Top 11 Tourist Mistakes in Paris

(and how to avoid them)

passport waiting for pickpocket

ABOVE: Paris is a paradise for pickpockets and purse-snatchers, partly because so many tourists are ready to accept the role of victim.

Paris is one of the world's great travel destinations, and you're likely to enjoy your visit even if you don't plan your trip perfectly--or even if something goes wrong.

Still, why subject yourself to more stress, cost, and inconvenience than necessary? By looking at other travelers' mistakes, you'll avoid replicating their problems, and you'll get more enjoyment--and value--from your Paris vacation.

On the following pages, we discuss 11 frequent mistakes or lapses in judgment by travelers who visit Paris. But we don't just focus on the negative: We offer practical and positive travel advice, often with links to related articles or other Web sites.

To get started, go to Mistake #1 or click any of the numbers in the navigation table below.

Next page: Mistake #1: Here today, gone tomorrow

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