A common question about international travel, especially in this age of cell phones, tablets, and rechargeable camera batteries, is whether we will need an 'adapter' or a 'converter'?


Here's an answer from a recent Travel Smith catalog:

"If you're traveling with your own North American 110V appliances, you'll need a voltage converter as well as the correct adapter plug.

If the power cord or plug on your appliance is labeled 100V to 240V or 110/220V, it's dual voltage and all you need is the adapter plug- this is true for many recent-model electronic devices, such as iPads(r) and laptop computers."

In other words, if you are packing your curling iron, hair dryer or toaster, you will want to have an adapter AND converter. (Unless, of course, it is a travel version that was made specifically for dual voltage).  If you simply need to recharge your phone/tablet/etc. at the end of the day, an adapter will suffice.

Let's review: a CONVERTER changes (converts) the voltage to one that is acceptable to the appliance. An ADAPTER changes the shape of the plug so the outlets can be used.  And, of course, some versions are adapters AND converters.

I am not recommending any particular company, but here is a list of places where you can find adapters and/or converters (with a wide price range!): Bed, Bath and Beyond (got a coupon?), Target, AAA, Brookstone, or on-line travel supply companies like travelsmith.com or magellans.com . Do you have a favorite travel supply store?

Here is a list of a few travel-related apps that I have found interesting and/or helpful.  Please note that some of them do not work without an internet connection (so for most of us, they would not be useful while out and about in France, but still - I like them!).

Another caveat- I use these apps on Apple devices, so I know that they are available through the Apple App store. They may well also be available for Android devices, and all the ones I am listing are free (or free versions).

Currency exchange rates (note that these rates don't include service charges we'd have to pay): XE  and their website is www.xe.com

Translation app (look up the words/phrases you anticipate needing while connected, it stores them for you): Google Translate

Translation of popular words: French (from lastminute.com)- it works off-line! (The app's icon looks like the French flag: blue/white/red vertical stripes)

Free French Lessons: Duolingo  (thanks to a parishioner for telling me about this!)

Information about France: Rick Steves Audio Europe - then add selected interviews to your playlist for later listening

Portable guidebook: Ulmon Paris - personally, I find this a little confusing to use. Access the magnifying glass icon to get to what I'd term the 'home page'. It will show places on a map, and show you a Metro map, too.

Okay- what are YOUR favorite travel-related apps?

Here is a link to an on-line travel guide for Paris.

If you use the search box, you can also look up many of the other locations where we will be during our pilgrimage. Notice that in the right column, you can click for Weather, Maps, Travel Tips and much more!