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France is a great country. The attitude towards Americans has improved greatly over the last 20 years. Like any big city, Parisians can be a little abrupt at times.

Here are a few tips that will insure a pleasant experience:
Learn some French (especially correct pronunciation).
Greet every shop keeper when you enter.
Politeness in conversation is of prime importance.
It will only take 2 seconds for them to realize you don't speak French, then they will switch to English for you. (Continue in French if you can.)
Don't act like an American.
Dress like a European.

The train system in Europe is phenomenal (fast, comfortable and reasonably priced). Be prepared for expensive living however. I'd say 1.5 to 2 times prices here in the US. The euro is very strong now. Gasoline was US$8.50/US Gallon BEFORE this latest jump in fuel prices. Must be $10/Gallon now! VAT is now 22.5% on meals (already in the menu price). Tip is included in the menu price if "Service Compris" is printed on the menu. Leave an extra euro for good service. Make sure her credit card company knows she will be in Europe all that time. May want to look into European health insurance or a rider on her US healthcare policy. Bank of America and BNP Paribas banks have an agreement so that using those ATMs are at NO EXTRA CHARGE. If she will be in mostly northern France, make sure she visits Rouen, Honfleur and Mont St. Michel. My favorite city is Nice.

What a great opportunity. I hope you visit her often.

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