Getting to Paris
Most U.S. airlines fly non-stop to Paris from New York, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles and other major cities. Specific European airlines such as Air France offer many daily flights from both East and West coasts as well.
Travel documents
Passport and visas for international travel:
For travel outside the United States, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, all US citizens are required to have a US passport valid for six months from the return date of the journey. Driver's licenses and birth certificates are no longer accepted as proof of citizenship for international travel.
Information on passport applications, where to apply, forms, fees, requirements and last minute application services are available in the US State Department's travel website www.travel.state.gov or by calling 1-877-487-2778. The website also brings contact information for consulates by country about entry and tourist visa requirements. US citizens do not require a visa when travelling to France for short periods. Please allow a minimum of 10 weeks for processing a passport application, and possibly more during the busy travel seasons. Check the website www.travel.state.org/passport for current processing times.
Non-U.S. citizens, including permanent residents with green cards, must verify entry and visa requirements with the nearest consulate of a destination country. For visa requirements by France go to www.diplomatie.gouv.fr and click 'going to France'.
Travelers are responsible for obtaining the correct documents for entry into the country on the itinerary, as well as for those required for re-entry into the United States.
Climate/clothes
Average temperatures in Paris during tour week will be provided upon registration. Bring some comfortable clothes and shoes for the day and one dressy outfit for the evening programs. Bermudas and shorts are not accepted in most places in Paris.
Luggage restrictions
Airlines usually have restrictions on the weight of your luggage, as well as on the number of volumes you are allowed to carry. Check with your airline before packing, to avoid penalty fees.
Money
The currency in France - and in the European Community - is the Euro, which fluctuates against the US Dollar. For up-to-the-minute exchange rates check www.xe.com/ucc.
All banks charge a fee every time you use an ATM machine abroad; check with your bank about them before you leave the country.
Major credit cards and ATM cards are becoming more and more accepted worldwide. As replacing lost or demagnetized cards takes time, be sure to diversify your travel funds with cash. Leave excess credit cards and store cards at home and always have some small denomination of bills handy for use along the way.
Electricity
The French electrical system runs on 220 volts. You may need adaptors to convert the voltage as well as fit sockets, and they are easier to purchase in the US. Hair dryers are provided by the hotel.
Cell phones
Not all American cell phones work in France; check with your cell phone provider before traveling, as there are roaming charges associated with cell phone use abroad.
Gratuities
Gratuities (tips) are included in the tour price for most scheduled activities, but extra tipping is allowed. Tips for the driver and for hotel services are not included in the price (luggage carriers, room service, etc)
Language
In Paris, and in the rest of France, the official language is French, but English is widely understood and spoken. It is a good idea to bring a pocket-size phrase-book to use in your free-time, just in case.
VAT
VAT, or Valued Added Tax, is the French equivalent of sales tax. If you do not live in the European Community, you will get it as a refund (usually around 18% on any purchase over 175 Euros) upon leaving the country. We will help you get your papers ready for this refund at CDG Airport before you board your return flight.
