Do you have an upcoming business meeting or trip to Paris? Lucky you!
Paris is undoubtedly the most iconic beautiful city in the world, with so much to see and do from incredible shopping to delectable food and wine, and sensational art and architecture, there are a lot more things that can’t be covered even if you are on a trip there for two weeks, you still won’t see it all!
So, if it is your first time in the city of lovers, you surely will want to make the most of it, even if you are there on business and as Micheal says in the movie Passport to Paris, “What you’re seeing, is this, not Paris. Come with us. We will show you the real Paris”
This article will walk you through how to do that, to prevent stress and make sure that you have plenty of pics when you get home!
Check Your Passport
Before you leave for Paris on business, make sure your passport is in good condition and not damaged.
Yes, it won’t go well if your passport is damaged; nor will any other business trip after that.
Luckily, if you find that your passport is damaged, or it needs to be replaced due to issues with the date or a change of your name, you can opt for a speedy replacement via Urgent Passport Services Inc.
That way, when you get to the airport or the Eurostar, there will be no stress, and you can start (and end) your business trip on a good note!
Book Meetings Near Attractions
Have you always wanted to look out at the Eiffel Tower during a meeting?
It is the dream for many people!
One of the best ways you can make the most out of your business trip in Paris is to try and book your meetings near attractions that you want to see.
This may seem unusual but when it’s about work and life balance and, of course, having a trip to Paris, it is best to be vocal with your colleagues or clients.
Try to be open with them about wanting to visit certain places and, if you are looking to build rapport with them, why not invite them along?
Do You Know?
Paris is over 2,000 years old and was founded in the 3rd century BC by the Celtic people called the Parisii.
Buy Skip The Line Passes
No one in this world would enjoy wasting their time in long lines, therefore, invest in passes that allow you to skip the line.
Also when on a business trip, it is always pivotal for you that you make every second count.
So, if you want to visit an attraction such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, or the Arc de Triomphe, go with the advantage you have.
Yes, you must know that in many cases, you can claim these back as a business expense, so try to have an enjoyable time when visiting the sites, and don’t waste a second longer in line than you need to!
Hit the Highlights
Make your first trip to Paris about hitting the highlights; there are many astonishing places to go and activities to do outside the city, enough in Paris proper to fill your days.
Some highlights of Paris include – The Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triomphe, The Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Sacré-Cœur.
These are the main attractions that are usually overcrowded with tourists but are worth every picture taken of them.
Stay in a Nice Hotel
OK, this may seem snobby, but even Paris has rough spots, so if you are the head of a business, or you are going on this trip to represent a business, you need to be aware of how it will look on the brand or business if you stay in a bad neighborhood.
So, investigate the best hotels and areas in Paris and, of course, make sure that they are near to where your meetings with clients or colleagues are going to be taking place, to prevent a cross-city commute.
Again, this will be a business expense, so, if you are worried about cost, you or your boss will be able to claim it back come tax season!
Brush Up on French Business Etiquette
When on a business trip, it’s always great to learn the customs and expectations of the place you are visiting.
Most prominently, stay polite and use phrases like “bonjour” to greet someone, “désolé de vous déranger” to apologize for any bother, etc.
These couple of little things will greatly enhance your dealings with French people, and experience business in a global setting.
Wrapping Up!!
Bon Voyage! As you have gone through this article, get prepared and ready to make the most out of a business trip to Paris.
The city has more than enough coworking spaces and business establishments aimed at holding meetings and making deals in order to meet your business goals.
Hence, you will need a little bit of foresight, planning, and a smart investment of resources, and you will be able to enjoy working trips in Paris smoothly.
