We may look at some French cuisine with shock and horror (the classic snail in garlic, anyone?) but one thing they cannot understand is our love of a big breakfast. Forget your Full English or a stack of American pancakes. The French go for a coffee, a “tartine” of bread and some simple but delicious butter. On special occasions, or if they’re at a café, they may upgrade to a croissant. But at home, simplicity is best. And the true sign of a French breakfast? Coffee is served in a bowl, not a cup, to make dunking your bread that much easier.
While we’re on the subject of coffee, you can wave au revoir to your skinny caramel macchiato with extra cream too. The French drink espressos or, at most, a latte. In some less-Westernized establishments, ordering “un café” will earn you a single shot of the good stuff, so don’t expect a regular cup of Joe. Bonus points if you’re a tourist and you ask for an espresso, serious kudos if you know to savor it, not knock it back like a shot. The French like it when you live by their rules (the best rules).
The French are sticklers for tradition and rules, to the point where some of their customs will seem old-fashioned/quaint. To them, they’re simply a sign of respect. When you enter a café or shop in France, always say bonjour to the first member of staff you see. Likewise, always say au revoir or bonjournée (have a nice day) when you leave. In their eyes, it doesn’t matter if you’re a tourist – good manners should be international.
One thing they will allow some concessions with is “la bise” – the cheek-kissing greeting that is as common as a handshake or hug. If you’re not from the European continent, they expect you get to wrong. To do it properly, offer you right cheek to your French friend or acquaintance and bump cheekbones whilst making a slight kissing sound, on both sides. No need for any actual lip action or embrace. Whether you’re a man or a woman, gay or straight, this is the proper French greeting, so don’t take it as a come-on.
The French know how to take time off. Not only do they get five weeks paid holiday a year, but once that Out of Office goes on, it genuinely means not a single email will be read, let alone replied to. The same goes on Sundays when a surprising number of shops and cafés will stay closed. Even during the week, some shops will close over lunch or randomly lock up their shutters when the owner decides they’ve had enough. This can be frustrating for foreigners, especially those coming from big 24/7 cities, but learning to take real time off isn’t a bad attitude to have.
Another attitude of the French that can take some getting used to is their persistent negativity. The French often come across as very morose and even rude; the best reaction you can hope for is “pas mal” (not bad). This stems from the French mentality that positivity is for the ignorant and that truly intelligent people take a much more realistic approach. So do not be offended if you encounter a grumpy Frenchman/woman, they are just trying to do their best, and don’t show too much enthusiasm if you want to blend in.
We’re back to food again. Despite being such a huge part of French culture, many will only eat twice or three times a day. Snacking is just not part of their routine (apart from espressos, obviously) making meals a much more important part of their day. Lunch and dinner should be eaten slowly, enjoyed with wine and, most importantly, bread. And in France, the only acceptable bread is a good, long crusty baguette. This staple is served with every meal, without fail, so if you are ever hosting French dinner guests, keep the bread basket well stocked.