Getting around in Paris

This is one of the reasons I have been a bit nervous about going to Paris or anywhere out of the country for that reason. I fear that I will get over there and go to one of the sights and then get stuck there and not be able to find my way back. I know this isn't really going to happen but my lack of communication skills scares me a little. What if I can't explain to someone where I'm trying to go? What if I can't tell someone that I need a Diet Coke? JK. Well, here are some tips on getting around that I found useful.

1 - Practice and know some basic French before you go. I have heard that many of the Parisians speak English, but the taxi drivers could take advantage of the situation if you are not careful. I was watching a program once that said that you can tell them where you are going and if you don't give exact destination and know approximately where it is they will go the long way around and run up your tab.

2 - The Metro is one of Paris's easiest and fastest way of getting around. This link gives the details and history. I heard this is usually the best way to go because every place you go is within close reach of a station. I also learned it important to buy ten passes at a time just in case you stay someplace later than expected and the ticket office closes.

3 - The Batobus is not only a way to get around but something I definitely plan to put on the itinerary. This was one of Giada's suggestions on one of her weekend getaway episodes and it looked so fun to me. You pay a small fair to take a beautful ride down the Siene and get to stop at some major Paris sights. It takes you to some of the hit spots all in one trip including the Eiffel Tower, Musee D'Orsay, Notre Dame, Champs-Elysees, and the Louvre.