Paris Restaurants Accused of Overcharging U.S. Tourists

European summer is still in full swing, with millions of Americans flocking to the continent for vacation. Data recently published by Business Insider even indicates that the number of people leaving the United States to vacation in Europe will likely increase this summer compared with past years. However, those who do make their way across the pond need to be ready to pay out a hefty unofficial tourism tax, especially if they’re visiting Paris.

In July, The Parisian published its investigation into allegations that restaurants across Paris are charging tourists (especially if they’re Americans) more than locals. And their findings are très illuminating.

Restaurants are charging tourists more than locals in France

According to the paper, it conducted its investigation after seeing online complaints from tourists who claimed they were being overcharged. The media outlet took the natural next step: a journalist dressed in the most American-looking outfit possible (which included a graphic t-shirt of the Eiffel Tower, a fleece jacket, and a hat) and went to restaurants pretending to be from the U.S. while another went to the same establishments as a typical Parisian.

They went out and ordered the same meal, only to find that journalist Mathieu Hennequin, who was dressed as an American, was consistently charged more.

Le Parisien noted that in one restaurant, the duo ordered the same meal of lasagna, Coke, and water. The Frenchman was offered multiple sizes of Coke, opting for a smaller can for €6.50, while Hennequin was only given the option to purchase larger sizes, ultimately choosing a medium glass for €9.50. Hennequin wasn’t offered free water — but the Frenchman was — and was charged €6 for a small bottle of it. In the end, Hennequin paid a total of €9.50 more than his local counterpart.

In another restaurant, a server untruthfully told Hennequin that a service charge was not included in the final bill, pushing him to leave a tip even though it’s an uncommon practice in France.

What do locals think?

Locals who care deeply about the hospitality industry aren’t thrilled to learn that some restaurants are taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists.

“It’s a disgrace to the profession. You can’t even call these people waiters,” Franck Trouet from GHRa Paris-based hotel and restaurant group, shared with The Independent. “You should know that in France, water and bread are free. One can refuse a bottle of water. The tip is to express thanks for the service if one is very satisfied. Above all, it is not compulsory. This is not the United States.”

Marc Mazière, who is both an economist and the person who played the part of a French customer, agreed, telling The Telegraph“It’s daylight robbery… It’s almost abuse of weakness. They know you’re a tourist, you’re probably tired and don’t understand much. They exploit this to charge exorbitant prices.”

What can tourists do?

No matter where you’re traveling to, it’s a good idea to research local dining customs and etiquette before you depart. This will give you insight into whether tipping is standard practice, if free water is to be expected or not, and even a better understanding of local taxes so that you won’t be surprised by the bill.

Learning a few key phrases in a local language is also helpful. While it won’t fool people into thinking you’re French, it will help you confidently say, “non merci” (no thank you) when you’re offered a bottle of water instead of free tap water.

Of course, it’s always important to remain gracious — not everyone is trying to overcharge you. While tipping is not mandatory in France, if you receive exceptional service, a few euros are appreciated. Go ahead and tip when it feels right. Your servers are, after all, hard-working waiters speaking multiple languages to ensure they get your order right.