This card covers all of the different modes of travel, which makes it very easy. This same card costs about $1000 for non-students. Another huge issue is the lack of accessibility within the metro. Despite being very well funded and well-connected, there are barely any elevators or escalators. This makes it extremely difficult for the elderly, handicapped and any other person with limited mobility to use the system. I remember when I first arrived in Paris and had to carry three huge suitcases up and down the stairs; it was horrible!
When I first started using it, I felt very overwhelmed. I had mastered the NYC subway system, but everything in a new language was very scary for me. Especially during rush hour, it gets very busy and can easily become almost impossible to navigate. However, after a few months here, I think I have almost become a natural at it. Depending on the time of day, it can either be a very calming experience, where you can just sit down and read a book, or you are standing, squished like sardines and holding onto anything you can to make sure you don’t fall onto someone (which I have done).
The few times I have taken an Uber were terrifying. All of the signs and road rules are completely different, and French people are always driving angrily. I quickly understood why most people avoid it.
The French believe that you should be as quiet as possible in public spaces, including the metro. Friends are barely talking to each other, and if anyone speaks louder than a whisper, they immediately get glared at.
