Destination Guides
France
Eiffel Tower, Paris
France rewards travelers who slow down, and Paris in particular is where that pace pays off most, beyond the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, the city's real charm lives in its neighborhood bakeries, hidden courtyards, and the unhurried rhythm of a proper sit-down lunch. Beyond the capital, the country offers remarkable range: the Loire Valley's chateaux, Provence's lavender fields, and the French Riviera's coastal glamour. A visit in April through June or September through October brings mild weather and thinner crowds than peak summer, while a 7-10 day trip allows Paris plus one other region without feeling rushed. For Kentucky-based travelers, the direct overnight flights from major East Coast hubs make France one of the more accessible European gateways, and it pairs beautifully with a Seine river cruise. Because so much of what makes France special is off the beaten path, this is exactly the kind of destination where a travel advisor earns their keep, from securing skip-the-line museum access in Paris to building a countryside itinerary that balances icons with quieter corners.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
A little courtesy goes a long way in France, where manners are noticed more than in many other countries.
Friendly greetings: Always greet with "Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur" before starting a conversation, even in a shop or asking for directions. Skipping this is considered abrupt.
Dress respectfully: The French dress polished but understated, athletic wear and flip-flops outside the gym stand out. Neutral colors and well-fitted basics blend in best.
Dining times: Lunch runs roughly 12:00-2:00pm and dinner rarely starts before 7:30pm, many restaurants don't open for dinner until 7:00pm at the earliest.
Local customs: A cheek kiss (la bise) is common between acquaintances, but a handshake is safest for first meetings or business settings.
Transportation and timing: Trains connect the country efficiently, validate tickets before boarding regional trains.
Practical tip: Most small shops close for an hour or two at midday and many close entirely on Sundays, plan errands accordingly.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: A tin of fleur de sel or a jar of Dijon mustard from a local épicerie captures France in the kitchen.
For the Fashionistas: A silk scarf from a Parisian boutique or a Provençal market brings home the country's effortless style.
For the Home: A framed vintage Paris Metro map or a piece of Provençal pottery makes a lasting keepsake.
Suggested Gratuities
Tipping in France is far more modest than in the US, since a service charge is already built into most bills by law.
Private Tour Guides: €10-20 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: €5-10 per person
Taxis: Round up the fare, or add 5-10% for exceptional service
Restaurants: Service is included by law, an additional €1-2 per person or rounding up is a kind gesture, not an obligation
Private Drivers: €5-10 per trip, more for a full day
Housekeeping: €1-2 per night, left daily
Porters: €1-2 per bag
Spa Staff: 5-10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Euro (€), credit cards widely accepted, but keep small cash for markets and cafes
Language: French, though English is common in tourist areas and hotels
Transportation: High-speed trains connect major regions efficiently, Metro and walking cover Paris itself
Weather: Mild spring and fall, warm summers, cool damp winters, pack layers year round
Walking: Highly walkable cities with cobblestone streets in older neighborhoods, comfortable shoes matter more than style here
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