Venue
Meeting Venue:
Courtyard Paris Porte de Versailles
Welcome to Paris
Paris, often hailed as the “City of Light” (La Ville Lumière), stands proudly as one of the most iconic cities in the world. As the capital of France, Paris has been a center of art, culture, fashion, and intellectualism for centuries. It is a city where historic monuments, bustling boulevards, quaint cafés, and vibrant neighborhoods coexist beautifully, creating an atmosphere that is both timeless and ever-evolving.
Geography and Layout:
Located in northern France along the banks of the River Seine, Paris is divided into 20 administrative districts called arrondissements, spiraling clockwise from the city center. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for exploration on foot or via its efficient public transport system.
Cultural Heritage:
Paris is synonymous with world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, and Montmartre. It is home to countless museums, galleries, theaters, and libraries. The city’s historic and architectural marvels are complemented by a rich tradition of music, dance, literature, and gastronomy, making every street corner a story waiting to be discovered.
Language:
The official language is French. English is widely understood, especially in hotels, restaurants, and major tourist areas. However, a polite attempt to speak a few words in French is always appreciated by locals.
Practical Information for Participants
Climate:
Paris enjoys a temperate oceanic climate.
Spring (March-May): Warm and lively, with temperatures averaging between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F); sometimes peaking higher. Mild with occasional rain showers; blooming gardens like Jardin du Luxembourg are a must-see.
We recommend packing layered clothing, an umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes.
Currency:
The official currency is the Euro (€).
- ATMs are widely available.
- Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but some smaller businesses may prefer cash.
Telephone Code:
- The international dialing code for France is +33.
- To call a Parisian number from abroad: dial your international access code, then 33, and omit the leading 0 of the local number.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and public spaces.
Electricity:
- Voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Plug Types: Type C and Type E (the standard two-round pin plugs).
- Visitors from countries with different electrical standards should bring a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter for certain devices.
Transportation:
Paris boasts one of the best public transportation systems in the world:
- Metro: Extensive and easy to use; stations are located every few hundred meters.
- RER Trains: Connect the city center with suburban areas, including airports.
- Buses and Trams: Cover areas where the metro does not reach.
- Walking and Cycling: Paris is a very walkable city, and public bike rental systems (such as Vélib’) are popular.
Time Zone:
Paris operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1, and observes daylight saving time from late March to late October (Central European Summer Time, CEST, UTC +2).
Safety Tips and Etiquette
- Safety: Paris is generally safe, but like all major cities, stay alert, especially in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur.
- Etiquette: A polite greeting (Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur) goes a long way. French people value good manners.
- Smoking: Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces, but allowed at outdoor café terraces.