France holds a romantic attraction for Americans, who visit to experience everything French: warm baguettes, swells of accordion music, art museums, views of countryside vineyards and the Eiffel Tower. Getting to France should be fairly simple for an American, not to mention safe, but you're likely to stand out a bit as a foreigner. When you are prepared and know how to blend in, you'll get the most authentic French experience possible.

Travel Documentation

Getting into France is pretty straightforward for an American tourist; unlike some other nations, a traveler doesn't need a visa to visit France. You do need a valid passport, and you're only allowed to stay for 90 days. Ensure that your passport is valid beyond the 90-day limit so you don't encounter any trouble when you try to leave France. You do, however, need a visa if you plan to stay for longer than 90 days or are visiting France for a reason other than tourism, such as business or studying. Contact the French Embassy if that's your intention.

Health Information

It's unlikely you'll face any health problems in France you didn't have at home; the country is not a high-risk zone for communicable diseases. Still, check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before visiting any foreign country. As of the date of publication, the CDC recommends being vaccinated against common illnesses, like measles and mumps, as well as hepatitis B, before visiting France. Bring any over-the-counter and prescription medications you take regularly, since getting prescriptions refilled in France can be tricky.

Fitting In

You may have heard that everyone in a major European city – like Paris – speaks English and is happy to communicate in the language, but you might find yourself on the receiving end of some unfriendly treatment if you expect the French people to bend themselves to your language needs. Learn some basic French phrases before you go, or at least carry a book of basic French phrases with you as you travel. You'll likely find more English speakers in major cities than small towns, but even in Paris, shopkeepers and vendors will appreciate your attempts to speak the native language. Leave your most casual clothing at home, and try to dress according to current fashion trends when visiting France. When in doubt, dress in black.

Staying Safe

Don't let the beauty of France blind you to its dangers: The country has its thieves and scam artists, particularly in large cities, who can see Americans coming a mile away. Stay vigilant at all times, particularly near major tourist attractions like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower. French pickpockets often travel in groups and try to distract their victims as a cover for theft; stay with other members of your group at all times, and carry only the cash, identification and valuables that you absolutely need at any given time. Carry all your money and personal items in a bag that crosses the front of your body and closes with a zipper or clasp. Leave your passport in your hotel safe when you're walking the streets.

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