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Dos and Don'ts: How to Not Stand Out as a Tourist in Paris

View from Eiffel Tower Summit
View from Eiffel Tower Summit

The City of Lights, Ville de l'Amour, The Fashion Capital of the World, Paris' reputation proceeds itself. This contemporary, haute couture capital is the largest city in France with several world-famous landmarks including Musée du Louvre, Seine River, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Musée d’Orsay and Eiffel Tower. Visiting Paris is a dream...the ambiance, fashion, delicacies, Paris radiates a magic that draws people throughout the world over and over again.


Soak in Parisian culture and do...


L'Ukraine en marche
L'Ukraine en marche peinture

Wear comfortable, simplistic attire

Parisians typically dress in body flattering clothes that aren't too tight or too loose. When packing for your Parisian holiday, include weather appropriate clothes that compliment your body. Another tip you want to include are purses or bags, as this is what typical people use as accessories in Paris.



The Seine River and Eiffel Tower
The Seine River and Eiffel Tower

Ask

Show Parisian etiquette by asking if you have a request instead of making demands. If you're interested in sampling a food item, ask the owner if you can taste a sample. If you're dining at a restaurant, ask your waiter to bring the bill. Generally, French people tend to be conservative, formal people and usually don't engage in personal details such as finances, religion and politics with people they're not familiar with. Showing politeness while talking to people when visiting Paris will enhance your experience.


Arc de Triomphe
Arc de Triomphe

Conversate with friendly eye contact

When engaging in a conversation with a Parisian, look into their eyes in a warm, friendly matter. This simple communication technique is a great way to connect with Parisians.


Do note, when in a public place (i.e. shopping center, out in the streets), some Parisians consider it rude to make direct eye contact with a stranger and view it as a disturbance to personal space. An exception to this would be a social situation such as a celebration or gathering where alcohol is served, where engaging in friendly eye contact is a positive form of communication.


Petit Palais
Petit Palais

Say "Bonjour," "Bonsoir," and "Merci"

French residents are a proud people and take pride in their national language Française. When preparing for your holiday in Paris, learn a few French words such as:


Bonjour: Hello

Bonsoir: Good Evening

Merci: Thank you


Paul Café including le café au lait, tarte aux framboises and pain au fromage
Paul Café including le café au lait, tarte aux framboises and pain au fromage

Sit and enjoy your food and beverages

Parisians love their food. With so many mouthwatering options including croissants, champagne, macarons, crêpes, escargot, soufflé and wine, Parisians take their time when dining. Engage in the same practice while visiting Paris by finding a seat and engaging all your senses in your meal. An obvious tourist sign is walking with food or beverage in your hand. Parisians have mastered the art of mindful eating and is a great way to not stand out as a visitor, enhance your dietary practices and indulge in French culture.


The following are things you shouldn't do when visiting Paris:


Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral

Be loud

A large portion of people in Paris are traditionalists who are private with information they share and don't speak in a loud matter. Speaking in an indoor voice is considered polite and a good etiquette practice while visiting Paris. Visitors will have a better experience and take in more Parisian culture by being mindful of information shared with others and speaking in a soft, warm way.


Another communication tip is not using superlatives. Keep a cool, calm, collected demeanor and avoid screams and exclamations like "Oh My Gosh," "Awww," "It's You!"


French Designer Louis Vuitton
French Designer Louis Vuitton

Wear a fanny pack or backpack

Backpacks and fanny packs are a big giveaway a person is a tourist. Paris is the fashion capital of the world and Parisians style themselves with purses and bags. To prevent any thefts while visiting Paris, use an anti-theft crossbody bag which normally comes with locks to prevent zippers from being open and its shape across the chest makes it difficult for anyone to take. This is a practical, stylish way to accessorize while visiting Paris to keep your belongings safe and immerse yourself in Parisian culture.

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