Airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) • Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)

European Currency

Currency: Euro (EUR)
Exchange: 1 USD ≈ varies (check live rate before travel)

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across both Paris and Amsterdam, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, and major attractions, so carrying large amounts of cash is usually unnecessary.

ATMs are easy to find throughout both cities.
Be sure to travel with a card that has low or no foreign transaction fees for the best value abroad.

Visa & Entry

U.S., Canadian, UK, and EU passport holders do not need a visa for short tourist stays in France or the Netherlands.

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates and have blank pages for entry stamps.

Travelers may be required to complete ETIAS travel authorization prior to arrival once implemented, always check requirements closer to departure.

Keep digital and printed copies of passports, flights, and hotel confirmations in case of emergencies.

Packing Essentials

Pack lightweight summer clothing, as July in Europe is warm with long daylight hours.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, both Paris and Amsterdam are best explored on foot.

Include dressy-casual outfits for dinners, nightlife, rooftop lounges, and group experiences.

A light jacket or sweater is helpful for cooler evenings or canal cruises.

Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a small day bag for daily sightseeing.

A portable phone charger is highly recommended for long exploration days and photos.

Health & Safety

Tap water in Paris and Amsterdam is safe to drink, so bottled water is optional.

Both cities have modern pharmacies and healthcare access if needed.

Europe is generally very safe, but maintain standard travel awareness in crowded tourist areas and public transit.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for international trips.

Cultural Etiquette

Basic greetings are appreciated:

• France: “Bonjour” (hello) before speaking English

• Netherlands: English is widely spoken, but politeness is valued

Tipping culture is more modest than in the U.S.:

• Restaurants: Service often included; round up or leave ~5–10%

• Guides & drivers: Small gratuities appreciated

Dress is typically stylish yet casual, especially in Paris, comfortable but polished works best.

Stay Connected

International roaming works well across Europe, but many travelers use an eSIM or international phone plan for lower costs.

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, trains, and public spaces in both cities.

🗺️ On the Ground in Paris & Amsterdam

Exploring Smartly

Expect lots of walking, cobblestone streets, and public transportation like the Paris Metro and Amsterdam trams.

Start sightseeing early in the day to beat crowds at major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and canal districts.

Keep a small crossbody or anti-theft bag for convenience and security.

Transportation Tips

High-speed rail between cities is fast, smooth, and scenic, making travel part of the experience.

Public transit is safe, clean, and easy to navigate, contactless pay or transit cards are recommended.

Taxis and rideshare services are available, but walking and trains are often faster in city centers.

General Safety Tips

Watch belongings in crowded tourist areas, metros, and train stations.

Keep valuables in a hotel safe when not in use.

Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night, especially near nightlife districts.

Paris and Amsterdam are very safe overall, just use the same awareness you would in any major city.

Our Story

TheTravelJunkees started with a simple idea: to share the joy of discovery and the thrill of new experiences with like-minded adventurers. Over the years, we've grown into a vibrant community known for our daring exploits and unique travel stories. One of our most memorable moments was our appearance on Jimmy Kimmel, where a monkey photo opp adventure took an unexpected turn, putting us in the spotlight and showcasing our commitment to embracing the unexpected.

Curating Unforgettable Journeys

At TheTravelJunkees, we believe that travel is more than just visiting new places—it's about creating lasting memories and forming bonds with fellow travelers. Our dedicated team curates exceptional trips for our main group, ensuring each journey is filled with excitement, cultural immersion, and opportunities for personal growth. Whether it's hiking through lush jungles, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying local cuisines, we strive to offer something for everyone.