Jet Lag:

Here are some tips on how to adjust your body to local time. On the day of the flight/arrival:

· Drink a lot of water on the flight

· Shortly after your evening meal on your flight, set your watch ahead to  actual time.

· Try to sleep on your flight, take a homeopathic something to help you if you need it.

· When you arrive, take a 1-1.5 hour nap--no more. Then get up and do something active,  like take a walk. Try to go to bed as late as possible, definitely no earlier than 10 or 11. The key is to not sleep in too late or sleep too much during the day.

Electricity:

The voltage used is 220 volts AC, single phase 50 cycles (the U.S. uses 110/120 volts). Unless you use a good quality electric current converter, the heavier voltage will instantly burn out any electrical equipment you wish to use abroad. You will need an international adapter so your two-prong plug will connect to the various local electrical supply outlets (check that it is sufficiently powerful for your appliance), and a converter to convert the 220 volts to 110 volts.

Telephone:

Check if your phone will work in France, and either set up an international deal with them or even better, put your plan “on hold" while you're away, and when you get to France get a SIM card (15-30E) and a rechargeable phone card. It will last longer and will be a lot cheaper than if you use your regular plan. Also, all incoming calls are free on French SIM cards.

Shopping:

Stores are open daily from Monday to Saturday, most are closed on Sundays. Many stores and restaurants in Bayeux will be closed for winter, but Caen, an easy 15-20 minute drive away, has great shopping and food.

And then of course, there's Paris! Le Marais, Chatelet les Halles, Rue de Rivoli, Opera, all are great places to shop.