The Parisian Mobile Toolkit
First things first: get a phone or a sim-card !
There are several phone companies in Paris, the main ones being SFR, Orange, Free, and Bouygues Telecom.
When going to subscribe to one, just make sure to bring your passport and credit card with you.
Photo by Phil Roeder @Flickr
Free is known for its cheap deals, and might be a good place to start if you have a tight budget.
The application is online and in French.
Beware: it might take awhile for you to receive your brand new phone or sim card.
If you are not confident in your language skills yet have someone who understands French help you out?
SFR, Orange and Bouygues Telecom have slightly higher fares, but they have a physical presence through their branches located all over the city.
Non-French speakers will be delighted to know that most of the workers speak English.
This helps with the subscription procedure and whenever you have a question or a problem with your phone later on.
You can also download the companies' phone application if you opt for a smartphone to track your monthly credit and data.
Make your life easier with these must-have apps:
1. Citymapper
Citymapper is one of the best apps to get around Paris.
After you decide how you want to travel, the application lets you know the fastest way to get from where you are to anywhere in town.
The plus of Citymapper is that in addition to Paris, other surrounding cities like Amsterdam, London or Brussels can be found on the application as well.
2. Moovit
Moovit resembles Citymapper in its purpose: to help you get from point A to point B in the city.
However, the advantage of Moovit is to bring the information directly to you.
The app tells from your current location the closest stations around and gives you information about the different metro or bus lines in real time.
This helps you avoid getting on a jammed line while going to an important meeting.
It might take a while to get used to the system, but once you get it, this application is a real help.
3. RATP
RATP is another commuter application, but it distinguishes itself from the others by its simplicity.
Enter your current location as the departing point, write your destination and the fastest way to get there will be displayed along with the time necessary for the trip.
This is good for a quick time check on known itineraries.
4. Uber
Uber remains one of the most useful applications in Paris.
This service lets you order a cab on demand from wherever you are.
The fare is estimated in advance and you can check the itinerary directly on the telephone. This app is a lifesaver when there is no ATM around and your wallet is thin.
The application also lets the user rate the drivers, who are usually polite and helpful. The company also has a great and reactive customer service.
Paris can be sketchy at night so I use it all the time on the way home after a night out.
Additional tip:
Out of 3G and not really into buying a new phone? On Google Maps, you can map out your route beforehand, and use it afterwards without connection.
You will see your dot moving on the route! Just make sure your GPS is on.
Must Know Websites to fully experience Parisian life
1. Meet Me Out
Meet Me Out proposes numerous events in various original and historical venues. This is a great opportunity to do some sightseeing while meeting like-minded people.
All you have to do is register and join the event that talks to you.
This website is a good way to learn the real Parisian lifestyle, since the editors are Parisians introducing their favorite cafes, restaurants, events, and more.
3. YEP (Youth Events in Paris)
If you want to travel cheap and meet new people, using YEP is the best way.
They propose great deals for traveling in groups around Europe, creating opportunities for many young students to get together and share a great experience.
This is the most reliable website to get the info about events around town.
You can browse through the different sections depending on what you are looking for: restaurants, nightlife, movies, or museums.
Timeout gives you the latest events and all you need to know about them.
These apps and websites will definetely help you adapt to your new life in Paris. Take advantage of them, and enjoy every single bit of the beautiful city!
