Survival guide

Everyday Paris survival tips from Jenny.

1. Watch out for buses and cars: they will most likely NOT stop for you. Despite a recent law requiring vehicles to always stop at crosswalks, in practice, pedestrians seldom have the right of way.

2. Watch out for les crottes de chien (dog poop) on the streets!

3. Beware of pickpockets, especially in Montmartre: don't go near the guys who sell "Friendship Bracelets" at Sacre Coeur. They'll rob you before you know it (we saw them being arrested and stolen goods being confiscated).

4. Walk right past anyone who says they'll do something for you (i.e. draw a quick portrait for you, take a photo for you), especially if they SAY it's free… remember, NOTHING of this sort is free.

5. Have an umbrella handy.

6. Unless you want to be yelled at by your friendly foreign neighbors, don't talk with your hotel door open at midnight.

7. Remember the exchange rate. If it's not in the dollar's favor, keep in mind that you may be spending more than you think!

8. In France, the electric plugs are 220V. Get an adapter before you get here, but don't fret if you didn't bring one. The front desk at your hotel might have a few to lend out.

9. Expect your legs to get the workout of their lives. There's lots of walking to do, and running if you're late for an appointment.

10. Stock up on beverages at the nearest supermarket during the day because most places close earlier than in the U.S. and you don't want to be stuck in your room thirsty. Plus, individual beverages are pretty expensive at restaurants.

11. Make sure to do your shopping during the day. As mentioned previously, even department stores close earlier than at least I'm used to.

12. Most camera shops are closed on Sundays so get film/memory cards worked out before.

13. When you're at a restaurant, ask before you order! You wouldn't want to end up with something unpleasantly unexpected on your plate!

14. Don't take the RER late at night if you're alone. Because there is more time between stations, there's more time for you to be mugged. Take the metro instead which usually only takes 1-2 minutes between stops.