If you visit Paris you will find something for every taste. Although you may think of it as an old city, there are many very modern buildings and facilities. Outside of Paris, there is an extensive and state-of-the-art highway system. There are many forms of modern transport within the city and from city to city. Tourists will not only find expensive couture clothing but also very reasonably priced European-styled clothing at stores similar to the Gap. Additionally, you will find incredibly expensive restaurants and on the other end of the spectrum, like it or not, the typical American fast food chains as well.

You may be surprised when you get to your hotel room. It will be much smaller than what you would expect in the U.S.A. but not that different from London or any other large, European city. You will oftentimes find two twin beds and rarely will there be much space for walking or even sitting. Bathrooms are quite small in the typical French hotel and usually you will note the lack of an outlet for your hairdryer. Don't forget to bring a converter if you do take along appliances! You may also see a bidet in your bathroom.

Breakfast in your hotel will likely be only a baguette or a croissant, jelly, coffee, orange juice or milk. Sometimes there will be a small buffet including boiled eggs and perhaps cold cuts and cheese, but it is not common to see a typical hot American or British style breakfast with hot eggs, bacon, toast and beans.

As with visiting any country, take some time to learn a few basic greetings and expressions of thanks. Although people often think French speakers prefer not to hear French spoken poorly, it is a good idea to know some basics. This appearance of rudeness on the part of the French might have something to do with their feelings being offended when people don't know the rules of their etiquette. It makes good sense to learn some of their social rules before you go. A good way to do this is to observe natives and how they gesture and speak. Watching video is great practice!