Commuting in
Paris requires a lot more planning and street smarts than you probably realize. It's easy to think that because the city has such a robust public transport system that you can easily commute to where you need to be. But don't underestimate just how hectic the French capital can get! You could easily get lost in the crowds and rowdiness that make up this bustling metropolis. This is why you'd benefit from following a few helpful tips for commuting in Paris. Knowing when the rush hours are is one, as it wearing the right footwear too.
Learn Some French
Hard as it may be to believe, some people have managed to live in a different country without ever learning the local language. Good for them, however, there's no denying that you'll have an easier time adapting to what and how the locals speak. So if you ever
move to Paris, learn French! Learn it before you get there and improve on it even as you settle down in the city. You'll find that it will prove to be helpful for your everyday life, including when you commute. You'll understand the street signs better, you can ask locals for directions, and even give accurate directions to your taxi driver.
Get a Navigo Decouverte Card
One of the first things you should do when you get to Paris is to purchase a Navigo Decouverte Card. Do note that this is different from the more famous Paris Visite travel pass, which is targeted at tourists. The Navigo Decouverte Card, on the other hand, is what most locals use to navigate
public transport in Paris. You can use it on the métro, buses, and the RER trains. Its major difference from the Paris Visite travel pass is that you can buy a Navigo Decouverte Card that can last you a whole month.
Always Have Cash Handy
Whether you get a transit pass or not, which allows for contactless transactions, it's always handy to have some cash on you. Spare change will help you when you suddenly need to take public transport and you haven't bought or you forgot your transit card at home. Paper bills, on the other hand, are for when you suddenly need to hail a taxi off the street. Don't underestimate how life can just throw you a curve ball, especially when you're living in a big city like Paris. It's best to always be prepared.
Learn The Rush Hours
Working in Paris will have you in one of the biggest labor forces in the world. And when you need to commute to work in Paris, expect to face countless crowds along the way. Most Paris public transport systems tend to get crowded at specific times of the day, which are called the 'rush hours.' If you know when they are, you can fix your schedule to avoid them. Imagine going on the
Paris Métro when everyone inside is packed like a can of sardines. By the time you get to your office, you'll be exhausted, covered in sweat, and your clothes are all wrinkled. You can avoid all that if you avoid commuting during rush hours.
Choose a Place Near The Stations
One of the first things you need to do when you move to Paris for work is to find a place. Fortunately, there are countless
luxury apartments in Paris to rent, including in both the central arrondissements and the more suburban outer areas. If you can choose whatever real estate you want and money isn't an issue, pick the ones near the public transport stations. Some would avoid such apartments because these spots tend to be busy. However, if you live near the stations, you'll rarely be rushing to get to work. Don't underestimate the power of proximity!
Don't Ride The Bus When You're Rushing
For those living on a budget in Paris, your best bet is to commute, especially taking the Paris Métro. There are also many alternatives like the buses, taxis, and transportation apps that operate in the city. With that said, you'd do well not to take the bus when you're rushing to work. Though they follow specific timetables, they often arrive later than scheduled. At the same time, there's also the risk of getting into a traffic jam or worse, a road accident. These will only make you arrive later!
Stay Quiet in The Métro
When you do go on the Paris Métro, it's best to stay quiet. There's an unspoken rule of etiquette among Parisians when taking public transport—mind your own business and do not disturb others. More than just the side-eyes and glares you'll inevitably invite when you're too loud on the Métro, you also risk grabbing attention to yourself. And that is one thing you definitely shouldn't do in a city notorious for pickpocketing. The more you stay quiet and mind your own business, the lesser the risk of getting pickpocketed.
Wear Flats
Don't underestimate just how much you'll end up walking in Paris. Sure, you can take public transport to where you need to be, but you'll still need to talk to get to the stops and stations. At times, it will take you a considerable stroll just to get to the nearest station, so it's best to wear flats all the time. Either wear them when you go out or just bring a pair if you know you'll be on your feet a lot. Moreover, even when you get to the Métro or the bus, there's no guarantee you'll get a seat too.
With how big the city is, commuting to work in Paris is a lot more complicated than many realize. Following these tips will ensure that you get to your office on time every day and with little to no hassle at all.
