YOUR WEEK IN PARIS. Don’t Be A “Cliche Tourist!” Prep For Parisian Living!

By The DivaGals | June 19, 2018 | Travel

No one arrives in Paris for the first time and has a deep, instant understanding of how to act. Or — more importantly — how NOT to act. There are some “cliche” things that can really make a person stick out as a tourist.

Now, of course, thereΓÇÖs nothing wrong with being a tourist – we did it for a week for our pal’s wedding and had a blast! But sometimes, being an obvious tourist can prevent you from getting a closer look at a culture. And sometimes, it can make you appear rude, even unintentionally! With that in mind, check out this Divalicious rules thatΓÇÖll ensure youΓÇÖre not sticking out like a sore thumb.

Remember: The Locals Are At Home.┬áYouΓÇÖre on vacation, and youΓÇÖre excited, of course! However, keep in mind that youΓÇÖre not at a day spa! While youΓÇÖre running around having fun, the locals are just trying to go about their daily business. When abroad, some people act in ways they would dream of acting in their own home. Enjoy your day drinking – after all, it is Paris and le vin┬áis delish! – but make sure you keep your wits in check. And don’t be surprised and giggle when people are heading home in the evening with a baguette┬áunder their arm like it’s a newspaper – that’s just the way it is in Paris. Be respectful, and you’ll enjoy your trip even more!┬á

Standard Travel Clothes.┬áHereΓÇÖs something that everyone knows about the French: they dress well.┬á Every day is an opportunity to show off their sense of style, and they pull it off in effortless fashion. If youΓÇÖve got the classic ΓÇ£touristΓÇ¥ look, then youΓÇÖre going to stand out. Before you head to the city of love, load up on some stylish new clothes. If you’re looking for stylish options at affordable prices,┬áclick here┬áfor fun options from┬álotusboutique.com. You can also get inspired by our “What We Wore In Paris” posts,┬áPart I and Part II. When you’re dressed to impress in Paris, you’re sure to gain entry in all the best bars and restaurants.

Check The Timetable.┬áThere has been many a tourist who rolled up to a restaurant they were hoping to visit, only to find out that itΓÇÖs closed. What gives? Well, the Parisians do things at their own pace – like two-hour breaks for lunch. We actually found a high-end thrift shop that closed daily from 12:30 pm to 2:30 p.m.!┬á Many stores may well be closed during the day or all of August for holiday. Remember that Parisians have their own eating culture. ItΓÇÖs a slow affair that can take two hours or more. If youΓÇÖre looking for something filling and fast, a sit-down establishment probably isnΓÇÖt the best option. But if you do want to hit up a fast food restaurant while you’re in Paris, there are options to choose from!

Speak A Few Words Of French┬áYou donΓÇÖt have to be fluent in French. We repeat: YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE FLUENT. But that doesnΓÇÖt mean you can get away without knowing any French whatsoever. At the very least, you should know how to say hello, please, thank you and goodbye. ItΓÇÖs the smallest of gestures, yet youΓÇÖd be amazed at how many people will be pleased to hear you trying to show your appreciation┬áof their native language.

And finally, be mindful when taking photos. Blocking peopleΓÇÖs path when theyΓÇÖre trying to get to work is not cool. But when you do get a chance at a great shot – take it!

photo credit: Amanne Media