Lyon What to Pack

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Lyon has a rather moderate, continental climate. There's sunshine from April till September, but it can get really cold and rainy in winter!

Miscellaneous: Changing foreign currencies is not so easy in Lyon, as the banks usually don't do it and there's only few places to change money (for example AOC near the opera, Rue de la Republique). You can get cash from cash-machines though.

Luggage and bags: Hope you didn't pay a lot for that luggage! The support bar in my large bag was bent, and there is now a rip in the outer covering of the bag. I did purchase some of the new TSA-approved locks so the bags can be searched, but remain locked. Nice!

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: You can be spotted as an American by those white walking/running shoes we wear. It is not a problem, but the casual shoes worn here are quite unique! Bright colors are not worn much (it is early October as I write this); more muted colors are worn. It's not necessary to dress up for dinner; slacks and jeans are normal. If you bring clothes that are easy to pack and don't need ironing you can forget the iron issue I mention below. Most here are wearing knit tops and sweaters.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Bring all your own toiletries-hair care, makeup, deodorant, etc. and medical supplies you usually need. BandAids, swabs, are available at Carrefour if needed. Some of the American brands are here, but the euro make them much more expensive. If you HAVE to have a particular brand bring it! Medicines - bring your own. Make sure you have your prescription meds, and bring all those OTC meds too. That way you will have them, and not require a visit to the physician. There are quite a few Pharmacies, but they have limited items.

Photo Equipment: Of course bring a camera - or two! Every time I turn around I've got the camera out; we're not in Kansas anymore, Toto! If you are digital, an extra storage disk would be helpful; you don't want to get to THE destination and find you have no picture storage available.

Miscellaneous: Adapters for the different electrical current. Our office had a set of several adapters including a dual wattage converter. I've considered purchasing a travel iron here so I will not have to deal with the situation next time I am in France.

Luggage and bags: It has always served me well to pack as lightly as possible. Unless you are going to a formal gathering or anticipate buying a lot of big items, try to fit it all into your carry-on.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: That depends on what season you go. In the summer, it can get real hot. In the winter, it can get real cold. Regardless of when you travel, bring an umbrella.

Photo Equipment: A standard 35mm with film bought at home.