There is nowhere else that has inspired as much art as France. Writers go there to write, painters go there to paint, chefs go to cook and people go to explore. It is the most popular tourist destination in the world, with millions going annually to experience the picturesque countryside and the metropolitan cities. It is a country right in the heart of Europe, and you can feel the beat of an entire continent.
France is the food capital of the world, with gastronomical creations that will make you forget every other meal you’ve ever had. France is the fashion capital of the world, with boutique shops and legendary designer stores. France is the art capital of the world, with the Louvre housing some of the most incredible artistic creations of mankind. And if you ask the French, France is simply the capital of the world.
Language
The french speak french, and they love it. Language is, like everything in their country, art to them. So when you travel to France, try some of it out. Just knowing simple phrases like “Bonjour” and “Merci” will ingratiate you with a lot of the locals, and make an awkward language interaction in line at a coffee shop into a chance to make a friend. The people of France just appreciate that you try to speak their language, so don’t worry about being perfect.
Currency
France runs on the euro, as most of Europe does. As we write this travel guide, the Euro sits at €1.00 for $1.09 USD, but that is subject to change. We always suggest going to your own personal bank before you leave, and ordering some euros to take with you. That way, you step off the plane with some cash you can use. France is credit card friendly, so don’t be afraid to use plastic while there. Just let your credit card company know you’re off on a french adventure after you book your cheap flight.
French Cuisine
Look, we have limited room here. It’s a crime to try and fit any advice about eating in France in this tiny space we have here. People have written books about eating in France, so we’re keeping it brief. Our big piece of advice; try absolutely everything. You have to go to a boulangerie-patisserie and get fresh bread and cakes. Try the wines and the coffee and the ice cream. Eat often, eat adventurously, and make it a point to truly try to experience the cuisine of France.
Tech Tips
There are a lot of Wifi options in France, especially in the big cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Marseilles, and Nice. You can find them everywhere, from parks to museums, and they’re completely free. Other cities, like the ski towns in the French Alps, have something called HIPPOCKETWIFI where you get Wifi access for a fee. As always, when you’re traveling the world, remember to bring along an outlet converter so you can plug in your cell phone charger, hairdryer, or whatever.
Cultural Differences
There are some things to keep in mind when you visit France. Smoking cigarettes is still a big part of the culture there, so don’t be offended if someone lights up next to you. Kissing friends on the cheeks seems like a cartoonish cliche, but it happens all the time so be prepared for a few cheek-smooches. It’s also worth repeating that the French love it when Americans try and speak a little french, even if they fail spectacularly at it; it shows respect for the culture.
