Current Students Arrival and Life in Paris FAQs

You’ll be responsible for making your own way from the airport to your assigned address.
Take a look at our Canvas Course travel guide for information on this. Use your netID to log in.

It is advised to take a taxi from the airport to the residence (65€ flat rate). It is more complicated to use Uber/Lyft from the airport as they do not have a dedicated pick-up zone.

Public transportation is a cheaper option, but may be complicated if you are sleep deprived and can't speak the language.

Paris staff can assist via your WhatsApp group if you have any questions while traveling.

You may check in at any time on your designated move-in day. There is no specific check-in time window — our Resident Assistant (RA) and Paris staff will be available throughout the day to assist you when you arrive.

Before departure, you’ll receive detailed check-in instructions from the Paris staff. You’ll also be connected to your RA and program group via WhatsApp, where arrival coordination and updates will be shared in real time.

Upon arrival, your RA or Paris staff will meet you at your residence and show you how to access your apartment.
Each apartment key opens your individual unit, and you’ll receive a black electronic key fob to open the front door or gate of the building.

If you arrive outside typical hours, your RA will coordinate your check-in time via WhatsApp to ensure someone is there to meet you.

Yes—Trained Residence staff/RA support is available, and Rice Global staff in Paris can assist with logistics, supplies, and course excursions

You’ll receive a metro/public transport pass for the session that covers unlimited rides on Paris metros, buses, trams, and RER trains (within Paris and its suburbs). This pass will be distributed upon arrival and is active for the full session.

All courses will involve walking and navigating the city using public transportation. It is highly encouraged that you explore on foot and use the metro system regularly—Paris is very walkable and well-connected.

Yes, as long as it doesn’t conflict with class or mandatory activities. Share travel plans with staff and keep your phone reachable.

RGP does not cover personal or leisure travel outside of course-related excursions. If you plan independent trips, you’ll be responsible for your own tickets and any additional transportation costs.

• Use Google Maps, Citymapper, or RATP apps for real-time metro and bus routes.
• Keep your Navigo Pass with you at all times; replacement cards are at your expense.
• Expect some walking between metro stations, residences, and class/excursion sites.
• Check Canvas for detailed instructions and the RGP Travel Guide for maps and navigation tutorials.

1. Always turn off lights and appliances when leaving your room to save energy.
2. Air conditioning is not standard in French housing. Fans are provided, and a few top-floor rooms have portable units.
3. Noise levels should be kept low out of respect for other residents.
4. Paris apartments are compact—storage and space are limited, so plan accordingly.

You will need to purchase or bring:

• Additional towels if you prefer more than one
• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, etc.)
• Any specific cooking supplies or spices you like
• Extra cleaning items or paper goods if desired

Nearby grocery stores and pharmacies make it easy to pick up anything you may need once you arrive.

If you experience any issues (e.g., Wi-Fi not working, appliance malfunction, etc.), notify your RA or Paris staff right away.
They will coordinate with the residence management to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

Your tuition includes 3 group meals, at dates/times designated by staff and faculty leaders. All other meals will need to be provided and paid for by the student as part of their living expenses.

Yes—residence rooms include a small stove, microwave, refrigerator, and basic utensils. Local markets are nearby and budget-friendly.

Check-out will take place on your designated move-out date — this date is strict and cannot be adjusted.

One week before departure, your Resident Assistant (RA) and Paris staff will provide detailed check-out procedures. You are required to complete these steps exactly as outlined.

Failure to follow the check-out procedures may result in a fee, as stated in the House Rules.

Please make sure your room is clean, all personal items are removed, and keys or fobs are returned according to instructions.

Courses are intensive—three weeks combining classroom instruction with experiential learning and site visits integrated into Paris.

Class attendance and participation are essential. You’re representing Rice in an international setting—be professional and culturally respectful on excursions, in housing, and in public.

Emergencies fall into three general levels:

• Low-level emergencies (non-urgent): Minor issues like homesickness, interpersonal conflict, or small housing/coursework concerns. Contact your RA during office hours or via WhatsApp.
• Medium-level emergencies (time-sensitive but manageable): Examples include minor illness or injury, lost passport or wallet, or travel delays. Contact your RA immediately—they can elevate the issue to Rice Global Paris staff for additional guidance.
• High-level emergencies (urgent): Serious illness or injury, missing student, arrest, natural disaster, or evacuation needs. Call the European emergency number (112) first, then notify your RA or Rice Global Paris staff for follow-up support.

Both the RGP Travel Guide and Canvas pre-departure course include step-by-step emergency instructions and contact details for on-site staff.

Crisis24 is Rice University’s official international travel safety and risk management platform. All Rice Global Paris participants are automatically covered under Crisis24 during the program.

Through the Crisis24 Horizon app and web platform, you can:

• Receive real-time alerts about safety or travel disruptions in your area.
• View risk ratings and threat zones for neighborhoods, cities, and regions worldwide.
• Access advice sheets for managing local health, safety, and security risks.
• Use the 24/7 hotline or the in-app Crisis Signal feature for emergency assistance.

📞 Crisis24 Hotline (24/7): +1 443 926 0533
🌐 Learn more or download the app: https://global.rice.edu/travel-resources/crisis24

Yes. All Rice students traveling on Rice-sponsored programs are automatically covered through Crisis24. You don’t need to sign up separately.

Coverage includes emergency medical assistance, evacuation services, and 24/7 access to travel and security support. For full coverage details, downloadable ID cards, and access to the mobile app, visit:
👉https://global.rice.edu/travel-resources/crisis24

Paris is generally safe, but petty crime is common in crowded areas.

• Stay alert in busy zones (Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Champs-Élysées, Louvre, major metro stations).
• Avoid displaying valuables or carrying all cards/cash in one place.
• If you’re pickpocketed, don’t resist—your safety is most important.
• If you feel followed or unsafe, enter a public space (shop, café) and contact your RA or staff.
• Use the buddy system, especially at night.
• Avoid protests or large gatherings, which can shift unpredictably.
• Keep an eye on your drinks and never accept items from strangers.
• Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, leave immediately.

If you need care while in Paris:

• For non-urgent issues, contact your RA or Rice Global Paris staff for nearby clinics or pharmacies.
• For urgent issues, call 112 (the European emergency number).
• Crisis24 can assist with local medical referrals, translation, and coordination if needed.

Bring any prescription medications you’ll need for the full program, and keep them in their original labeled containers.

It’s normal to feel homesick or experience cultural adjustment. You can:

• Contact your RA or Rice Global Paris staff for support or to connect with local counseling resources.
• Reach out to the Rice Wellbeing & Counseling Center, which offers remote sessions for students abroad.
• Crisis24 can connect you with medical or mental health professionals if needed.

1. Save key numbers (Crisis24 hotline, RA, RGP staff) in your phone and wallet.
2. Carry a copy of your passport separate from your original.
3. Use navigation apps like Citymapper or RATP to plan safe, efficient routes.
4. Practice situational awareness, especially on public transport and in tourist-heavy areas.