Manners and Customs - France

No Matter where you travel, it’s always best to understand a little of the language, manners and customs of your host country in order to be polite and respectful to the locals. A few of these hints and tips may help you out as you tour through France while it’s also helpful to know a little French.

Contiki’s tour managers live and work in Europe full time and are also on hand to help you out throughout your tour.

Language

The French are a very proud race of people, the Parisians even more so than most and their language is one thing they are extremely proud and protective of. Making an effort to speak a few words in French, (even if it is only hello, please, thank you and goodbye) will make a huge difference (again, particularly in Paris) to the locals attitudes towards you. Your Tour Manager will be able to fill you in and help you get down the basics.

Manners

• The French are very proud of being French and their pride should generally not be mistaken for rudeness or arrogance. Much of the time the French simply feel sorry for you because you cannot a deep appreciation for their culture and language
• Even the rest of the French will admit that the Parisians in particular are a little rude and arrogant owing to their pride. ‘When in France, do as the French do’ – Making visible efforts to try and ‘fit in’ with French culture makes the world of difference. Knowing, or at least trying to speak a few words in French makes the world of difference to their attitudes towards you
• Manners and politeness are important
• A small tip (1 or 2 €) is considered polite for good service

Contiki Tours that travel to France >