While France can feel much different than America, that’s the great thing about traveling.
As an American, France is almost always a bucket list destination. But if this is your first time visiting the country, there are some things you’ll want to know before crossing the big pond. Here are a few tips:
Back open for business
On August 1, 2022, France officially ended the pandemic-era entry requirements that mandated proof of vaccination or negative COVID tests. Individuals entering the country no longer need these items to fly, nor are they required for entry into restaurants, bars, museums, and other event spaces. The same goes for mask mandates, which have been lifted. However, they are still encouraged by many business owners and individuals.
France is more than Paris
When most people think “France,” they immediately think “Paris.” But that’s like a traveler thinking the United States is nothing more than New York City. There’s so much more to see and do – don’t limit yourself to only seeing Paris.
“France is one of the most geographically diverse countries I’ve ever visited,” travel blogger Nadine Maffre writes. “From the stunning Calanques bordering the Mediterranean to the mighty ochre canyons of Roussillon and Rustrel, to the pine-fringed plains of the Landes, the volcano-studded Auvergne, and the mountainous wilderness of the Pyrenees.”
If you’re uncertain of what else to see and do, meet with a travel planner – preferably someone from France – and be open-minded. There are incredible things to experience outside of Paris.
Always book ahead
If you are in a major city or popular tourist destination, be sure to book ahead for major attractions. It’s rare that you can just arrive at the Eiffel Tower or Louvre and just buy a ticket on the spot. (If you do so, you might have to wait several hours, or even a couple of days, to get in.)
We recommend planning your itinerary well in advance and purchasing tickets at least a couple of weeks in advance. This will ensure you’re able to see and do everything you want to experience.
Learn some basic French
Anyone who owns a business or lives in a major French city is going to speak some English. (Many of them speak it fluently as a second language.) However, as you move into less touristy areas, you may find that some French is necessary in order to navigate.
Nobody expects an American to be fluent in French, but it’s polite to at least try. If nothing else, use a translation app on your phone and repeat the words in your own voice. You’ll at least get a smile for the effort.
Use the Bidet (it won’t bite!)
If you’re accustomed to using American restrooms, the French bathrooms will look a bit different. More specifically, you’ll notice a toilet and a bidet.
As Bidet Mate explains, “The French have a saying, ‘les toilettes sont pour les pipi et le bidet est pour le caca.’ This means ‘the toilet is for peeing and the bidet is for pooping.’ And that's exactly what they do! The bidet is very popular in France and it's used to clean your bottom after using the toilet.”
Don’t be afraid to use the bidet. It might be different, but it’s not scary. Simply use it after using the restroom. A couple of pieces of toilet paper may be used afterward to finish up.
Tipping is different
France does not have a tip-centric culture – at least not to the same degree as we do in the United States. Most service workers are paid a full wage, therefore it’s not something they depend on.
If you’re extremely happy with your meal, you can leave a five to 10 percent tip. It’ll be appreciated. However, tipping is a gesture – not an obligation. You won’t be seen as rude for not leaving one.
Safe travels
The beautiful thing about France is that there’s so much to see and do. And there’s something for everyone! Whether you want the hustle and bustle of Paris or the relaxing feel of a chateau in the middle of wine country, you can find it in France.
While France can feel much different than America, that’s the great thing about traveling. It allows you to experience different cultures and embrace the hospitality of others. Enjoy your time, be safe, and make lots of memories!
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
