Any survival tips for lone female traveller to Nice, France?

Question

I'm planning a solo month long trip France for an exchange. For a girl (20yrs+) I've never travelled alone before. I was told that since I don't speak much French that Nice would be a better experience for me-- ppl. more personable. Is Nice safer than Paris? I orginally was thinking bout Paris.

What is the night life like in Nice? Would be I be relatively safe walking alone at night? I been to France before and I was gawked a lot. Not sure if it's my Asian background or whatever but it made me slightly self-concious. I hear that it's normal? Really?

Any tips of what to avoid or prepare for a female, solo travler like me goin to Nice? or is Paris a better choice?

Any replies are greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

Nice is definitely the safer place for a lone girl than Paris. It is smaller, people in Nice are a bit friendlier than the arrogant Parisiens (no offense...) and due to the large amount of VIPs visiting Nice year round it is for sure safer.

However, as in any other city just be careful walking around alone. Better to ask a friend or other girls to accompany you. You'll love it ...

Answer 2

You'll be safe anywhere in France.  Just act at night as you would in a city in your own country - there's no difference.  In fact, if your from the US, you'll find France is a much safer place.

Don't worry about the staring.  This happens in many European countries, it's normal and not cosidered rude.  The locals stare because you're a tourist and not one of them.  It has nothing to do with your ethnicity.