From My Travels!

In January of 2008 I was fortunate enough to take a fantastic trip to London.  One of my best friends and I planned a 4 day excursion, but I got to thinking…if we’re going to be in London then why not also go to Paris?!  Well, she couldn’t get the extra time off work, but I could.  So when the London part of the trip came to an end, she hopped a plane back to the states and I hopped a train to Paris!
Now, I had only ever been there once before about 7 years prior so its not as though I was familiar with the city.  I don’t even speak French!  So I was concerned about being able to navigate the city, by myself no less!  Before my trip I picked up a phrase book and reviewed what I thought would be some important things to know.

Now, I was told the not being able to speak French thing would not be a problem because most Parisians speak English, but at the same time I felt it would be rude of me to just assume the language barrier would not be a problem.  I figured that I may not be able to speak French, but at least demonstrating some effort would get me more than just a cold shoulder from the locals.  And I think my efforts paid off!

The French tend to get a pretty bad rap for being rude, but I didn’t have a problem (aside from one waitress, but I think that was just her general disposition).  Its my belief that whenever you are traveling to a country where English is not native language, the polite thing to do is to learn phrases that will help you on your travels.  At least know how to ask if they other person speaks English, that way if they don’t they may be able to find someone that does.  Also, for restaurant dining, be able to ask for a table, for the menu, and for the check.  Know what “exit” and “enter” signs are, and how to purchase train & metro tickets.  The things you will most commonly do on your travels are the bits to brush up on so that you won’t feel so much like a fish out of water!

Happy Monday!