Every country is unique and practices different social etiquette; when you travel you must be aware of the biggest dos and don’ts of the country you are travelling too. Something that you might think is ok; might be super offensive to another culture, just remember it is not wrong it is just different. To help you emerge yourself in French Culture here are 9 Important things NOT to do when in France.

French Etiquette

Unfortunately, the French have a bit of a bad reputation; of being “rude” this is not the case at all; they are just extremely proud people who uphold traditions and cultures.

Lets get the Don’ts out of the way first

• Don’t expect that everyone will speak English; remember you are in France not at home!
• Don’t Speak about money it is extremely rude
• Don’t chew gum in public it is very rude
• Don’t ask for a takeaway bag for your unfinished meal, this is a HUGE NO NO
• Don’t Bring a Selfie Stick, you can’t use it in most places
• Don’t wear flip flops, jandals, pluggers whatever you call them in your home country they are for the beach only.
• Don’t get a coffee and walk with it down the street; the French like to enjoy the Café experience, and you should drink your coffee at the table or bar you brought it from.
• Don’t ask for a latte after midday; this is a morning drink only if you want a coffee in the afternoon; you will be served with an Espresso shot.
• Don’t expect cars to stop at a pedestrian crossing; they may slow down however don’t just walk out into the street.

The Do’s in France

• Try and use some French; even if you don’t speak it well the French will appreciate it if you just try.
• Do say “Bonjour” and “Au Revoir” when entering and leaving a shop or café
• Dress with pride, the French are proud people and always look their best, you should too
• The French have lunch between 12 and 2; lunch is very important and they take it very seriously so sit back enjoy the serenity
• Do round up to the next number when tipping; the service charge is usually included however most people pay and don’t expect the change back.
• Do always pour your companions drink before yours, never just fill your glass it is considered rude

Look for local spots

• Look for the local spots, instead of eating at the “Main Tourist” spots; try down small little laneways they are usually much more authentic not to mention cheaper.
• Do try the local cuisine; as foreign as it may sound to you it is a dish of France, and you are there for the full experience.
• Do use public transport and metros especially in Paris; it will take you everywhere throughout the city, remember to buy, validate and keep hold of your ticket.
• Do take a guided walking or bus tour; local knowledge is best and this is the city or area that will be brought to life with the stories
• Plan your trip – not everything is open 7 days a week; so be sure to do the research of what you want to see, and make sure it is open on the days you are planning to be there.

Where ever you go in the world you must be aware of the social etiquettes; things will be different from what you are used to but that is the very reason we travel. Embrace it and do your research on the Do’s and Don’ts in France before travelling to this beautiful country. Speaking of this beautiful country; for some random tips on what to see and do check out our Dots to Discover Paris or France.