Those visiting Paris for the first time will have many questions.
Do:
- Understand the importance of knowing some basic French phrases, and when to use them. (The answer to “when to use them” is “constantly”!) In etiquette-obsessed Paris, a few phrases go a very long way. Always say “bonjour” (”good day”) or “bonsoir” (”good evening”) when entering a café, restaurant, shop or other establishment. Say “merci” (thank you”) or “au revoir” (”goobye”) when leaving. Say “bonjour, excusez-moi” (”hello, excuse me”) before asking a question on the street. These phrases will work wonders. The ultimate phrase before asking a question may be “excusez-moi de vous deranger” (”excuse me for bothering you”), which will almost always illicit an overwhelmingly sympathetic and helpful response.
- Keep your ticket after entering the Métro. You may be asked for it by the Métro police as proof of payment. Don’t take it personally. This is the system. You can discard it after exiting the Métro at your final stop.
Don’t:
- Expect café or restaurant service to be on “U.S. time.” Things are likely to go at a much slower pace, so don’t be surprised or annoyed, as this is a cultural difference. In the U.S., everything is rated by its efficiency and speed. This is not the French way. The French way is slow and relaxed. Enjoy it.
- Be hurt if a smile isn’t returned. In many countries, a smile is used to show one means no harm, and to fail to return a smile is an insult. The Parisians have a frank, formal mentality, and believe a smile is used mainly between friends. They practice this with each other, just as they do with tourists. So while you may experience many lovely smiles, remember they often do this as a courtesy for tourists. If you don’t receive a smile back, remember the French way is simply different, and in time you can expect to see them surface. Remember: Much of the world is casual; Paris is formal.
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Welcome2France.com, one of Paris’ most established apartment rental agencies, presents a brief “Do’s and Don’ts” for those who would like a brief overview.
