12 Ways Tourists Keep WASTING MONEY in Paris

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

GET Your Paris 2024 Hotel Guide 👉 bit.ly/2024ParisHotelGuidePDF

[@Chef_Rosie64]

Can you recommend places in Paris where it is safe for a solo female traveler? I heard there was an Australian tourist who was gang raped by 5 men in Paris. I’ll be going to Paris in late Sept? Thank u!

[@eleanormatthews2224]

I purchased the Hotel Guide, but none of the hotel links are working for me. What am I doing wrong???

[@longingfortheharpazomoment7743]

@@Chef_Rosie64 they cannot because they have no clue! They don't allow French people in the Facebook group who tell the truth!

[@longingfortheharpazomoment7743]

@@eleanormatthews2224 You got scammed!

[@joanrojas9084]

@@LesFrenchiesTravel Got it! So Great!

[@mindbender731]

My wife and I went to Paris in December 2022 through January 2023. I watched your videos prior an took your information to heart. Instead of the tourist traps we found local bakeries for breakfast (amazing and cheaper than going to a chain or trap area). We also AirBNB and stayed near the metro. The Metro was SAFE and CHEAP! Do your homework before you go and follow their advice to your liking and you will have a blast! LOVE YOU TWO!

[@RoundDispirito]

I can't believe I prefer the replica to the original! *hotdups*

[@skontheroad]

Lookout for pickpockets on the Metro!!

[@theresaheitz697]

Dear Les Frenchies, my husband and I really appreciate your videos which are informative and entertaining at the same time. Sadly, out tourism to France is at an end, but through your videos we can revisit fond memories and the wonderful people we met. Thank you.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you so much!!

[@toneeaquino]

My daughter and I were there two weeks ago. To be honest i was full of anxiety because I prepared myself since watching these videos. We didn’t experience anything bad. In fact, we were treated so well. We are familiar on these things because we live in a big city in California. We took the metro, sat at cafes and enjoyed great food. And we walked a lot. We stayed around the Latin quarters area where it was close to the tube. We loved it. I was so pleasantly surprised because all you hear about Paris is don’t wear this or try to at least speak French or don’t look like a tourist. These were a given but because I look foreign (I am Filipino), I was welcomed so nicely. The security guard at the Dior Store was so friendly. He worked with Filipinos. Even the metro workers. An older gentleman saw me and my daughter waiting for the bus unknowingly it was moved due to the Olympics traffic. He told us where to walk to where it stops. So all I could say is Paris we will be back.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

That's awesome!!

[@jameswisslead4533]

Was there two weeks ago with my wife, same thing, smooth sailing the whole time, can't wait to go back.

[@Lyazhemsky]

​@@LesFrenchiesTravel.why all your videos with drama???? We came back to NY 2 weeks ago. I feel very comfortable and safe. G7 taxi is a scam!!! Please everyone Read their reviews!!!!! Don't trust them. Use Uber!!!!! We didn't have any problems .If someone wants to save money STAY home. I understand it is a family business,but don't scare tourist.

[@bluesky_bluesea]

a good experience as a result of well prepare.

[@RoundDispirito]

I'm definitely here to buy a fake. Even if I have the money to buy the real thing, no one will check it for me. *hotdups*

[@stephaneganibardi1760]

Bravo pour vos vidéos, dynamisme, qualité d'image, arrières plans, excellents conseilles, le tout sans "blablas" inutiles. De nouveau bravo, Bonne continuation .

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Merci!!

[@chapichapo6800]

Do not take water from fountains placed on the ground. Most of the time people let their dogs drink directly from the tap. But for water go in a "Franprix" or a "Monoprix" and you have mineral water of 1.5 liter for 30 cents, it will not ruin your holidays budget !

[@MiaHessMusic]

MY brother, who lived in Paris, always recommends finding a cafe or boulangerie or a cafe and have a coffe or choclat and a pastry and make that your morning home base for your stay. I have done this: works great!

[@pattiporter3853]

I agree on don’t overbook tours! I learned that hard way, booked 2 long walking tours in one day and sure was worn out at end of that day. But, I did do 2 that were ok in one day…one was food tour, so got sit at most stop as sampled foods - that left me ok to do another walking one of coveted passages. And I’ve learned better for me to take metro or bus to start of tour instead of walking just because I think it’s not bad walk just because it’s a mile

[@luvzfrance24]

I completely agree with skipping the hotel breakfast and going to the boulangerie ! Last time I was there I went to the bakery around the corner from the hotel and as soon as I walk in a lady comes out with a fresh batch of croissants. You can't beat a warm croissant out of the oven😂

[@R-London7]

Quite a few “My Life in Paris” channels these days. And that’s a good thing. Nice to see the diverse perspectives of Paris out there.

[@thegreencompany2101]

We have been to the second restaurant shown in the video “near the eiffel tower”. Paid a lot for simple food you can easily make better yourself at home! You are so right about it!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

The top 3 worst restaurants in Paris are near the Eiffel Tower!!

[@thegreencompany2101]

@@LesFrenchiesTravel Yes! We learned from it for the next time we visit the beautiful city of Paris🙌🏼

[@DerekKerton]

@@LesFrenchiesTravel IMHO, the problem would not be that it's expensive - after all, you're paying for that prime location. My problem would be if it's also BAD. Just OK food and service, but with a killer view, is still pretty worth it for me. Google maps ratings helps me avoid the truly bad ones.

[@filizjohnson2059]

I am looking to take my two teenage children (17 & 15) plus my 11 month old, I’m a single parent so I’m a bit nervous doing it on my own, my daughter missed out on her year 6 leavers school trip to Paris because of covid and my son Oliver passed away 2/10/20 from cancer, he would of had his year 6 trip June of last year so going to Paris has a lot of meaning to us as a family. Your video is such great help 😊

[@joanrojas9084]

Another winner! The comments about the taxis and how they charge, the phone app, the way to avoid exchange rates and the insight about when prices are high were so helpful. From watching your videos - I’d been clued in about the other matters - but always a good reminder. Each week you present something so important and helpful for us to know. Thank you for putting so much thought and effort into making videos that I find extremely valuable. Each time my husband and I return to Paris - we employ more of your suggestions and insights. Love you guys!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

☺

[@robinps52]

I am so looking forward to visiting Paris & Normandy this October & your videos have been perfect study guides! Your advice about tipping & formule dejeneur are particularly helpful this week. And I’ll be breaking in another pair of walking shoes BEFORE we leave! Merci Colleen et Antoine!

[@bencruzsf]

On this trip, I got seated with an American family who NEVER used the Metro during their trip! They were just too afraid to use the Metro, not because of safety concerns, but because they thought that they would be confused and get lost. I really would recommend to use the Metro because it is so convenient, really easy to figure out and much cheaper than using ride shares.

[@42judge]

We avoid subways too. We are there to see the city, and you can't below ground. I'm not saying it's not easy, cost effective, and a great fit for a lot of people. It's just not how we travel.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

true story

[@pamharris2195]

We didn't use public transportation either. I didn't want to be pickpocket, but my knees were hurting bad. We used Uber & Bolt. When I got back & went to the doctor, I was told I needed a new left knee as it was bone on bone & my right knee is at a stage 3 OA. I had no other pain prior.

[@MrKmd511]

It's not very accessible for people with mobility issues.

[@kanutecarson1]

@@42judge We did a lot of scootering around to feel the city better than a subway. We still used the subway a bit, but the scooters were great.

[@ranha9933]

Great tips! Have lived in Paris 7 years and going back. And u nailed it. Do not forget to get public transport weekcards. And museums have a free day every month.

[@sarafstop32]

This is very good information. I've found that in any European country, don't be shy about asking a manager about tipping. The last time I was in Dublin, I went to a hair salon on trendy Grafton Street for a splurge on a cut. When I went to reception to pay for my 65€ haircut and asked about an appropriate tip, I was told that hairdressers in Ireland were better compensated than those in the US. She said 2€ would be very generous. Always ask a manager or host. They appreciate it.

[@johnfinbarr1160]

I hope you were getting more than just a hair cut, otherwise you were ripped off. I’d expect a hair dye to come with that price as well as a cut.

[@gullsrus]

Very helpful, I've been a couple times and always learning things. You have helped me several times previously.thank you again.

[@davidelkins9861]

We have been to France many times. The attractions are, the food, the architecture, the History, the people, the public transport, the geography, the culture, the close proximity of cities and villages, the diversity of all things French. When we are not there we are wanting to be there. Your presentations are wonderful and act as a remedy . We watch the regularly, thank you.

[@jamesthurber4730]

I don't watch every episode, but you two are doing a great job of educating people about Paris and France in general, Thanks!

[@julianamartinvlog]

Agreed❤ Informative content & very useful

[@Kitiwake]

​@@julianamartinvlog useful for a visit.

[@renferal5290]

I was just in Paris and loved that there were fountains everywhere for water. I walked everywhere and didn’t use public transport

[@42judge]

We do around 35,000 steps a day, but when we hit the wall so to speak we usually get a ride back to the hotel.

[@jobice7472]

Great video (again)! My daughter and I will be there in September and I have starred (in Google Maps) most of the restaurants from your guide in the areas where we will be. Thanks for educating me about so many important things about Paris!

[@HanksMemaw]

Terrific info! Thanks for all you do, Antoine and Colleen! Keep up the great work!!

[@deljojoy6683]

You guys are amazing😊 we watched all your videos and had a great time at Paris last month. Thank you

[@zarquondam]

People who don't know Paris tend to think of the Eiffel Tower as the center of everything. But it's pretty much on the periphery of the part of Paris that visitors will likely be most interested in, and as you say, there's not much to see or do in the vicinity. The real center of Paris is Notre Dame -- literally, there's a point in front of the cathedral from which all distances in Paris are measured. So neighbourhoods near Notre Dame (e.g. the Quartier Latin, the Marais) are generally a safe choice. (Though of course there are interesting places further afield, e.g. Montmartre.)

[@PatrickDeVille-oy6ms]

These people give good advice. I was just in Paris a few months ago and I used a lot of their info.

[@ksmckee5520]

Thanks to your wonderful travel information and tips. My trip turned out FANTASTIC. Appreciate your channel.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Excellent!

[@marksuddjian4570]

I was in Paris, Tennessee, last week. They have an Effil Tower replica there. Cost much less to book a motel room with a view of it and no annoying tourists either.

[@rosswatson9144]

I’ve heard there is a Paris in Texas as well…

[@pixie0904]

I love your channel. I watched every video before we went to Paris early July and it made me a smarter visitor. Thank you.

[@JacquiMolinari]

Incredibly helpful and useful as always, I need to plan another trip just to put some of these into practice, hehe

[@AL-su8pg]

I enjoyed the hotel guide! My hotel was much easier to choose because of you guys! Thank you !

[@ksweeney530]

Thank you Colleen and Antoine for providing such good advice. Your hotel guide served me well for my two visits to Paris. 🇺🇸♥🇫🇷

[@2615ParkAvenueAssociates]

Merci, merci, merci beaucoup! I've been watching your videos for quite some time now--some several times--as I hope to return to Paris for the first time since my student days in 1977--I know, I know, I'm old! LOL. I'm planning a 2025 trip. I look forward to once again seeing the Cathedral de Notre Dame in its new splendor. Your work, warmth, enthusiasm, and knowledge are invigorating and helpful. Merci, merci, merci beaucoup!

[@flawednotfake4974]

Thank you both for all the informative videos. I just got back from Paris yesterday. Your videos help be navigate so many things. Especially the Metro and taxi aspect. We arrived on Thursday morning a day before the opening ceremonies. I booked on a whim, unaware of the events taking place until after. We had an amazing time armed with the information we got watching you. Merci Beaucoup!!!!

[@acerrubrum5749]

Always the best information by the most interesting couple in France

[@bet5275]

Just came back from Paris a week before the Olympic starts. We did not waste money on any of these because we watched all your videos. Thank you Colleen and Antoine! You guys are amazing!

[@gandigooglegandigoogle7202]

as a Frenchman I always advise foreigners to find out about the restaurants where they hope to go...Paris is a very touristy city and there are always people who prefer money to the pleasure of offering a good meal and a good service, especially in recent decades when many foreigners have come to take advantage of the windfall and open poor quality restaurants to make easy money. So don't hesitate to choose your restaurants carefully, the best are often in less busy areas. Don't hesitate to crucify on social networks or on reference sites the restaurants which seem to you to be of poor quality, this is how we maintain good gastronomy and good service.

[@stevensather5911]

I have a question about the water fountains. Is the water available in the winter months?

[@Rachel-qr8kv]

All the time available (Paris isn't very cold in winter at least not enouth to freeze the water).

[@shellyannnoel2076]

I am so ecstatic about my upcoming trim while I'm in england. This has hepled me greatly. Thank you

[@microeconomia]

I’ve just discovered your channel, and subscribed, super informative & entertaining videos!!!!!

[@bunnygirltheresa]

I'm going to Paris in August 18 by myself. You are the only one I trust and I will go through as many of your videos as possible before I go. I'm so nervious

[@Amanda-m-50]

Absolutely love all your videos! Thank you for all the content you create 😊❤

[@auntiemjo]

Glad you've updated some things!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thanks!

[@redblur389]

Thank you. I'm planning a trip for the fall and couldn't figure out why my favorite hotel is fully booked. After watching this I checked, and sure enough, it's fashion week. I think I'll be adjusting the timing of my trip.

[@AmeliaCoto-t8s]

I was there last November. Watch your videos before traveling. It was so helpful, everything you said was accurate .. thank you 🙏🏻😊

[@vincealcazar2870]

Well done. And, totally agree with all your points.

[@Hiro_Trevelyan]

Thanks for encouraging bikes and public transit over cars ! Paris is just so much better in terms of metros and bicycle lanes than individual polluting cars.

[@sylviege7534]

Great video, thank you ! 👍❤

[@motivationalspeaker7145]

Thank you for the video! It was most helpful! Do you know how much the flat rate from Paris city centre (near La Défense Arena) to the Paris Beauvais Airport is? I’m going to Paris next month and I need to know whether this is an option on a Monday morning (around 5am) when I leave. To me, it seems like the quickest option, but it might be expensive which is why I’m asking. ❤ If I have any questions, do you have an e-mail I can use to ask you guys?

[@madmiles442]

Thanks so much for the tips and for your effort in this channel. 🙏🏼

[@bennykoh]

thank you for the many tips! we try to choose an airbnb or hotel as close to a metro as possible. we also appreciate the set lunch tip as well as the tipping itself. now for us to try to say "carafe d'eau" and "formule dejeuner" properly!

[@ajexists1214]

Could you maybe do a video (if you haven’t already) of words and phrases we should know when we travel to France? My mom and I plan on going next year and we want to know at least the basics so we seem respectful!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

There are a few words on this free cheat sheet lesfrenchiestravel.com/download-restaurant-ordering-cheat-sheet/

[@JuneK618]

This is by far the most thorough and helpful tips I’ve come across. I will be saving this segment on our next trip to Paris. Now I know how to save for lunch and water!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Glad it was helpful!

[@qwafgjolmfpjbfszxgg1142]

I had a feeling this video would be absolutely hilarious and it definitely didn’t disappoint!

[@sydneymcmillian]

I only go to Paris and to France for mainly educational purposes and also leisure. I’m a college student studying French. Paris can be good if you a lot of studying about it and know the city well at least. also there are cities like nice and antibes on the French coast where I went to summer school when I was 16. I’d say it’s very unforgettable and beautiful

[@donlester1449]

Hope you two got to experience some of the Olympic Opening Ceremonies. I ended up having to not come to the Olympics because of not finding a reasonable priced place to stay. So my bucket list trip is no more. Think it is funny now we are seeing how the French hotels and Air B&B's are complaining that no one is renting their units. Don't overprice and at least this visitor would have been there. The Opening Ceremonies were spectacular from my couch on TV. I've sold 16/17 event tickets I had but at a loss cause they charge a handling fee and then there is an exchange rate fee. Dream 17 day trip went out the door but I'll probably see more with the TV Olympic coverage. I've appreciated learning so much for that trip from the two of you. Still hope to get to Paris for the first time sometime in the future.

[@DerekKerton]

I went to a Fan Zone for the opening, and it was fun to be there with all my neighbors in the rain enjoying the atmosphere, and the great, great show. My friend paid the expensive price for the riverside seats, but felt disappointed in the cost afterwards. The reason is, as amazing as the show was, it was focused across six specific spots along six KM of the river. At each spot, some dance, or show, or lady Gaga, or Celine performed. So, if you watched from the fan zone, you were in the wrong place 6 out of 6 times. But if you paid a thousand euros and watched from the river, you were in the wrong place 5/6 times. Not much of a difference, is it? My friend said he found himself in the stands by the river watching the big screen for those other 5/6 spectacles. I mean, it's all good. But I still have 1000 euros!

[@upw6088]

So great thank you. I'm always looking forward for your next video. 😊😊😊

[@francoislambert4739]

Excellent ! C'est même valable pour les Français qui viennent visiter Paris.

[@katrinaassoumou1531]

Wow! More great information. Thank you guys so much. Amen

[@DriverDude100]

This is an excellent video with superb advice. Well done!

[@bbpete8349]

As always, your advice is right on and welcome! I like all of these but appreciate Antoine pointing out Re-Use water bottles! I wish everyone all over the world would do this! The billions of one-use plastic bottles are a disgrace. The second pointer I'll highlight is the e-SIM cards. I haven't used this because I wasn't sure of them. I have paid the $10.00 a day to US carrier! With Les Frenchies' advice I would try this next time.

[@imamiddleagedman]

The les champs mars restaurant caught us 7 years ago. Four people, light lunch was over 140 euro including a couple of alcoholic drinks. Never been stung since.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

People who stop for just a coffee and pay with credit card get surprised with the fine print saying that the minimum credit card charge is 50€

[@justjacqueline2004]

So brilliant and invaluable.

[@risingdough8078]

Re: banking. 1. Look for French banks that partner with your bank for reduced or no fee ATM withdrawals. 2. Just make sure you know which credit card charges no additional fees. 3. When using a credit card, always ask to pay in the local currency. If you pay your bill in US dollars, you're exposed to additional fees and unfavorable exchange rates.

[@jamesyuanhuiho5084]

Vital information thanks 🙏🙏🙏

[@sukshittuteja4153]

Just came back from euro trip(netherlands, belgium, france and Spain) and I used maya esim for 16$ for 10 gigs of data for 30 days and it worked perfectly fine at all of these places.

[@pokeyjeanne]

Love the water bottle comment! Why cart around a heavy metal jug in Paris?! It can feel like a sack of bricks very quickly. Re-using any bottle you have bought along the way saves money, the environment, and your back.

[@actontreadway1168]

Love Paris. Can't wait to go back

[@karenoreskovich6754]

Les formules sont les meilleures!

[@igoodkid334]

Thank you so much for your video! OMG I buy and drink so much water, that is amazing, I would save so much time and $ just in getting free water in France! I love France💖

[@RoxaneLys]

I live in Brittany and I follow your advices. Thank you for your help 😊

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Happy to help!

[@annakozoriz]

Bonjour. Great video. Merci.

[@Sign7ven]

I love your videos! I will be traveling this oct!

[@tanquerayandchronic5308]

Me too! Maybe see you there.😊 Remember, the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays!

[@acbc3543]

Yelp is the answer ! That’s it .By the way , I carry my Yeti bottle everywhere I go . I don’t remember the last time I bought a bottle of water.

[@markhannan9387]

Another great video - thanks. A great idea for another video could be accommodation ideas for families (2 adults and 2 teenagers ) - apartments or apart hotels seems like a great idea but difficult to find good you tube videos . Thanks Mark

[@Nancy-j8o1t]

Thank you Frenchies! ❤

[@boxterjeff]

Very good info!!! Loved the idea of staying in a neighborhood. You guys are the best.

[@karenglaicar5486]

Really nice video. Great info. Not sure if I want to visit Paris now lol. I really enjoy your video's. Thanks and take care.

[@erinaustin9968]

Excellent! Thank you.

[@lynemac2539]

The fountains are lovely, so civilized.

[@Vesper_Songs]

This is an excellent and helpful video. I'm really enjoying your videos in preparation for my trip to Paris. Thank you!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Bon voyage!

[@dominiquelesueur8737]

Very good video. thank you.

[@kathyokinaga9888]

Great tips. I prefer a healthier breakfast, than starting my day with pastry. I skip the processed meat, go for the boiled egg, fruit and yogurt. I can always pick up a pastry later in the day, after I got all my steps in ;)

[@JudyAllen-fm5um]

After watching one of your previous posts about pickpockets, especially on public transportation, we took taxis to/from the airport and Ubers everywhere else, of distance. The plus about Ubers is you know upfront the charge, unlike taxi who can easily scam tourists. We had a marvelous time!! Paris is marvelous!!

[@adrienhb8763]

Great tips. I'll add that the Latin Quarter restaurants that offer any kind of food (from mussels to raclette and God knows what) have to be avoided. And yes service is included, but a tip is always appreciated. 2 to 5 is perfect for a nice lunch. Even less if you only drink a coffee (like 50 cents, or less). But you can leave a more generous tip for a really nice dinner.

[@AliciaN-y3t]

What I want to say is that I spent less than $ 100 from the fake LV I bought from a aunt *condup* . The quality is very good. I spent four years on the plane, the bus, and anywhere. As a rag. I specially smelled the bag and compared the stitching color. This is the most authentic I have ever seen. To this day, this bag is still very strong. Although it has been abused, the material is still great.

[@aniketghule1562]

I totally agree with your highlighted points. They really make sense when you visit for the first time. Unfortunately, I'm seeing this video after my visit to Paris, but I was lucky to bypass these issues and use only public transport everywhere.

[@mdesjr]

Thanks!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Wow, thank you so much for your support!!

[@lbelew10]

On the topic of banking fees, I would also add to get any euros at your local bank before coming because you’ll get the best exchange rate with little to no fee. Most everything we used credit cards for but I like to have some cash on hand just in case.

[@jayzechab]

The breakfast tip is so true. Also for a light lunch: get a sandwich in a boulangerie and save a ton.

[@michaelhealy1590]

Another wonderful and enlightening tutorial with you! Are you enjoying the Olympics?

[@Marcus_613]

A good boulangerie few minutes away from famous monuments is nearly always better than any restaurant close to those places that attract all the tourists.

[@ClareLong]

Our hotel breakfast was €2.50 per person per day. It's the first time I've ever paid extra to add breakfast, because normally the cost is ridiculous. Reviews say it's ok as well, so can set us up for the day before we head out.

[@briancmagill]

Great tips! Thank you!

[@carmellejolin2866]

Merci beaucoup.

[@nbkhh]

I was there early May and it was the first time. I am very serious because I experienced first hand. If you have prostate enlargement and need to go restroom often. Don’t go to Europe because public restrooms are rarely available and if you use the McDonald’s, you have to buy the food before you can use the restroom, they have people guarding the restroom.

[@norcalcalifornian999]

The comment re restaurants near Eiffel Tower was spot on - food was not good, this was the only restaurant where the waiter was rude and where we were scammed - waiter asked if tip should be added - we said yes and he put 10%. And after a long and tiring day, we really did not have energy to fight the waiter for some euros .. but rude awakening which has helped us on all other Europe tours.

[@paulgerrard9227]

Great reminders. Often same in otger cities eg rome. I had a trip to las vegas and hotels seemed so hard to find and so expensive. Quickly searched and it was F1 week. Moved trip a week!

[@bananascoaster1243]

When i asked literally for 'water from the faucet' in french and the kind server said, 'you want to say carafe d'eau' back to me in french. Best lesson learned on ordering tap water!

[@Ellinillard]

Hope everyone on FB group, I mean everyone,watches this video before asking questions.,concur 100%. Well, 99,9%, 😊 fashion week’s not really a big event, much less in terms of attendance than salon de l’agriculture , salon de l’auto, or even foire de Paris.