I have two questions - first the ATM machines do have an English option - I hope?<BR><BR>2nd - if you have 3 1/2 days in Paris (first time), would you spend one of those days on a "side trip" to Versaille (and Giverny) or would you just explore Paris all 3 1/2 days?

Most, but not all, ATM's in Paris seemed to have a language option. Much more likely around the tourist areas than in the neighborhoods. It's not too tough to puzzle through what the machine is asking for though, because the transaction unfolds in exactly the same way as in the US.<BR>I would stay in Paris all 3 1/2 days, myself. But that's a matter of your preferences. The trip would not be terribly long or disruptive, but it would take away from lots of other things you could do in Paris. Three and a half days would not be enough for me....

The ATM machines have an English option. But it does not necessary say that in English, you might have to push an icon of UK flag to get that option.<BR><BR>Both are doable as side trip, depends on your interest. Giverny is a half day trip, leave Paris around 9am, back by 2pm, mostly you can't stand the crowd there anymore to stay there longer. Versailles is a full day trip because it is huge.

Even if you happen across an ATM w/o English instructions you wil be OK. They work just like at home and the french words are easy to decipher.<BR><BR>As for you 2nd question. Both places are wonderful - BUT with such a short time for your first visit to Paris I would not try either one. Paris is so full of fantastic places to see and experience, you would be cutting put a lot to devote almost a full day outside of the city.

Having spent 7 months living in Paris, I can tell you that all ATMs I came accross had an English option. Personally, I would spend all your time in Paris - there is so much to do and see. 7 months wasn't even enough for me! Both Versailles and Giverny are worth a trip but you could not do both on the same day. Depending on your interests, I would choose Versailles over Giverny although this would take the entire day.

Actually this side trip is one that is offered by Paris Vision (that covers both places).

If I had only 3-1/2 days in Paris, 1st time, I would not use one up for a day trip. However, that's me, I think you have to decide for yourself what you really really want to see in Paris vs. how much you want to see those other things. There is no answer right for everyone. I think you realize that day trip by Paris Vision will not leave you a lot of time in either, but those bus tours are efficient and convenient and about the only way you could do both in 1 day (they get priority entrance also, I presume, most organized tours do, so you won't have to wait).

Can someone tell me EXACTLT what words they will have if not in English?<BR>What are the basic words I must know in order to perform the transaction.<BR>I know how lame this sounds but it;s alot better than not being able to get any money out because our French isn't good enough.<BR>Before you all yell, I am still studying my PImsleur Tapes. <BR>

sorry for the typo: should read "EXACTLY"