jones wrote:
> Hi! My husband and I will be in Paris for a week in May. Our first
> trip to Europe and I have LOTS of questions! ANY and ALL tips and
> information is WELCOME!!!!!! I live in US.
>
> 1. Currency - what is the easiest way to handle this? Take cash and
> convert it? Where would I do that? I called my CC company and they
> charge 3% on everything I charge!! If I take money from an ATM using
> my CC, I’m charged 3% as well, minimum charge of $10! If I take cash
> over then convert it, am I charged a fee?
changing money also hits you with a fee ,look around for a ATM debit
card that doesn't charge a fee or a lower one, they exist. ATM and
charge depsite the 3% hit is the way to go for money.
>
> 2. Hotel transfer - Our hotel is in the 14th district, we are flying
> into De Gaulle airport. What would be the easiest, most cost
> effective way to get to hotel?
Easiest way is a cab, cheapest way is the RER and Metro (trains) there
is a bus to either the Opera or Gare Montparnasse for about 10 euro a piece
>
> 3. Dinners - how much should I expect to pay for meals? Examples
> would be great!! When we went to Hawaii, I was so shocked by meal
> prices, so I would like to have an idea before hand! :D
It really depends on what you want to eat, you can easily spend $50 a
pe3ron for dinner, or $25 for both depending on restaurant or pizza.
Food will cost more than most US places, but will often be better (dare
I say almost always, if I do your milage may differ and I look silly!!
>
> 4. What do people generally shop for in Paris? I have a friend who
> bought over 20 pairs of shoes!!! Is designer apparel less expensive
> over there? Any suggestions on a nice momento to bring home?
Clothing is generally not so much a baragin as you may find things you
won't find at home. Paris is not cheap, it is chic!
>
> That’s all I can think of right now! I’m sure I’ll have more
> questions to come! I did purchase "Paris for Dummies" and a couple
> other books but have found conflicting info so not sure what to go by!
> Thank you!
>
>
> Edited to add:
> Electricity convertor!! I need one!! Where do I go for these? Do
> they work well?
You probably do not need a converter. You need a plug for sure and dual
voltage appliances such as hair dryers. many things these days (look at
your computer and phone chargers) are dual voltage, you merely need to
select he right plug and in some cases switch the power others like
phones and computers figure out the power themselves!!
>
> Computer use. We will not be taking our laptop with us. Are there
> places over there where I can check my email?
Internet cafes abound with fairly cheap connection fees, your hotel may
also have internet.
>
> Thanks again! |