Welcome to Paris!
If you’re reading this, it means you’re about to embark on a unique experience in the City of Light. Whether you’re here for a semester or a full year of exchange, there’s plenty to know to make your stay as smooth as possible. In this article, we’ll give you practical tips, cool places to visit, and useful information to help you settle in Paris, with a particular focus on transportation, banks, and activities.
1. The Navigo Card: Your Best Friend for Transportation
The Parisian transport system is one of the most comprehensive in Europe, but it can be a bit complicated if you’re unfamiliar. To simplify your travels, the Navigo Découverte Card is essential.
Navigo Découverte: How does it work?
The Navigo Découverte Card is perfect for international students who are staying for a short period (less than a year). It allows you unlimited travel in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Here’s what you need to know:
Purchase: You can buy the physical card (5 €) at metro stations or RATP counters. You’ll need to provide a small ID photo to personalize it.
No student discount: The Découverte version doesn’t offer a discount, but it’s still very cost-effective for daily use. Discounts are reserved for holders of the annual Navigo card.
Annual or student card: If you’re staying in Paris for a full year and enrolled at a Parisian university, you can apply for an Annual Navigo Card with a student rate (under 26 years old), offering a significant discount. A valid university enrollment is required for this.
If you choose the annual or student option, you can manage your subscription via a physical card or directly from the Île-de-France Mobilités or BONJOUR RATP mobile app.
Where to buy it?
Physically: At metro stations or RER counters.
Online: For the annual card or student subscription, you can apply on the Île-de-France Mobilités website or via the BONJOUR RATP app.
2. Student Groups and Associations: Making Friends and Discovering the City
When arriving in a new city, it’s essential to meet people and integrate. Luckily, Paris is full of student associations and groups that organize activities all year long.
Facebook Groups and Student Associations
There are numerous groups on Facebook that organize outings and events specifically for international students. Here are a few suggestions:
Erasmus Student Network (ESN Paris): They organize parties, cultural visits, and trips for Erasmus students.
Meetups Paris for Students: You’ll find several groups offering meetups between international and local students.
International Student Community Paris: An active community offering parties, brunches, and museum visits.
3. Cool Places You Shouldn’t Miss
Paris is full of must-see places to explore. Here are some suggestions:
Canal Saint-Martin: For a relaxed stroll or a picnic with friends.
Les Berges de Seine: Ideal for relaxing or cycling along the Seine River.
Le Marais: A trendy neighborhood for shopping and lively bars.
Les Jardins du Luxembourg: A peaceful nature spot in the heart of Paris.
4. A Few Practical Tips for Students
Banking and Mobile Phone
If you’re staying for several months, it’s useful to open a local bank account or opt for Revolut, a convenient solution for international students:
Revolut allows you to manage multiple currencies, exchange money without fees, and pay worldwide. You can also order a physical card with a one-time additional cost.
For mobile phone plans, operators like Free, Bouygues, or Orange offer subscriptions tailored to students.
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
If your university doesn’t provide a student card, the ISIC card offers discounts at various places in Paris, such as cinemas and museums.
Health and Insurance
As a student, you can benefit from the French social security system. Also, consider subscribing to supplementary insurance to cover your healthcare needs.
Conclusion
Paris is an incredible city offering endless opportunities for students. With easy transport via the Navigo Card, banking simplicity through Revolut, and numerous student activities and cultural experiences, you’re ready to make the most of your time in Paris.
Don’t wait any longer—explore the city and enjoy this adventure!
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