Since she's going with a group, I'm sure she'll be fine. On those afternoons or days when they allow one to have a few hours on your own for shopping, I usually do one thing.
I will do my hair like the local women do..So, it may be pulled back in a ponytail, or in the Place de Republique, I will wear a scarf-yes, there are places in Paris which are Muslim central, and I don't want to stick out.
Also, I have one of those flat document pouches, on an elastic belt in which I keep my passport, ticket, and cash.
I practically have to undress to make a purchase, but I really don't care as I'll never see those shopkeepers again, anyway.
Also, it is considered polite, and good form to at least learn some basic phrases, and also to be able to understand them in your host country. You can buy different language programs at Barnes & Noble.
Not sure of her itinerary, but the Czech Republic, and Poland, especially, Krakow are my favorite places..
Buddy of mine went to Prague several years back and said he was surprised how many people there absolutely LOVE Americans.
He didn't have to buy a beer the entire time he was there. People would hear his accent, shout "American!" and buy one for him.
I'll second that recommendation. My wife and I studiously went through the Barnes & Noble Italian lessons on CDROM. The Pimsleur Basic Italian gave me more than enough to feel comfortable. It was my wife's first trip to a non-English speaking country. She fared just fine. We practiced Italian around the house for a couple weeks before the trip. It's well worth the $20 and time to do it.
