Versailles City Centre: Where History and Elegance Meet

• HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwah]
• YesOui
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh/duh ryen]
• Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwa/deh-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mon sah vah]
• Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo]
• Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar lah kart, seel voo pleh]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]

• Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [al-lay vooz ahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-pay-lay lah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un docteur!
  [ah-pay-lay ahn dok-tuhr]
• I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
• I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shtay...]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
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• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
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• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shay]
• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]

• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
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• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
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• Half past (10)Dix et demie
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• MorningMatin
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• AfternoonAprès-midi
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• EveningSoir
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• YesterdayHier
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• TodayAujourd'hui
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• TomorrowDemain
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• 1Un
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• 2Deux
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• 3Trois
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• 5Cinq
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• 6Six
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• 7Sept
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• 8Huit
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• 9Neuf
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• 10Dix
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• Where's a/the...?Où est...?
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• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vez voo muh mohn-tray (sir lah kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shan (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

Versailles began as a small village in the 11th century, primarily known for its agricultural lands. Its significance grew when Louis XIV transformed it into a lavish royal residence in the 17th century, marking the beginning of its evolution into a symbol of absolute monarchy and opulence.

The Palace of Versailles was commissioned by Louis XIV in 1661 and completed in 1682. The city center developed around this monumental site, with the construction of the palace leading to an influx of nobles, artists, and craftsmen who shaped the local culture and economy.

In 1919, the Treaty of Versailles was signed in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace, formally ending World War I. This historic event not only solidified Versailles' place in international relations but also highlighted its role as a center of diplomacy, influencing the cultural identity of the city.

The 19th century saw a renaissance in Versailles, with the establishment of new institutions such as the Versailles Opera House in 1770 and the restoration of the palace itself. This period fostered a vibrant artistic community, a legacy that continues to enrich the cultural fabric of the city.

Today, Versailles is not just a historical site but a living city with a dynamic community. The City Centre embodies a blend of history and modernity, hosting markets, cafes, and shops that reflect both its royal past and contemporary life, making it a hub of cultural activities and tourism.

Versailles City Centre is easily accessible from Paris and other neighbourhoods in Versailles. From Paris, take the RER C train to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, which is a 40-minute ride. Alternatively, you can take a Transilien train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite station. If you're in other parts of Versailles, local buses and trams can connect you to the City Centre efficiently.

Versailles City Centre is compact and walkable, with most attractions within easy reach. The RER C and Transilien trains serve the area, while local buses (such as Line 1 and 2) offer routes to different parts of the city. Bicycles can be rented via the Vélib' system, allowing a leisurely exploration of the city’s parks and gardens. Be mindful of traffic, especially when cycling.

Versailles City Centre is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded tourist spots. While there are no specific areas known for high crime targeting tourists, it's wise to stay vigilant around train stations and busy markets.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station is located near the City Centre, and there are several medical facilities available. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately when visiting palaces and churches; avoid overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly and disabled; don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a polite 'Bonjour' and a smile; don’t use first names unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like 'Tarte à la Crème'; don’t waste food or be overly loud in restaurants.

To experience Versailles City Centre like a local, visit the Marché Notre-Dame, a vibrant market where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with shopkeepers and try street food options. Attend a local event or festival if possible, as they provide insight into the culture. Explore the lesser-known gardens and parks for a quieter experience away from the tourist crowds.