go that route.

Leely2 is right - if you are from a busy/major city you already probably have a fair amount of 'street smarts'.

But if not - it doesn't mean you are an inexperienced kid - but just inexperienced.

If a money belt/pouch gives you a bit of confidence, definitely use one. But just make sure yo use it correctly. Never EVER access it in public. Think of it as a 'body safe' - your secret. And never lay your cell phone down on a table or counter.

A useful site for you and your cousin to play around with before you go, which I don't think has been mentioned before:
http://goparis.about.com/od/transportation/ss/Metro_and_Buses.htm
http://goparis.about.com/od/transportation/a/Paris-Metro-Vocabulary.htm

Plus there are quite a few video clips on Youtube that will give you an idea of how the metro works and what it feels like:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDbhBLAcFuw

I am from a city, but thieves are not somethhing I have had to worry about. People are kind of kind. My friend lost her wallet this one time, she had 600$ in cash inside it. Someone founf it and gave it to lost and found and she was able to get it back, money and all. I'm thinking the odds of this happening in Paris are extremely slim.
I think I would be more comforatble with a money pouch, especially because i'd like to keep my money and passport with me at all times. I don't trust leaving my stuff behind in the hotel.

If when in my twenties some relative had paid for me to stay in a great hotel in Paris II would have been ecstatic. Actually that would even apply now.
You have received great advice here so you should be all set for a fabulous time.
Good for you for planning ahead.
This is the start of a love affair with one of the greatest cities in the world.

The love affair has already begun. Paris has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember.

I think I may just get carnets.

I am sorry if my question came across incorrectly. I was asking if you were under the drinking age in France. I do not know if it is 18, 21 or 15. In my state most establishments will not let you in after a certain hour if you are not 21(our legal drinking age). You do not sound like a child but a very excited adult just as I was when I went to Paris for the first time at 43.

As for pickpockets in Paris, they are everywhere. My sister had been to Paris 2 times before I went with her. She gave us the "keep your purse close, etc" lecture when we boarded the plane and when we first left our hotel. On our first ride on the Metro she was pickpocketed. A group of young boys were horseplaying and pushed into her. Luckily they threw her passport down or we would have not known until she went to purchase something. I think that they saw us buy our carnets at street level and knew we were not paying attention. Her purse had a flap that closed with a twist clasp. Somehow they got in the purse without opening it and took her walet in less than 10 seconds. Since it will be cold, keep your purse under your coat. When traveling I use a purse with a shoulder strap and a zipper at the top. I wear it with the strap across my body and under my coat. It will also keep the purse close to you and not get tangled in the turnstiles on the Metro. I do not keep my money and credit cards all in one place. I put some in my wallet and some in a zipper pocket and I usually leave a little in my suitcase at the hotel. If they get some you still want to have some to continue your trip.

She's 20, and to my knowledge, no one is going to prevent her from going into a club or bar. Heck, my kids were offered wine with dinner at countless restaurants starting when they were about 13.

As for pickpockets, never happened to me in all my many visits. Never had a money belt or anything different from the purse I would wear here at home, but if it makes you feel safe, go for it. I think what makes a difference is 1) speaking French (I have no problem throwing out an insult or toss-back if someone is bothering me), and 2) not wandering around glaze-eyed and texting and reading a street map. Walk briskly with purpose almost anywhere in the world and people will leave you alone.

I'm going to keep my purse close to my person. I intend on not looking like an obvious tourist. My biggest fear is being targeted because I will be looking at a map or something. But I,m usually pretty good with direction, and with the money pouch I'm planning on purchasing, I should be fine(I think with it, id be safe ; I would notice if someone reached under my clothes to grab it.)

I also intend on studying the metro, bus, and rer lines intently. I don't want to leave my hotel without being certain of which direction I'm going in. If I get money s stolen from me, I'm screwed.

"I do not know if it is 18, 21 or 15."

Not quite sure why you seem so worried about the drinking age 'issue' especially since you don't know that it is. (They are both well over the legal drinking age.)

"I usually leave a little in my suitcase at the hotel"

I wouldn't ever do that unless there is a room safe. In the hotel's main safe is an option as well.

I always keep some money in my room. Never have anything stolen.

""I think I would be more comforatble with a money pouch, especially because i'd like to keep my money and passport with me at all times""

Keep your passport at your hotel, in your room or in the safe. You don't need to carry it with you.

""If I get money stolen from me, I'm screwed""

If you get money stolen from you, your cousin can lend some to you. If you get your passport stolen, you're screwed.

Don't EVER leave money in your room! Honestly, that's just terrible advice.

Make a copy of your passport and carry that with you if you think you'll need passport information. I believe French law requires you always to have some sort of ID on you (but not totally sure if that applies to tourists.)

I am sorry if my question came across incorrectly. I was asking if you were under the drinking age in France. I do not know if it is 18, 21 or 15. >>

it doesn't matter - the french on the whole don't care so long as you don't get drunk which is very un-chic.

No, I'm not leaving money in my room. I actually just feel so much safer carrying my money and my pieces of identity on me. I mean, the money pouch attaches to my waist, and I put my clothes over it. I don't think it gets any safer than that.

Gosh darnit, I'm excited.

annhig, Thank you for the polite answer. I had no idea if there is a drinking age in France. I would hate for this young lady to pay for transportation to get somewhere and they refuse her service because of her age. In my community, establishments are very strict on the rules.

Drunk in any country is un-chic.

passionfruit, if your "money pouch" is one of those "fanny pack" (sorry, Brits) belts with a big zippered pouch that either sits on your stomach or hangs off your back, I would NOT advise using it. Pickpockets are attracted to those things like darts to a dartboard...and know exactly how to unzip and get into them without you ever having a clue. No, no no, don't ever use one of those (if that's your intention)!

I'm no expert on this because I always just carry a purse, but if you want to conceal your valuables, have them around your neck in one of those hanging thingies or pinned inside your underwear, or pinned inside a pocket (and then figure out exactly what your methodology is going to be when you actually need to get some money out to pay for something - that's one of my big reasons for not getting all paranoid; I don't want to be fumbling around trying to find `10 euros from some "secret place" and make a big showing of where that actual "secret place" is in doing so).

One of my friends is a money-belter, or, more accurately, a neck-purser. Even though she is a fairly experienced traveler, she is a both a worrywart and kind of forgetful/spacey. She's the type that would lose her head if it wasn't attached to her body, so it's probably for the best that she keep her money firmly attached to her person. I've taken trips with her and have carried her pocket cash plus my stuff in my purse, and she holds onto a credit card and any "big money" she may be carrying. That makes it easier to pay for things on the fly without having to readjust one's bra.

"I don't want to be fumbling around trying to find `10 euros from some "secret place" and make a big showing of where that actual "secret place" is in doing so."

To follow on from StCirq's post. That is one reason so many folks who use money belts/pouches get into trouble. A moneybelt/pouch is NOT meant to be used that way. It doesn't replace a handbag or wallet. One should never (ever) have to fumble around to dig out €10 or €20

The belt/pouch is for the items one doesn't need to have accessible but wants to keep safe . . . Things like a passport, backup ATM and/or credit card(s), excess cash, etc. NOT for things like 'walking around' $$/€€, or your ATM card if you plan on using it that day, or your primary cc unless you know you won't be using it.

In 40+ years using one sort or another I've never once had to access it in public.

The main reason I use one isn't from fear of pickpockets (I almost always carry a handbag of one sort or another). I use them mostly because the inconvenience when one does lose something overseas. If I lose my ATM card at home I can walk into any branch and walk out w/ a replacement. If I lose it in Notre Dame or the Louvre it could take a week to straighten things out and receive a replacement.

It isn't that Paris is more dangerous (I'm safer there than in my home town) . . . It is just sooooo far and sooooo many time zones away. To me a money belt is just simple insurance.

Just never ever (EVER!) access it in public . . . w/ simple planning you shouldn't ever need to.

I have never been pickpocketed anywhere. In Europe, I use a small flat purse that I carry across my body. The purse has 3 zippered compartments and I make them harder to open by putting a safety pin through the hole on the zipper tab and pinning the zipper closed. I only carry a copy of my passport...I never walk around with it!

On trains or buses, I always have my hands on top of the purse and make sure that it is in front of me. Be aware of people creating distractions or standing too close. Don't stand in front of the door on the Metro, if possible.

I don't carry all of my money with me at anytime (or all of my credit cards, for that matter). I have not had anything stolen from a room safe. Either way, if you carry all your cash or not, it can be stolen from you...from your room or from your person. But, I don't get all of my cash for the trip at one time and my husband and I split the cash we carry during the day, so that if one of us does get pickpocketed or robbed, the other has some cash. You do your best to avoid crime, but it can always happen. Do what you can to minimize losses.

Don't worry too much...pay attention to your surroundings and be smart!

Ew, no. NEVER fannypack. First off, it's tacky looking and really ugly. And I'm really not trying to draw attention to myself.
Money pouch as in this:

http://cdn1.ebags.com/is/image/im4/220464_1_5?resmode=4&op_usm=1,1,1,&qlt=95,1&hei=280&wid=280

Something like that, that I would fasten against me, underneath all my clothes. In it, extra cash and my passport and credit cards.

Obviously, I plan on having a purse with a small amount of cash in it, an amount which wouldn't screw me over if I were to get robbed. And no, I don't plan on taking off my clothes in public. The money pouch will remain underneath all my clothes.


And, no.

Oh. I went to see about power adapters. They only seem to have one kind. I didn't see anything about a current converter, but I'll look into that. I'm planning on charging my phone, my laptop and my camera. Hopefully, the adapter they sell with work on those items.

You most likely don't need a converter. Cameras/laptops/cell phones are almost 100% of the time dual voltage. If yours are, you'd simply need an inexpensive plug adapter.

@passionfruitdrink37 "Do only expats frequenst those events"

Usually it's an international mix, with quite a lot of expats, but it may well be your introduction to other place and other events and in any case the music quiz night seems fun. Getting acquainted with a group of Parisians can be quite a task and venues like these can be like a stepping stone.

You are putting your trip together beautifully! There is nothing quite like your first trip to Paris and from your posts, I think that it will be great. You seem to intuitively sense how to deal with possible problems/challenges? Or, you will adapt.


You might like this site, which I think is put together by a few young Parisians,
http://www.mylittle.fr/mylittleparis/en/


They have published a book. This is the English edition, http://www.amazon.ca/LITTLE-PARIS-SECRET-PARISIENNES-VERSION/dp/2812304650/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=6DRIB6HZTYTH&coliid=I3FKGW9L6FL11A

Do get the mobilis on weekends, it saves so much money. You do have to ask for it at the ticket window though, you get one, write the date on it and you're good to go.

Do not carry anything you want to be stolen in a back pack or shoulder bag. My rule of thumb is that at all times I need to hang on to my cards, and my passport. All other stuff can be stolen. I've never been pickpocketed in Paris and I'm there a lot. (other city is Amsterdam, same issue with pickpockets) Even in the 18th and the 10th this has not happened to me, maybe I'm lucky.

On new year's day, why not visit a hammam or a spa when they're open and walk the streets. It will be eerily quiet, and if the weather is harsh, there's the baths to warm up and spoil yourselves a bit.

One tip also: there's a skating rink in front of City Hall, you can rent skates there and have a go: also fun.

http://www.sortiraparis.com/loisirs/sport/articles/46762-la-patinoire-de-l-hotel-de-ville-paris-sur-glace-2012-2013

and one in Grand Palais: quite spectacular
http://www.sortiraparis.com/enfant-famille/articles/56582-le-grand-palais-des-glaces-la-patinoire-de-noel-geante-du-grand-palais

and this seems like an excellent show:

http://www.sortiraparis.com/scenes/danse/articles/56869-akram-khan-en-solo-au-theatre-de-la-ville

"" if you carry all your cash or not, it can be stolen from you...from your room or from your person""

Exactly

""Don't EVER leave money in your room! Honestly, that's just terrible advice.""

In all modesty I think that it is excellent advice. I'm not saying that the OP should keep all her money in her room obviously but keeping 100€ or 200 € in a locked suitcase would come in handy if ever her purse were stolen from her.
I can't imagine the chambermaid, especially in a 4 **** hotel, breaking into the luggage of the customers.
How many times have you read reports of theft in hotel rooms on this forum anyway?

Passionfruitdrink:
You really don’t need to carry your passport with you. You would be in big trouble if you lost it. The police have better to do than checking the papers of American tourists and they must have a valid reason to make an identity check. You won’t be caught shoplifting will you? (joking )
If you looked much younger that your age, less that 18, the drinking age limit, you might have to produce some ID to go in a disco bar. A simple photocopy of your passport or your driving licence would do.

Ask the receptionist to keep it in the safe.

Welcome in France! I hope you will have lot of fun.

To add to my post above. There is an embarrassment of riches of wonderful information on Fodors’. I would like to mention two other sites that I enjoy, for different approaches and especially, for the photographs. I am very visual. Since your time is limited, photos may help you to decide on how to use your eight days.

http://anyportinastorm.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=paris

http://www.outandaboutinparis.com/

One thing I would say that you might see in Paris that you don't see in most US cities is troops of gypsies. We didn't get anything stolen, but at one point a gypsy guy who'd seen me buy something from a street vendor and a few of his friends circled me and my daughters when we got separated from my husband (he crossed the street and we missed the light). This was on the Ponte Neuf, where they hang out. Nothing happened but it was creepy. If this happens to you, don't be afraid to yell at them and make a scene. I just yelled "no" and "go away" and they backed off cursing me in French. But it called attention to them and they don't like that.

I've never actually seen troops of them in Paris, but I don't remember the Pont Neuf, so maybe. I don't act like a typical tourist though and don't buy things from street vendors so maybe I just don't notice. This is partly because I've been there enough so I am not carrying around guidebooks, maps, cameras and not going to a lot of the main tourist attractions any more, but of course you will if you are new there.

Of course there are some, I'm not denying that, I've mainly seen them around tourist attractions, the Champs-Elysees, the grand dept stores and a few other spots. Interestly, my last time there (a few months ago), I didn't see them much in the metro tunnels any more (always older women). I cursed one out in French once in a metro car but they had the nerve to ask me why I was being so "mechante" when they were the one harrassing me. Well, I think some people get the idea this is a bigger issue than it is, but if you are naive to travel in W. Europe big cities, you might need to step up your game as to precautions (and not talk to strangers and don't leave your cellphone lying on a cafe table in front of you).

They do have a drinking age in France, but the OP is certainly over it.

I think everyone should have ID on them at all times, for safety reasons if nothing else (actual or at a minimum a photocopy). I know I tend to be more careful than most, but I take ID with me when I go for my morning run, you never know what can happen. Also, one might have information as to their hotel name and address. I have a friend whose sister was hit by a car in Paris crossing the street and was taken to the hospital, it does happen.

If four is a troop then I've seen them when they tried to pickpocket us on the metro last month.

I will certainly be wary of troops of gypsies and I am going to try not to look like an obvious tourist. Making sure I know where I'm going before I leave my hotel, and I will try and be discreet if I have to pull a map out. Probably just write detailed instructions and directions down on my phone and not bring a map out with me at all.
NOT wearing a fannypack, but a hidden money pouch underneath my clothing for guaranteed safety from thieves.
I will have to take pictures, and that's probably going to give me away, but meh. I need some photographs.

I am extremely grateful for all the helpful tips and the great websites. Thank you all sooo much!
This trip is coming together beautifully. I'm still a bit iffy about transportation though. I know a bit more, but I'm still unsure how much walking I will be doing, or which option is the most economical between the tickets, or daily/weekly passes.

I would not leave your hotel without a map. Lots of people pull out maps and check where they are going and the overwhelming majority of them have no problem with pickpockets etc. Don't pull it out in crowded métro stations or other extremely crowded areas though. Even though I know Paris fairly well from living here I still need to pull my map out from time to time and not having a map with you will be a huge disadvantage as Paris is a maze of streets and you will undoubtedly need it at some point.

As far as maps are concerned, don't rely on the free map your hotel will give you as it will only show the largest streets. You can get good detailed maps at any news stand, book store, magazine store and larger supermarkets and it will show all the streets (with names), métro stops and all the museums, parks, gardens, sites and attractions. A nice pamphlet sized map booklet that will fit easily in your purse is called Paris Pratique Par Arrondissement and it sells for 5€ and is easy to find.

Okay, thanks!

I totally second the Paris Pratique suggestion.

Also, transport, don't worry, and don't overlook the fact that you can go by bus too! Takes a bit longer, but will get you anywhere and is where tourists never go, so if you want to blend in, as a seasoned bus traveler you will.

A few bus tips:

Line 38 runs north to south through the city center and provides memorable views of the Latin Quarter, the Seine river, or Notre Dame Cathedral.

Line 68 offers a vantage of the Musee d'Orsay, Saint-Germain des Pres, the Seine, The Louvre, and the Opéra Garnier.

Line 28 offers lovely views of the Ecole Militaire, the Assemblée Nationale, the Seine River, the Grand Palais, and the Champs-Elysées.

Line 96 winds through beautiful spots on the right bank, including Hotel de Ville, the medieval Marais neighborhood, and trendy Bastille.

The 96 bus is especially nice. Much better than the hop on hop off thing.

Jeez passionfruit...you have the internet. Order the adapter you need and a currency converter, if you need it. You don't have to settle for what they have at the local Radio Shack. Check Rick Stevees site for reasonably priced ones. Again, it's likely you don't need a currency converter but you have to check the items you plan to change to know if you do. If they are dual currency, you won't need a converter.

Just so you know, don't bother trying to use a converter for items that really pull electricity like hair dryers (use the one at the hotel) and flat irons. It usually just doesn't work and I had a flat iron fried by trying it. I bought one that I use for travel in Europe.

I cannot imagine why you'd need a converter. Just go online and order a two-pronged French adapter (here's what they look like: http://www.francetravelplanner.com/details/electric.html), or wait until you get there and go to a FNAC or Phillipe store and buy one (maybe 2 euros) or any quaincaillerie.

I know you want to be prepared in advance for this trip, but I'll say it again - there's really no need to be buying up a whole lot of stuff ahead of time and hauling it across the ocean.

The French word for adapter is adapteur...and most sales people at French stores will speak enough English to understand you. These little excursions to get ordinary stuff accomplished while in Paris usually enhance my experience and afford me opportunities to engage with Parisians. Different from the sightseeing experience for sure, but life-enhancing nonetheless.

Bus 69 is also a great route to see lots of popular sites:

http://www.parisperfect.com/blog/2012/09/the-69-bus-see-all-the-top-sights-in-paris/

To be perfectly honest, I don't even know what a currency converter does. I know what an adapter is, and I've seen some for 5 dollars. What's the converter do exactly?

A CURRENCY converter or an ELECTRICAL converter? A currency converter tells you, e.g., how many euros you'll get for an American dollar on any given day. An electrical converter is a heavy little gadget you buy that makes sure that if you plug, e.g., your hairdryer into a European outlet and it doesn't have the right voltage setting, it won't blow out the electricity in the hotel. But the likelihood of you needing an electrical converter is slim - just look at the markings on your electrical stuff. If they show two different voltage settings (I think they're 110 and 220, but don't quote me), you're fine and don't need one. I've never, ever needed one in Paris.

Someone mentioned a currency converter above.
Anyways, i only need the adapter to charge my computer, camera and phone. I dont need anything else.

Current converter is not the same as currency converter - electricity vs. money.

"Someone mentioned a currency converter above."

I think denisa is a bit confused. Back on Nov 4 she posted about a 'currency converter' when she was quite clearly talking about an electrical (current) converter. She then repeated that mistake a few posts ago.

Ignore "currency" . . . In this context it is a "current" converter . . . And you won't need one.

Okay, thanks.
Shopping wise, what are some good stores to go to?
I would like to buy some clothes while I'm there. What are some fun, affordable shops to visit?

There are French chains like Naf Naf that sell inexpensive fashionable clothes. I actually found the clothes in France cheaper than here for what you get. Also Desigual, it's a Spanish chain but the prices in France were better than here and their stuff (bold patterns) is really distinctive. They are all down the Champs-Elysées (not Desigual though), near your hotel I presume.

I have never heard a visitor report that they didn't find any places to shop in Paris. However, all of the chains for young people can be found in the Forum des Halles in the center of Paris (it is a 3-level underground mall). I guarantee that it is a place that your uncle would not recommend.

Oh awesome. Le forum des halles hosts both Naf Naf and Desigual.

For luggage, I've been advised by a friend not to get anything colorful(which is what I want) as it will make me a target for theft. But won't black luggage be more likely to get taken, since almost everyone carries black luggage?

And for transportation from CDG to the Friedland, what's the best option? I know I could taxi, but that's probably going to cost around 70 euros, so no.
A shuttle from the airport would cost about 20 euros

And finally, i went on the RATP website and used the itinerary option. It tells me to go from Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 2 TGV( What's the difference between that and Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1?)
to the rer b stop, take the one headed to Massy-Palaiseau and get off at Chatelet-les-Halles. And then take the rer A one, towards la defense and get off at Charles de Gaulle étoile. And then take bus 52 towards Opéra and get off at Friedland-Haussmann. Now, this trip will take an hour. For those of you with experience, how many bus tickets will that take me? I know I can do transfers in some instances, but can one ticket allow me to go between rer lines and a bus? Or do I have to use a different ticket once I get on the bus? And if that's the case, the bus 52 is only a 3 minute ride, I'd rather walk.

I wonder, can I download the RATP itinerary builder on my phone? That would really come in handy once I'm in Paris.

Aéroport CdG 2 is Terminal 2 - the TGV station (train station). Aéroport CdG 1 is Terminal 1. There are two airport terminals, so the first thing you need to determine is which one you're arriving at, then get yourself to the RER station, which may involve taking a shuttle to the other terminal.

An RER ticket will cost more than a regular métro or bus ticket. I don't take the RER into Paris from the airport normally, so I can't say how much, but it won't be too expensive. Personally, I wouldn't go through Châtelet-les-Halles as a first-time visitor to Paris. It's the largest subway station in the world, literally miles of underground passageways, very confusing . I'd take the Air France shuttle or the Roissy Bus, then get on the métro.

passionfruit - the ticket that you buy at CDG will take you from the RER station at the airport ALL THE WAY to your last stop on the metro, and will cost you a bit less than €10 each way. but as I understand it you'd need a new ticket for the bus so your idea of walking is a good one.

however i do agree that Chatelet les Halles is one of Paris's most confusing stations, so getting the Roissy Bus, at least on the outward journey might actually be a good idea. you can make your mind up about what to do on the way back when you've had some experience of the metro.

How confusing is Chatelet les Halles? I mean there are signs everywhere, I imagine, and if worse comes to worse, I can ask for directions?
Ill see what other oprtions I have for public transportation.

Considering your hotel is near Place de l'Etoile, the best and easiest for you would be to take the Air France Bus.
The pickup at the airport is well indicated, and there is one line that will take you directly to Etoile. Then, you'll just have to walk less than five minutes (it's a big avenue, with large sidewalks).
Have a look at this:

http://www.airfrance.fr/FR/fr/local/transverse/frame/genericIFrame.htm?url=http://videocdn.airfrance.com/cars-airfrance/index_fr.html&frameHeight=600

There are indeed signs everywhere at Châtelet-Les Halles so it is all quite simple to transfer to the RER A and go to Charles de Gaulle-Etoile for 9.25€.

However, considering the location of "your uncle's" hotel, you might find it easier to take the Air France bus from CDG to Charles de Gaulle-Etoile. The terminus is avenue Carnot, just 2 streets from avenue de Friedland.

The part about having colorful luggage making you a target for theft is nonsense. Bring whatever color luggage you want.

And yes take the airport bus. Much easier and not that expensive.

Forum Les Halles is being remodelled, above ground, but some of the building work extends indoors. I always lose my way there, but you get everything in one place. It's also got a good FNAC (books, cd's, electronics, games, tickets)

If you want something funky, also check out Freepstar in the Marais.
http://www.freepstar.com

Friperie, so vintage, and sometimes you've got to hunt, but they've got pretty good stuff. Always lots of industry buyers at the Marais one.

"There are indeed signs everywhere at Châtelet-Les Halles so it is all quite simple to transfer to the RER A and go to Charles de Gaulle-Etoile . . . "

kerouac is right - except he lives there, speaks fluent French, knows the station like the back of his hand . . . and isn't jetlagged.

I'd avoid it for sure, especially since the AirFrance bus is soooo easy.

The signs are the same for me as for anyone else.

IMO, not worth it, the change at chatelet - les halles, with luggage.

If there are signs, that are clearly indicated, id much rather do that. All to save a buck or two

Yes, there are signs to show you the way. But the point is that there are also more than half a million people walking around the station every day. That makes it one of the busiest underground station of the world.
And if you arrive early in the morning, good luck inside the RER with your luggage at the rush hour.
I would choose the Air France bus, no matter the slight price difference.

pssionfruitdrink - "f there are signs, that are clearly indicated, id much rather do that. All to save a buck or two"

do what you want but several of us who have negotiated that metro station after an overnight flight have suggested you use the AirFrance bus. I go through Châtelet-Les Halles several times whenever I'm in Paris. And seldom have a problem. But it is huge and negotiating it w/ luggage after a (mostly) sleepless flight would be IMO an awful introduction to Paris.

Heck - you are saving all that $$$/€€€ on the hotel - you don't need to nickle-dime every little thing. There are economies that make sense - and there are false economies.

Well, I speak French, too, have visited Paris 100+ times, and I avoid Châtelet-les-Halles like the plague.

As far as I am concerned, taking public transpo is the only option. 9.25 vs 20? Yeah, there's no question about it for me. If I'm too tired to even make coherent decisions and whatnot, then I'll consider taking the shuttle(if I'm lucid enough to have that thought process.) But I mean...I'm fully literate and I assume this station isn't some huge labyrinth. I'm sure ill be fine.

>>I go through Châtelet-Les Halles several times whenever I'm in Paris.<< . . . and probably should have said - pretty much only when I must.

"I assume this station isn't some huge labyrinth. "

Ah - the cockiness of youth

I arrive in Paris at around 11. Will there be loads of people then? Either way, I think I'll manage.

It's THE largest subway station in the world. The Air France bus costs 15 euro. Aren't you saving on hotel costs?

I'll agree that taking the bus to the Etoile is the easiest thing to do. However, if you are going to take the RER B from CDG let me add a couple of things. Leaving CDG on RER B there is only one direction you can go (assuming you are leaving from CDG 2) since CDG is the terminus. When you arrive in Châtelet-les-Halles you'll take the escalator up to the main hall and it will be full of people and signs everywhere and I agree for a first time visitor it can be confusing. However, just take your time and relax and look at the signs because the signs are very well marked. What is confusing is that there are signs everywhere so it might take a minute to find the sign to RER A. To get back to the platform for the RER A is not more than 30 meters at most once you are in the main hall. Make sure you look for RER A in the direction of either Poissy, Cergy-le-Haut or Saint-Germain-en-Laye. CDG Etoile is the second stop after Châtelet-les-Halles.

You need an RER ticket (technically called a Billet Origine Destination) to get from CDG to the Etoile and then you'll need a métro ticket (technically called a Ticket t+) for the bus.

Actually, as you are under 25 and if you buy the ticket online, the price difference is not that important.

http://www.lescarsairfrance.com/en/tickets-and-prices.html

Oh Gee - the AirBus is actually cheaper

In that case one would be nuts to use the RER/Metro.

I am saving on hotel costs, but any other opportunity to save is welcome. The airfrance shuttle is 19 euros or so, I think. And Id rather keep that 10 euro and spend it on something else. It might be the biggest, but that's hardly a deterrent. Crowds don't scare me, and as long as I head straight toward the RER A line, I don't think Ill run into any issues. Like how bad is it actually? Will I be so overwhelmed that I won't be able to function?

But I mean...I'm fully literate and I assume this station isn't some huge labyrinth. I'm sure ill be fine.>>

i'm sure you'll be fine too, but yes, these large metro stations where the different metro and RER lines meet ARE labyrinths - they call them "correspondences".

I'd go for the airbus.

For those under 25 who buy on-line the Air France bus from Orly is 9€ but the Air France bus from CDG is 13€. Still, it's only 3.75€ more for the bus.

As I mentioned, the correspondence from RER B to RER A in Châtelet-les-Halles is no more than 30 meters once you are in the main hall.

No, if you read the link just given above, you'll see that the Air France bus costs 9 euros if you're under 25, which is cheaper than the RER/métro.

On my first trip to Paris, when I was 20, I was lost in Châtelet-les-Halles for several hours.

CAt least, have a look at the link!!! It's 13 euros for you.

"The airfrance shuttle is 19 euros or so, I think."

No it isn't - Did you look at the link??

Well look at that. It is cheaper than i thought! Guess i wont have to worry about the rer anymore

I looked at the link and bus #1 goes to Orly and is 9€. Bus #2 goes to CDG is 13€.

You should always check the price for young people or students. Then you'll find out that many things, like the Paris Pass, are not really the best option for you.
And that is the same issue when you can buy tickets online (you can for example get a discount for the Seine Cruises)

Right, it's 13 euros. I was looking at the wrong bus.

By the way, if I buy a carnet, can I use those tickets on any mode of transportation, like RER or bus?

If you buy a carnet of métro tickets they can be used on any métro line or any bus. They can also be used on any RER line that is within Paris city limits (zone 1).

Okay, great!

I get more and more excited everyday. My mom wants me to bring her back macarons. Is that legal? Can I bring baked goods back to Canada?

We brought back macarons. Just make sure that they are well protected in your luggage. The few around the edges of the box were pretty much crumbs by the time we got home.

Okay! I'll do that then!
Can I buy a carnet at CDG?
Also, am I missing anything in my planning? Thanks to everyone's help, I was able to plan transportation, museum pass, best places to socialize, where to go out, and where to eat. Where to shop, and how to keep my personal items safe. Is there anything I'm missing? What else should I plan for?

Plan on being spontaneous from time to time and forgetting about the list of things you had planned.

Sure, you can buy a carnet at CDG if you end up at the RER/métro station there, which you don't need to if you take the Air France bus into town. You can also buy one at any métro station in Paris. Relax. Plan not to plan.

is there anything important I'm forgetting about? Just, I'm worried about forgetting something really important. I know I shouldn't plan too much, and this is why I've left some of my days open to whatever. This is why the only days I've planned are the days where I need to plan because of the museum pass.

yes you can buy a carnet at CDG, but it's probably easier just to get it when you use the metro for the first time - then you haven't got multiple tickets to worry about when you exit the metro en route to your hotel, just your RER ticket.

remember you must retain your tickets til you finish the journey, and if you are exiting at an RER station, you'll need the ticket to get past the barrier.

is there anything important I'm forgetting about? Just, I'm worried about forgetting something really important.

If you have your passport, your passport number written down somewhere (or a photocopy), credit card, 4-number debit card, numbers to call in case you lose those, any prescription meds you take, air itinerary/tickets, and the adddress of your hotel, I'd say you're good to go.

Short version that I tell myself when leaving for a trip: Passport, money, meds.

Have fun!

awesome! Thanks so much! I'm so excited, I cannot stop thinking about this trip. I know I'll have a good time, but I really hope I can meet some nice people and bring some stuff back for my family.

don't forget a present for your friend's uncle!

She's myy cousin..

well don't forget to get a present for YOUR uncle then.

You worry way too much...you aren't forgetting anything important.

I do register any international on the state dept. website, just in case there should be any oroblems...at least they will know you are there and can assist in an emergency (not likely).
https://step.state.gov/step/

If no one posted these links, they are helpful if you aren't familiar with train system.

http://parisbytrain.com/
http://parisbytrain.com/paris-airport-terminal-2-train-photo-tour/
http://parisbytrain.com/airport-to-paris-terminal-1/

I just want this trip to be perfect! I'm not usually one to plan, but I've just been dreaming of this for so long.

passionfruit - no trip is perfect, and expecting it to be so can lead to disappointment.

a few things will go wrong, but also some things will go very right, and sometimes the best bits are the things that you haven't been expecting at all.

One last tip: there are lots of small cinemas all over Paris. Usually they have a very limited programme of classic art house stuff, some American movies.

The most beautiful of these is the Pagoda cinema:

http://www.spottedbylocals.com/paris/category/activity/cinema/

cinemas can be great in winter for instant entertainment and to get out of the cold, even during the day. And you get to see a great movie (hopefully) at the same time.

By the way, spotted by locals is a great site (disclosure, I contributed for a while)

Also worth a visit (bring a bathing suit) is the Pontoise swimming pool on the left bank. It stars in many, many movies. And you can go there and swim. Used to go there lots to take my son swimming and it's totally cool in a french regulated sort of way.

http://www.nageurs.com/piscine-pontoise

I guess. This is the first time I've planned a trip, so my wanting it to go perfectly is unrealistic, but honestly, as long as I make it to Paris, I'll be ecstatic. This is actually a dream come true for me, haha. I don't know what else to hope for after this!
Also, apart from planning, what can I expect from the people of Paris? You hear a lot of stories about how "rude" Parisians are, and of course, I've never taken them seriously, but honestly, what can I expect? I've had a few friends describe being 'harassed' while being in Paris. I feel like it's more of a cultural thing. People here tend to keep to themselves in public; they aren't as forward, I guess?
But honestly, from those who have been or who currently live there, what can I expect?

Please don't fall for the stereotypical "Parisians are rude" nonsense. First of all, it's a big city, and just as in any big city (or anyplace, really), there will be some rude people. Second, you're in another country/culture; don't go expecting everything to be the same as at home - it won't be, by a log shot. Third, it's time to learn some French. IME, what really sends people off is when Americans (or Brits or anyone really) gets in their face and just starts talking in English, usually too loudly. Makes me cringe, and makes the French turn sour immediately. Whenever you have any encounter with a French person, whether in a shop, a café, a museum, wherever...you ALWAYS begin with "Bonjour/bonsoir, Madame/monsieur/mademoiselle/jeune homme." Always. And repeat the same thing when leaving, except with "Au revoir, Monsieur..." learn how to ask if someone speaks English, e.g., "Bonjour, Madame. Est-ce que vous parlez anglais?" If they say oui, you're good to continue with English. If they say non, you're on your own.

I realize you don't have much time, but any effort you make to learn some of the language will pay off enormously. There are all kinds of free places on the internet where you can listen and practice: www.travlang.com, BBC, and others. Your experience in Paris will be much enhanced if you can communicate even minimally.

I would never describe the French as "forward." If anything, they are far more reserved and formal than Americans. They consider it goofy to walk around with a big smile on your face. They expect you to be polite, not silly or loud. I'm sure you'll find a lot of exceptions among Parisians in your age group, but even they would never have any encounter without beginning and ending with the traditional formalities.

You'll be fine. You can expect the French to be gracious and welcoming, with very few exceptions.

I don't think Parisians are rude. I'm just asking what they are like and what I can expect. I'm not American either, I'm from Canada.
All I'm asking is what I can expect from people. Like I said, I've had friends describe their experience in Paris and say people were more "forward".
French is a non issue. I want to know how people behave.

I know things won't be like they are where I'm from. This is why I am asking what they will be like.

Sorry for hijacking this thread but I wanted to thank Denisea
for the link about registering while traveling abroad.
I never knew about this link and will definitely register for all my future trips.

Well, I'm sorry I took so much time to respond, as I thought I was pretty clear about telling you what you can expect, including the issue of how "forward" the French are. As to how people behave, does everyone where you come behave the same? Well, neither do the French.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to insult you. I appreciate you taking the time to respond, but I feel I didn't express myself properly.
I don't think the French are rude, and I know there are rude people anywhere and everywhere.
I'm not asking questions about language barriers. I just mean culturally. I'm under the impression that people in Paris are much more forward than I am used to. For example, my friend told me a story about how when she was in France, some guy hit on her on the metro, to the point of harassment. Similar story with another friend of mine. And another friend described being hit on constantly. Not just that, but people just coming up and striking conversations about whatever. This doesn't happen where I live. What I'm asking is, what else can I expect?

What I'm asking is, what else can I expect?>>

honestly, I think that you are over-thinking this. people will be friendly, stand-offish, rude, nice, etc. etc. take them as you find them, follow St. Cirq's tips, and you won't go far wrong.

<<For example, my friend told me a story about how when she was in France, some guy hit on her on the metro, to the point of harassment. Similar story with another friend of mine. And another friend described being hit on constantly. Not just that, but people just coming up and striking conversations about whatever. This doesn't happen where I live>>

And it doesn't happen in Paris, either. In my considerable experience, the very last thing Parisians do is randomly initiate conversations - that's TRULY unusual.

Guys hit on girls all over the world. The Rome subway, the New York subway, any subway...but I've spent probably the equivalent of months of my life on the Paris métro and can remember only a single incident like that, a guy beginning to harass me on the métro when I was maybe 25. Fortunately, I was up to the brown belt level in Tai Kwon Do. I haven't noticed any behavior like that as a matter of course. Girls, particularly when traveling in packs in foreign places, also do dumb things that can invite that kind of behavior (not that it's any less appropriate, but it's not just a one-way street). I wouldn't go to Paris the slightest bit concerned about any of this.

Getting hit on" on the SUBWAY is not a regular occurence. I can envision circumstances where younger females might get "hit on" in public transportation, but Paris wouldn't be my first thought, New York probably more likely.

I would suggest that any anecdotal information about "people just coming up and striking conversations" in Paris would involve either North American's coming up to you asking for directions, or possibly a scammer trying to give you back your ring that you just dropped. Neither are common, but clearly possible in any big city.

I'd fully agree with St. Cirq - the french are not, even generally, a forward bunch. In my limited experiences, they are the opposite, but will, if politely asked (see St. Cirq's post above) for information, you'll likely get your questions answered.

Oh. My friend was talking about how some man began speaking with her about fashion. They had a long conversation about it (apparently, he was in the industry?)He wasn't hitting on her, just speaking. Personally, I'd be thrilled if some random Parisian just decided to speak with me about whatever.
I also get the impression that people in Paris are more direct? I know that everyone's different, but I just mean, I get the feeling that people are just more direct.
More direct than I am used to anyways.

Just my experience: I'm an old bag and if I'm standing or sitting in some touristy place in Paris, by myself or with another woman, inevitably some guy approaches and tries to chat me up. It's the woman-tourist = easy-mark thing, for the most part, not really a "French people are more forward" thing. No big deal. I can only imagine it happens a lot more frequently to young women.

My advice: keep in your shell in the metro. Do not respond to young men there. Everybody is supposed to be going somewhere -- it is not a chatroom. If you want to meet other young people, you will have plenty of chances in cafés and restaurants or strolling around the city -- times when it is "normal" for people to interact.

Okay, thanks for the advice. By the way, I was looking at a thread on here with an article where this chef was talking about how people complain about not getting the full french experience when visiting Paris. But since you live in Paris, do you have cafes or restaurants to recommend that are only frequented by Parisians? Something fun, but not something tourists would know of.

We're going to Paris in December for the first time as well. I'm from Europe but haven't been home for 4 years so I'm just excited that I will be in Europe again. We'll be in Paris for 6 days before continuing further east to be with my family for Xmas. We were thinking about going to museums but decided against it (except for Louvre and Versailles). There is so much more to exploring the city than getting stuck at museums (although I love them). So we decided we'll probably do Louvre, Versailles, Les Invalides, ET, Sacre Coeur, L'Arc de triomphe, etc .... the usual touristy stuff. Then Christmas markets and lots of walking around, eating, mingling with the crowd. Our hotel is at Montmartre and it was under $100 per night. (Honestly, what's the point of paying for expensive hotel if you'll just be returning there to sleep?!)
I am not a super experienced traveler but I can tell you this: although you want to be ready and want your trip to be perfect, there will be times when things won't be so smooth. (I certainly don't want to freak you out). When I came to NYC for the first time on my very first trip by myself, I accidentally gave $100 to a cab driver instead of $30. Sucker didn't say anything I cried for a few hours and I learned my lesson (and it never happened to me again.) Now it makes a really good story to tell my friends.
You just need to relax and stop over-reacting. Asking if the French people are nice, etc is pointless. You'll find out for yourself. So take it easy and enjoy Europe!

I heard French are kind of reserved, too. But whatever. My husband is one of those easy-going, happy people that like to have fun and be silly all the time. So it will be an experience for us as well as French people!

Oh, how exciting for you! I hope you have a great time!
Yeah, everyone's probably right telling me I'm over thinking this trip. But I just want to make sure I absorb as much information as possible!
Hope you have a great trip!

"not something tourists would know of"

go back and re-read that article.

I did. Am I missing something?

First off, great info here! Second, will someone please make this thread into a film? What with the overprotective uncle paying for the posh 5 star hotel, the bratty spoiled cousin, and the currency converter vs electrical converter conversation, etc.. this has the makings of a comedy.

Read all of it this evening and I have to say, it was insightful and entertaining!

I love this place.

"Everybody is supposed to be going somewhere -- it is not a chatroom." -- kerouac

Glad you enjoyed it.

ladybugg33 said:

<<<Our hotel is at Montmartre and it was under $100 per night. (Honestly, what's the point of paying for expensive hotel if you'll just be returning there to sleep?!)>>>

Oh no. Please tell us it's not the same one ratty one up thread that the OP ended up canceling - Hotel Gerando. Is it? :/

Have you been to Hotel Gérando?

By the way, I was wondering if there's a place on this website where I could document my trip? I know these threads are for questions, but is there anywhere I can post the details of my trip just to share?
I feel like I want to write it all down. Hopefully people will read it. And Jinky thinks it has the makings of a comedy, so I'll make sure to document everything my cousin says.
So where would I post this?

Have you not noticed that people use this site to post "trip reports" ALL the time? That's where some of the most valuable information comes from.

By the way, I was wondering if there's a place on this website where I could document my trip? I know these threads are for questions, but is there anywhere I can post the details of my trip just to share? >>

passionfruit - if you scroll back to the top of this thread, look on the left of the screen and you'll see a button called "start a new topic".


click on there and follow the instructions. easy peasy.

No I haven't noticed these trip reports.

Thanks for making that clear for me, annhig.

no probs, passionfruit.

if you want to read some trip reports [and there are loads on Paris] scroll back up to the top, and click on the "search this forum" button on the right.

enter PARIS, and then select the trip reports - they have a special orange square next to them.

happy reading!

[BTW, if you look on the left-hand column where all the current threads are listed, you can tell which the trip reports are by the same orange square].

You can also click on somebody's name to see what else they have written about on this board (for example, if you click on my name you will find a certain number of things labeled trip reports even though, uh, I didn't actually have to make a trip to report about Paris).

I'm jealous. I want to live in Paris so badly.

Passionfruit, yes, please make a report! I think you are adorable.. and I hope my girls are as inquisitive, adventurous, funny and sweet when they are your age.

And we want photos, and videos if possible! I'd love to see you drag your cousin to Père Lachaise, preferably when it's dark.

That's so very kind of you to say! Thank you!
I will be making a report, so people can get some information, and at the very least, be entertained. This being my first trip, I'm sure I'll make some mistakes people will find amusing.

Jinky: haha but no, it's not Hotel Gerando. It's Hotel Jardins de Paris I do read reviews before making reservations for hotels/campground/cabins etc. Most people had a really good experience, some not so much. You can't please everybody. So we'll see. Honestly, as long as it's bedbugs free (here's to hoping), has warm bed and hot shower, I'm fine.
Besides, all the hotels were full or almost full (this one had 2 rooms available) when we made our reservations in March or April.

Wouldn't it be funny if I walked past you in Paris in December, ladybug? Without knowing who you are! Ha. Or maybe I'll have an altercation with one of you who live in Paris.

I've got a Fodors bag [a bright unmistakable orange] that Moolyn very kindly gave me when we had a mini GTG on her last visit to Cornwall, but I don't feel like carrying it around with me everywhere when I'm on holiday, though it does come in useful when as usual i've bought too much at the market.

as an alternative, i think that Fodors should offer us an orange tie, scarf, or even a brooch. then we wouldn't sit there like lemons wondering whether someone we've just insulted in the lounge is actually sitting at the next table.

I think it would be nice if there was a section here where we could privately exchange info, and meet up for drinks, etc., if we're going to be in the same city. That would really be great.

Jinky, people here organize GTGs (get-togethers) all over the world, all the time. It doesn't have to be private - heck, if you're going to meet up it won't be anyway.

Who's going to be in Paris at the end of December? Or in early January?

I would just like to chime in to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this link. I am heading to Paris for the first time next week and have learned a vast amount of information. I've also enjoyed the nostalgia...I'm in my mid-thirties and a seasoned traveler by now but I still remember the excitement of taking my first trip abroad (to Peru) in my early twenties..
I am very much looking forward got a trip report from you passionfruit! Can't wait to hear all about your adventures. Enjoy!

passionfruitdrink37: "Who's going to be in Paris at the end of December? Or in early January?"

let me make a suggestion - this thread is approaching 350 posts. Many (most) people won't bother reading the whole thing. If you want to try organizing a GTG(s) - definitely start a new thread. Titled something like "Paris GTG around New Years - any takers?" - or maybe "In Paris Dec. 27 - Jan. 4. GTG?"

Or any wording you want to try. Then Fodorites visiting Paris at that time and those who live there will see your request.

I'll be in Paris much of the second half of december, first half of january.

Oh, another thing, what if I forget my toothbrush or something? I imagine there aren't any "dépanneurs" at every street corner. Are pharmacies the places to go if I need toothpaste and deodorant?
Is alcohol readily available?

Also, the hotel asked for our credit card numbers in case we take anything out of the mini fridge. They have bottles of water, and I don't think I want to pay for that. I assume tap water is fine?

Also when I go to restaurents and cafés, what do I order to eat and drink? I'm not much of a wine connoisseur, so any recommendations?

There are alimentaires all over Paris (though they're probably scarce in the neighborhood of your hotel). You can always go to Monoprix or Franprix or some other small supermarket. I guess you could find toothpaste and deodorant at a pharmacie, but it would like be more expensive than at some smaller local place.

Tap water is wonderful in Paris. And if you do want bottled water, don't get it from the hotel minibar; get it from a Monoprix or place like that.

I don't think anyone can tell you what to order to eat and drink. We don't know what your tastes are, and there are millions of choices.

There are too many choices, and that's why I'd like some suggestions!
I wouldn't know what to order, I'm quite indecisive. And with a menu totally unfamiliar to me would be a nightmare. What are some of your favorite dishes? Drinks?

Avenue des Ternes and the surrounding streets present no problem at all for buying forgotten necessities (alcohol & toothbrushes!).

Learn the french words for a few items that you like and especially the items that you do not like. You will be fine. When in doubt ask. I found the service staff in all restaurants to be very helpful but knowing the basic french is both helpful and shows that you, at the least, made an effort.

I am not used to French cuisine. There is nothing that I like or do not like. I'm willing to try anything, I'm just looking for some recommendations.

You might find this helpful:

http://www.patriciawells.com/glossary/french_english_food_glossary.pdf

Nah! -- just order at random! Much more exciting!

Alright then. I guess I'll be ordering randomly!

Passionfruit - Tell us -

Do you like chicken? - - Poulet

Do you like beef? - - Boeuf

Do you like fish? - - Poisson

Do you like cheese? - - Fromage


This may help as well -

http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-order-food-in-french.html

http://www.slowtrav.com/france/restaurants/basics.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DafF-eVDprk

I keep getting misunderstood, I feel. I'm not asking for how to order, I know how to order a meal. I am asking about what to order. I know what I like, what I don't like.
I'm just asking what have been some french dishes you have enjoyed? Any recommendations as to what I should try? Any particular dishes in particular restaurents you have enjoyed?

The problem with your request, pfd, is that there a million and one things to order in a French café or restaurant (not to mention all the ethnic pages in Paris, and you haven't stated any preferences at all, so who wants to list things THEY've enjoyed and waste time if maybe you won't like them?) The question is so open-ended as to be impossible to answer.

I like ris de veau, rognons de veau, foie gras, rillettes,escargots, moules, cassoulet, gigot d'agneau, pot au feu, all kinds of charcuterie including oreilles de cochon and saucisson d'any kind, bouillabaise, croques monsieurs and croques madames, galettes, soufflés, pavettes de saumon et autres poissons, tartiflette, choucroute royale, lapéraux, tellines, confits, pommes de terre sarladaises, pissaladière, magret de canard, daube de boeuf, jambon de Bayonne, tomme, cabécou, chèvre, a million other cheeses, huitres, potage St-German, potage à l'onion, blanc mange, macarons, île flottante, tarte à whatever.......

Is this a help? I thought not. And it's only a very small slice of what Paris will offer you. Just go and order something. It doesn't matter what I like to eat - this is your vacation.

And I've only just touched the surface of the possibilities. You're not being misunderstood. Your request is unanswerable.

May I suggest that you stop obsessing? I know it's hard not to when making a first trip to Paris at such a young age, and on a budget, but perhaps the best approach to take is to just go and figure things out as you go. You've got the logistics nailed down - now take a deep breath and relax and enjoy every moment of this exciting journey - don't focus on "what should I order at a café?" We can't have a clue as to how that will turn out, anyway.

There's no shame in going to MacDo either. You can eat anything, on every street corner, and then some.
I always like to eat Vietnamese food though, while I'm in Paris. Of course it was a french colony once, so there are lots of Vietnamese places about. Same goes for Moroccan food and African cuisine.

Monoprix is your friend, also for things to buy for a lunch picknick.

Pfd....it's Paris not Pluto. Of course you can find a toothbrush or anything you need.

It's not that you keep getting misunderstood, it doesn't seem like you are doing any research of your own for your trip! Yes, Fodorites are glad to help and make some suggestions but you can't expect Fodorites ti snswer every lquestion for you.

Order what sounds good to you! Ask the server what they recommend, order the delicious looking thing the guy next to you has. Order the special and don't even ask what it is....

It will be fine. You can't and don't want to plan every little thing! Now, relax and go have fun in Paris!

REALLY looking forward to the trip report.

Glad to hear it, annhig. I'm excited to write it.

<<There's no shame in going to MacDo either.>>



Yes, there is.. And I want to SLAP people who travel all the way to Paris and then go eat at McDonalds.

Seriously.

McDonald's in France apparently has the McChèvre wrap or something. That's something I could try XD

And the McBaguette has been back twice already, so I presume it will appear again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4Z6gisdNAQ

Things to remember..When you are on the metro hold your purse close to your body..Thieves do a thriving business there.

Watch out about the Ring scam.I was telling my daughter about the ring scam when a nice older woman approached us with the ring..We laughed at her face and kept walking.

That's the way it works.Usually they work in pairs.

A person pretends to pick up a gold wedding ring off the sidewalk. They ask you if it's your ring. When you say no they offer to give it to you for a price..

There are other scams and if you want to be aware of them just google ..

If someone approach you be a Snob keep walking and dont stop .

Have a great time.

<<That's something I could try XD>>

Sounds gross to me, but knock yourself out. Here's the address.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/mcdonalds-paris-2

Wow, it's just a burger, people. Paris is a city like any other city, really

<<Paris is a city like any other city, really>>


Yes, just like any other city..

It makes one wonder why people travel at all! I mean, if Paris is just like any other city. Why bother?

I confess that I stopped at MCDonald few times in Rome and in Paris..

I refuse to go to McDonald's in Paris! Get a crepe instead....it will taste better. At least, stop in a cafe and get a croque monsieur. You can go yo McDonald's when you get back.

I agree with denisea!

Anyway, it's gross. All of the uncouth, obese American tourists flock there.

So nasty!

I think that McBaguette sounds interesting, Kerouac.

What absolute bigoted food snobs haunt his Forum! Doppio seems the worst; a lot of savvy, thin Frenchmen go to McDonald's, too.

They do have a clean restroom..and when you are out sightseeing that is more important than eating a Crepe.

Besides after Paris I usually go to Provence where I can eat the most delicious food at my cousin home that lives in Avignon and also at my sister , a gourmet cook, that lives in Uzes.
Therefore MCDonald is not a bad deal especially when you can use clean restroom..

vive la difference..

The MacDonalds all over France are filled with FRENCH families!

I don't eat at MacDonalds much even here in the States (I go maybe twice a year because we get coupons and my SO likes a Big Mac every once in awhile), and I've only eaten at one twice ever in France, because I was on the road and in a hurry and there wasn't much to choose from, but to suggest that the MacDonalds in France (or any other foreign country for that matter) are populated by fat Americans shows at minimum a lack of experience and understanding.

Trust me, this isn't a recco for MacDonalds - I actually can barely stand the greasy smell of the place and always feel slightly sick after eating there, but the generalization is way out of whack. I'd actually try a MacBaguette...maybe.

It's funny how so many of you have these opinions on McDonald's. haha

pfd - haven't you noticed? - we have opinions on EVERYTHING!

Metro and if you walk get a good map like the Streetwise laminated one

I purchased the Pocket Rough Guide Paris. It comes with a map of Paris, but there are neighbourhood maps throughout, so it seems pretty handy.
I've pretty much decided I'm only going to purchase the carnet. Or a carnet for each of us. I feel that should be alright.

@ Doppio: I live on and off in Rotterdam and in Paris, and while it is a wonderful city, I use it much as I use any other city. So occasionally, if I need a quick coffee, or fancy french fries or whatever, yes, I'll stop at MacDo. Also if I want to grab something quick before heading to NL on Thalys on friday afternoons. There's Quick, the french version of MacDonald's and it's nearly as ubiquitous but frankly, MacDo has better decor and looks cleaner. Quick's burgers are vile, so I never go there. And lots of Parisians agree with me

I think it's been mentioned already, but if you're looking for a good street atlas you can actually use comfortably without having to fold out a huge map, use this one:

http://www.massin.fr/plans-de-paris/748-paris-pratique-9782707202390.html

There's a huge FNAC at Forum des Halles where you can pick one up.

Also, for me, but it's a personal thing, I know, I always find eating out to have lunch much easier and more enjoyable than doing the same thing for dinner. There's lots of places where you can go and just order their "formule" and it will be more than half decent: an entree, main dish and dessert, and sometimes coffee after the meal. Also a good bet are salons de thé, like

http://apriorithe.com

the locations are always nice and it's just more easy going than dinner, which is often more ceremonial.

but please consider this for your quintessential parisian dinner occasion:

http://www.bestrestaurantsparis.com/en/restaurant-paris/auxcharpentiers.html

their formules are very good value and it's great "bourgeois" french cooking.

a place I find absolutely enchanting every time I go there is the salon de the and restaurant of the grand mosque:

http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/France/Ile_de_France/Paris-99080/Restaurants-Paris-La_Grande_Mosquee_de_Paris-BR-1.html

during winter they cover their courtyard and heat it, but their restaurant is also nice. there are guided tours to the mosque itself, but the salon de the is already a great experience.

don't go for their couscous though, it's not that good. for that go to:

http://www.gayot.com/restaurants/la-boule-rouge-paris-75009-france_10pa051201.html

and I forgot to mention the entire canal st martin and wonderful hotel du nord.

Just saw a McDonald's commercial on TV and they've introduced their new Bagel Burger here in France!

Using that gayot website you linked, menachem, I found this Cojean thing, which sounds interesting. Has anyone ever eaten there?

Can I just say that I don't go to McDonald's in Paris, or anywhere else, because I don't like chains and I don't want to waste MCCalories on that kind of food, especially in Paris. I don't care who is in there,(fat or skinny, French or American) I just don't want to go there. If you remember, I am married to Mr Starbucks and am forced to visit Starbucks while in Paris (under protest, of course)!

Don't know your food budget PFD, but Citrus Etoile is a great spot with a very reasonable (IMO) prix fixe if you are looking for a nicer meal one day.

@PFD, you can well try them out. Their food is at least fresh. I have only ever eaten one of their soups, but the rest of their menu seems ok. It's a convenient turn up and eat kind of place with a little more style and consciousness than most places. You'll find that there are more such places now. Everyone is discovering ethical and light eating it seems.

And they have places everywhere and are opening more regularly:
http://www.cojean.fr/#/places

I think Cojean Washington is nearest your hotel. Seems like an excellent choice for an "if all else fails" fallback option.

One other place I forgot is The Frog & Rosbif, which is an excellent English Pub chain, with its own brewery and great bar food. The ur-frog is at Rue St Denis (not the seedy street it was years ago, but still a bit louche, even today) and well worth a visit, also during the day. Famous for its brunches on sunday morning. If my son (now 15) is an especially somber mood, I take him there so he can order their great burgers, and I settle for the eggs benedict, all wonderfully done.

http://www.frogpubs.com/pub-rosbif-paris.php

Thanks so much! My budget for food depends, I guess. I mean, I would prefer to stay on the cheaper side, I'm not rich. But once or twice, I wouldn't mind splurging for a great meal at a renowned restaurent. Has anyone got any advice on how to tell an expensive restaurent from a cheaper one? I'm afriad of walking into a place and then realizing I cannot afford it. I don't want to embarrass myself by just walking out of the place after being given a price. Also, ii am a bit anxious about how much money I spend. For those of you used to travelling, is 50 dollars a day a reasonable budget?

Most all places in France have their menu outside as far as I remember..Often this menu is also in English. And lots of local cafes/restaurants have outstanding food available so you won't have to search out expensive places. We found that asking the waiter what he would recc. did the job for us for great and mod.$ food. $50 dollars will probaly be ok if you stick to some picnicing, groc/deli shopping and local menu items..not No. Amer. ones..No Starbucks. Mid day menus are better than later and don't go for ala carte..It will add up fast. Tap water will do and watch out in case bread/snacks appear on your table as you may be charged for them. Return them immed. if you find out there is a charge because even if you don't eat them you will get nicked. 365 plus comments..I'm sure your head is spinniing.. go and leave all your cares and woes home.Keep your sense of humor, sense of adventure,sense of awe and wonder, patience for drawbacks and have a wonderful time!!!

This was a surprisingly untouristy bistro in the ultra-touristy part of Montmartre (well, not as touristy as the Place de Tertre, but nearly) that I would recommend if you plan to visit Sacre Coeur and want lunch or dinner around there.

I had the "noix d’entrecôte snackée," and it was very satisfying. My friend had the onions stuffed with oxtail, quite good. And my mom had chicken something or other.

In any case, I would put this in the moderately priced category, and they offer salads and eggs, etc. Relaxed atmosphere and service. We went our first night in Paris last May, and it was a good choice for a semi-jetlagged arrival dinner.

http://www.auclocherdemontmartre.fr/la-carte/

Other than this, I tend to go big for meals in Paris, which probably involve more commitment than you free-spirited youths want.

passionfruitdrink37, you can definitely survive on 50 dollars. There are prix fixe specials at many restaurants that are 15-25 euro and offer a complete meal, many times very good. It is definitely worth it to splurge on food in Paris, because you get what you pay for even more than anywhere else. In other words, it is better to pay a bit more and get much better French food, than to pinch pennies and eat at McDonalds you has been pointed out above. You'll find that the food at restaurants and in grocery stores is fresh and less processed, IMHO.

In France you are not charged for bread in restaurants, nor for any extras placed on your table as an «amuse bouche». It is different in some other places, such as Portugal, where you do get charged for the appetizers you find on your table, even if you didn't order them.

In France, the law requires restaurants to post their menus with prices outside, so there should be no unpleasant surprises.

What's going on with your cousin? Is she doing any planning and research, or is she leaving it all up to you?

Oh, sorry, passionfruit, I hadn't seen your last post with the 50 CAD budget. You should look for places with a set menu at lunch or at dinner. Lunch will be a better value, usually, and perhaps you can mostly snack at dinnertime or go to a cafe or wine bar for dinner.

For example, you can go to Café des Musées (usually need to reserve) and have their 13E lunch menu. I've been twice, first time was 5+ years ago, and the food is quite good, service can be harried/hurried but that's part of the deal there.

http://patriciawells.com/blog/3434
http://megzimbeck.com/2011/08/cafe-des-musees/

Anyway, I don't expect you will seek particular restaurants out, but if you want to save money, try to order the daily menu rather than a la carte: fewer choices but better prices.

She's too busy to, she said. Not that I mind; this trip is a dream come true for me.

I do agree with Leely2 though: your lunch can be much more elaborate on a budget, and in real restaurants, than you dinner can be. Lunch "formules" are often of much better value, and can be had almost anywhere. Don't be afraid to check out menu prices outside a restautant or cafe. Also consider that places in very touristy areas or on large boulevards etc and in the "popular" arrondissements will be more expensive. Sometimes it pays off to simply turn the corner into a sidestreet. And often it's surprising what small neighbourhood cafes and tabacs will come up with for lunch.

@PFD: being the "expert" on this trip, will mean your cousin will look upon you as her tour director. She'll be helpless, you'll know everything. Perhaps you can make her a file with your research, and perhaps you can research the area around your hotel a little bit, so you'll have the general "amenities" mapped out, also for her, such as where the local monoprix is etc. Establish a "regular" place to sit and have coffee or a snack early on and go to that place all the time as a "base". That way, if you want to have some time off and to yourself, you can just agree to meet at such and such a time "at the cafe" and she too will know where to go.

Always check the menu outside before you go in, no surprises that way. We also had a wonderful lunch at L'Orangerie on Ile St Louis.

I have to say that your cousin sounds like a selfish brat. Sorry. She's too busy to do research but from your past posts she sounds quick to criticize. I don't know why you are traveling with her.. I like the above idea to establish a base to meet at. i hope that you will go ahead with your dream Paris trip regardless of what she wants to do.

You will find plenty of food options in all price ranges. Don't worry but again avoid places right near the top attractions as they tend to be pricey and lower quality food. If you want to take a look at La Fourchette, you should be able to get an idea of prices and you can reserve a table for many places on their site.

Quite honestly, I would much rather go alone. But my mother wasn't fond of the idea, so I asked my cousin to come along. This may not paint me in the best light, but going alone would have been fantastic. Travelling with others, I feel, will hold me back. But, my mom's super protective(a trend in the family) and would not have taken well to me going alone.

Also, I've heard tipping waiters in restaurents isn't required. What have been your experiences with this?

You can go alone on your next trip.

All menus and prices must be posted outside of restaurants -- it's the law.

Tips are not required, but many people round up to the nearest euro when paying in cash. If they are paying by card, no tip at all.

Alright, thanks for that!

However, do expect to pay different prices dependent on where you choose to sit in a cafe or brasserie for coffee: standing at the bar is cheapest, then the prices go up slightly: sitting in the glass enclosed terrace with a view on the street makes your coffee a little more expensive.

on the other hand, no one will bat an eyelid if you sit for hours with one cup of coffee, people watching, writing a bit, talking.

Also, being a waiter is a serious occupation in France and waiters are mostly super efficient at what they do and fast. But they may not be smiling all the time at you and latching on to you so you will tip them, because tipping isn't part of their salary, it's an extra. Sometimes people construe this as rudeness but I'm always grateful for fast, neutrally executed, good service almost everywhere I go.

The different prices for different areas in cafés are also posted on the price lists by law: comptoir, salle, terrasse.

Huh i didnt know about the different prices by area. Thanks a lot!

Remember to call your credit card company to let them know you will be using the card in France. Also, your bank so you can use your ATM card there. Getting euros from the ATM is the best way to get cash. Look for one at the airport when you arrive. Have fun!

I think your cousin may just tag along with you the whole time, so try to find a diplomatic way to see everything you want to see without compromising too much for her interests and schedule.

I don't usually call my bank, but better safe than sorry on your first trip.

Lol credit.

Definitely let your bank and credit card companies know you will be travelling, where and the dates to avoid fraud holds being placed on your accounts! Do use ATMs to get cash, it is the least expensive way to get cash. Don't bother with TravelEx at the airport...exchange rates are expensive and also don't fall for their preloaded chip and PIN Visa, also not a good value!

Always least expensive to have your drink at the counter (comptoir), if possible. It can be a good way to meet locals, as well. No need to tip, but rounding up to the next euro is fine (especially if the service is good). When seated, ask for tap water to keep costs down. Many places will serve you pricey bottled water if you don't specify tap water. Une carafe d'eau or de l'eau du robinet should get you tap water.

I am using cash. I already have a significant amount in euros that i changed at my bank. I dont plan on using credit.

Along with letting you cc/bank know leave your email address with them in case they put a stop on you then call your home # or cell.. Try to stay in touch or have more than 1 ATM card on 2 different accounts..Talk to your bank re: this. Charge what you can in Europe and demand that the charges be in euros...not dollars. This will eliminate double exchange costs..

You are not bringing a huge wad of cash with you, I hope! That is a recipe for disaster.

"I am using cash. I already have a significant amount in euros that i changed at my bank."

Big mistake

OK - no credit card . . . But PLEASE tell us you at least have an ATM card??!!

You should have a credit card for emergencies. Maybe your parents could add you as an authorized user to one of their cards and get a card for you in your own name. That's what my teenagers have, in case of emergency.

Well, you have worried abour what food to order....please don't go to Europe witna wad of cash and no way to get more in case of emergency. Not smart at all. Agree with above post, at least have an ATM card to use to get cash. What will you do if your cash is lost or stolen? That is worth researching!

I am bringing a wad of cash with me.....but i was plannjng kn keeping it super safe. Some in my money belt(hidden under my clothing) and some in my luggage, in the hotel. I felt the money belt, seeing as it is attached to my waist and under my clothing, would be a fool proof way of keeping my money safe. I mean, i would feel someone reaching under my coat, sweater, and shirt to untie it.
Are there better options? I have one atm card. But tue wad of cash ive already accumulated, what can i do with that?

Just how 'big' a wad of cash???

"I am bringing a wad of cash with me.....but i was plannjng kn keeping it super safe. Some in my money belt(hidden under my clothing) and some in my luggage, in the hotel."

Unfortunately that is water under the bridge now since selling it back to the bank will lose you even more money.

(for future reference - buying currency at home is the most expensive/worst option and now you have the hassles of protecting all that cash during your trip)

Never EVER leave cash in your luggage/hotel room. You will possibly have an in-room safe. If so that is better, but leaving in the main hotel safe (at the front desk) is better.

Using your ATM card when needed is by far the best way to get €€. But "big" is a relative term - how much €€€ cash do you have?

<<"I am using cash. I already have a significant amount in euros that i changed at my bank.">>

Good grief! With all the things you've been obsessing about over the past few weeks, you'd think you would have mentioned the HUGE "money issue," instead of worrying about what to order at a café!

You've already lost about 7-10% of your Canadian dollars exchanging money at a bank, and now you're planning to take a big wad of cash with you and "keep it super safe." ???? Please tell me this isn't the case!

You can't do anything with this "wad of cash" you've accumulated - selling it back to the bank or at an exchange booth would lose you even more than you've already lost. You just have to hope and pray you'll keep it safe. Moneybelts aren't foolproof. Don't plan to go digging around in your nether regions anywhere in public to retrieve money to pay for small stuff along the way - nothing screams "I've got a boatload of cash!" louder than a tourist scrounging for money under clothing. Just take out a small amount for what you think you'll need during the day and keep it somewhere OTHER than in the moneybelt. And don't ever leave money in your hotel room, ever!

Use the ATM card to get cash at the most affordable rate available. If you think you'll be returning to Europe, maybe save some of those euros for the next trip (and next time, don't exchange money ahead of time!).

Follow the above advise..NEVER leave $ in your hotel room, locked up or otherwise..Carry some out where it is handy and keep the rest away on/in your interior regions...Have a cc and Atm card for emergencies as suggested..Don't continue to fret however what is done is done and you MUST START thinking about what a good time you are going to have!!! If you don't your trip will not be worth much in a positive way!!!

<< "I am using cash. I already have a significant amount in euros that i changed at my bank."

**

<< "I am bringing a wad of cash with me.....but i was plannjng kn keeping it super safe. Some in my money belt(hidden under my clothing) and some in my luggage, in the hotel." >>


Oh my god

Doppio..You certainly don't ease any concerns for this neophyte traveller!!! We really should try to make concrete suggestions as the deed is done..Now what??? Say something positive.

Take care, Passionfruitdrink37, of your belongs, your sanity (with your cousin),your good nature and be prepared to have a ball!!! 396 comments and probably more to come!!!

<< Doppio..You certainly don't ease any concerns for this neophyte traveller!!! We really should try to make concrete suggestions as the deed is done..Now what??? Say something positive. >>


Ok. think I PFD will have a great time, and I think we are in store for a fantastic trip report!

I sometime wonder if this is the most successful troll of all time, but then I just give myself over to enjoying the latest evolving problem and the responses it elicits!

Im not a troll. But thanks?

With regard to where/what to eat, you might enjoy looking at the www.lafourchette.com website. Choose the English version, then click on "Price Set Menus less than 30 euros" on the right. If you spend some time at this website you can get a feel for what is available and where. For restaurants that appeal to you, you can cross reference them on TripAdvisor for reviews and for photos of the food (many people post photos of the dishes they ordered).

I would like to add to what others have already said about being prepared for disruptions to your plans by things you didn't or couldn't anticipate.

One of the most memorable sights I ever saw was emerging from the Pont Alma metro stop at night and looking across the Seine to the Eiffel Tower, then seeing it later in the evening when it was flashing and sparkling. I hope you get to see the same.

Best wishes with your trip.

Well, the wad of cash is a big mistake, but I would certainly assume that uncle's hotel has room safes. Frankly, even when there is not a safe, I have never worried about leaving a certain amount of cash in my room -- but I have never traveled with a "wad."

OK - you always come back to discuss/clarify our advice/suggestions . . . But on this one important issue (more important than carnets/what to order to eat) all you have to say is >>Im not a troll. But thanks?<< . . .

My troll comment was in response to someone who said : " I sometime wonder if this is the most successful troll of all time", and not to those who provided concrete advice.

well - we still don't know how big this 'wad' of cash is . . .

I'm curious - Did someone advise you to buy all that cash?

Well i have about 500€ in cash. No one advised me, I just did it.

>>>> No one advised me, I just did it.

Ah, youth..

We've all been there. I know I have, so I can't give her too hard of a time.

500E, altho a fair chunk of change is not really a wad...I usually take about 200/250E just keep it close!!!

Speak for yourself. 500€ is a wad to a lot of us.

As I understand it, she's only going for a week, and the hotel is paid for. That 500 euros is probably her entire budget. What a shame to have it all tied up in cash and have lost a goodly percentage of it having bought it ahead of time.

But what's done is done, and there's no going back on this one. Just keep an eye on it every minute.

I will! Thanks. I guess this is something I will not be repeating for future travels.
500 euros is a lot of money....for me at least. It's huge.

It's not insubstantial for me, either, which is why I am so dismayed that you lost a big % of it buying them ahead of time. But don't let it spoil your trip at this point. We all make mistakes early on in our travels. And learn from them. As I'm sure you have.

StCirq is so right. We all make mistakes early on, and we learn from them.

You will have a wonderful time. I've really enjoyed this thread, and I hope you'll consider doing some sort of blog page with photos while you are in Paris *and* do a trip report here when you get back.

PFD, please, please tell me you have your passport already.

PFD, chalk it up to experience. Even though I was told not to buy euro before my first trip to Europe, I got too nervous and bought some euro at the airport from a Travelex exchange. I probably lost $60. I called it stupidity tax.

I also couldn't figure out how to get a VAT tax refund on my way out of Paris and probably contributed another $50 to the european economy because I couldn't find the refund kiosk prior to my flight.

Of course I have my passport.

What's a VAT tax refund?

Don't worry about it. VAT is a tax built into the price of almost everything. Hotel, food, tickets, goods/services. But you only get a tax refund on some products you take out of the country. Unless you plan on buying high-ish end (expensive) presents it won't be worth the effort.

VAT tax is a sales tax in Europe and it ranges from country to country, but I think it was around 18-20% in France. If you spend over $250 euro, you can get a refund at the airport as a non-EU citizen. You have to fill out a form and submit it before you leave the EU.

Here is Rick Steves' article about VAT refunds: http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/vat.htm.

"If you spend over $250 euro, . . . "

On things you take home (and anyway, it isn't necessarily €250) . . .

Since your main budget is €500, don't worry about it. Just another confusing thing on your plate . . .

Some of that RS article is just silly. It could be explained in 1/10 that many words . . . but almost certainly you won't buy anything that qualifies.

Forget the VAT issue unless you're spending a lot of money on stuff to take home. You won't, so it's another non-issue.

I am planning on bringing gifts back
Should I worry about it?

check the link and make your own educated decision. You have to keep in mind that Fodorites do not know all the facts pertinent to your situation. The link actually shows that the minimum for France is €175.01 or US $245. It may be important for you to get close to 20% of $250 back.

"Should I worry about it?"

No

Are you taking expensive gifts home? Probably not. souvenirs? $50 or $100 worth of souvenirs will not get you a VAT refund.

Don't worry about it (and don't read that RS article since it will only confuse things)

Well, yes, it may be worth it. But may I offer another piece of advice? This is YOUR trip. Don;t get suckered into "bringing stuff back" for people. Let them make their own trip to Paris and get their own stuff. If you genuinely want to bring things home as gifts for people (who haven't asked for it), that's one thing. But do not feel compelled to take home trinkets for people who haven't bothered to put together their own trip to Paris. You should have souvenirs for you, not for people who never went there.

Well, I'm planning on getting just small things for my friends and family. Key chains, tee shirts. Perfume for my mom, maybe some wine for my dad(I can bring alcohol back, yes?)
Also some macarons, although I'm not too sure how long they would last.
I do want to go shopping for me as well. Anyways, I'll look into this VAT thing.

Yes, you can bring alcohol back, but there's hardly a thing you can buy in Paris that you can't find right here in the States, unless you have very serious and studied tastes in wine.

T-shirts don't make any sense to me - who wants to wear a Paris t-shirt if they haven't actually been to Paris? Who wants to wear one anyway? Key chains - OK, nobody ever sees them anyway, but why?

Save your money and eat/drink better. No one will have any clue where that t-shirt or keychain is 10 years from now, anyway, trust me.

I'm getting flack if I don't bring stuff back. I'm not a wine person, but my Dad wants some French wine, so, advice?

"Anyways, I'll look into this VAT thing."

DON'T. You are getting semi obsessive about things. T-shirts, key chains, miniature Eiffel Towers -- will not get you a VAT refund.

Unless you are buying your Mom a €200 bottle of perfume, you don't need to worry about it.

How much of a connoisseur is he already? What sort of wine does he like at the moment? That might help narrow the choice, at least as between whether he'd be happy with something with a fancy label from the supermarket, or would be expecting a well-known premier cru at the other end of the spectrum.

You're getting too much flack in general, from all members of the family. Tell your dad to go to his favorite wine store and buy whatever's on sale. You need to learn how to deal with "getting flack." And your dad needs to know that hauling a bottle of wine over the ocean isn't exactly a picnic, and is totally unnecessary.

It would be completely impossible to give you, or your dad, advice on a particular bottle of wine, anyway. What does he drink? Red? White? Rosé? From what region? What vintage? What year? Wine isn't simple.

He can go online and order the best stuff imaginable right here in the USA...and you don't have to carry bottles through the Ag line.

He likes red wine.

there are thousands of red wines. He can buy better than you can afford. Don't take wine back home.

Unless you plan on taking a oenology class while you are there - doubtful. Otherwise it is a silly idea for a 20yo first timer to even consider it.

I've been doing a bit of research for bargains when shopping. Have any of you had any experience with Chercheminippes?

http://www.chercheminippes.com/default.aspx

Nope, don't know that and am not interested. Suggest you focus on visiting Paris, not on buying souvenirs for people who aren't visiting Paris. Let them take their own trip. If you want to shop, do it for yourself.

Some areas of Paris (Notre Dame, rue de Rivoli, Sacré Coeur) have a zillion souvenir shops. You will easily find all of your small gifts (keychains, t-shirts, etc.) in any of them. Wait until you've been in Paris for a few days before you start to buy stuff -- you need to get a feel of what the correct prices are first. The illegal African vendors that you will see selling Eiffel Tower keychains on the sidewalk pay 2€ for a bag of 50 -- so you will have a big bargaining margin of you want to buy junk like that!

Oh, and of course there's the Christmas market for buying junk, too. Here is how the one on the Champs Elysées looked on Saturday: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RnS7LsZO0Y

I may be mistaken, but the closest PFD has come to answering the many queries about hotel payment is back on November 3:

"I'm under the impression he isn't expecting money from us, I mean, my cousin made the reservations with him and I wasn't aware. So I'm not sure how much it will be, or even if he expects me to give him anything. Either way, I most certainly cannot afford it."

I opened this thread to see why a transport question would generate 400+ replies, going on two months. If trolling, it's being done very, very effectively.

I can't believe how much info is on this thread and it is still going.

I also do use hotel safes without problems. There is no 100% safe way to handle cash when traveling but I don't think it is wise to carry all your cash with you at one time. I would take what you need for the day, and put it in two different places on your person. The rest, for me, would go in the hotel safe.

If you don't have small bills and lots of 1 and 2 euro coins, ask your hotel to change it for you. If you got your money from a US banks, you will likely have 50 euro bills and they can be hard to break.

If you want to buy macarons, Laduree has a location at CDG. Easier to buy them there.

I am not a souvenir/trinket person but we love to bring back mustard from Maille. It is so good. Hediard is also a good place to shop for small, yummy French things (the little brown butter biscuits are addictive). It is not exactly inexpensive but they have lots that make nice gifts. Fauchon is also another good spot to shop for macarons, candies and other fun gifts. All of these shops are located around Place de la Madeleine. La Maison du Miel is another idea, for honey and beeswax products. Mariage Freres, Maison du The for all things tea and they make a Christmas blend (as does Hediard). Maybe options for a gift for your Mom, that might end up costing less than perfume. Perfume can be hard to buy for others, since it is so personal. Just a thought or two for gift ideas.

I'm not trolling, and I apologize for having taken up so much cyberspace with my queries, but I'm not trolling. My original question about transportation led to people giving me advice about the museum pass and hotels. I did ask questions unrelated to transportation in Paris, I guess, but they have been genuine questions and concerns of mine. It was not my intention to disrupt anyone, and I apologize if I have. I'm not trying to be a troll.

I guess I'm asking so many questions because, as I've said, I've never traveled before and I appreciate and look forward to everyone's advice and suggestions. I have done research, but I feel first hand experiences and accounts from actual travelers are more reliable.

Again, I'm sorry for "trolling". It was most definitely not my intent with this thread.

I never thought this was a troll post. And further to the shopping issue, Hédiard and Fauchon and places like that are great, but pricey. I'm thinking that Monoprix is a good place to pick up little gifts, whether food or otherwise. If you've never been to Paris before, everything looks new and exciting and different, whether it's a "brand" name or not (and folks back home who've never been to Paris won't know the difference anyway). Street markets are also good places to buy inexpensive and unique things.

I don't think anyone really thinks you are a troll. Maybe a bit obsessive/compulsive but definitely not a troll.

Not to worry -- many folks ask LOTS of questions about their upcoming trips. The main difference is they start multiple threads while all your questions/responses are on one gigantic thread. So to someone coming to this late it could look more than weird to have working on 500 posts about 'transportation in Paris'

I think this thread is great but also that you are overplanning -- but some people need to do it that way. That's why I am already looking forward to your second trip when you can skip all of this 'nonsense' (that is not the correct word, of course). It will be a totally different trip when you can stay in a modest hotel in a real working class neighborhood.

My guess is that, despite the massive "overplanning," once in Paris the OP will be having such a good time it'll all go out the window in favor of just enjoying the moment. As it should. Now if she can just manage to ditch the cousin....

Oh, the cousin might be a good person -- but to find out is one of the reasons that we demand an uncensored trip report after this trip after all of the effort that we have put into it. (You can change your name in case family members have been reading this -- we will know how to recognize you.)

It's just twice in 2 days, its been suggested that i am a troll. Like my questions and opinions are so ridiculous, i have to be doing it on purpose.
Anyways, I am looking forward to writing the trip report. Although I'm afraid it might not be as good as some of you may expect. I might end up having a totally drama free trip.

Let's hope so...Nothing but good vibes for the #1 trip!!!

It's just twice in 2 days, its been suggested that i am a troll. Like my questions and opinions are so ridiculous, i have to be doing it on purpose.>>

pfd - they aren't ridiculous - well, not all of them. [joke].

if people weren't having fun answering your questions, they wouldn't come back here. and I'm absolutely certain that your name isn't dobby. [a notorious poster who most of us were convinced was a troll and the rest of us thought was a real idiot].

Fascinating, this would be a good permanent thread for a first time trip to Paris, especially for a younger person. Your thoughts and questions do not at all feel like a troll to me, just someone who is tremendously excited, trying to think of so many things at one time….your hotel, your cousin, the uncle, gifts for those at home etc. etc. etc..…This is all too much, really, for anyone.

I have a feeling that your trip will be fabulous and you will be surprised at how everything will flow for you. You now have the basic information and that is all that you need. Too much control and overplanning can limit your love and joy of this very special trip. Many of the suggestions in this thread will become obvious once you are in Paris. And, the Parisians themselves will help you out!

Somehow, I’d tend to forget buying gifts, but if you really want to, you’ll easily find some great inexpensive things. (good ideas above) Often, I’ve bought gorgeous scarves at markets or street vendors for about 5-10 CDN. There is also a chain of kitchen related stores, La Vaissellerie, where you can buy great inexpensive kitchen stuff.
http://www.ipreferparis.net/2007/11/la-vaissellerie.html

You are so fortunate to be going at Christmastime, I would LOVE to do that one year! Just to give you a hint of the beauty of Paris in that season, here is Kerouac’s thread
With many photos from last year, ‘Christmas 2011 in Paris’,
http://anyportinastorm.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=paris&action=display&thread=5551&page=1

And, ‘Paris, a magical Christmas afternoon,’
http://anyportinastorm.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=paris&thread=4707&page=1#145970

I love your excitement. You have done a beautiful job with your planning. Just relax, trust yourself and enjoy being excited and in Paris at Christmastime at the age of 20!

CopperandJade, what a gracious and positive post. Thank you for being such a supportive Fodorite.

You are almost there..Green with envy!!! Can resist..HUGS!!!

That should be can't resist...So repeat..HUGS

>>>>>I'm getting flack if I don't bring stuff back. I'm not a wine person, but my Dad wants some French wine, so, advice? >>>

The first time I went to Paris, I purchased souvenirs "from Paris" at the local Los Angeles BevMo ("wine from France" aisle), and a few French things online (perfume, soaps, stationary, macarons, etc)... before my trip. I wrapped the gifts in pretty wrapping paper, and put them in my closet. Then I went to Paris.

When I returned from my trip, I gave my family and friends all the lovely French and Parisian items I purchased BEFORE the trip. They were happy, and I didn't have to spend time in Paris stressed out and frantically searching for gifts. Not to mention, I didn't have to worry about bringing a bunch of stuff back with me.

Oh, and bring back a few Paris postcards to use as gift tags.

You are almost there. The suspense is killing me... and another one hundred or so, people.

Thanks so much! All the advice and support ive gotten from everyone here is overwhelming! Im going to have to comb through rhis thread before my trip and remind myself of all the great advice offered here.
Once i do my trip report, am i able to post some of my photos here?
Btw, i got a new phone and downloaded the ratp app, la fourchette app, a trip advisor app, and a map of paris! Im getting more and more excited everyday.

You can't post photos directly here. You need to incorporate them into your report or provide a link to an on-line photo album where others can see them.

Pfd...I just returned from my first trip to Paris and have some thoughts to share with you. It was a beautiful city and very easy to navigate. We purchased the museum pass for four days and it was worth it. We saw so many sights and museums and it was wonderful to skip the lines, flash the pass and not have to worry about paying. We picked ours up at the cdg airport on the way in.
For apps...I used these numerous times- Paris metro (you don't need wifi or 3G to use it and you can plug in the station where you are and where you are heading and it outlines your trip) you will just need to look up the last stop so you know which way you are going. Rick Steve's audio guide for Europe- wonderful guides and talks. I listended to these (ESP the interviews) before I left and they were wonderful, and also helped with the language understanding. I had his Paris guidebook downloaded on my kindle. So as I was sightseeing, I can search information on it, look up recommended places to eat, etc. if you haven't already purchased it, please do. It was an excellent tool for helping me plan my trip. I also had itranslate

(whoops, got cut off) which helped with the language. It has an audio component which helped tremendously.
It was my first time traveling with my iPhone and I can't believe how much I used it. The only problem was keeping my battery from running out by the end of today. Keep your flash off with your camera (if you use it) and watch how many apps you have open.

I know you were wondering about food. My mom and I enjoyed having a cafe au lait each afternoon ...we would sit down, people watch and plan our next adevnture. The desserts are amazing. All of the menus were in English, so it was easy to order. The waiters can and will help you out as well.
If you go to the d'orsay museum (which you should, it was beautiful) please have an eclair ine the amazing cafe on the top floor. It was delicious

As women, we felt very safe. Just keep your euros in your moneybelt, keep your eyes open in the metro and touristy spots like the Eiffel tower and you should be fine.

I found Parisians to be helpful and kind. We always started each conversation with 'Bon jour Madame' etc. keep it formal' attempt a few words in French. It goes far

We got carnets for the metro and bus rides. In retro spect, we should have bought a navigo bc we used public transport so often. We were intimidated by the picture-taking. But there are photo booths at every metro stop so we would have been fine. Carnets were fine though. We needed help figuring out how to buy them at first, but we were good to go after that first round.

Save some $ and skip the hoho tourist sightseeing bus. Read Rick Steve's bus69 tour...and take that instead. It travels the same route! We enjoyed that tremendously and saved 25 euros.
We also enjoyed the Paris walks tours and you don't need a reservation so it is easy to add into your day if time allows. I noticed many young single people on these tours. Inexpensive (actually free and you only need to tip) and gave excellent overview, history, advice, etc.

Enjoy the rest of your planning! I used this forum extensively when planning my trip. If you have a question about anything, just use the search feature or post it.
I'm sure you will have a wonderful time. Enjoy this incredible city!

That was so incredibly helpful! Thanks so much. I don't have ab iPhone, but hopefully the Paris Metro app is available for Androids. I am definitely going to the Orsay Museum, so thanks for the éclair reccomendation! I will try one for sure!
Now, I think I may purchase the Navigo pass. Thanks so much! Are you going to put up a trip report?

I should! I just need to find the time. Glad I could be of help!

Just a small addendum to Keiran's helpful post...if "all the menus are in English" you're probably eating somewhere overpriced, or at least beyond what a student budget normally is.

Language of the menu is irrelevant to me. All that I need is prices.
Has anyone been to Chercheminippes?

I should clarify...most of the menus had English translations on them. If they didn't, the waiters were very helpful. I got a chuckle at some of the translations. One of the specials was 'small piece of a butcher' Oh my!
We would look for the deals (a main and dessert for under 20 euros), take Rick steves or fodorites' suggestions for cheap eats, or just grab a crepe or bowl of soup for a filling and yummy meal.
Ahhh..I miss all that fresh food and the wine with no sulfites (and therefor no hangover)

Agree- skip any place where the menu is in English. It is a guarantee you will be paying too much for poor quality food. Avoid if at all possible.

Just stick to carnets this trip...very simple to use for metro or bus. Remember just to start for the navigo it will cost 5 euro for the card plus a weeks's worth of fares which will be at least 19.15 euros ( depends on which zones you purchase for the week) and it only goes from Monday- Sunday, which may not work as well for your travel schedule. And you will need a photo. Keep it simple for the first trip. A carnet is 12.70 and plenty flexible for your first trip to Paris. We often buy the carnet at a corner tabac.

I see more and more menus in English, or at least with English translations, many at places I have liked. Although probably not at the least expensive places, and less likely in neighborhoods that don't see many tourists.

I just found out about a day pass for young adults on weekends and public holidays that sells for like 3,55 euros.

http://www.ratp.fr/fr/ratp/c_21580/ticket-jeunes-week-end/

I will be getting that for the Saturday and the Sunday, and maybe for New Year's day, because I read somewhere public transport was free that day for certain hours, although I'm not too sure.

On the Sunday, I'll be going to St. Denis Basilica, although what zone is that located in? The day pass for 3,50 is for use in zones 1 to 3, and I'm not sure if it falls within those zones.

Again, language is a non-issue for me. I don't care what language a menu is in, all I care about our prices. I am cheap, but it's not like I have all this money to spend; I'm a student. So cheap recommendations are greatly appreciated.

wow. are* All I care about are* prices. English fail.

If you take métro line 13 to Basilique stop, a regular métro ticket will get you there. If you take the RER, it's more expensive.

The point about menus in English is that places that have them (and I agree with Nikki that there are more and more of them), they're likely to be higher-priced places in touristy areas (like the one you're staying in). So if you want cheap, you'll likely need to be eating in the outer arrondissements. Or buy street food or stuff from markets.

Yes, exactly St Cirq....avoiding all English menus helps you avoid paying obscene amounts for food that is not very good! The point is not the language, the point is that it may be geared only at tourists.

PFD, also agree just take metro 13 to St Denis. You will find all kinds of conflicting info on passes and whether they are cost effective, etc....do what you want but after 6 trips to Paris, a carnet is the most flexible and easy way to get around the city when you will only be there for a week. It is much more simple than trying to get a day pass for some days and different ways to pay on others. What I am trying to get you to see, is that you want to focus on fun. This is your first trip and you will get a little overwhelmed and/or confused, so make it simple and easy wherever possible.

There will likely be some time on NYD that the metro will be free, there was on Christmas Day.

I love Saint Denis Cathedral..I try to visit it often when I go to Paris.

Every restaurant now has an English menu, so the advice about avoiding such places is completely outdated. It is also normal for menus to be in German, Spanish or Italian.

What you need to avoid in terms of tourist restaurants are the places with little flags and 8 languages. I have said it before and I will repeat it!

None of the places we visited in Ménilmontant on our recent trip had any menus in English (or any language other than French).

Ew. All restaurants now have English menus? That's pretty lame. But St. Denis is in which zone?

I believe it's in Zone 3, but it doesn't matter, as you can take the métro to it without any extra charges - line 13 to Basilique.

I haven't ever found all menus in English. Just in touristy areas, for the most part.

Alright thanks!
For this of you used to Paris, how cold does it get? I know I've probably as ked before, but I recently purchased a coat and I hope it will be able to keep me warm. What's the average temperature in late December?

Plan on weather similar to NYC in winter and definitely check the 10 day weatherchannel.com forecast, right before you leave. You will need a warm coat, hat gloves and scarf plus a small travel umbrella. Layers are always good for travel. If you have boots or shoes that are weather resistent/water resistent....take them

If you expect to be outside alot, I like a very thin performance type layer to wear under clothes. The other favorite thing for cold weather travel is those hand warmers you get a outdoor/camping stores. They heat up when exposed to air and are great for your pockets, when you will be outside. They make them for hand, feet and body but I find the ones for your hands are all you need.

OK, I have been in Paris the past few years and have found almost no restuarants with English menus...so I do agree to avoid the places with flags and picture photos. We never eat anywhere near the major tourist spots.

We love St Denis and the 13 will get you there on a regular ticket....it is a bit out there but worth it.

I read that the weather in Paris this time of year ranges from 2 to 7 degrees, which isn't very cold at all, compared to what I'm used to anyways. That doesn't seem too bad, and I think my coat will keep me warm just fine.
I really hope I have a great time and I hope I meet new people!
The 26th cannot come fast enough!

Part of Saint Denis (basilica) is in zone 2 and part of it (university) is in zone 3.

Please reassure me, PFD -- there is no possiblity that your cousin might bail on you at the last minute, is there?

My mistake -- all of Saint Denis is in zone 3. Saint Ouen is in zone 2.

If she bails, it's irrelevant to me. I don't need her to get on the plane.

This is a very long thread, so forgive me if I am repeatin anyone else's advice. But, here are some random thoughts:

1) You mention taking a cell phone. Are you aware that roaming and data charges can be extreme when so far from home? I recommend that you learn how to turn off data roaming on your phone so you don't incur surprise charges. Then buy a flat rate phone/text plan for travel to France and don't use your phone for internet or GPS.

2) Are you aware the Pantheon is a mausoleum? Your cousine might not like it. I found it a bit sterile and spooky (unlike the Pantheon in Rome which is spectacular!) Not a must-see in Paris, IMHO.

3) If you do have a nice weather day and run into any markets, a fun Paris lunch is a baguette, a hunk of cheese, a few pieces of fruit, a demi-bottle of red wine, and a chocolate bar to finish it off! Find a park bench and have lunch. This also makes for a fun in-room dinner if you are tired and don't want to sit in a restaurant. You will see there are many take-away places Europe to have an inexpensive meal (e.g. point to the Quiche Lorraine in the deli case, Have them heat it up and walk away with eating it.

4) I can't speak for the young crowd, but generally I'd say the French culture is a bit more formal than American or Canadian. Americans think they are being friendly when they are very informal and the French think they are being friendly when they are more formal/respectful, so we can often misunderstand each other. My advice, when in a shop or a restaurant, or the hotel desk: make eye contact, always use the appropriate greeting (Bon jour, madam....Aurevoir, Monsieur, etc. and always say Merci with the cheerful lilt)

As to using your cellphone with data in Paris: there's a lot of free wifi around in public parks, at Mc Donald's (sorry, sorry, but it's true) and at a lot of cafe's. Just ask for the "code" and you're set.

Having lunch on a park bench wouldn't be my idea of winter fun, and 2 - 7 centigrade is cold, especially if it's also wet, which it will be. Better to be on a heated terrace. I can almost guarantee you that the weather end of december - beginning january will not be nice. Exceptions excepted of course.

@PFD: yes to your discovery of the Mobilis pass. It's brilliant and easily bought from a ticket window. It will save you a lot of money, compared to carnets.

This evening it is 3° in Paris and we may see snowflakes before the end of the week. But of course this is meaningless in terms of weather on December 27th.

2-7 degrees is most definitely not cold. Chilly, but I've lived through much much worse. The wet, 2-7 temperature will be a nice change compared to what I will be having at home. So I guess "nice" weather is relative.
As for the data, I know. I plan on using wifi, I cannot afford the other option.

"passionfruitdrink37 on Dec 2, 12 at 2:22pm
If she bails, it's irrelevant to me. I don't need her to get on the plane."

But isn't her father funding your hotel?

I'm pretty sure it's non refundable, so the chances of her bailing are pretty nonexistent. Also, I could find a hotel on the off chance of that happening.

Have you decided what and how to pack? How much luggage are you taking?