If you ask me how many times I've been to France, I couldn't tell you. I lived in Besançon, a lovely city in the Jura mountains about 250 miles southeast of Paris during college. Since my retirement several years ago I visit a couple times a year and I've been countless time before retirement. I consider France and especially Paris my second home and my soul home.

I've made my share of mistakes, some from naivety and others, well, just because. I hope these 10 tips will help you whether you're a first-time visitor or a veteran.

1. Not Saying Bonjour When You Enter a Store

If you don't know any French, learn a few words before you go (this is good advice for traveling just about anywhere). The French appreciate a "bonjour" when you enter a store and they'll respond in kind. I usually say "bonjour madame" or "bonjour monsieur" when I enter especially if it's not busy and they're not helping other customers. When I leave I say, "merci, bonne journée" (thanks, have a good day - although just "merci" or "au revoir" is fine). It's a small gesture, but an important one. Don't worry about your accent; they'll appreciate that you made the effort.

2. Not Asking for the Check in a Restaurant or Café

If you're one of those people who asks for the check before you even order your meal in a restaurant, be prepared. The French have turned dining into an art form. It's one of the major cultural differences between the US and France. A two-hour - or longer - meal either during lunch or dinner is common. And when you've finished your meal, don't expect them to automatically bring the check to you; they won't. You need to ask for it, then plan to wait some more. A polite way of asking is, "l'addition [la-dee-see-own] s'il vous plaît".

3. Overtipping

Americans tend to overtip when abroad. In France, it's not necessary to leave a tip in a restaurant, but rounding up or leaving a Euro or two is always appreciated, especially for excellent service. Occasionally I've seen a tip automatically added, so look at the check to make sure. I do give guides a tip, usually ranging from a couple of Euros to five or more for a major excursion. If a taxi driver helps me with luggage, I give a small tip of two or three Euros and I leave one for the housekeeping staff if I stay in a hotel.

4. Not Taking the Metro

I've talked to many people who are afraid to take the metro in Paris, or who just don't take advantage of it. The metro is an efficient way to get from point A to B. Granted, on most lines you don't get to see the city, but you also avoid the often snarled traffic and the Paris metro system is very dependable (as long as they're not on strike); most lines run every two to three minutes. Download the Bonjour RATP app on your phone; it's an excellent, easy-to-follow resource. And you may even be treated to a lovely station such as Cluny La Sorbonne pictured above! You can purchase a card which can easily be refilled from your phone and reused. (See also the section on safety).

5. Trying to Hail a Taxi in the Middle of a Block

You can try, but good luck; I've rarely been successful doing it. Every once in a while you might see a taxi stand, but I wouldn't count on seeing one. Uber is everywhere in Paris and there is another option called G7 which is part of the Paris taxi service and operates exactly like Uber. I use the G7 to support the taxis. Download the app and create an account. You can program the app to automatically add a tip (usually a couple of Euros). No fuss, no muss.

6. Not Checking Museum Closing Days and not Buying a Ticket in Advance

Many museums in France are closed on either Mondays or Tuesdays. Always check so you won't be disappointed and waste precious time. If you can plan ahead, buy a ticket online. There are over 100 museums in Paris alone and the lines for many are very long. I often use Tiqets, but there are many sites to choose from, including the museum's own site, so doing a little homework in advance is well worth it.

7. Not Looking Up

I know this sounds strange, but it's a cardinal rule in Paris. There is beautiful architecture and sculpture almost everywhere you look and in my opinion it's a major contributor to the charm and beauty of Paris.

8. Not Building in Quiet Time

It's tempting to want to be on the go every minute, to squeeze in as much as you can, especially if this is your first trip to Paris. There are almost 500 parks, gardens and squares in Paris and one of the many things Parisians do well is to take advantage of them. On a nice day there's nothing like spending 20 minutes soaking up the atmosphere, resting your legs and watching the Parisian world go by.

9. Not Buying Travel Insurance

This is an important step you shouldn't overlook. Getting sick while abroad, losing luggage or experiencing any sort of travel woes is nothing to take lightly. Securing travel insurance will give you peace of mind. I travel on Delta which offers Allianz insurance, but there are many companies to choose from. Determine what is most important for you and purchase it when you make your reservations.

10. Being Naive about Safety

In my opinion Paris is no less safe than most other major cities of the world; you should be aware of your surroundings all the time. I always wear a cross-body purse and if my phone isn't in my purse, it's firmly in my hands or in a deep, snapped pocket of my rain jacket. Ladies, when you're in a restaurant NEVER put your purse loosely on the floor or on the back of your chair. I usually put it on my lap or wrap the strap around my leg if it's not on my lap. Men, don't put your phone or other valuables in your breast pocket (my husband's phone was stolen from his breast pocket). These people are very good at what they do. If I have my backpack with me, it's usually slung around my shoulder rather than on my back. Be particularly aware in crowded places such as subway cars or major tourist attractions. Thieves target people who are squeezed into crowds and they work fast. Years ago I saw several young men pull a purse from an older lady inside the metro car just as the metro door was closing and they were off running along the platform. I also keep one credit card separate from the other(s) and there's no need to carry much cash these days. And speaking of credit cards, take a picture of your cards as well as your passport before you leave home. Give one copy to family and take a copy with you but keep it in a separate location.

Additionally, beware of scams. If someone approaches to give or sell you something or to ask a question, ignore them and keep walking.

This is by no means an exhaustive list. What mistakes would you suggest avoiding? Add them in the comments. Above all, soak it all in and enjoy this beautiful city!