Being the most visited country in the world with 48.4 million visitors each year, it is normal to have this country on your bucket list. I went 2 different times in France. That’s why I think I’m in a good place to tell you everything there is to know about France:

• The people
• When you should go
• Money currency
• What to eat
• How to use your phone / SIM card
• Some facts
• Insurance
• Different accommodation options
• Essential apps to have

The people

Most French don’t speak English or only understand the basics of it. It might be complicated to communicate with them. That being said, I am a French Canadian and French is my first language. Even if I speak the same language as them, they still act like they don’t understand what I am saying. It is known that French people don’t like French Canadians. So honestly, try your best to speak basic French, because even if it is your first language, they are not the most welcoming and friendly nation.

What I mean by them not being welcoming and friendly is simple: I went to France 2 different times and had a hard time adjusting to the locals. I find them mean with tourists and in their own world. Of course, this is my experience, and it can be totally different for you. I am just letting you know not to have high expectations. French people might not become your best friends. I met French people traveling to other countries that admitted they especially did not like French Canadians. They admitted being even more rude to us… That’s just sad for them.

When you should go

I went to France in January and in June. Honestly, both seasons have their pros and cons. Here is a short list I made to help you understand the main differences between the 2 seasons:

Summer (June to August):

Pros 

• Beautiful sunny days to swim in the ocean and get a tan.
• The nightlife is always better in the summer! 

Cons 

• It can get very hot. Trust me when I say it can be really annoying to visit when you are sweating uncontrollably. 
• High season:  a lot of tourists and higher prices.

Winter (December to the start of March):

I didn’t experience France during autumn (September-November) and spring (start of March to May), but I heard good things about these months. They are low seasons like winter but are a better choice. If you prefer to visit during a sunny day and tan, you will prefer the summer. If you prefer to visit while there are fewer tourists, you will love these 2 seasons. It’s a perfect mix between summer and winter, and the prices are still cheaper than during the summer.

Money currency

France is one of the many countries in the eurozone. Therefore, their currency is the Euro (€). Unlike Canada, there is no tax. Every price you see is the final price. Also, tipping is not expected. It is never mandatory, but it is always nice to leave a tip if you feel like the person deserves it. 

There is usually a big fee when getting money out of an ATM. You should always try to pay by card. Go get Euros at your local bank in your country before traveling. You will save a lot on ATM fees.

What to eat

In France, lunch is typically at noon. Even if they work, they take their time to eat. They usually finish around 1:30 pm or 2 pm. Dinner is late in France. It starts around 8:00 pm. 

I hope I don’t surprise you when I say the typical dishes to try in France are the Quiche Lorraine, beef Bourguignon, Coq au Vin (similar to the beef bourguignon but with chicken) and French onion soup. Of course, there are many more, but these are my favorites. For breakfast, try a “croissant” or a “pain au chocolat” (chocolatine for my Canadians). For dessert, a good macaron or a crème brûlée is always a winner. The best for last: a good wine is always THE drink in France.

How to use your phone / SIM card

The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy an E-card / pre-paid SIM card. You can buy them online, they are way cheaper than anything at the airport! I bought mine 2 days before I left and it was perfect. The company I used was Holafly and you have multiple options depending on what you want. For example, it’s €34 for 10 days or €47 for 15 days.  

If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Most of the time, when I go to Europe, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I go there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps). If I really need WI-FI, I stop at a McDonald’s, a grocery store or a mall.

Some facts

Here are some fun facts about France:

Insurance 

Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.

By booking your insurance through our link, we are able to earn a small commission, allowing us to keep inspiring people to travel.

Different accommodation options

Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms. 

Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.

Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is the cheapest option for you. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience. 

Essential apps to have

Transport: Having access to transport in France is so easy! 

• Download Omio

Gives you the best & cheapest way to travel in Europe comparing the bus, car (shared rides), train, and plane. You can book everything directly on the app. I find the prices are always the same or sometimes cheaper than on the websites of the companies.

• Download Uber

You order your car knowing already the price it will cost. You know when your driver will be there, and you have the option of paying cash or directly with your card on the app. I always prefer to pay cash. This way I could always round up the amount and leave a tip. They deserve it! You can even order food on Uber Eat! 

Others:

• Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
• WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Europe uses WhatsApp to text and call. 
• Too Good To Go: You can buy food from restaurants and stores for cheaper prices that would otherwise have been thrown away at the end of the day.