Understanding French Culture, Language & People
When in France, there are many local customs that are unique to that country or sometimes specific regions. Learn about the culture, which will help you have the best visit possible.
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French Phrases for Travelers
Knowing essential French phrases is, well, essential before French travel. Even if you can't learn a whole new language before visiting, attempting even the basic French phrases and words goes a long way culturally with French locals. Here are some of the basic French language must-know phrases and words for travelers.
Knowing essential French phrases is, well, essential before French travel. Even if you can't learn a whole new language before visiting, attempting even the basic French phrases and words goes a long way culturally with French locals. Here are some of the basic French language must-know phrases and words for travelers.
Don't Act Like a Tourist
When in France, if you do as the French do you will probably have a much more enjoyable experience. Besides, is it really so bad to enjoy a long lunch? Or have your coffee in the cafe instead of rushing around with a to-go cup. Don't fight the French system, embrace the culture and you will look far less like a tourist.
When in France, if you do as the French do you will probably have a much more enjoyable experience. Besides, is it really so bad to enjoy a long lunch? Or have your coffee in the cafe instead of rushing around with a to-go cup. Don't fight the French system, embrace the culture and you will look far less like a tourist.
Table Etiquette in France
When it comes to table etiquette in France, be sure there is nothing lost in translation. There are several differences between the French table manners and eating habits and American dinner etiquette. Here is a comparison of the table etiquette of France and the U.S.
When it comes to table etiquette in France, be sure there is nothing lost in translation. There are several differences between the French table manners and eating habits and American dinner etiquette. Here is a comparison of the table etiquette of France and the U.S.
French Translators
French translators are a must-have for French travelers. It's crucial when visiting France to have a quick and easy way to translate with the French. Whether you want a top of the line talking electronic French translator or a low-tech French translator card, these are the best French translators.
French translators are a must-have for French travelers. It's crucial when visiting France to have a quick and easy way to translate with the French. Whether you want a top of the line talking electronic French translator or a low-tech French translator card, these are the best French translators.
Wearing Sneakers in France
I can’t count the number of times travelers who asked me: ‘Should I wear sneakers in Paris?’ and other variations of the same question. American tourists especially are concerned about ‘not fitting in’ with inappropriate shoes. Find out what is or isn't appropriate for travelers visiting France.
I can’t count the number of times travelers who asked me: ‘Should I wear sneakers in Paris?’ and other variations of the same question. American tourists especially are concerned about ‘not fitting in’ with inappropriate shoes. Find out what is or isn't appropriate for travelers visiting France.
Top Myths About France and the French People
There are plenty of stereotypes about the French: they stink, women don't shave their underarms, they are rude, they hate Americans, they all go topless at the beach. Don't be fooled by this myths and urban legends. The truth is far more interesting. Here is some myth busting a la France with this list of top myths about France and the French people.
There are plenty of stereotypes about the French: they stink, women don't shave their underarms, they are rude, they hate Americans, they all go topless at the beach. Don't be fooled by this myths and urban legends. The truth is far more interesting. Here is some myth busting a la France with this list of top myths about France and the French people.
Rudeness Prevention
The French are notorious for being rude, but is that label fair? By following just a few simple tips, find out how to tap into the French friendliness.
The French are notorious for being rude, but is that label fair? By following just a few simple tips, find out how to tap into the French friendliness.
Survivalist's French Language Crash Course
Oh no! You are heading to France, and you don't know a word of French. No need to panic. With the aid of body language and a handy pad, you can get by if you memorize these ultra-basics during the plane ride over.
Oh no! You are heading to France, and you don't know a word of French. No need to panic. With the aid of body language and a handy pad, you can get by if you memorize these ultra-basics during the plane ride over.
France Bashing
Bashing the French has always been popular. American tourists have critized them for being rude or just too cool. But with France's latest stance against the war on Iraq, this practice has developed heightened venom. It is sure to hurt France's tourism industry.
Bashing the French has always been popular. American tourists have critized them for being rude or just too cool. But with France's latest stance against the war on Iraq, this practice has developed heightened venom. It is sure to hurt France's tourism industry.
France: the Bad, Ugly & Smelly
Of course, there are wonderful things about France: people-watching at a cafe, glorious cathedrals, delicious food, historical attractions galore. But for that yin, there must be a yang. You should also be prepared for the bad, the ugly and the smelly before your visit.
Of course, there are wonderful things about France: people-watching at a cafe, glorious cathedrals, delicious food, historical attractions galore. But for that yin, there must be a yang. You should also be prepared for the bad, the ugly and the smelly before your visit.