Trying to learn a bit of French etiquette...
2007-01-19 14:23:19 · 17 answers · asked by Cerith W 1 in Travel ➔ France ➔ Paris
That OK sign looks kind of like a hole doesn't it? Think about it...and don't use it.
When counting or ordering a quantity of something with your fingers, use the thumb's up as one (with the back of your hand facing the other person), then add the index finger for two, and so on. If you order two with your two fingers like a peace sign, you will not only offend them, you will probably get three (because they will assume your thumb is up too).
It's best to just act like you are in your friend's grandmother's house when you are in France. They are some of the most gentille (a French word!) people on Earth, if you just show some respect. They are not like you and it's not their responsibility to do so. You are their visitor and they really will treat you well if you act interested in their culture. In about an hour you can learn the top 25 phrases you will need. That is the best hour you will spend in preparation for your trip. The things they associate with "The Ugly American" (look it up in Amazon.com) are speaking loudly, noisy people in general, obesity (sorry, it's just a fact - look around while you're there), taking photos without asking permission, not speaking the language or learning even the basics of French pronunciation (they know by looking at you that you're American, but why confirm their stereotype of the Ugly kind?), as someone else said, greeting upon arrival and saying goodbye and/or thank-you upon departing, saying you're welcome after being thanked (remember, your friend's grandmother...), addressing people as monsieur, mademoiselle, madame, etc., saying please, using rude gestures that you didn't know were rude, men wearing shorts on the street or in a restaurant (not as odd as it once was, but they're for the beach), running shoes and white tube socks (sorry, had to throw that in), etc.
The French are the most mis-judged people on Earth. All of the stories you have heard about how they treat "us" are probably told by people that don't know or refuse to try to learn their culture. How do you feel about people that come into your town and act in a manner you consider rude? It's not that different.
As far as the politics goes? Leave it at home! I can see some answerers here are still upset about their unwillingness to occupy Iraq with us. Seems like the latest polls show that about two-thirds of Americans think we made a mistake. So, now who was right all along? Gee, maybe that Chirac guy ain't so bad after all! Enough of that - this is not the right section. Sorry to have brought it up.
I'll stop on that note. Hope this helps!
Bon Vacance!
2007-01-20 21:05:26 · answer #1 · answered by adolfoknows 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I think that someone already touched upon this but there are two things that you can do to be polite.
When you enter a place of business do not expect them to greet you. You are to greet them. In French is possible.
Also try to speak french. Simple phrases. They really like it if you try. If you are young and traveling with someone who is young (20's), then expect some of the older French to not be as kind as you would like. For instance they might seat older people ahead of you if you are waiting for a table.
The best thing to do about that is have your concierge call ahead for a table. They will be more welcoming that way.
But for the most part the French are loving and welcoming people. You will have a wonderful time.
2007-01-21 00:33:18 · answer #2 · answered by Lauretta R 3 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Calling a French person by his/her first name unless you have their permission (students are less uptight about this). Talking about the occupation by Germany in WW2 is also unpleasant dinner conversation. Taking too large a portion is another no no-- many hosts will cook just enough and if someone takes 3 lamb chops, there won't be enough. Also, when visiting someone's house, don't assume that you can tour the whole house all by yourself-- many hosts confine entertaining to the study and the dining room.
2007-01-19 18:08:21 · answer #3 · answered by Santa C 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You must have went to the wrong part of Europe, all of the countries have rude people, still I noticed that too. Why are they too racist? Sometimes, even here in America, I see Asians who could not speak english were being thrown away (well, not really). But the part were you said they swore very loud, wait till you see black people! I feel like I wanted to hit them in the face whenever they do that. I just hate it. Why do they hate Asians so much? I don't really get this...
2016-03-29 05:34:22 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you talk to one of them and automatically speak english. They hate that. I've found that most french people are actually very nice and pleasant as long as you TRY to at least speak a tiny bit of french. They'll be able to tell you're american and will usually reply in English.
2007-01-19 14:25:53 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
Hey, what is the problem with the WW2 ? I didn't know it was a taboo subject in France !
And for your information, i and most of my friends have never eaten frogs !!!
If i had to find a thing which gets on my nerves... Probably the current war in Irak... Because our president refused to enter in this f+++++g war, we were pointed as cowards by UK people... I'm allways disappointed to hear that.
And sorry for my taylor, which is less rich that i want !
2007-01-21 05:38:42 · answer #6 · answered by illidashenvale 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well, I'm french and I think we aren't too much different from others people around the planet...
Well, try not to speak fast when you speak english because we don't speak well english
Perhaps, try to avoid to talk about politics and about your President because many people doesn't really appreciate him...
Bon voyage
2007-01-21 12:05:03 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Just to add to the 'OK' symbol above. That is considered to mean zero or worthless in a lot of continental Europe as opposed to Okay.
2007-01-20 03:01:58 · answer #8 · answered by Jack 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hi I'm french and I can't bear this stupid story about the frogs!!!lol In fact,only a few french love them!!! and I have seen a funny sit www.cestsoparis.com it's really funny and maybe a bit true too^
bye
2007-01-19 21:51:43 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
One big banana skin to look out for is using "tu" instead of "vous". Unless you are considerably older than the person you are addressing, or the person is a child, always refer to people as "vous".
2007-01-20 09:18:42 · answer #10 · answered by distant_foe 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋