July 27th, 2007
Know the Local Parisian Culture
Cabs
Taxis can be hard to find, especially at rush hour, at night, and on rainy days. Your best bet is to find a taxi rank marked with a blue sign, or to ask your hotel Doorman or the restaurant maître d’ to call a taxi for you. A white light on a taxi’s roof indicates the car is free. An orange light means the cab is busy. Most drivers will not take more than three people. Also, expect to pay an extra fee if someone sits in front, or if you place some heavy luggage in the trunk.
Cafe & Restaurant Tipping
By law, all bills show “service compris” which means the tip is included. You can leave some small change if you like, but there is no obligation.
Language
It usually helps if you make a little effort to speak a little French. A simple, friendly “Bonjour” will do, as will asking if the person you are greeting speaks English.
Metro
Taking the metro is definitely the most efficient way to get around Paris. Fourteen metro lines and five RER (regional express network) lines crisscross Paris and its suburbs. It is essential to pay attention to the final stop on the line you are taking; it is that one that will indicate the direction you are going in. Look for the orange “correspondence” sign if you need to connect with another line. Look for the blue “Sortie” sign to find the station exit. The tickets can be purchased at machines or ticket counters in each station. Make sure to hold your ticket until the end of your journey, as inspectors may ask you for it. Metro service starts from 5:30am and continues until 1:00am.
Know more about visiting us in Paris.
