What are some good things to know before traveling to Paris?

Paris is pretty easy for a first time traveler. Knowing some French is ALWAYS helpful, but many of the natives do speak English. (Pointing and Hand gestures also work!) The best four pieces of advice I can give you is: 1) use an ATM credit card to get money. Check with your bank beforehand to make sure you know their fee structure. This will give you usually the best exchange rate, even with extra fees. 2) Get a map, and have at least one or two things planned for you to do before you get there. Paris is a great place to walk around, and has a lot of interesting just to see in passing; don't get lost. 3) Use the subway/light rail system. Get the pass. Forgot the name of it, but their transportation system has I think 3, 5, and 7 day passes. If you intended to walk around and explore a lot (see #2) this is the best way to do it, AND do it affordably. 4) Do some research online, and go to at least ONE VERY GOOD restaurant. Some of the top things to see in Paris: Eiffel Tower Louvre Versailles Champs Elysee and the Arch de Triomphe (yes, I know everyone see these but still, they WERE cool) But there are a lot of museums, cafes, etc to see as well. Don't limit yourself just to the popular stuff.