Paris survival guide: More Dos & Don'ts

St Martin Canal Street is in the heart of Paris
(Photo: oyau -- licensed under the Creative Commons 
Attribution 3.0 Unported license)

PARIS — Venturing beyond your normal boundaries is part of the excitement of travel, especially for inexperienced wanderlusters who harbor fears of language barriers, currency conversions and similar aversions.

Sidewalk cafes and bistros are part of the charm of Paris
(Courtesy: The Local France)

Though Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, it can also be one of the most intimidating thanks, in large part, because of its reputation for rudeness.

This week we offer Part Two of Do's & Don'ts for surviving in the French capital, and sometimes other major European cities as well.

Taxis can be tricky and expensive if you are not careful
(Photo: Pixabay)

1 - Don't Use Taxis to Get Around Town: For starters, unlike New York City where you can flag a cab from virtually anywhere, in Paris, and many other European cities, you must either call ahead or find a taxi stand.

If you are willing to do that, then be prepared for traffic and one-way streets that can send your fare sky-rocketing.

The Metro is fast, convenient and
cheap (Photo: Pixabay)

The Alternative: .For short distances, why not try walking? It's a great way to immerse yourself into the fabric of Parisian lifestyles and culture. 

Europeans typically walk themselves, so it's an ideal way to immerse yourself into a whole new world you cannot experience from a taxi.

For longer outings, use the Metro. Again, unlike New York, most European subways are much cleaner than NYC and more traveler friendly. Paris is no exception and the nearest station is always just a short distance away.

Service is frequent, inexpensive and often faster than a cab. Trains operate until 1 a.m. during the week and 2 a.m. on weekends.

The Moulin Rouge (The Red Windmill) is famous for its Bohemian 
atmosphere (Photo: Pixabay)

2 - Don't Go Bohemian on the Left Bank: Places change, consequently once famous locales have often outlived their former character and charm. The Orient Express was once regarded as the ultimate in rail travel, but today the train made so famous by Agatha Christie, though still elegant, has been surpassed by other more luxurious rail journeys.

Jean Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir were regulars at Les Deux Magots on Boulevard St. Germain as were other artistes and intellectuals. While St. Germain still has its appeal, don't expect to find the great thinkers of the world in the area these days. Especially when considering the overpriced budget-busting menus.

The Champs Elysee is pricey too
(Photo: Pixabay)

The Alternative: Today, the place to discover the heart and soul of Paris is in a once run-down section of the city on Canal St. Martin in the tenth arrondissement.

Though France has long been known for its wine, Paris has kept pace with the now popular micro-brewery trend such as the Paname Brewing Company on the Bassin de la Villette. Atmosphere is the key here with a location that overlooks the water as you drink craft beer inspired by the neighborhood.

Rue Beaurepaire is another great spot that thrives with lively cafes and chic boutiques.

There are several places in Paris with great views such as
 Montmarte (Photo: Pixabay)

3 - For a Great View, Skip the Eiffel Tower: Unless you enjoy standing in long lines and going through airport-style security checks, it is probably best to experience the Eiffel Tower from the outside rather than the top.

While there may be perceived status in seeing Paris from the summit of Mr. Eiffel's creation, there are actually better views to be had.

Arch de Triumph has excellent
views of Paris (Photo:Taylor)

The Alternative(s): Not far away is the Arch de Triumph where the viewing deck offers a great panorama of the city which also includes the Eiffel Tower. The walk is pleasant and relatively easy so you can get some exercise in the process.

Another choice is the Montparnasse Tower which also has  spectacular vistas without the lines.

Until the recent fire at Notre Dame, there were lovely views of the city which included the Seine and other sights along the river. Complete with its famous gargoyles, this was once a charming place to visit. Be sure to check in advance however, due to the progress of reconstruction.

You will also find crowds at Montmarte near the Moulin Rouge, but the scenery is expansive and with the wide open area, the panoramas are easy to view. Here you can also visit the Basilica of Sacre Coeur and stroll through narrow streets lined with colorful cafes and artists.

There's a difference between frugal and cheap...Frugal is better
(Courtesy: Timeout)

4 - The Cheapest Hotel isn't Always the Best Deal: Perhaps more than any other category, this one requires the most research, and it is universally true throughout Europe.

One thing most travelers do not understand is the hotel star-system. It's actually based upon the number of amenities and services offered rather than the perceived idea of quality.

Therefore a 4-star property may even be better than its 5-star counterpart but does not get the higher rating because it doesn't offer 24-hour room service.

Price should not be the determining factor in many cases. Other things such as location, access to dining, transportation and various venues of interest should also be considered.

Online booking services are fine for some things, but it is always better to speak with a knowledgeable person who can give you quality advice. Sometimes that obscure little B&B may just be the ideal match.

Do your homework.

An apartment might be a better
option (Photo: Pixabay)

The Alternative: With a little effort you can probably find a furnished apartment that suits both your budget and your taste. In the process, you'll likely have more space and value for your traveling dollar.

Conde Nast Traveler advises "When in doubt, opt for an apartment in a single-digit arrondissement and check how close the nearest Metro station is."

Airbnb and VRBO have become popular options for do-it-yourself travelers, but if you are willing to swallow your price and let experts save you time, hassles and money try Paris Perfect Guest Apartment Services and/or Haven in Paris.

Bottom line: Travel only has to be difficult if you make it that way. Even in Paris.