Tips for Americans Traveling to Paris

What to Know Before Visiting from the USA

Tips for Americans Traveling to Paris : Planning your dream trip to the City of Lights? PARIS BY EMY specializes in helping Americans experience Paris like a local while avoiding the common pitfalls of first-time visitors. From understanding French customs to navigating the Metro, our expert guidance ensures you’ll make the most of every moment. Whether you’re here for the art, cuisine, history, or romance, these insider tips will help you travel smart, embrace Parisian culture, and create memories you’ll cherish forever.

From the US to Paris – My Journey and Inspiration

Hello and welcome! My name is Emelyne Bonnes—though many of my American friends call me Emy. In my twenties, I spent 5 years living in the United States, mostly in the Midwest, where I studied, graduated, and worked. During that time, I also traveled widely—to New York City, Chicago, Detroit, Tennessee’s Cherokee Indian Reservation, San Francisco, and even Washington, D.C., where I had the privilege of visiting inside the White House.

That incredible experience shaped who I am today and inspired me to create PARIS BY EMY, a way to share my passion for culture and connection. While most of my clients are American, I am honored to welcome travelers from all over the world. This work is not just my profession—it is what I truly love to do.

Cultural Travel Tips for Americans in Paris

With me, you’ll experience French culture and Parisian lifestyle in a genuine and meaningful way. Culture can be understood as both what people share and what brings them together—the traditions, knowledge, creativity, and values passed down through generations. In Paris, that spirit shines through in so many aspects of daily life:

  • Fashion and Style
  • French Cuisine and Gastronomy
  • Art and Architecture
  • Nature and Urban Landscapes
  • Education and Learning
  • Business and Economic Life
  • Faith and Belief Systems
  • Laws, Politics, and Governance
  • Social Norms, Values, and Ethics
  • History and Cultural Heritage
  • Science, Research, and Innovation
  • Daily Life, Traditions, and Customs

Since 2018, I have specialized in creating tailor-made, high-end travel experiences in Paris. In addition to living five years in the US, I have traveled to many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. I studied business as well as sociology and cultural mediation, and I am now pursuing art history at the École du Louvre. I am also a nationally licensed tour guide in Paris, with more than 1,000 hours of experience guiding over 500 travelers—whether solo adventurers, couples, families, students, or business visitors.

Through PARIS BY EMY, my mission is to help you not only discover Paris but to truly experience it—its culture, its heartbeat, and its beauty—just as a local would.

Paris Travel Tips for Americans

Emelyne Bonnes, known to her clients as Emy, is the founder of PARIS BY EMY and a true bridge between American and Parisian culture. Having lived for 5 years in the USA, she understands the expectations, habits, and preferences of American travelers better than anyone. With 95% of her clients coming from the United States, Emy has perfected the art of creating personalized Parisian guided tours that go far beyond the tourist checklist. From Paris tailored itineraries and practical travel tips to insider recommendations on the very best things to do in Paris, she ensures Americans feel both welcomed and enriched during their stay.

Tips for Americans traveling to Paris

If you’re an American planning a trip to Paris, these essential Paris travel tips for Americans will help you :

  • Learn Key French Phrases – While many Parisians speak English, a friendly “Bonjour” or “Merci” makes a big difference
  • Mind the Dining Culture – Meals are savored, not rushed. Expect longer dining times and remember: tipping is optional, but rounding up is appreciated.
  • Pack Smart for the Weather – Paris weather can surprise you. Bring a stylish raincoat and comfortable walking shoes—you’ll thank yourself after exploring.
  • Use Public Transport – The Metro is fast, affordable, and your best friend for seeing the city like a local. PARIS BY EMY offers Paris private tours by car as well.
  • Watch Out for Jet Lag – Arrive ready to adjust your sleep schedule so you can make the most of your Paris days. Don’t overload your itinerary

Dreaming of the Eiffel Tower at sunset or sipping café in Montmartre, these tips for Americans visiting Paris will help you. Indeed, travel smarter. Visiting the Louvre or strolling along the Seine or Paris hidden gems, your Paris Travel planner is taking care of every detail upon your profile and aspirations.

Contact for free quotation

PARIS BY EMY Travel Planner Contact Form

Email contact@parisbyemy.com Tel WhatsApp +33767389625

Please provide details about your profile, interests, preferred services such as customized tour or package, travel dates, number of participants, and budget. You will receive a first quotation or an estimated total cost. The price varies based on the range of services, level of customization, duration of stay, and number of travelers. Adjustments may be necessary. You cannot book directly on the website as each tour or package does not follow preset tours or packages. Booking is made by credit card. As a small business, Paris by Emy provides bespoke tours and custom Paris travel packages with limited availability. Merci.

First and Last name
First and Last name
First
Last
Themes you are interested in
Paris Travel Package Options you are interested in
Video consultation fee deducted from total if you book a travel package

Thank you for your request. By sending your email and in accordance with Article 5 of the GDPR, you expressly consent to the use of your personal data for the purpose of being contacted for a Paris trip project. For more information, see the privacy policy.