What are some main things I should know before visiting France?

Question

This spring I am going to France with my school and would like to know what some good things to know are. i have been taking french for 5 years now so i do know basic culture, but would like to hear some other things i might not know. We are in Paris for 3 days and in Italy for 3 days out of the total 11 days if that helps any. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

They hate Americans! Trust me

Answer 2

First thing you should know is that we don't hate Americans, we just hate sufficient people, and even if it took them only 4 years to react, we haven't forgotten how American helped ending the 2nd world war...  

Second thing you should know is that most of the french people speak exclusively french, so don't take offence, if you don't get an answer when asking something in English to a french person.

For the rest, if you stay in Paris, be warned that lots of people are rude in Paris (this is true), and thus because they hate living in a big city with millions of other people but they will never admit it... :-). The rest of France is much nicer and welcoming, but I am sure that you will have a nice time in Paris anyway, because it is a fantastic city (in spite of what I just said) with lots of fascinating things to see and to visit!

If you had more specific questions about France or French people, do not hesitate to email me, I would be more that happy to answer... Enjoy your trip.

Answer 3

Both the french and italians dress better than americans, so if you want to blend, dont go for the sneaker and jeans look. Ditto for flashy name brands on your clothes and jewelry, overt iPods.

Both countries appreciate when you attempt to speak in their language, its a form of respect. The french aren't typically rude once you'd made the attempt to speak their language. If you can get away with it, you can tell them you are from canada, if you think being american is causing you problems. (It caused slow service last time I was in Italy) Rainbow flags mean they are for peace, and american flags mean hey think americans should be in Iraq. So where there are rainbow flags you're likely to meet with some bias if you are obviously american.

Get really good at doing the monetary conversions in you head so you know what change to expect. Some shops will shortchange you and expect you wont catch them.

Order your food at the counter of the cafes, table service costs more. if the trip allows you to choose your dinners on your own, ask for recommendations from the concierges for the best places to eat... sort out the difference between a l'osteria and a trattoria. The food is amazing and one of the greatest reasons to go visit.

When in the big cities, walk fast to avoid the gypsies and pickpockets. Most things are a bit negotiable in non-chain stores, within reason. Unless you speak only american-english.

Also travelling with a large group of people being really loud will get you identified as a dumbamerican. Travel in in groups of 2 - 4 and keep it quiet, the natives will appreciate the respect.

I am jealous, I want to go back! enjoy yourself!

Answer 4

Everyone that says the French are rude were usually rude themselves first.

Although you may not have an issue speaking French, most french have the same unease about speaking English.

If you always at least try, they are very appreciative and will open up.

Be prepared to be patient. Eating at a restraunt is an experience and should not be rushed. Many americans take this as being rude. Sit, relax, and enjoy.

Oh, and watch out for pick pockets on the RER (metro) and around the eifel tower or any other place large crowds gather.

If you have time, I recommend visiting the catacombs. It really makes you think about your life on earth.

Answer 5

Unless the French person is over 80, expect them to be rude and uncivil. Those under 80 seemed to have forgotten they'd still be speaking German if not for the U S Army, the British Army, and the Canadian Army.

Answer 6

We hate war in Iraq, George Bush, fast food nation, weapons, american's lack of courtesy.

We like Al Gore, New Yorkers, british's courtesy, good food and good wine, natural food and ecology...

@ rjrmpk : without France, the USA will still be a british colony rule by London (like Canada before 60's) with a magnificent Union Jack in a corner a Flag in despite of Stars banner.... Who's remember Lafayette ? And "the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World" made by Eiffel & Bartholdy, the french gift for the century of the freely nation ?

Answer 7

France is a fabulous country. I go there most years with my family. If you are only going to see Paris, accept that the people there are rude - even people from other parts of France know that! I've always found that, if you are prepared to speak even a few words of French, they can be the most helpful and friendly of people. We have always enjoyed the heavy emphasis on the food culture - there is just such a range. If you are an American, try not to go for what you know (burgers, grills and so on) try something that is typically French. There is a wonderful little restaurant just behind the church of St Eustace that serves the best boeuf bourgignon in Paris. And, just to add to the atmosphere, the waiters are sensationally rude and arrogant! As I said, if you accept it before you arrive, you'll find that it can be really good fun!

I'd also try and visit the food quarter - there are shops that sell only one thing (for example foie gras). Make sure you buy fresh bread every day. And if you want a really good view of the city without having to pay to go up the Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower) try going up to the top floor of the big department store in the middle of the city.

Answer 8

Well, being able to speak French is a big plus.  When walking around France, keep your eye on the sidewalks-- there are a lot of dogs there and when nature calls, the dogs just do there business on the walks.  When speaking to adults you don't know, be sure to use the "you (formal)" form-- vous NOT tu.  With students, they are much less uptight and might wonder why you're using the vous form with them.  When entering a store (especially a small "mom and pop" store), be sure to say "bon jour" to the clerk and "au revoir, bonne journee" to the clerk when leaving.  "Entree Libre" on the door of a small shop means that you can come into the store just to browse.  Food in supermarkets (e.g. cookies, nuts, etc.) tend to be cheaper than in mom and pop store (where you can pay double or triple the price for the same item-- no kidding).  In patisseries, don't be upset if they grab the pastries with their bare hands.  If this upsets you, pick a pastry that has a paper liner underneath it-- the clerk will normally touch the paper liner.  Pastries that have a plastic liner or tray underneath them usually are soaked in booze.  Have a great trip!  In years past, only rich ppl or retirees could afford to go to Europe.

Answer 9

Among other things:

-very good food, unique bread and croissants

-long meals and cafe in homes (chez l'habitant)

-charming towns, cute villages

-tendency to walk rather than drive

-lots of dog s***s on sidewalks

-slender body types (very rare obesity)

-general hatred for Bush and war

-minor opposition to America

-no water fountains

-some strikes may occur (train, buses)

-lots of tiny cars driving crazy in Paris

-French Franc obsolete, Euro used