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Planning on a solo adventure is a thrilling endeavor and when the destination is as enchanting as France, the excitement knows no bounds. As a female traveler who loves to travel, one question that often comes my way is, “Is France safe for solo female travellers?”
Well, after personally traveling on a solo adventure across this awesome country, I’m excited to share my first-hand experiences and insights, assuring fellow wanderlust seekers that France is indeed a fantastic destination for solo female exploration.
So come on, adventurers! Let’s discover the magic that lies within the City of Light.
Is France safe for solo female travellers?
France, including cities like Nice and Paris, is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. In Nice, violent crime is rare and it is considered safe for women traveling alone. ( according to travelladies). Likewise, Paris is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals, making it safe for solo female travelers (according to travelladies. However, like any destination, taking precautions is essential. For example, Paris requires specific safety measures and visitors should be aware of potential risks, including petty crime.
In France, people often playfully chat with each other, even with strangers, which might feel different from the way people interact in the US, Australia, Canada, or England. The French enjoy banter and don’t mind using suggestive language. Unlike in some other places, there’s not as much emphasis on being politically correct. I personally liked the friendly exchanges, but if you find it too much, you can choose not to join in.
All in all, France is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it’s crucial to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Safety tips for female traveling France alone
Traveling alone, especially in a place as diverse as France, is really exciting. But it also means thinking about safety. Let me share some tips to make sure your solo adventure is not just fun but also safe.
1. Be aware of your surroundings and alcohol intake
When you’re in a new place, it’s important to be extra aware of what’s going on around you. This is especially true in unfamiliar environments where things might be different from what you’re used to. While trying the famous French wines is a great part of the experience, it’s really important to watch how much you drink. France loves its wine, and it’s a big part of their social scene. But to stay in control and aware of your surroundings, it’s important to know your limits.
2. Stay connected
Staying connected is super important when you’re on a solo trip. I always make sure to let a close friend or family member know where I’m going and what my plans are. Having a charged phone with important contact numbers is crucial in case of emergencies.
If you’re considering a new way to stay connected hassle-free, you might want to think about getting an eSIM. It’s like a virtual SIM card, and it can be a great option for easy and secure connectivity while you’re exploring on your own.
Here’s a tip: consider getting an eSIM card from our France eSIM. It’s a handy way to stay connected without needing a physical SIM card. Just be active on your phone, and you’ll be ready to call or message whenever you need to. It’s been a game-changer for me on my solo adventures, making it easier to keep in touch and navigate my way around.
3. Use GPS
I bought a GPS years ago, and I often bring it along, especially when renting a car. Car rental agencies can charge a lot for GPS, and it’s not always included unless you’re leasing the car. It takes up space in my luggage, but it’s worth it because it helps me stay aware of the speed limit. If you don’t have one, consider borrowing from a friend, or worst case, use your smartphone.
4. Use Google Maps
When driving, I recommend using both a GPS and Google Maps. In the countryside, phone reception can be spotty, and Google Maps might not work well. GPS tends to be more reliable. I particularly like using Google Maps in town since it’s usually more up-to-date and user-friendly. Having both ensures a smoother and more confident driving experience.
5. Learn French and a bit of french culture
I found that learning a bit of French and understanding how things work in France made my solo travel experience more enjoyable and secure. Knowing some basic French phrases and being aware of local customs helped me communicate with the friendly locals. Plus, it made me feel less vulnerable to scams and other potential issues. I recommend downloading a popular language app to have handy during your trip.
6. Do research
Before my solo adventure in France, I spent some time researching online. I checked out the best solo travel destinations and read blogs by other solo female travelers who had explored France.
Their experiences provided valuable insights and top safety tips for solo travel. Taking the time to do this research not only helped me plan my trip better but also gave me the confidence to explore this beautiful country on my own.
7. Secure extra cards and cash
I always make sure to keep my extra bank cards and Euros separate when I travel. Sometimes, I use a hidden money belt for added security. It’s important never to put valuable things in your luggage when you’re on the move, like flying or taking a bus or train, as it’s too easy for them to be stolen.
Traveling to France and exploring the world on your own can be an amazing experience. Sometimes it can push you out of your comfort zone, but it’s a great way to grow.
8. Keep valuables safe
I never forget to keep my important stuff close when I’m out and about. My passport, wallet, and smartphone are always near me. I prefer using a crossbody bag or backpack that I can keep in front of me for extra security.
It’s a good idea to avoid carrying too much cash and to stash important documents in a safe place, like the hotel safe in your room. This way, I can enjoy my travels without worrying about losing anything valuable.
9. Choose accommodations wisely
When picking a place to stay, I always make sure to check out the city center. There are lots of hotels with different prices, and the metro stations can get you to all the major attractions quickly. If you’re right in the heart of the city, most things are within walking distance.
Before booking, I do some research on Google Maps, read reviews, and if there are any safety concerns or red flags, I skip them and look for something else. Trusting your gut is crucial for safety.
10. Contact information
When I’m traveling solo in France, I always make it a priority to have the contact details of where I’m staying handy. I save the phone number and address in my cellphone or keep it with me. It’s a simple yet crucial step that has proven helpful on more than one occasion.
I remember once in Paris, the gate to the property was unexpectedly closed, and my friend and I had to get a bit creative by hopping a fence to get in. Having the contact information readily available made the situation much easier to handle.
11. Beware of scams
Being aware of scams is important, especially in big cities like Paris and Marseille. Over the years, scammers have become quite skilled. Two common scams in Paris to watch out for are the ‘gold ring scam,’ where someone pretends to find a ‘solid gold ring’ and tries to sell it to you, and the ‘string bracelet scam,’ where someone offers you a friendship bracelet, ties it tightly to your wrist without waiting for your response, and then demands payment. So, when traveling solo, you need to be careful of scams.
12. Leave travel plans
I always make it a point to share my travel plans with someone I trust, usually a family member. I gave them detailed information about my itinerary, including the phone number of where I would be staying. This way, they know my whereabouts and can contact me if needed.
13. Leave your daily itinerary
Every time I head out to explore the city for the day, I leave a note on the table in my accommodation. It’s a simple note stating where I plan to go for the day. I’ve heard stories of hikers getting stranded, and no one knowing their location.
Leaving my daily plans ensures that if I find myself in a tricky situation, at least someone will have an idea of where I am. It’s a small precaution that adds an extra layer of safety to my solo travels.
14. Tips for apartment rental safety
When I choose to stay in an apartment during my travels, I always make sure to prioritize safety. One key practice is to memorize the keypad passcodes for building entries. It’s a simple yet smart step that adds an extra layer of security.
Also, I make it a rule not to expose my keys until I’m safely inside. This is especially important in historic buildings where doors might close slowly, preventing unauthorized access.
15. Use public transportation wisely
Public transportation in France is usually safe, but it’s crucial to stay alert. Avoid empty train cars and buses, especially at night. If you ever feel uneasy, head to a crowded area or ask for help from a police officer or fellow passenger. While the Paris Metro is generally safe for solo female travelers, remember that, like in any big city, public transport can attract various characters.
FAQs
Is Paris safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Paris is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. However, like any destination, it’s still a good idea to stay alert and follow general safety tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable solo adventure. Connect with other travelers for insights and share your itinerary with someone you trust.
Should I travel to France alone as a woman?
Yes, France is very safe for solo female travelers. The Global Peace Index ranks France a commendable 66th out of 163 countries, indicating a high level of peace. Drawing from my personal experience, I have traveled alone to France many times and have never felt uncomfortable or unsafe anywhere in the country.
Is Paris safe at night for a woman?
Similar to other big cities, Paris experiences some minor crimes, but the overall crime rate is low. By taking simple safety measures like sticking to well-lit areas, avoiding empty streets at night, and being mindful of your belongings, you can explore the beauty of Paris without unnecessary concerns.
Wrap up
To sum up, now you know “Is France safe for solo female travellers?” And in fact, my solo exploration of France as a female traveler was an enjoyable and safe experience. While it’s essential to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions, the overall atmosphere is warm and hospitable.
So, to all the solo female adventurers out there, pack your bags and start your journey through the captivating landscapes of France. I assure you, the experience will be super fantastic. Safe trip!
