Before you go:
Figure out cards- not just international fees but MasterCard fee(s) too- learned this the hard way when my dad lived in DR. Love my credit union for ZERO fees of any type internationally.
Figure out your phone data plan- brought back many memories of the SIM card travel/phone card/payphone days studying abroad. How is international data not basic in all plans now?!
My phone constantly claimed I had reached my data limits despite having an international plan… I kept having to buy more data. So I recommend turning off data on as many non-necessary apps as you can to avoid that prob. Someone in our group recommended this:
Apps to make sure you have: translate- google or apple/android built in. The photo translate feature is a MUST use for daily menu specials etc.
WhatsApp
Save spotify/download playlists and any netflix shows ahead of time
Libby app- kindle and audiobooks from library, also magazines (economist!)
Bring a lock with you to do the love bridge lock- smaller ones are good and something personalized on it!
MG Rec: I wish I had brought a Turkish towel for a picnic blanket, reading outside, etc... travels small and ends up being handy for many items.
MG Rec: We discovered the monopoly deal- a card game version of monopoly (the actual game I think is boring/dave loves) but this card game is amazing! Can play with up to 5, fun way to hang out esp at all the cafes.
Use the “save” feature on google maps so you can see things you want to do/see when you’re in the area- tip: create lists by city, and by activity. ie Paris: Restaurants, Paris: Activities, etc...
Make sure hotels or Airbnb have AC (or at least windows and/or fans) if there’s still a heatwave. Most don’t and even if they do, they don’t necessarily work well.
MG Rec: Watch Emily in Paris on flights over! Very easy to watch.
Carry cash- taxis will try to overcharge you. The taxis called by hotels are more legit. Subway- learn to use it to save a ton of $
If you get a good taxi driver, get their biz card and communicate w them via WhatsApp. Many will offer it.
People are friendly don’t forget to ask for help with directions etc. food is amazing everywhere ask for what’s the best nearby.
There’s so much to do, so prioritize your top 3-4 things for the trip and top 3 things a day. Otherwise, it can get overwhelming. For example, if you’re at the Louvre- do you want to see winged victory, Rosetta Stone, Mona Lisa, etc.
Big Red Bus tour- if still hot recommend the last one of the day so it is cooler out. Think this is a good start to the trip as you get a general idea of the city & then you know what/where you want to invest your time.
Iced coffee, iced anything really, is NOT a thing. I tried so many ways to figure out how to get an iced coffee and went from varying levels of success from six (!) shots poured over a couple of ice cubes, a huge cup of ice served with a single espresso shot, a frappuccino, a coffee milkshake, to a warm coffee with one cube. If you figure this out PLEASE LET ME KNOW! Google translate was also no help here for some reason. Eventually, I gave up and relied on Nespresso shots.
@Dave found a few fun French playlists:
Apparently, they don't bring the check unless asked for, they view it as rude to ask or to nudge. Even when asked takes a while so plan on longer meal times.
Tipping isn't a thing, not even expected. Was a nice break on the wallet and the service everywhere was stellar!