<p>I studied abroad in Paris last semester..the one thing I wish I would have figured out sooner is the bus system. It's a nice change from the metro, and goes places the metro does not--and is of course cheaper than taxis! Also as far as traveling goes, go to any SNCF office for train tickets, but book all flights and train tix as far in advance as possible, they're considerably cheaper that way. Also, if you go to the SNCF in person, they often give you good deals, like a special "carte 12-25" that gives discounts to those between ages 12 and 25.</p>
<p>And about shopping, there are quite a number of stores with cheap and fun clothes. I found that my (colorful) wardrobe was out of place in Paris, and I did need to buy some clothes there to not seem like a total tourist for the length of my stay. (also, no one wears shorts, even when it's warm out). Thus if you were planning on buying your daughter clothing before she goes, stick to very basic staples, and i'd put more of that clothes money towards buying clothing items once she gets there. I know I bought a lot before I got to Paris, and ended up wearing very little of it!</p>
<p>And as far as cheap places to shop..I did NYU in Paris, and on that school's street in the 16th there are a number of good but cheaper shops. Also, H&M is always great, as are stores in the 5th, particularly along Blvd Saint Michel.</p>
<p>Hope this helps!</p>
<p>Thank you so much for all of this advice. We have been looking at the Eurorail pass options. Back in my day, I had an unlimited one for three months which was a great buy. Now it looks like one designates the number of countries and days. We will have to figure out how to compare individual rates (i.e. Paris to Venice, etc.) to see if it is cheaper to purchase one for her week of travel after the program. </p>
<p>Good point on laundry since that cost is excluded. She will live with a family but they let the students know that they will have to pay their family for laundry.</p>
<p>Are there any parents on the site with kids studying at American University in Paris?</p>
<p>There used to be a train pass called "France Vacances." I just googled it and found it mentioned in several places, although I didn't investigate further. They could be purchased for shorter periods of time and more cheaply than a Eurail. Since I was there to study French and wanted to explore France, that's what I got. I saved the Eurail for a big trip at the end of my year. Also, I think these passes need to be bought in the US. My parents bought them and mailed them to me during my stay. Remember, too, that you need to have a train pass validated in the station with a date stamp the first time you use it.</p>
<p>The French Embassy has a program that sends 1700-1800 young Americans to France for a year to teach English in French schools. It's a paying job with some insurance coverage for part-time hours. It's a great way to be able to spend time abroad at a more reasonable cost. The Web site is French</a> Culture. Look for info on the assistantship program.</p>