Hi, I am not familiar with the tripod you mentioned. I have been using the same heavy tripod since 1974 when I purchased it. As mentioned by othets here, stability can be an issue with travel tripods, especially if you take long exposures outside in the wind. You can always weigh-down your tripod using sand or rocks for adding stability. There is usually a hook in the center pole so you can hang a bag of sand or rocks to add stability.!

I am a film user and my Nikon F2's have never failed me and they all are used often. The turn-around time for a general cleaning and lube is about 10-14 days using Central Camera in downtown Chicago. It may be longer now due to a fire last year. I am not sure about a digital camera and cleaning of said camera.

Hi, I have been to France and Paris several times. I use to work in Germany. You have a nice camera so use it. I generally shoot film using one of my Nikon F2's. I use one lens, a 35mm f/1.4 on a black strap, no camera bag. The fast f/1.4 lens allows me to take pictures in low light levels. I take my shots and then slip my camera under my lite jacket or vest. It helps if you know your camera well and know how to use it. Practice before you go on your trip. Research your must have pictures before hand and note them on a city map. Paris is a very big city, so study the map and note the areas for your must have shots. Enjoy your new camera and Paris, especially Paris at night!

You may want to try an old Nikon 35 -70mm zoom f/3.5 (non-macro). The lens is not autofocus so you will require to use it in manual mode. The lens does not have problems on the edges, especially if you don't shoot wide-open. These lenses can be rented.
Mundy