In researching, trial and error, and being-as-prepared-as-possible, I have arrived at a list of tips when traveling to Northern France, and, anywhere for that matter. Yes, some may be obvious but my Type-A/should-have-been-a-girl-scout self knows no other way:
1. Research what regions you want to go.
2. Organize a rough itinerary with details like directions, ways of getting to destinations and time
needed for each entry on your list.
3. Talk to people who've been there. I was going to go in August but my grandmother, a once-avid
traveler, warned that the country is on holiday in August (I have not yet confirmed this but who's
taking the risk?).
4. Know the key words in the language spoken. Many I spoke to warned that the French were rude and stuffy. As one friend told me, and I can affirm, if you approach locals with at least a "bonjour," you're golden. Turns out, the French are VERY nice and helpful. I was even mistaken for a local a few times - how about that?! The point is: don't go to another country assuming the people speak English. I bought a course off iTunes, "Last-Minute French (Unabridged)" by Elisabeth Smith. It was great - it got right to the basics and prepared me with some essentials in the short time I had.
5. Make a list of all the essentials you'll need to bring (i.e. toiletries, money, passport, alarm clock, etc.).
6. Pack a week in advance that way you're not scrambling and feeling you forgot something or rushing
to do last-minute laundry because your favorite blouse is still in the wash.
6. Bring a pocket dictionary with you - wherever you go. I'll try anything - with limitations. So, I guess I won't try ANYTHING. Anyway, I carried a little French dictionary I bought at Target in my purse. It was great to use when I wanted to order a meal.
7. Buy your currency BEFORE the trip. I'll admit, I didn't research and track the currency rates but I knew I didn't want to try and find the kiosk and go through the lines when I got to Paris at 6AM, Paris time. This avoids the hassle and prevents you from being at the mercy of high currency rates or fees.
8. Wear something comfy for the flight. You'll be better suited to sleep or relax with a movie. I wore sweats, a hoodie, fleece socks and slippers - no lie. Yes, I landed in the Fashion Capital of the World with a gym outfit, puffy socks and fleeze booties.
9. In your carry-on, bring a change of clothes, face wipes like Neutrogena's Pink Grapefruit oil-free cleansing wipes , "portable" toothbrush like Colgate Wisp, deodorant and anything you need to do a quick fresh-up.
10. Also, carry on an eye mask. You never know when the bookworm or insomniac is seated next to you.
11. Before you book your flight, make sure your Passport is still and will be valid during your trip. If not, make sure you allow more than enough time for renewal.
12. Bring a travel alarm. The hotels may not always have them.
13. Print out a metro map and bring it in your purse.
14. Always carry pain relievers, stomach remedies and anything else you might need with you - especially with new foods and differing time zones - headaches and stomach aches have no vacation, but you do.
15. Wear glasses? Bring them - even if it's only for distance. I was glad to wear mine and be able to see the Cathedral of Notre Dame's intricate exterior in detail!
16. Bring warm and cold weather clothes regardless of season.
17. Bring your swimsuit even if you don't plan to use it. When we went to Omaha Beach, I was surprised swimming was allowed - had I wanted to delve into the cold water, I could.
18. Don't forget your camera - or its charger! I once went on vacation and had a fit after my battery
died. Luckily, my brother brought his camera too.
19. Walking a lot, walking a little - either way, wear flats. France has old streets that aren't always even. Even if you think you'll be walking a short distance, you could get lost or change plans and will be glad you're feet aren't stopping you from keeping to your itinerary (or those macaroons).
20. Be smart, be safe and have fun!