How To NOT Look Like A Tourist In Paris – The Do’s And Don’ts
It’s one of the most romantic cities in the world, known for art, fashion, fantastic food and a culture full of chic locals living their best lives. While France is one of the most-visited countries in Europe, this doesn’t mean you want to stick out like a sore (foreign) thumb! Here are a few ways you can combat the tacky tourist labels North Americans are often labeled with.
Wardrobe
It’s no secret that Parisians are stylish, and the city itself is a hub for fashion and creatives alike. Before you go out and buy a whole new wardrobe fit for Paris Fashion Week take stock of your closet. You probably already have an attire that would blend in on the streets of Paris. Leave a bit of room in your suitcase though, because there’s no doubt that you will want to pick up a few items in Paris to show off to your friends back home!
Do: Bring plain t-shirts, well-tailored pants or a comfortable skirt, a nice pair of shoes
Don’t: Bring your baseball caps, Hawaiian shirts, and sports jerseys
Vocals
No one likes a loud talker, especially in Paris. French people tend to be even quieter than the rest of Europeans. Anglophone voices have a habit of carrying and standing out, so be sure to use your inside voice (even outside).
Take some time on the plane to brush up on some basic French. Learning some basic French phrases goes a long way, and is a sign of respect. Speaking of respect, say “bonjour” when you enter a store, “au revoir” when you leave, and “non merci” if someone is offering you something that you don’t want.
Do: Speak softly, and make an effort to communicate in French
Don’t: Shout into your cell phone, or expect everyone to speak to you in English
Dining
From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy neighbourhood cafes, it’s hard to beat the dining scene in Paris. For the French, dining is an experience, and one not to be rushed. Don’t gulp your meal, and certainly don’t expect the quick food and service that you may experience in North America. Expect for your meal to take some time, and enjoy the slower pace that allows you to appreciate every sip and morsel.
Up until recently, most customers didn’t dare ask for the remains of their meal, as restaurateurs can see it as ‘degrading’ their dishes. This is slowly starting to change, but if you want to be on the safe side and you happen to not finish your meal, do not ask for a to-go container (aka a doggy bag).
Also, while it’s customary in North America to tip up to 20%, in France the gratuities are included – listed as “service compris” on your bill and is usually about 18%.
Do: Try restaurants off the beaten path, further away from the tourist attractions
Don’t: Request modifications to your meal at a restaurant, as it’s considered rude (unless for medical or dietary restrictions)
Day-to-Day Life
Paris is not only a charming and romantic destination, but also a major metropolitan city. With that in mind, you need to keep your wits about you and be conscientious of pick pocketers who prey on travelers. Avoid hanging your handbag on the back of your chair in restaurants and cafes, and don’t carry an excessive amount of cash on you. Utilize the safe (if there is one) in your hotel to store valuables, and keep your bag or valuables in front of you when using the metro or visiting crowded tourist attractions. It’s also a good idea to wear your purse across your body, as opposed to hanging off of one shoulder. Be sure to keep it zipped or buttoned shut at all times as well.
Forget your checklist of attractions to see, and instead consider flaneur (strolling, or meandering) with no real end game. The best times while traveling are often not visiting main attractions or following your itinerary to a ‘T’. They tend to be the genuine, authentic moments in between. It’s the buttery pain-au-chocolat you eat on a park bench, or the fromagerie you discover as you meander down cobbled side streets, or even the pride you feel when you successfully complete a basic exchange in another language. That’s what you’ll remember when your suitcase is unpacked, the souvenirs given out, and the photos are printed. Those moments are what you’ll be looking forward to experiencing again on your next adventure!
Do: Soak it all in, people watch, and leave room in your travels for free time to allow little miracles to happen
Don’t: Visit Paris only once!
Final Thoughts
Follow these tips and you’ll be glad that you did! You’ll be able to make the most out of your time in the City of Light with so much to offer and blend in along the way. If you have always dreamed of going to Paris with a group of like-minded women, consider joining our travel club. You can learn more about the perks of joining Wander and Soul’s Travel Club here. Just remember, in the words of Audrey Hepburn, “Paris is always a good idea”!