Champagne, France
France features four main mobile network operators: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. Acquire prepaid SIM cards (cartes prépayées) at carrier stores, large supermarkets, or some tobacco shops. Ensure your phone is unlocked for local SIM use. These SIMs often include data, calls, and texts for a set period.
Public Wi-Fi appears in many hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces throughout Reims (e.g., train station, Tourist Office, major shopping centers). Most hotels deliver complimentary Wi-Fi for guests.
French is the official language. English is common in tourist areas, hotels, and among younger generations. Outside these areas, English proficiency may be limited.
Always greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with "Bonjour" before any other words. This is a common courtesy in France.
Enhance your airport experience with convenient services.
Frequent travelers find independent airport lounge access globally through Priority Pass, making waiting more pleasant.
A service that obtains compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. Visit Compensair for claims.
Look for baggage wrapping and storage services at major airports. These conveniences secure your belongings.
Typical operating hours for different businesses vary. Shops generally open Monday-Saturday, from around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM. Many smaller shops close for a lunch break.
Banks typically open Monday-Friday, from around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, often closing for an hour at lunchtime. ATMs are widely available 24/7. France observes numerous public holidays. On these days, many businesses, banks, and some attractions close or run reduced hours.
Always check the specific opening hours for museums, attractions, and Champagne houses you plan to visit online. Schedules change.
The French appreciate politeness and respect for rules. These gestures elevate your experience.
Always say "Bonjour" when entering a shop, restaurant, or addressing someone for the first time. Use "Bonsoir" after approximately 6 PM. Always say "Au revoir" when leaving. Failing to do so is considered impolite.
Smart casual attire suits most settings in Reims. The French generally dress more formally than some other cultures, favoring neatness. Modest dress for religious sites is expected.
Service (service compris) is included in restaurant bills, so tipping is not mandatory. For good service, rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra Euros (e.g., €1-€5 per person) is appreciated but not expected. Always wait for staff to seat you in a restaurant. Meals tend to be more leisurely than in some other cultures.
Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Some museums or private collections prohibit flash photography or all photography. Respect signs.
Try using a few French phrases. Even imperfect attempts draw appreciation and show respect for the local culture.
Reims strives to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities, though older historical areas may present challenges.
Reims' tram system is relatively new and generally accessible, with level boarding and designated wheelchair spaces. Buses show increasing accessibility, but some older models may not be fully adapted.
The main nave of Notre-Dame Cathedral is accessible. Access to the towers, however, often involves many stairs. While Palais du Tau is historic, some parts of the museum are accessible. Inquire directly about specific areas. Reims Centre train station has elevators and ramps for platforms.
Accessibility varies significantly by Champagne house. Many larger houses feature accessible visitor centers and ground-level reception areas. However, tours of the underground cellars (crayères) often involve stairs, narrow passages, or uneven ground. These factors may present challenges.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments may be limited in Reims compared to larger metropolitan areas. Some museums may offer audio guides or tactile exhibits, but confirmation in advance is advisable. Accessible taxis await pre-booking through local taxi companies.
Contact Champagne houses directly before visiting to inquire about cellar tour accessibility. Many old cellars have stairs and uneven ground.
