Today we’re going to mention some facts about French culture. Keep reading to learn more about this amazing culture!
French culture
Living in a country as diverse and beautiful as France, you are bound to run into people who are not exactly familiar with your customs.
If you want to make an impression or plan on being accepted into the local culture, here is everything you need to know about French culture.
Dining etiquette
The French do not like handshakes. If you are at a restaurant and the person next to you is feeling generous, they will offer you a quick “bouche-toi,” which is French for “pop your mouth.”
But don’t try to put your hand over theirs; France has no handshake. If you and your friends go to a French bar or café, you’re likely to see other patrons using their phones or laptops.
That’s because people in France generally don’t talk while they are eating. The French don’t have a conversation; they eat, drink, and talk with their mouths full.
The French don’t like handshakes
The French are very strict about hierarchy, so when you shake hands with someone, you should do so with great respect. But the French don’t like it when you start handing out the hard shakes.
If the person is a colleague or a loved one, it’s polite to keep the greeting brief but with a smile. While the French are generally very laid-back, they don’t like it if you try to put them on a strictly serious schedule or agenda.
If you have something important to discuss, it’s better to have it sooner rather than later.
Getting a “Bienvenue” is very important
If you move to France, you first should try to say “bonjour” to the people you meet. The “Bienvenue” is a pretty important thing to do when you move to France; people expect to hear it.
A person new to a city or a country will often feel like they are invading someone’s privacy if they walk up to a stranger and ask how they are doing or if they need help.
It’s very respectful, though, to say “Bienvenue” and allow your new friend to say “Vous êtes le Bienvenue.”
Accepting a “Bonjour” is important, too
If you cross paths with a stranger and they say “bonjour,” they expect you to say “bonjour.” It’s the same rule with the “Vous êtes le Bienvenue”; the person also expects you to say that.
But be careful about forcing yourself on people. If someone is not feeling like talking to anyone, they probably don’t want to be dragged into a conversation.
When in doubt, smile and nod your head. You’ll probably get by just fine that way.
When to wear French clothing and not just any other day
French men, especially the older ones, don’t wear anything but French-style suits for business meetings. It would be best if you tried to wear a suit when meeting with a French person for the first time, whether in person or over the phone.
A suit is especially important if you meet with a French company or official.
When you are in a casual situation where you don’t know the people around you, such as at a bar or café, try picking up on which days are considered the “right” days to wear French clothing.
The French certainly have their preferences, but the most common days to wear French clothing are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Picking up on the Right Tricks for a Happy Stay
If you are staying in a French hostel or hotel, try to learn the “trick” for getting your keys. It is common knowledge that when you enter the room, the person at the desk will give you your keys.
You will only catch on if you enter the room like another guest. Make an effort to catch on to this “trick,” and you will be much happier staying in French hotels and hostels.
The French Have Many Traditions They Take Very Seriously
Most French people will greet you with a kiss on the cheek when you see them. Suppose you and someone else are in a relationship.
In that case, it is considered very rude and disrespectful to greet that person first. Instead, you should greet the other person first.
French culture is a fascinating mix of many different things. There is a lot to learn, and it can be challenging for those who want to get involved in the local culture and traditions.
But with a little effort, it is possible to make a successful transition. Whether you are dating or looking for a long-term relationship with a French person, these tips will help you to get to know the local culture and customs better and make a better impression.
Make an effort to eat at the right times, greet people with a “Bienvenue,” and learn the “trick” for getting your keys. These are a few ways to make picking up French culture and traditions easier.