The Good Trip guide · For U.S. travelers
FranceA little local knowledge.
Discover world-class art, cuisine, and romance from the Eiffel Tower to the vineyards of Bordeaux.
Tap water is safe to drink throughout France.
Ambulance (SAMU): 15
Euro
Exercise Increased Caution
Essential Etiquette in France
Key dos and don'ts every American traveler should know before arriving.
Always say Bonjour first
Greeting with 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) before any request or transaction is essential French etiquette. Launching straight into 'Do you speak English?' without a greeting is considered rude.
Don't be loud in public
Speaking loudly in restaurants, museums, or public transport is frowned upon. The French tend toward quieter, more measured conversation in shared public spaces.
Use Vous (formal) with strangers
Always use the formal 'vous' with strangers, shopkeepers, and service staff until invited to use 'tu.' Using 'tu' too quickly is considered presumptuous and slightly rude.
Don't ask for substitutions
French cuisine is considered an art form. Asking for significant modifications to dishes (no sauce, substituting ingredients, ordering well-done steak) is considered offensive to the chef's craft.
Essential French Phrases
Respectful expressions with phonetic pronunciations to help you connect with locals.
"Hello (formal / daytime)"
"Hello (informal)"
"Thank you"
"Thank you very much"
Take all 65 phrases and offline audio with you in Good Trip.
Water & pharmacies
Tap water is drinkable
Tap water: SAFE throughout. High-quality municipal water.
Local Pharmacy Rules
Pharmacies marked by green cross. Pharmacists highly trained, can prescribe for minor ailments. 24-hour pharmacie de garde available in every city.
Apps to Download Before Flying to France
Useful apps for transit, navigation, and food delivery in France.
SNCF Connect
SNCF Connect is the official app of France's national rail operator — essential for booking TGV high-speed trains, intercity trains, and regional TER services. Buy and store tickets in-app, get real-time delays, and plan multi-leg journeys across France and into neighboring countries. Accepts international cards.
Bonjour RATP
Bonjour RATP is the official app for Paris's transit network — covering the Métro, RER suburban trains, buses, and trams. Get real-time departure information, plan journeys door-to-door, check for disruptions, and navigate the 16-line Métro system with ease. Essential for getting around Paris.
G7 Taxis
G7 is Paris's largest and most reputable taxi company. Book licensed taxis in advance or on-demand with upfront pricing, real-time tracking, and cashless payment via international card. Safer and more transparent than hailing taxis on the street, especially at airports.
Emergency Contacts & U.S. Embassy
If you lose your passport, need urgent medical evacuation, or encounter legal trouble, keep this info accessible offline.
U.S. Embassy Paris
2 Avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris, France
Field Guides & Dispatches for France
This preview comes from the Good Trip country guide. Conditions and travel advisories can change. Check the latest U.S. State Department advice before departure.
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