There is no doubt that France is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the world. It has got everything from the beautiful streets of Paris to lush green wine country, glamorous beaches to the snow capped Alps to Disneyland and more. France is also a great destination especially for seniors, with great discounts and cost-saving opportunities of all kinds across the country. Here are our top tips for senior citizens in France.
Save on train travel. France has one of Europe's most extensive rail networks - you can learn about buses from anywhere in the country. Cart seniors at SNCF (French State Railway Company) offer over 60 discounts to all, 25-50% off on all train journeys, even if you don't book in advance, for the year. The card also gives you a 30% discount on rail travel to 22 other European countries. It is even better if you book and pay for your rail pass before you leave your country.
See all the great museums. In many museums and monuments in France, senior travelers will get discounts of up to 40% in some cases. Some sites start waiver at age 65, but always remember to bring your passport or other ID if you are over 60, if they ask you to prove your age! The Louvre has a fantastic € 6 entry on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 9:45 pm
Bring an idiom book. While most tourist spots, restaurants and hotels around Paris will have English-speaking staff, if you venture further afield in France you may run into some difficulty. But between some basic phrases in French from you and at least some English language skills from the local person, you should mess through. I lived in regional France for a period and they loved Australians. Before I say anything, I'll speak in French "I'm sorry, I'm from Australia, I don't speak French". Learn to say it in French - they will love you for it.
Swap houses. It may not be much press, but savvy travelers have been saving tons of money by exchanging their home at their destination for decades. HomeExchange.com. There are 29,000 houses worldwide including France. You never know, you can gossip in Bordeaux for a song!
Go see the world. One of the favorite activities of French people is to sit outside the café and discuss the matters of the day of coffee. Try it yourself, and you definitely want to get a great taste of the local atmosphere, no matter where you go in France. This is one of my favorite activities. Choose spots frequented by the locals and it will not cost you an arm and a leg.
Fly around France cheaply. Air France offers senior citizens a 10% discount on internal flights across the country. The airline also offers 10% off to 62-plus people on select international flights - be sure to ask when you book.
Be safe Users of the popular Tripadvisor website recently voted Paris as the fifth most common pickpocket city in the world, so check out your valuables at the City of Lights - unfortunately I can vouch for this first hand
