Getting around Paris, part II

When deciding how to travel around France, there are plenty of options! Paris especially offers multiple venues and modes of transportation.

– Travel like a native once you’re in the city: on the metros and buses.   The RATP is the municipal governing body which runs the metro, busses, trams, and RER.  Get yourself a week-long “Navigo Découverte” pass to ride the metro, bus and RER systems; it can be purchased for 5E at any one of the major metro stations with an attendant. You’ll need a small photo ID to place in it (obligatory). Once your have your pass, you can then load a week’s fare (currently 18,50 E) onto the pass either from an attendant or from any one of the machines found in every metro station, valid from Monday to Sunday of any particular week. This pass can be used over and over on subsequent trips to Paris. You can also purchase single tickets [a “carnet”] if you arrive later on in the week. Note: unless you use a credit card with a chip, your credit card won’t work in the metro machines. You’ll need to purchase from an attendant in this case.

– If you hate public transportation, then take a taxi…but they’re difficult to hail from the street. They’re found at various Taxi Stands around the city, or can be called from your hotel. They charge extra in the hours before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., and have different out-of-Paris rates as well. But most drivers love to chat and tell you about their city. Feel free to converse with them.

– Take advantage of the fabulous culture life of the city. Buy the Pariscope, which comes out every Wednesday announcing all the films, plays, guided walks, exhibits, museum hours, etc. The Figaro also has a supplement every Wednesday with the same information. Next installment: special outings in Paris.

– A surprising delight can be found at the Gare de Lyon train station in the 12th arrondissement: an elegant, delicious,

The dining room of Le Train Bleu at the Gare de Lyon train station

stately Belle-Epoque restaurant called Le Train Bleu.  Serving travelers and regular diners alike, the restaurant bustles with energy and excellent food.

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