FAQs

Question

I’m coming to France ! What’s next?

Answer

Yay! We're so excited to celebrate with you! First things first—have you RSVP’d? If not, please let us know which events you’ll be attending via the following link: https://www.zola.com/wedding/crystenandbrett/rsvp. Kindly reply as soon as you are able but no later than July 1, 2025.

Question

What’s the first thing I should do after RSVPing?

Answer

Check Your Passport Expiration Date! France requires your passport to be valid at least 3 months beyond your return date—but to be extra safe, we recommend 6 months. For example, if you plan on flying back to the US on September 27, 2025, make sure your passport doesn’t expire before March 27, 2026. Here’s a handy link to check the details: https://fr.usembassy.gov/services/travel-to-france/ Bonus tip: Make a scan or photocopy of your passport, driver’s license, and health insurance card, and keep it either with you or backed up digitally—just in case!

Question

What should I pack?

Answer

First and foremost, try to pack light! I promise you won’t regret it. Otherwise, here are our top suggestions: • Comfortable walking shoes – You’ll walk a lot, especially in Paris. We averaged 5-8 miles a day on our last trip. • An outlet adapter/converter– European plugs are different and use a higher voltage (230V vs. 110V in the U.S.). Make sure you purchase one that is an adapter AND a converter; otherwise, you risk damaging your devices. Here's the one we use: https://a.co/d/7kWGXG3. • Zippered purse/backpack – Pickpocketing is common in touristy areas. A crossbody bag that you can keep in front of you is ideal. Example: https://a.co/d/gyURzzy • Power bank – Using maps and translation apps all day can drain your battery quickly. We love this one: https://a.co/d/1SChhAb • Layers – The weather can shift throughout the day in late September. Think cozy mornings and warm afternoons.

Question

Can I use my credit or debit card in France?

Answer

Yes! Most places accept cards, especially in Paris. A few tips: • It’s a good idea to carry some euros just to be safe. • Look into credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees. • Let your bank know you’re traveling internationally to avoid having your card declined. • If you’re like us and typically use an American Express card, they are accepted most places but not all.

Question

Will my phone work in France?

Answer

Yes—but it depends on your plan. We usually utilize AT&T’s international plan ($10/day). One of us activates it while the other keeps their phone on airplane mode and connects to Wi-Fi (when available) to avoid surprise charges.

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

Late September in France is usually quite pleasant—think early fall with cooler mornings and warm afternoons. Expect daytime highs around 64–72°F and evenings between 52–57°F. You’ll likely get a mix of sunny and overcast days, with the occasional light rain (more likely in Paris than Sancerre). In other words—perfect weather for touring vineyards or wandering cobblestone streets!

Question

Which airport should I fly into?

Answer

• Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – The main international airport, which is about 45 minutes northeast of Paris. • Orly (ORY) – Smaller airport & about 40 minutes south of Paris. Also a good option!

Question

How do I get from the Airport to my hotel in Paris?

Answer

Option 1: Uber • Works the same as in the US (except for in very small towns). • Cost: Around €45–60 from CDG to central Paris. Option 2: Train (RER B) • Runs every 15 minutes and costs about €13 per person. • Follow signs to the RER B line at the airport. • Don’t stress—if you get confused, just ask someone at the ticket counter. Most staff speak English and are happy to help!

Question

What should I know about the Paris metro/subway?

Answer

• Not all stations have elevators/escalators, so be ready to carry your luggage up & down multiple flights of stairs. (Another reason it’s important to pack light!) • Pickpockets are a real thing, especially when you look like a tourist (ahem, suitcases). Keep phones or any valuables in front pockets or zipped bags. • You can either purchase a reloadable card or download the IDF Mobilites app and add the virtual card to your wallet. Each trip (one-way) is one credit. • It's a very efficient way to explore Paris once you're familiar with it!

Question

Where should I stay in Paris?

Answer

Here are a few neighborhoods we recommend: • 1st & 2nd Arrondissements – This area is considered “the Heart of Paris." Home to the Louvre, Palais Royal, and Tuileries Gardens. • 6th Arrondissement (St. Germain des Prés) – Chic, clean, and walkable. Close to Notre Dame and the Luxembourg Gardens. • 4th Arrondissement (Le Marais) – Trendy, fun, and full of cute shops, cafés, and nightlife. A little further from the main attractions. More details here: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/guide-paris-arrondissements https://www.parisinsidersguide.com/paris-arrondissements.html *Hotel recommendations to come*

Question

How do I get from Paris to Sancerre?

Answer

Option 1: Train (easiest and scenic!) • Depart from Paris Bercy (Gare de Bercy) → Arrive at Tracy-Sancerre Station • Direct routes take about 1 hour 45 minutes, with 3–4 departures daily • Pro tip: Book a direct train to avoid having to change trains • Once you get to the Sancerre train station, you will either need to take a taxi or we will come and get you (it’s less than 10 minutes away from both the château and the hotel) Option 2: Rent a car • Recommended if you want flexibility to explore the countryside • TIP: Try renting from a location outside the Paris city center to avoid traffic (driving in Paris was very stressful) • We used Enterprise on our last trip—just make sure to request an automatic transmission (and maybe skip the electric car unless you’re familiar with charging stations)

Question

Any tips for driving in France?

Answer

• Speed cameras are everywhere, and they’re not always obvious (ask Brett...). Stick to the posted speed limits and be aware that they change very quickly. • Roundabouts galore! They’re way more common than in the U.S. If you’re not used to them, watch a quick YouTube refresher. Here are some helpful resources: https://www.france-justforyou.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-driving-in-france https://www.offbeatfrance.com/driving-tips-in-france.html