Like most civilized countries, France has a particular set of rules, manners and customs that makes its society work in that je ne sais quois way. The very word “etiquette” is French, as is “faux pas“, so it’s no big surprise to see that prescribed behaviors are important to these people. When visiting la République, you’d be wise to bear some of these social norms and expectations in mind, lest you unwittingly be perceived as a bumbling foreign oaf. They may say vive la difference, but they’ll actually be aghast at your breaches and blunders. Conversely, some of the things that they do might strike you as odd, rude or bizarre. Cultural awareness and respect goes a long way when traveling, so here are 14 things NOT to do in France.
1. Don’t Put Your Hands on Your Lap
Forget folding your hands demurely on your lap at the table in France. Keep ’em where they can see ’em, or they might wonder what you’re doing down there. Here, the polite way to sit is with both hands visible on the table. All your life you’ve been admonished by your mother for putting your hands or elbows on the table, when maybe you were just born in the wrong country.
2. Don’t Expect 24/7 Shops and Services
Lots of countries have a bustling 24/7 mentality where shops and services are always open for the convenience of their customers. This is not necessarily the case in France, especially in smaller towns. They take their breaks and work/life balance seriously. Many French shops close from 12:00 to 2:00 for a leisurely, civilized lunch lull – profits be damned. Some banks, post offices, museums and other places of business do too. Most things are closed on Sundays, and there are 10 Public Holidays that also shut down commercial activity. Lots of businesses take a few weeks off in July or August for their annual summer holiday, and frequent strikes can disrupt certain services. Popular tourist areas may stay open, and restaurants are more accommodating, but you should always double-check the opening hours and closing days before heading out for a shopping spree or errand run in France.
3. Don’t Step in the Merde
The French love their Fifis and Fidos, and you often see dogs sitting on laps and under the tables at sidewalk bistros in France. However, unlike other countries that have strict rules about picking up after your pooch, France doesn’t seem to have gotten the pooper-scooper memo. The sidewalks, parks and even some door stoops are literally littered with doggy doo-doo. The French seem unabashed by this. In fact, try to lecture them about the merits of collecting their pets’ turds in a little bag for proper disposal and you will be met with looks of quelle horreur. Maybe one day they’ll get with the etiquette of responsible dog ownership, but for now, save your selves and your shoes. Always scan the road ahead lest you step in a steaming mess of merde.
