Doesn’t it feel great to be traveling once again? For many of us, that means we can finally take that whimsical trip to Paris that we have been dreaming about for the past few years. But Paris is one of those destinations where it is best enjoyed if you can do it how the locals do. Plus, if you are an obvious tourist here you may actually end up getting harassed.
There have been too many stories of people who have had their dreams crushed while in Paris because they did not understand the dos and don’ts of the city. This is where we come in because we want to help make sure that you not only find the true gems of Paris but do so without getting treated like a tourist. So in preparation for your trip, here are the top tips for doing Paris right.
1. Do Store Your Luggage
Nothing makes you look like a tourist more than lugging your bags around the city. So when you arrive, get them into a secure luggage storage Paris location from the get-go. You will be able to find a great location pretty much anywhere in the city, from the airport or train station to museums and even restaurants.
Best of all, you can pre-book your luggage storage online before you even arrive. That way you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time getting to explore Paris. Plus, the majority of things you’d want to be doing will be annoying if you have bags to deal with. So best to get them stored and not have to stress about them at all.
2. Do Learn the Rules of Chit Chat
The French expect you to speak French. So while you may not be fluent, you should at least try to learn a few basic words and phrases before you arrive. Not only will the locals respect you for trying, but it is one of the most respectful things you can do in that culture. There are tons of free language apps you can practice on. But it is also important to remember that the locals do not enjoy pointless chit-chat. So whether you are speaking in French or English, keep the conversation relevant and purposeful.
3. Don’t Rush Your Meals
The French really value sitting down for meals. This means that you should never be rushing food time. Instead, sit down, enjoy the moment and savor the company. It is totally normal for lunches or dinners to go on for hours. It is all part of the Parisian lifestyle and something that you should be taking full advantage of.
The best local spots to eat are far away from the tourist attractions. So chances are anything near the Eiffel Tower will be overpriced and overrated. You also want to be mindful that regardless of where you eat, having your phone out at the table is extremely frowned upon. You are there to enjoy an experience, so save the texting for when you get back to your hotel room.
4. Do Shop Like a Parisian
Paris is one of the most fashionable cities on the planet. So it is an absolute must to shop like a Parisian while you are there. This means hitting up some of the local shops like Merci and Le Bon Marche. But you can also find a ton of gems in their vast collection of vintage stores too.
This brings us to another great tip as well. You definitely will want to dress like a local while in Paris. This means having a primarily black base and accessorizing with a colorful scarf or jacket. The goal of the local style is to look effortlessly chic.
5. Don’t Get Sucked into Tourist Traps
While it is the dreamy Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame buildings that have drawn you to visit this iconic city, you want to be mindful about not getting sucked into tourist traps. For example, it is certainly not worth your time or money to see the Mona Lisa. Not only is the painting tiny and the crowds enormous, but you will end up missing all the amazing museums that you can intimately connect with.
Some of the best places to explore are through the Marais, especially the 3rd and 4th quarters. You will adore checking out the stunning mansions, cobblestone streets, and local cafes. This will be the Paris that you end up falling in love with.
6. Do Expect to Be Surprised
Paris is full of surprises, especially if you can get out of the mindset of being a tourist. Simply walking through the various quarters will make you realize that this city is full of diversity, wonder, and delight.
Conclusion
With these do’s and don’ts, you will be squared away to have the time of your life in Paris.
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