Paris, France– Many at some point perceive this destination to be a ‘city of love’, with eye-catching fashionistas and charming eateries at every turn. The painted picture of Paris in my childhood mind included berets, poodles, and theatrical mimes in invisible boxes. It’s 1 of the 1st places I remember ever wanting to visit… and it was none of that. With time, these stereotypical impressions may have faded but the desire to visit never waned; I became attracted to the language, gastronomy, and architecture. First time in France had a fair share of surprises for me, a Jamaican, Black woman. It was a 5-day birthday vacation in 2022 based in Paris and nearby Clichy, with day trips to Versailles and Champagne. If you’re getting ready to visit France (especially for the first time), these are a few things learned there that could be super helpful.

Things to Know: First-time Visit to France

When visiting France (or Europe), you’ve probably already been advised to pack comfortable shoes for walking and a travel plug adaptor. Many visitors’ first time in France lead to ‘Paris Syndrome’—  an underwhelming feeling and form of culture shock— which could be minimized by setting the right expectations. Fortunately, I had an awesome 5-day stay in my childhood dream destination! Below are some useful insights that were mostly learned while there, and can help hopefully enhance your trip!

By the way, quick reminder…

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Learn French for a Paris Trip?

Apparently, you don’t have to be fluent or even intermediate to communicate effectively around France’s tourist areas. Most of the French people I spoke with between the city of Paris and the Champagne countryside spoke some level of English. Don’t let that stop you from learning a few social phrases though!​ Starting an exchange with ‘bonjour’ (good day), ‘comment t’allez-vous?’ (how are you?), ‘parle vous anglais?’ (do you speak English?) could probably get a more positive response.

It was surprising how helpful my struggle-French turned out to be! Though I can speak some French, during this first time in France I hadn’t practised in years. Brushing up those language skills with a little support from Google Translate app proved to be adequate for the 5-day stay.

Do French People Really Smell?

Public transportation is popular for tourists and locals in big cities like London, New York, and Paris. Disappointing to mention this, but “stinky Frenchman” is 1 stereotype that proved true in my experience. The stench of heavy body odour cocoons train cars regularly. It made me wonder if riding the metro in France inspired the creation of Looney Tunes character, Pepe Le Pew! Thankfully the odours seemed mostly limited to the stations and some streets; it was starkly different from my bus and rideshare experiences.

Are designer brands cheaper in France?

France is a global fashion capital, and home to many top designers like Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermès. If you’re looking to save on luxury shopping France should top your list; it’s a market leader dominating apparel, cosmetics, and fragrance industries.  Champs-Élysées is the most popular commercial avenue in Paris, lined with high-end establishments and department stores.

Lower shipping fees to distribute within the continent and flagship designer stores here allow name brand products to be priced cheaper in France than many other countries. A value-added tax (VAT) is a percentage of the price consumers pay at the point of purchase… and you can get it back! Certain items, such as designer goods, qualify for a VAT refund. For extra savings on your French shopping spree, check if pricier retail items are eligible so you can claim.

Apply for VAT Refund in France:

• • Ensure product is new, unused, and of a certain amount— as of November 2023 the minimum retail amount is 175 Euros in the European Union, and a standard VAT rate of 20% in France.
  • Ask a store clerk if the business participates in a VAT refund program. If they are, they may have to provide a document at purchase.
  • Have product and receipt on hand
  • Have proof of your visitor status, like a passport and/or airline ticket

Before leaving France, go extra early to the airport/ train station/ port to submit VAT refund requests. It may take some time to fill out paperwork and present the above items to a customs agent to qualify for money back.

How are French Bathrooms Different?

If you’re not familiar with bathrooms in Europe, you could be in for a couple surprises here. Instead of flushing handles at the side, French toilets might have buttons on the top. The buttons promote water conservation by flushing using different amounts. A potentially bigger culture shock than that (if you encounter 1) is a squat toilet— pretty much a hole in the floor. These are not common but are still a part of some bathrooms. Some may also have a French bidet– a lower-body washing basin– in addition to a toilet.

Europeans typically have a smaller body frame than Caribbean people, which may explain why I found almost every bathroom and chair to be tiny. Personal space in France can be a luxury in some places, but I really didn’t expect the bathroom to be 1 of them!

Are washcloths used in Europe?

You may be surprised how many people around the world don’t bathe with washcloths. If a washcloth / rag is normally a part of your shower ritual this is your reminder to pack it ahead of your trips, including a visit to France. Washcloths are personal items which hotels may be less likely to provide. This birthday trip included 4 hotels between Milan, Italy and Paris, France– 3 of which didn’t provide washrags in the room. In some European areas, you may not even be lucky to find them in stores, so be sure to pack your own for extra comfort when travelling here.

What are French Cafe and Bistro Cultures?

In a land with gastronomy at the heart, French eateries are considered social hubs and integral to the local lifestyle. On just about every turn there seems to be people spilling over onto sidewalk seating of a French cafe or bistro. Personal space isn’t extensive– outdoor tables are arranged closely, seats may be surprisingly narrow, and you probably shouldn’t expect much legroom. These intimate hang outs are great for simple orders, link ups, and watching the world go by.

Difference between French Cafe and French Bistro

Cafes primarily serve hot beverages, complemented by light fare and pastries. In France they’re open throughout the day, with some changing their menu and setting in the evening. Bistros are usually open for lunch and dinner, and are less casual than a cafe but more relaxed than a French restaurant.

Dishes like escargot (snails), confit de canard (duck) and steak frites (steak with fries) were some of the menu staples across Parisian bistros I dined. The most authentic cuisine I probably had before this first time in France was a French-fusion restaurant in Negril. As a Jamaican and lover of earthy flavours, most of the meals eaten in France needed more spices to appease my palette; table salt and pepper shakers were often utilized.

Does Paris have a Pickpocket Problem?

Paris is 1 of the top pickpocketing tourist sites in Europe. It’s common for unsuspecting visitors to be relieved of their wallets, phones, bags and other possessions by crafty groups and individuals. Most basic advice that worked for me is to practise awareness, keep your valuables minimal, close and in view when in public. Some popular pickpocket havens are reportedly around major attractions, like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Champs-Elysées shopping district, and a busy metro station.

When is the Eiffel Tower Light Show?

Does anyone truly visit France without snapping photo proof of 1 of the world’s most iconic monuments— the Eiffel Tower? Scores of tourists line up to ascend the French landmark throughout the day, but at night it really shines! Hundreds of bulbs cover the French centrepiece in golden lights to illuminate the cityscape.

An even more spectacular sight is the Eiffel Tower nightly light show where it twinkles every hour on the hour, from dusk until 11PM. The dazzling spectacle was an unexpected treat during a night walk in the city, which inspired video calls to loved ones to share in the moment. It was awesome and made that stroll 1 of the most delightful I’ve taken anywhere!

Conclusion

A first time in France doesn’t have to be challenging for a native English speaker or non-European! If your visit is based in Paris, it is touristy enough to comfortably navigate your way; support from a translator app/friend could make an even smoother experience. Let go of the fantasy of seeing an abundance of berets, poodles, and couples. Open up to the French arts, gastronomy, architecture, shopping and more that awaits you. Bon voyage!