Written by: TravelingProfessor
Friday, April 20, 2012 

Upon arrival to CDG, I have never been checked by customs.   It takes about 20 minutes before the time you get off the plane to get through passport control, another 15-30 minutes or so to get your bags.

There are not many ATM machines, but at least they work.   Five years ago it was nearly impossible to find a working ATM machine.  There is a Sheraton Hotel in the airport and I have found the ATM near the hotel does not have long lines.

For Paris, the food services at CDG are surprisingly disappointing.  There are a few fast food places including McDonald's (where free WI-FI services can be found).

There are some orange tourist information booths in the airport.   Use them to purchase Museum Passes before going into Paris. 

If looking for a meeting point at the airport, try the Sheraton Hotel located near the entrance to the train station.  It is in a central location, comfortable, and they don't seem to mind people using the lobby as a meet-up place.

You have a few options to get into Paris from CDG.  A cab runs about $60-$75.   Shuttle vans are about $30 per person.  The Roissybus is about 15 euro and takes you into the center of the city near the Opera Garnier where you then take another bus, taxi or metro to get to your hotel.    Personally, I take the RER “B” train into the city to St. Michel station, then I take a metro (if necessary) to get to my hotel.  To do so, after you have cleared customs and have your luggage, enter the main terminal.  Take a right and walk about 10 or so minutes to the “gare” (train station).  Go downstairs and buy an RER “B” ticket at the visitor center where they speak English.  The RER “B” train takes about 40 minutes to Paris and costs about 9 euro.  You then need to get on the metro to your destination.  If you have a lot of heavy bags, the RER might not be a good option.

Departing Paris for the U.S. involves checking your bags and going through security.   The whole process takes about 20 minutes or less if not checking bags.  I would get to the airport no less than 2 hours before departure.   If you are flying on American Airlines (usually departing from gates numbered in the 40's), do not go through the security gate adjacent to the AA desk because you will be forced to carry your bags up and down stairs.   Walk a little bit further down to the next security area.  It is usually less crowded and you will avoid some unecessary lifting.

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