Thanks Larry,

It is clear now. Since I am arriving at CDG airport on a Friday
afternoon (staying 4 nights), it is best to buy a 3-day Carte Visite
plus one carnet. I have another question though, about the use of
Carte Visite: Does it expire 3 calendar days after first use, or 72
hours after first use? I need to know this in order to decide what to
use on Friday afternoon.

thanks again.

Larry Finch wrote in message ...
Eugene wrote:

I am confused as to what the difference is between these Paris metro
cards: Carte Orange (zones 1-3) and Paris Visite (zones 1-3). I
understand that Paris Visite is meant for tourists and that Carte
Orange lasts 7 days as opposed to 3 days for Paris Visite. However,
Paris Visite must be better in something, otherwise it wouldn't cost
more! Someone please help!

thanks

Carte Orange is meant for commuters and thus is for a calendar week,
Monday to Sunday. You also can't get it for the current week after
Wednesday. So if your trip doesn't fit that model Paris Visite may be
better. But for most people Paris Visite is a ripoff.

Consider also a Zone 1-5 Carte Orange. You can use it to and from CDG on
either the Roisybus or the RER. The cost differential is far less than
the 16 Euros it would otherwise cost round trip from CDG.

You also need a photo for Carte Orange but not for Paris Visite. The
added hassle may be a consideration. Finally, even if the Paris Visite
is a ripoff the cost of public transportation is going to be a truly
tiny element in the total cost of a trip to Paris, so it isn't worth
thinking about for more than 5 minutes.

Larry