A trip to France is a chance not only to learn about the culture and customs of this country, but also to master the rules of conduct adopted in it. If you want to be welcomed, learn how to behave correctly in certain situations. Then you will like this country and its inhabitants even more - and this feeling will be mutual.
Necessary
- - guidebook;
- - map.
Instructions
Step 1
Live in locals mode. The French have breakfast early, lunch around noon, and have a hearty evening meal. If you want to conduct business negotiations, do not schedule them for an interval from 12 to 14 hours - at this time the whole of France dines, and she does it very slowly. However, you can meet at a restaurant. Keep in mind that it is not customary to talk about business at the beginning of lunch. They turn to the solution of important issues before dessert.
Step 2
When choosing a restaurant for dinner, pay attention to special sites that will help you navigate the variety of such establishments. One of the popular resources is https://www.lafourchette.com. You can choose a cafe or restaurant with a specific cuisine, learn about specialties, wine list and average bill. An additional bonus is the opportunity to receive a substantial discount. You do not need to pay for the right to a discount - registration on the site is enough.
Step 3
Be sure to try seasonal dishes. In May, restaurants serve asparagus, in June - desserts with strawberries, and in autumn - roast game. If you want to save money, prefer ready-made sets - they are offered both for lunch and dinner. Drinks are not included, but you can request a free carafe of water. In France, it is very tasty, and its quality is impeccable so much that it is recommended to dilute baby food with tap water.
Step 4
When moving around the city, use public transport or taxis. A good option is a short-term car rental or bicycle rental. You can pay for the rental by credit card, choose any car or bike in a special automatic parking and then leave it at any other. When crossing the road, expect that the drivers will let you pass, but do not lose your vigilance, especially in large cities. Beware of scooters - they are ridden by teenagers who love extreme driving and risky turns between cars.
Step 5
Be polite to those around you. When entering an office, store or restaurant, be sure to say hello. Show concern for others. In France, it is customary to hold heavy doors, to let buyers with one or two purchases into the supermarket checkout. The difference between men and women, old people and children should not be emphasized - be correct with everyone, regardless of gender and age.
Step 6
Beware of fines - they are very high in France. A large fine awaits drivers who have left the car in the wrong place. For smoking in a restricted area, for example, in the lobby of an institution or in a public toilet, you will also face a fine. And for kindling fires in the wrong places, especially during the fire season in the south of the country, you can expect more serious sanctions.
