Things We've Learned
In no particular order...

• Don't bother with traveler's checks - even the tiniest, most remote towns have ATMs, and you get a better exchange rate with ATMs and credit cards than changing currency
• At the moment, the Euro is almost exactly equal to the US Dollar in value - and many European menus and other prices list the Euro equivalent of the local currency, making it super easy to estimate what that gelato is costing you
• Definitely buy the Museum Card in Paris - it saves time and money
• Don't forget that Europe isn't open 24/7 like the US is - you can buy fresh oysters on the street in Paris at 2 AM, but good luck trying to get a bit to eat between 4 and 8 PM. Many shops close for a long lunch, museums are often closed on Mon. or Tues., and you'll be looked at askance if you enter most restaurants before 8 PM.
• If you want to look like a local in Italy (and thereby avoid being pickpocketed), wear black
• When in Rome, try the gelato
• Despite the dire warnings in the guidebooks, a tiny bit of street-smarts and an inside chest pocket should keep you from getting pickpocketed
• Take the semi-legit free tours at the Colosseum and the Forum
• If you take the train in Italy, be sure to validate your ticket in the yellow machine on the platform before you get on the train. The same goes for vaporetto tickets in Venice.
• Go to the Eiffel Tower at night near closing time - the lines are shorter, and the view is just as romantic
• In Venice, take the #52 around the outside of the island for a mini-cruise
• A detailed map is a good investment in any city. Often the local tourist office (look near the train station or major tourist attractions) gives them away for free. The tourist office can usually help you find a hotel, too.
• It's worth the effort to learn as much of the language as possible before you go. Even the French appreciate your efforts to speak their language, and the Italians will love you.
• In France, jambon cru is raw pork
• It is acceptable and even wise to ask to see the hotel room before you check in, and okay to say no thanks and leave if you don't like it
• The Paris Metro is a great way to get around. Roman public transportation is not as useful.
• Wheeled suitcases are pretty much useless on cobblestones.
• Bring a small pocket knife so you don't have to slice cheese with a credit card
• Don't bother taking breakfast in your hotel - you can get better food for much less money at a bakery or fruit market