Going to france...?

Question

i'm an american and my family is planning a trip to france. i'm already studying francais (2nd year woot) but r there any cultural differences i should know about?

Answer 1

Have fun with the "youths" at the train station.

Answer 2

People are much more formal in their language.  

When entering a small shop always greet the staff with a hearty "Bonjour (madam or monsieur)" and say "Au revoir (madam or monsieur)" when leaving.

Say please and thank you to clerks and waiters more than you might in the USA.

Do not call a waiter "garcon" as you might have been taught. "Monsieur" is better usage.

Rather than "Donnez moi" say "Je voudrais."

The American habit of easy familiarity is not appreciated in France. The American habit of talking about personal matters or personal finances to relative strangers is regarded as crude and boorish.

The French tend to speak more softly and Americans are seen as loud. Ratchet back the volumn a notch.

The French are more engaged in politics, both domestic and international, than the average American (better informed too for the most part) . Serious poltical debate is the second most popular indoor sport. Don't hesitate to join in but be logical and informed. It can be very instructive.



Some little oddities:

1) People will run into you right and left. French people simply don't look where they're going, and they depend on other people not to bump into them.

2) People stare at you a great deal, no matter how unremarkable you may be. I've never understood this but they do. Pay no attention as no one means you any harm.

3) When you pay for something the person taking your money expects you to put it down, rather than taking it directly from your hand. Most places have a sort of tray on the counter expressly for this purpose.

4) When you're in a theater and have to go by someone to get to your seat always pass in front of them facing toward them, that is, away from the screen or the stage. It's very rude otherwise.

5) In Paris one says "la note' rather than "l'addition" when asking for one's bill

Answer 3

Don't talk about money and be as polite as possible even if you can meet a******s, the french are mostly very watchful with civility and chivalry. But there is no such cultural differences that can turn a simple talk into a diplomatic incident!!! ;o)

Answer 4

When I ventured on a honeymoon with my wife, we only went to Paris.  The french seemed somewhat pleasant but I did run into problems when ordering food from pizza-hutt of all places.  Remember that in France, waiters and waitresses as we would call them here, are trained professionals and will respect you as long as your show it in return.  If there is one thing to witness in France it is the Louvre.  By far the best museum I have ever stepped foot in.  It is massive and if you were to look at everything it would take you weeks.  If you plan on going to Paris I would set aside two straight days for the Louvre.  Finding info about the Palace of Versailles would be highly recommended as well.  I hope this info helps and enjoy your trip.