Welcome to the City of Light! As an international student navigating Paris, you’re embarking on an exciting journey filled with cultural immersion and academic opportunities. To help you make the most of your experience, we’ve compiled insider tips on navigating public transportation, staying safe, and understanding cultural etiquette in this captivating city, all while considering the unique perspective of student housing.

Public Transportation

Paris offers a comprehensive public transportation system that makes exploring the city and commuting to university campuses convenient. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Get a Navigo Card: Invest in a Navigo card for unlimited access to the metro, buses, trams, and some suburban trains. The Passe Navigo is the travel card used by the inhabitants of Paris and the cheapest way of getting around Paris. Travelers can either purchase a weekly pass or a monthly pass. The Passe Navigo Découverte can be purchased at any Metro station, RER stations and airports.

Passe Navigo Fares

• Know Your Routes: Familiarize yourself with the metro lines and bus routes that connect your student housing to your university and other key destinations. Apps like Citymapper or RATP’s official app can help you plan your journeys efficiently.

• Consider Bike Rentals: Paris is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and rental services like Vélib’. Consider renting a bike for short commutes or leisurely rides along the Seine, but remember to prioritize safety by wearing a helmet and obeying traffic rules.

• Explore Walking Routes: Paris is a city best explored on foot, so take advantage of walking paths and pedestrian-friendly areas near your student housing. Walking not only allows you to discover hidden gems but also promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Safety Tips

While Paris is generally safe, it’s essential to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure your well-being:

• Secure Your Accommodation: Ensure that your student housing is equipped with secure locks and follows safety standards. Report any maintenance issues or security concerns to your housing providerpromptly.

• Buddy System: When exploring the city or attending social events, consider using the buddy system and travel with friends or classmates, especially at night. This not only enhances safety but also
fosters a sense of community among international students.

• Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and the location of emergency exits in your student housing. Keep important contacts, including local emergency services and your housing provider’s contact information, easily accessible.

• Stay Informed: Stay updated on local news and safety advisories, especially during events or demonstrations that may affect transportation or public safety. Your university’s international studentoffice may also provide resources and support for staying safe in Paris.

Cultural Etiquette

Understanding and respecting French cultural norms will enrich your experience as an international student in Paris!

• Language Courtesy: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making an effort to learn basic French phrases like “Bonjour” (hello), “S’il vous plaît” (please), and “Merci” (thank you) demonstrates respect for the local culture and fosters positive interactions.

• Adapt to Local Customs: Embrace the French way of life by adapting to local customs, such as dining etiquette, greeting etiquette, and social norms. Your immersion in French culture will deepen yourunderstanding and appreciation of Parisian life.

• Respectful Behavior: Respect personal space, queue patiently in public spaces, and avoid disruptive behavior in residential areas.

Remember that you represent not only yourself but also your country and university as an international student.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Be open-minded and culturally sensitive in your interactions with people from diverse backgrounds. Embrace the opportunity to learn from and connect with fellow students, locals, and expatriates who call Paris home.

Some Additional Tips:

• Keep some Euros handy

The currency of France is the euro and although most places will take card, it’s wise to keep some cash on you in case you come across an old school marche. ATMs (known as distributeurs), are everywhere. Most have an English option but if not, “retrait” means withdrawal.

• Bring a student card

If you’re a student or are travelling with one, you can score major discounts at museums and events by presenting a valid student ID.

• Master the Arrondissements

The city of Paris is divided into 20 districts, known as arrondissements. Although it may seem confusing, it actually isn’t too difficult to navigate. The last two numbers of a Paris ‘75’ postcode reveal the arroundissment. So if you’re going to the Moulin Rouge (75018) you will be heading to the 18th arrondissement. You’ll find the Louvre and Palais-Royal, in the 20th.

• Beware of scammers

The housing scams are the most common in Paris, so before doing any transaction make sure to visit the property and go through the proper agreement till you move in. Connect with one of our team members forguidance by filling the form.

In busy areas (think around the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre) cunning pickpockets and scammers will try to target tourists. Common ways to get your attention include fake petitions that ask for donations, giving you an unwanted friendship bracelet, or asking if you’ve lost a piece of jewellery.

• Best time to see the sights

Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to get a picture in front of one of the landmarks without hundreds of tourists in the background trying to do the same thing. The secret to a good picture? Get there at the crack of dawn.

The earlier it is, the better your picture will be.

Conclusion

By incorporating these insider tips on public transportation, safety, and cultural etiquette into your daily life as an international student in Paris, you’ll navigate the city with confidence and cultural competence. Your student housing provider is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your experience in Paris is enriching, memorable, and safe. Bonne chance et profitez de votre séjour à Paris! (Good luck and enjoy your stay in Paris!)