Practical Tips Before You Go

WHAT TO WEAR AND HOW TO AVOID PICKPOCKETS Start the tour traveling light, and bring an empty backpack or tote bag. By the end you may well be carrying quite a lot! A backpack is easiest on the shoulders. Keep valuables in a small, separate bag and always carry it in front of your chest. Fortunately, this area isn't known for heavy pickpocketing, so you can relax a bit. Some stretches are crowded, though, so stay alert. The best defense against pickpockets is to avoid them, and if you keep your valuables close, you won't lose them.

RESTROOMS If you aren't planning to stop anywhere, use the restroom before you come to the tour location. If you are caught short, you can order a glass of champagne or wine at a venue and use its restroom naturally. La Grande Épicerie, an optional extra stop, has restrooms. Department stores generally have free restrooms, which is handy to know while traveling; Samaritaine, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps all have good ones.