If you have been packing bags to travel alone to Paris after a long time, go ahead. The Country is generally safe to travel, especially in popular tourist areas. However, taking precautionary measures is important. While violent crime is low, solo female travellers need to take the necessary safety steps. Don’t believe every individual on the street is your friend.
Paris is undoubtedly beautiful. However, the reality has two different sides. On the one hand, the Eiffel Tower’s beauty attracts one, and on the other hand, you can see homeless people, litter, and dog faeces on the streets.
Although crimes are rare, Paris’s rough edges are enough to take solo travellers aback and frighten them off.
It is the reason most expert travellers don’t recommend solo travelling in Paris for the first time. You need to have the right control over the French language and the culture. You must be aware of scams and be confident enough to explore the country on your own.
Is Paris safe for women travellers at night?
Yes, Paris is generally safer for women to explore at night. However, one must still ensure proper security measures and avoid isolated areas late at night. Stay in well-populated areas and streets, walk confidently, and use shared cabs instead of taking a transport to travel alone. Try to avoid empty metro carriages and stay with other people.
Avoid looking at your phone with your neck down for longer periods. Go to a popular area to check the directions or the route. Moreover, avoid specific stations, such as Gare du Nord, at night. It may not be safe for you.
What are some popular reviews of women travellers regarding Paris?
Here are some actual experiences of women travellers regarding Paris. It may help you plan your itinerary well:
- According to travelladies, “Paris is safe if you stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-trafficked areas after dark and hide valuables.”
- According to Travelherstory, “women may feel uneasy due to homeless people or occasional intimidating behaviour. However, using public transport is safe.”
- “Avoid risky areas like Pigalle and learn a few French phrases to interact confidently.”(Adventurouskate)
What are some common scams to watch out for?
Before travelling to Paris, understand the scams so that you will be well prepared. Here are some scams to check out and be aware of:
- The friendship bracelet scam
Who does not like friendship bands? However, getting one from a complete stranger is weird. Don’t fall for the trap. The stranger may demand money as soon as you wear the bracelet. They may even get aggressive if you don’t abide. This scam is especially common in areas like Montmartre. So, be vigilant of anything like that.
- The petition-signing scam
Do you love to contribute to charity? You are a gem of a person. However, you need to restrain yourself when in Paris. Otherwise, you may fall victim to the petition-signing scam. Someone, pretending to be from a popular charity, may ask you to sign a petition in support of some good cause.
This is where you need to be extra vigilant. While you read the petition, someone from the person’s accomplice may pickpocket you. Moreover, they may even ask for a donation after you file the petition.
- Beware of aggressive street vendors
Just like most tourist destinations, street vendors in Paris are the same. They may use aggressive techniques to provoke a purchase. Common tactics could be blocking the way or placing the items in your hand and demanding money. Here, decline politely if you don’t want to extend the scene. Keep walking even if they force you to stop.
6 Safety Tips for Solo Travellers in Paris
Once you are convinced of your choice to travel to Paris, here are some safety tips that may help you navigate the solo trip fears:
- Don’t carry valuables everywhere
It is a normal tendency for people to carry valuable belongings with them. They pack it up and take it everywhere. However, it is not safe to do so in Paris. It is because of the pickpocketing and other scams. Leave original documents, like a Passport, at your accommodations.
Don’t carry too many debit cards. Instead, carry cash to spend carefully. You can instead put the belongings in the hotel’s locker where you are staying. It is comparatively safer than other modes.
Alternatively, if you don’t have much cash, don’t rely on credit cards overly. Check bad credit loans online to meet your requirements. These personal loans may help you fund your needs without paying more interest overall.
- Keep in the know of protests
You can experience protests regarding something or the other in France, Paris. Most labourers protest for a change in policies. However, these protests may not cause any major inconvenience. But it may delay the timings to explore the best part of Paris. It may also affect the transportation for the day. Identify the roues safer to travel in this case. You can also take the help of the natives in this case.
- Remain vigilant in crowded areas
It is not threatening, but yes, you may face terrorism threats in Paris. Especially, France presents a level 2 advisory for its citizens under such an attempt. It is on the lower side, which encourages caution.
Such threats are unpredictable, but you must be ready to face them and have a backup plan in case you encounter one. You just need to stay aware of the people who surround you. As said in the introduction, don’t believe every other person is your friend.
- Pack things for personal security
According to the expert travellers, you must carry a Travelon Purse as it has pockets to keep everything you need. It can accommodate even an umbrella. You can also check the Thafael bag as an anti-theft option to avoid theft. You can also keep a small knife for safety purposes.
- Keep an external battery pack
Aside from maps, taking images with your phone may drain your battery soon. You cannot find the charging points everywhere. Thus, keeping a power backup device may prove helpful here. However, ensure a charged one to benefit from it.
It may help you remain connected with your people and avoid unforeseen circumstances. You may also get help in a timely manner if needed. You just need to keep your smartphone on.
- Avoid taking rides from unofficial cabs
What do you usually check when you book a cab? It could be the fare, the OTP and the timing within which the cab would get there. However, most individuals skip checking the driver’s identity. It is especially important if you are travelling late at night.
Official taxis have lit-up signs and set rates for the Paris airports. Thus, don’t go anywhere and avoid cab drivers who bargain forcibly. Thieves will use the disorientation of busy areas as an opportunity to swipe things. Therefore, always be vigilant about your valuables. Don’t carry them unless you need them dearly.
Bottom line
Paris is a beautiful place to travel to if you have the right knowledge and equipment with you. Safety is slightly concerning, especially for women travellers. Therefore, the above-listed tips may help you plan a safe trip. Keep documents and valuables safe. Don’t carry them unnecessarily. Avoid unknown streets and routes, and always be in a crowded place.
