La statue de la liberté a été offerte par la France en 1876 et nous avons la petite soeur sur Paris. La statue de New York détient la déclaration d'indépendance des États-Unis dans la schape.
I was amazed by how friendly people in Paris were. I just needed to open with the magic words: "Bonjour... Desolee, je ne parle pas francais. Parlez vous anglais?" People were more than happy to help me out as long as I started with these words.
Yesss, I think the general , do you speak English question can come out a tad offensive. Saying exactly what you said helped so much, I didn’t have a single bad experience.
I am practicing those words now in preparation for my visit in October! A little courtesy plus respect for the country you are visiting goes a long way.
The cab drivers are friendly too! We were greeted by everyone & they were very friendly. No one was looking forward to the chaos of the Olympics with many cab drivers telling us that they were taking their holidays those two weeks!
Exactly. It’s not rocket surgery. It would be like someone coming up to you asking something in Croatian. I chose Croatian because I don’t know anybody from Croatia.
I’m french and i don’t really agree with the fact that you don’t have to bring a bottle of wine for a dinner. You can bring one as a present and it means « we are going to drink this one the next time you come ! » It’s a way to keep contact with people and a present is always a good idea imo
Sometimes even, there's moments where you don't like wine, or that specific wine you were given. And usually what happens is that we gift it to another host like a hot potato. But watch out not to give it to the person that gifted it to you xD Also, you can gift whatever you want. Food or fine alcohol is wildly appreciated. You can either choose to gift something for your host to enjoy (chocolate for exemple) or something you cooked (I you like making cake for exemple). If you live in France, in a region far away from your host or in another country, bring a local specialty of yours? WE LOVE IT. If you are young (or not) and invited to a party where drinking is planned, you can either bring a bottle of alcohol, soft drinks or food you can nibble on, and it'll be shared with everyone, and you can enjoy what the host or the other guests have brought.
yes ! always bring a little something when u're invited but if it's food, don't expect to eat it while u're there. It's either for the host to eat/drink later or for the next time u come. Anything from wine to flower is ok. there isn't a rule of the type of thing u have to bring as long as u bring a little something.
Oui c'est aussi ce que je me disais, après en soit je comprend ce qu'il veut dire t'amène pas une bouteille en cadeau c'est juste histoire d'amener un truc
I'm Chinese, dressed in plain clothes, no designer stuff but I was polite, smiley and can't speak French. The locals were happy to help and guide me. ❤❤. Words I knew were bonjour, merci, cest tout. 😂😂 and lots of finger pointing.
As a French, I do agree with most of it. Just 2 little remarks, the first one, For the salad depends on the family culture, in our we start our meal with a salad. The second one (and believe me, this one has been drilled into us) is you don't bring flowers when invited, but you send them the next day with a thank-you note, or you bring a box of chocolates, macaron, or a good bottle of wine but don't expect to drink it during the party.
@@nifixer7026 i don' agree you bring flower to any event birthday, anniversary or casual invitation .... and if you do only flower to your wife and mon I guess they don't get much else how sad
@@nifixer7026 No it's not ? In my experience people bring flowers when invited in a household, it's a gift like any other. Doesn't have to be for women or for romantic occasions.
bonjour As a frenchman, I love your videos as they make me understand lots of things that happened to me in my time in Paris during interactions with american visitors ! But I must say that offering a good bottle of wine is not a fault. You are invited for diner ? offer flowers to madame and wine to monsieur and don't expect to drink it at the dinner. the thing is: "I offer you this good bottle to be kept in your cave for another day as I know that you have already choosen the wine fitting for tonight's meal !". No one will be offended ! Good job les frenchies 👍
I’m surprised anyone would think that bringing a bottle of wine to a host for dinner would be an insult. I have always thought that was a polite thing to do. And my parents never drank wine!
Exactly right! Since I'm not a drinker nor outgoing, I have a collection of wine bottles I received over the years, at the rare occasions I received people. There's always at least one, often more, offered each occasion. So we gather a lot eventually. But outgoing people will be glad to be offered a good one. A good trick is to bring a bottle you got gifted. Just make sure you don't offer it to the one who offered it to you before. 😂
Vous avez tout compris ! perso si on m'offre une bonne bouteille de vin , en tant que français j'en suis très heureux , c'est le plus beau des cadeaux car le vin fait parti de notre patrimoine national . Des fleurs pour madame et la soirée sera parfaitement réussi .
I am French and I can tell that most of the time, bringing a bottle of wine is THE safe move. As a matter of fact, that's what I am doing and what I expect when I am inviting people. But do not always expect it to be used on the spot. Indeed your host will probably have prepared some wine for the meal (maybe a bottle that someone offered to him earlier :D). But the host might also say: "Let's use your wine instead of the one I prepared", it's a very common move as well
I am French but i spent 14 years of my life in North America. I really love how objective your videos are. I agree with most of every pieces of informations you are sharing. You are the kind of immigrants French people love. You adapt and respect our flaws as well as appreciating our good sides. Thanks for being in France with us ❤❤
Our daughter and sone-in-law had a destination wedding in Paris last summer - we rented a large apartment in Paris for our group of 7. We had the most fantastic week. I don't remember any issues with Uber and we used it to go everywhere, including Versaillies. Every meal was wonderful (my favorite was the crepes at the cafe just outside of Versaillies and our wedding dinner - shoutout to Mokanuts!) Our 5 bedroom apartment had central air conditioning which was an absolute lifesaver as the July week we were there was hot. The bakery across the street was wonderful and we enjoyed going over every morning to choose our treats for coffee. There were fabulous cafes on every corner. Too many memories and great experiences to mention. It was truly a trip of a lifetime and we talk about our memories or share a photo with the group at least once every week!
As a French (and even worse Parisian) who also lived in the US and other EU countries, I can relate to quite a few points but 2 of them are not really mainstream : 1/French people do go to grocery stores ( the markets are nice but apart from WEs people don t have the time during the week when they work to go to markets in the morning) 2/ French people do bring wine to dinners or parties. It is not rude at all. An opportunity to discover new wines together or later (bottles are not always drunck during the dinner)
Id say we dont gift a bottle when we bring it to a dinner. We bring it to drink it. That is why it is common to ask your host in advance what will the meal be. So that you can bring the right one, that suits the meal !
Loved the video! As a German, who lives in the south of France, I have two corrections to make. First, it depends on the region you're in, how many bises (kisses) are usual. Here in the vicinity of Nîmes, it's always three! Second, at least here in our region it is perfectly common to bring wine to a dinner you're invited to. Our french friends do that all the time, but they also commented on our wines we serve and even ordered some Alsace wines because they liked it so much at our place. It is more a thing like "Look, what I found, you have to try this wine, too!" Oh, and a "épicerie" is not always a speciality shop, in the next village are two: One with amazing cheese and wines and snacks, the other just with fruit, vegetable and some dry goods. I look forward to your next video!
I just returned from 3 weeks in France and your videos helped so much! My big surprises: how friendly the people are, the amazing roses everywhere, and how awful parking our rental car anywhere was!
Please understand, I did not drive in Paris except for the very outskirts where I picked up and dropped off the car. There were so many places in Normandy and the Loire Valley that we wanted to see that I sacrificed my “fear” and did the deed. My torment came just trying to park even in the tiny towns. It didn’t help that our visit coincided with two French holidays. I’m not sorry we did exactly what we did, the trip was magical!!! We stayed in some very out of the way countryside chateaus that would only have been possible if on a tour bus and we just didn’t want to operate on a schedule. It was a true vacation in every sense of the word..we slept in, ate when and where we wanted.
As a Frenchman who visited the US multiple times, I found your advices really on point! However, some of them are really related to Paris or big French cities only (like small appartments, families don't own multiple cars, can walk to go the grocery store, buy grocery often and in small quantities) This does not apply outside of big cities 😊
Just came back from Paris! Very true with your statements!! Realized that life can be appreciated no matter what size our houses are. Loved the paristian way of life
I just came back and to be honest l love aspects French lifestyle in the sense that life is a little more slower more compact and distances are great for travelling. Plus the food is amazing
I am an American living in Paris for 30 years. I also have a 2nd home in the countryside. Parisians generally do not have cars, this is very similar to New Yorkers. When you go outside Paris or other large cities, you find homes with cars parked outside. You must compare apples with apples and peaches with peaches. Most people who live in big metropolises do not own cars as public transportation is very good, so not necessary.
@@waw63nyc WOW! Lonnnnng time! Hello Wayne! Miami is fine... both parents passed. I am retired and traveling some when I can afford it. And you? Still living near Columbia? :)
I enjoyed this video very much!! The first time we went to Paris, I was surprised by some of the differences. I'm thankful we got to visit again, because I was able to appreciate these differences and learn a new way of life for the duration. "Bonjour" is really the magic touch, though.
Loved this and I found it fascinating. As a Londoner who has spent the last year learning French and hitting Paris on the Eurostar 4 times in this year, I have never understood the myth around French people being rude. I'm in love with the city and people, and like anywhere, being aware of self and how warm you are with others goes a long way. Watching this, I also saw how more European London is and how there is another layer of cultural difference with the States despite our common language. Many of my American friends have said they find French people rude, and this video captures how that difference could come about. I think if your expectation is always of how others should treat you, and not how warm you are with them, it's going to annoy people and that can apply to anyone, but if you travel without disarming your own culture first there is always the potential for difference. Keep up the great work, your videos have been an accompaniment to my joy, indeed as we travel back again in a couple of weeks.
You "saw how more European London is". Well, it's only a new thing because it was not before, it had very much English characteristics. It started to become continental under Tony Blair at the turn of the year 2000 with a view to opening up to tourism.
So many things mentioned are European and not only French in nature. Untrue, though for wine. We take a bottle for the hosts to serve or enjoy at their leisure. It is always appreciated.
I believe that this reputation of being rude began short after WWII, when American soldiers couldn't understand why all French people didn't speak fluent English. At that time, is was kinda rare, so those French people probably just shrugged and said nothing, not understanding a word. As a result, they gained this reputation and it goes on until today.😅
Je suis parisienne, je suis née et ai grandi ici toute ma vie et il y a un point avec lequel je ne suis pas tout à fait d'accord malgré la super qualité du contenu de cette vidéo : la majorité d'entre nous fait son shopping au supermarché à cause des coûts élevés des produits sur les marchés ou dans les magasins spécialisés (fromageries, poissonneries indépendantes, etc.). Le marché reste un endroit pour les gros budgets et même si je suis objectivement assez privilégiée, ça ne me viendrait pas à l'idée de faire mes grosses courses au marché du quartier 😄
Bonjour, C'est surtout une question de quantité et de qualité. Je préfère acheter moins de fruits et de légumes sur le marché qu'en acheter beaucoup au supermarché qui, finalement, vont finir à la poubelle. La qualité est inégalable, plus encore en ce qui concerne les fruits. Les supermarchés, malgré des débits hyper élevés, s'obstinent à acheter des fruits pas mûres Tout ça à cause du transport, mais aussi et surtout de la palparion importante que subissent ces fruits avant d'être acheté par les consommateurs ou finalement reposer dans leur cagette. C'est pourquoi sur les marchés ou boutique spécialisées fruits et légumes, c'est le vendeur qui les choisit à votre place. Plutôt qu'eux-mêmes jeter des milliers de tonnes de fruits et légumes chaque années pour des raisons de marges finalement pas si évidentes au regard du coût à l'arrivée et de perte définitive de ces derniers, soit chez le client, soit directement depuis le magasin, ils feraient mieux d'embaucher des vendeurs à ces rayons. Certes, les fruits et légumes seraient un tout petit peu plus chers (ce qui n'est même pas sûr), mais finalement tout le monde y trouverait son compte, la nature y compris. En plus, un vendeur compétent vous guidera sur la variété à choisir suivant ce que vous vous proposez de faire avec ces fruits et légumes (soupe, compote, purée, confiture, vapeur, cru, woke, cuisson lente, etc.). Un fruit doit mûrir sur l'arbre ou le buisson. Une fois décroché de celui-ci, il ne fait que s'altérer, pas mûrir (plus encore soumis à un tel traitement). Combien de fois, j'ai jeté des poires, des framboises, des pèches, etc., à cause de ça. La seule chose, c'est qu'il faut se lever de bonne heure pour faire le marché. Bon weekend.
Yep, some things are certainly different in France, as they are where I live. I’ve never lived in Paris, but have spent many extended periods there, and am chomping at the bit for the next one. Bring on the differences, from the quirky to the sublime. For me, that’s what travel is all about. Vive la différence !
Even if I'm a french native speaker married to a French guy I enjoy watching your videos and you often remind me of those tiny little cultural differences...
As a longtime visitor to Paris, I would say this video gives excellent advice. One of Les Frenchies best for good, practical advice. Having just returned from my latest visit, I was surprised at how much more English is spoken and at my sense that people were much more tolerant of my French.
This video was very helpful! I'm an American and I've lived and worked in Japan, but I'm going to Toulouse to get a teaching certificate. I'm doing my best to pick up a little of the language and learn about everyday culture and this helped a lot!
Just finished our first trip to Paris (we live in California). I can say this list is 100% spot on! We have watched many of your videos and they were an invaluable source of information. We planned our trip based upon them and they prepared us for what to expect. We loved our time there and are already planning on returning next year. Saying Bonjour and Merci goes a verrrry long way
All those stripes...street shopping looks fun. Where I lived growing up we were 50 miles from the grocery store. My mom bought 4 or more shopping carts full of food. Shopping was every 2 to 3 weeks. Daily shopping is mind blowing. Many new ideas to get used to. Thank you for sharing.
I'm French and in my experience everyone brings wine or champagne to parties, it's not considered offensive at all, it's generally very appreciated as a gift. Also i've never seen the salad come at the end of a meal, i've always seen it either as a starter or as a side dish with the main course.
Funny I only see salad coming at the end of the meal, with or just before cheese I never seen it at the beginning I'm from South of France though, maybe a cultural difference between regions ?
I was struck by the comment on air conditioning. In Paris, of course, it's not very frequent, because the climate (with generally very mild summers) doesn't require it, but we live in Perpignan, in south France, and almost everything is air conditioned. A number of other comments seem to apply more to Paris than to France in general.
I love your videos, but find some of them, like this one, a bit Paris-centric. Outside of Paris, like here in Nîmes, you CAN find free toilets at shopping centers, we kiss three times (not two), though handshakes are certainly acceptable too. Paris has its own holiday rental rules, so they're not the same everywhere in France. While it's true that French people shop at small stores all the time, I don't think it's true that they don't do a fair bit of their grocery shopping at the local supermarket. Going to the local outdoor market, or the local les Halles is certainly preferred, but most working class French people I know could not afford to buy all their groceries that way, and do use the supermarkets to balance things out. Similarly, French people do shop at big chain stores, which aren't always only found in touristic areas. France has malls and shopping centers and big box stores ... and outside of Paris they're usually found just outside the city center. I actually think that, at least around here, the shopping center/mall is more popular than they are back in my old US community, where the shopping malls seem to be dying. Keep up the good work, but try and note that there are differences (often pretty profound ones) between "Paris" and "France"..
Air B&B and similar agencies are blowing up the rent and house prices in our major cities. For the reason of solidarity with the average citizen I try to boycot them. We wouldn't like to feel the consequences either. I prefer to spend slightly more in a hotel or pension.
I agree that France can't be all about Paris! It's not even like living in an expensive subburb of the great Parisian area. There're so many different lifestyles to discover here in France. Enjoy, but pl don't generalise about all of us based on Parisians.
Hey bonjour chez vous ;) what is said hère is very true, lifestyles between Paris and France are very différent, if you're willing to visit France consider visiting other places you'll have a tremendously différent expérience. Most advices given by tourists after a trip in France is actually based on expérience from Paris only so people think the entire country is the same.
My wife and I are immensely grateful for your videos. Our trip was so much better thanks to your advice!!! One thing i would add is that hotels dont have wash clothes, or at least that was our experience.
A lot of the things you mentioned are also common in other parts of the world. As an American who grew up in Malaysia, I also noticed a lot of food waste in the US as opposed to Malaysia. Like the French, my Malaysian Chinese mother would go to the market every morning and buy just enough food for the day. Nothing was wasted and everything was fresh
I just retired in Texas and want to do the usual London and Paris trip in a couple years. I’m excited to start learning French (2 years in high school in the 1970’s wasn’t enough).
Thanks ❤️ I love yours videos! I love france! I visited once & I wanted to come back again! It's something that I can't explain about paris that make me feel so attracted 😢
10:58 Indeed. Buses in Paris are a great way of transportation in daytime because they allow you to discover the cityall along the way of your ride and not only on your departure and arrival point. It allows you to stop where you haven't planned to, just because you've just seen someting beautifull or intriguing.
Quickest way to find a toilet ("restroom" for Americans) anywhere in France (and indeed in Paris) is simply to go into a bar or cafe and order a coffee. They will always have a "toilettes" (always a plural word in France even if there is only one WC). This is invariably what I do. Never occurs to me to look for a public toilet.
Great video. In my group of friends and neighbours, we do offer wine but don't open it for that meal. We consider it a personal gift and it also prevents any embarrassment if the wine tastes of cork. Champagne is a great favourite.
I have been watching your videos since I knew we had an 8 hour layover in Paris. That’s how I found y’all. I love your videos! I’ve been educating myself on their culture, clothing and eateries. I’ve also watched your videos on pick pocketing. I think that is the only thing I am scared about. So I have prepared myself for what to look for. Thanks for your wonderful educational videos. Maybe we will run into y’all on the streets. That would be amazing. Looking forward to more videos. Thank you!!!.
Hello you guys. I have noticed that many times when you say "France" you actually mean "Paris". Uber for example works very well in other cities like Toulouse :) But I still love your content :) :) :)
My wife and I just got home from Paris. We had great holiday. Thank you for your advice, your videos helped us a lot. All the best from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺
Bienvenu ! mais Paris ce n'est pas la France . Si je devais aller aux états unis je n'irai pas dans une ville cosmopolite , si je vais aux états unis c'est pour voir des américains et rien d'autre !
@@jean-claudeduclos5248 Nous n’avions que trois jours et le seul souhait de notre fille était de visiter le Louvre. Quand on ne dispose que de trois jours, visiter le reste de la France n'est pas une option, mais nous avons apprécié les personnes rencontrées lors de ce court voyage.
This video was great! As a fully french person, i'm glad there's finally a video that is actually accurate. For people visiting other than Paris tho, paid bathroom is a thing mainly in the capital. I don't recall many places in other cities (such as Lyon or Marseille) needing money. In malls, there's always toilets, that you can enter even if you didn't buy anything.
It's really fascinating, interesting, educational, challenging, to learn the values and cultural differences in a foreign country, compared to the norm where we come from.
I love your videos...however, I'm British married to a Parisian and have lived here for 10 years ..and no one is offended with me bringing wine...everyone brings wine to a party or dinner party .. xxx
Great video! I have lived in Paris for 6 years now and this video reminded me some of the culture shock that I had when looking for an apartment here: the size - and the price!!!! - Of a basic apartment and the bathroom and toilet separated were definitely a mouth drop experience. Also, the street markets are so great that I definitely stoped buying food in supermarkets. I also sold my car 2 years after moving here - no one needs a car in Paris (at least if you live and work in the city), the subway is way too good and walking in Paris is very worth it! What no one says is that the weather is awful, especially if you come from a sunny city, it can be very depressing. Your best friend in Paris is an umbrella. That's why a sunny day in Paris is so valuable!!! Once you live here you enjoy the sun as if it was a rare pearl!
Well, it depends! Last year, in 2023, we had in Paris (and the rest of France) a dry winter, followed by a dry spring and a very hot and dry summer! It didn't rain until mid-autumn! This year, it's too much rain even in the summer!🤪
@@kath6720, my boss lives in Paris for 37 years now and he says Paris is one of the rainiest cities that he knows, so forget climate change. Plus, I come from an European country so I compare housing prices and sizes according to other European capitals, not America.
I lived near Paris for a few years. I love the fact that you squeeze your vowels like a true French person! You obviously speak it fluently- as there's no escaping the truest of SL accent 😊 The info was so accurate, presented well (you're both so European now!) , great pace and content. Keep up the great videos ❤
I believe that Antoine was born and raised in France, so I’d expect his vowels to be spot on, lol…. You can hear his accent in his English. The videos are great, indeed!
I love that video, it’s very accurate, except perhaps for the wine you can offer if it’s a good bottle people will enjoy later. For the drinking part, most of us are no more drinking for lunch when we work but it’s true we love to take our time to enjoy our meals and talk, talk, talk for hours 😂😂
I love your channel. I lost a lot of my french, but I always use the appropriate salutations when entering and leaving an establishment, it is much appreciated. just out of a logistic stand point, how long did you have to rent in paris to know where you wanted to live? Did you keep your house in Florida while looking? Did you bring all your belongings when you finally decided to move? I look forward to hearing from you. Francis
I'm finding all of your tips absolutely true! When we visit Pont-en-Royans (at the base of the Vercors mountains), we shop ONLY local and at the weekly market, as well as small artisanal shops in other towns. Don't worry about pasteurization. Our friend only eats pasteurized from the local equivalent of Walmart (which has a wonderful, proper restaurant in it) when she is pregnant on the advice of her OB doc. Watch were the locals go, which venders they frequent at markets, and what they buy and you will find the best stuff.
I lived in Paris for 7 years and totally relate to everything you said. If it’s a friend, you kiss them 3 to 4 times. Thank you for refreshing my memory. I’m coming to Paris in 12 days to see my friends and dine.
"La bise" in Paris is always 2 kisses starting with your right cheek. (Fun fact: in Lyon and the surrounding area it's also two kisses but we start with the other cheek.)
It's 2 kiss in most of the France, 3 for the southerners, up to 4 in some regions. It can easily confuse tourists, because even all southerner don't do this, some non-southern do 3 for the joke and etc....
Some of my Uber experiences were wild. The one out of CDG airport waited until he could slip in behind another vehicle so he wasn't charged. Several only dropped me off close-ish to my requested destination. One wanted me to walk 0.8 miles (according to the app) to get to them. It turned out he didn't want to pay to leave the dinner boat cruise dockside area. We did experience servers who expected to be tipped and said service wasn't included.
Yes, avoid Uber whenever you can even if it's cheaper... Or report them to the company if you have a problem. Service is always included in restaurants and cafés! And also, tipping is not required.
Bonjour ! I don't really share your opinion with the 32th. I am french, i live in Paris. I ALWAYS bring one or two bottles for dinner. These bottles are not necessarily intended to be opened during dinner but to make your host discover some new liquors or a wine he doesn't know yet (there are so many different chateaux !) whenever he wants. But you can add some flowers as well or send them the day after :)
I also bring wine when I am invited. I think it is pretty common for French people to do that. For toilets, the solution is to go to a McDonald's or similar fast food "restaurant"
Just discovered your channel and we are “binge watching” your adventures and appreciating your advice. Hoping to head your way in Fall 2025. Many thanks.
I am always amazed by the vision of France from Americans who publish videos on RUclips. What they show and therefore what they see is a Disneyland-type amusement park. It is a France for tourists that is absolutely not representative.
Great video! I appreciate the effort you put into sharing cultural insights. However, as a frenchman there are a few points I'd like to clarify: 1) This seems to focus mainly on Paris. While it's true that Paris has its own unique characteristics, it's important to note that larger homes and spaces are more common throughout the rest of France, especially in the countryside-much like in the US. ; But I agree everything is bigger in general in the US. 4) I was surprised by your mention of elevator issues. In France, it's extremely rare for an elevator to be out of order. As a French person, I can tell you that whenever it happens, it causes significant frustration among residents. If someone told you that broken elevators are common, they might have been exaggerating or trying to mislead you. Maybe in some old parisian building, old elevators are more likely to have issues but this is not to be expected in general. 7) In France, it's very common to have toilets in the bathroom, and showers almost always have doors or enclosures to prevent water from splashing everywhere. Showers without doors are quite unusual here. 8) I've never seen a kitchen in France without a refrigerator. Most homes also have washing machines, and many have dryers as well. If someone told you that a lack of such appliances is normal, they were likely trying to excuse the deficiencies in their apartment. It's not representative of most French homes. 10) Regarding shopping habits, most people in France go to supermarkets for nearly everything-food, wine, cheese, household items, electronics, and more. Local markets are more of an occasional visit, at least for me and most of my friends and family. Maybe it’s different in some parts of Paris, but generally, supermarkets are the go-to option. 12) A word of caution on the term "artisanal" when it comes to croissants. In France, a bakery can have an artisanal label for making its own bread while still selling frozen croissants. Unfortunately, the label doesn’t guarantee that pastries are made from scratch. With some experience, though, it becomes easier to spot the real deal. I’m looking forward to watching the second half of the video later. I don’t mean to be negative-you're doing an awesome job promoting travel and cultural exchange! I just wanted to correct these few points to provide a more accurate picture :)
I had a great host via VRBO. The elevator was super small and older. We also had no AC in July, but we were out most of the day. Over all we had a great place and host
Very good info. As a frequent visitor I knew most of these. One thing I do if I need to go to the bathroom, if possible, I pick a 3-4 star hotel and walk in like I belong, then use their bathroom. Just look the part. 5-Stars usually have a doorman and/or security so you will be seen coming from the street and they may ask or object.
Bonjour Antoine and Coleen. Growing up in the Bronx in the 50s we had a butcher shop, bakery, deli and pizza shop. Pharmacists were more like physicians assistants. Then came the A&P😊
Also, the smaller house/fewer rooms is a thing in other countries too. My host family in Brussels had a house that was tall, but very skinny. All the homes around that neighborhood were built that way.
I decided to try lunch at a restaurant in the St. Germain area. They had 4-5 options for a fixed lunch menu which included a glass of wine or beer and dessert. Nothing looked good, but it was the best deal and I am thrifty. One option was faux filet and I took the plunge and ordered that. It turned out to be a delicious steak. Why faux? I don’t know!
Ahah lot of these things are true, is always funny to see how cultures can be differents. However, i can say that bringing a bootle of wine to a party, or a dinner, is pretty okay, and i think it will be even more appreciated than flowers in the most of cases (except for dating i think). Got flowers is very pleasant too, of course, but as a frenchies, wine is in our hearts . One possible outcome in this case, is that bottle will not be the one opened at this dinner, but more considered as a gift to your hosts for their wine cellar. The advantage is that you don't have to worry about whether it will match with the evening's dishes. ;) Always a pleasure to watch your vids !!!
Very happy that you chose to spend some time here 🙂. Just a comment, I think it is totally ok to bring a bottle of wine. If the hosts already had a clear plan for which wine to serve, they may not serve it, but it is totally ok.
In France, once you are seated, that table is yours for as long as you want to stay. Lounge, take every course of the meal as an opportunity to socialize from the first drink to the last coffee or digestif. You will have to flag your server for the check. Once, in Avignon, we waited 30 minutes to receive our check after having requested it. It was explained by our friends that this was in case we changed our mind and wanted another coffee or wine.
GET YOUR Paris Travel Guide 👉 bit.ly/LesFrenchiesParisTravelGuides
La statue de la liberté a été offerte par la France en 1876 et nous avons la petite soeur sur Paris.
La statue de New York détient la déclaration d'indépendance des États-Unis dans la schape.
I was amazed by how friendly people in Paris were. I just needed to open with the magic words: "Bonjour... Desolee, je ne parle pas francais. Parlez vous anglais?" People were more than happy to help me out as long as I started with these words.
Yesss, I think the general , do you speak English question can come out a tad offensive. Saying exactly what you said helped so much, I didn’t have a single bad experience.
I am practicing those words now in preparation for my visit in October! A little courtesy plus respect for the country you are visiting goes a long way.
very true
The cab drivers are friendly too! We were greeted by everyone & they were very friendly. No one was looking forward to the chaos of the Olympics with many cab drivers telling us that they were taking their holidays those two weeks!
Exactly. It’s not rocket surgery. It would be like someone coming up to you asking something in Croatian. I chose Croatian because I don’t know anybody from Croatia.
I’m french and i don’t really agree with the fact that you don’t have to bring a bottle of wine for a dinner.
You can bring one as a present and it means « we are going to drink this one the next time you come ! »
It’s a way to keep contact with people and a present is always a good idea imo
Totalement d'accord, c'est un point qui m'a étonné
Sometimes even, there's moments where you don't like wine, or that specific wine you were given. And usually what happens is that we gift it to another host like a hot potato. But watch out not to give it to the person that gifted it to you xD
Also, you can gift whatever you want. Food or fine alcohol is wildly appreciated. You can either choose to gift something for your host to enjoy (chocolate for exemple) or something you cooked (I you like making cake for exemple). If you live in France, in a region far away from your host or in another country, bring a local specialty of yours? WE LOVE IT.
If you are young (or not) and invited to a party where drinking is planned, you can either bring a bottle of alcohol, soft drinks or food you can nibble on, and it'll be shared with everyone, and you can enjoy what the host or the other guests have brought.
yes ! always bring a little something when u're invited but if it's food, don't expect to eat it while u're there. It's either for the host to eat/drink later or for the next time u come. Anything from wine to flower is ok. there isn't a rule of the type of thing u have to bring as long as u bring a little something.
You're right. I only bring bottles of wine, and i'm quite happy when my guests bring wine too.
Oui c'est aussi ce que je me disais, après en soit je comprend ce qu'il veut dire t'amène pas une bouteille en cadeau c'est juste histoire d'amener un truc
I'm Chinese, dressed in plain clothes, no designer stuff but I was polite, smiley and can't speak French. The locals were happy to help and guide me. ❤❤. Words I knew were bonjour, merci, cest tout. 😂😂 and lots of finger pointing.
我明白了，但是我觉得你得学法语
I am happy you had a good time
The 2 magic words. We’re nice people but there are many tourists here and it’s a stressful town. So a bonjour is always nice!
😅💕👌
As a French, I do agree with most of it.
Just 2 little remarks, the first one, For the salad depends on the family culture, in our we start our meal with a salad. The second one (and believe me, this one has been drilled into us) is you don't bring flowers when invited, but you send them the next day with a thank-you note, or you bring a box of chocolates, macaron, or a good bottle of wine but don't expect to drink it during the party.
Ahaha ! I'm french and I never heard of this flower rule ! But wine or chocolate are safe options for sure
@@sim_95 You were lucky not to have a "guide du savoir-vivre" to learn as a child
Bring flowers is very weird (you only bring flower to your mom or girlfriend). Bottle of wine is good if they love wine
@@nifixer7026 i don' agree you bring flower to any event birthday, anniversary or casual invitation ....
and if you do only flower to your wife and mon I guess they don't get much else how sad
@@nifixer7026 No it's not ? In my experience people bring flowers when invited in a household, it's a gift like any other. Doesn't have to be for women or for romantic occasions.
bonjour
As a frenchman, I love your videos as they make me understand lots of things that happened to me in my time in Paris during interactions with american visitors !
But I must say that offering a good bottle of wine is not a fault. You are invited for diner ? offer flowers to madame and wine to monsieur and don't expect to drink it at the dinner. the thing is: "I offer you this good bottle to be kept in your cave for another day as I know that you have already choosen the wine fitting for tonight's meal !". No one will be offended !
Good job les frenchies 👍
I’m surprised anyone would think that bringing a bottle of wine to a host for dinner would be an insult. I have always thought that was a polite thing to do. And my parents never drank wine!
Exactly right!
Since I'm not a drinker nor outgoing, I have a collection of wine bottles I received over the years, at the rare occasions I received people. There's always at least one, often more, offered each occasion. So we gather a lot eventually.
But outgoing people will be glad to be offered a good one.
A good trick is to bring a bottle you got gifted. Just make sure you don't offer it to the one who offered it to you before. 😂
Parfaitement exact !
Vous avez tout compris ! perso si on m'offre une bonne bouteille de vin , en tant que français j'en suis très heureux , c'est le plus beau des cadeaux car le vin fait parti de notre patrimoine national . Des fleurs pour madame et la soirée sera parfaitement réussi .
I am French and I can tell that most of the time, bringing a bottle of wine is THE safe move. As a matter of fact, that's what I am doing and what I expect when I am inviting people. But do not always expect it to be used on the spot. Indeed your host will probably have prepared some wine for the meal (maybe a bottle that someone offered to him earlier :D). But the host might also say: "Let's use your wine instead of the one I prepared", it's a very common move as well
I am French but i spent 14 years of my life in North America. I really love how objective your videos are. I agree with most of every pieces of informations you are sharing.
You are the kind of immigrants French people love. You adapt and respect our flaws as well as appreciating our good sides. Thanks for being in France with us ❤❤
Wow! What a lovely comment!
I'm French too and just back from 15 years abroad and I do agree so much with everything just stated by #HaussmannRider
The dude, Antoine, is originally French so.....
Our daughter and sone-in-law had a destination wedding in Paris last summer - we rented a large apartment in Paris for our group of 7. We had the most fantastic week. I don't remember any issues with Uber and we used it to go everywhere, including Versaillies. Every meal was wonderful (my favorite was the crepes at the cafe just outside of Versaillies and our wedding dinner - shoutout to Mokanuts!) Our 5 bedroom apartment had central air conditioning which was an absolute lifesaver as the July week we were there was hot. The bakery across the street was wonderful and we enjoyed going over every morning to choose our treats for coffee. There were fabulous cafes on every corner. Too many memories and great experiences to mention. It was truly a trip of a lifetime and we talk about our memories or share a photo with the group at least once every week!
As a French (and even worse Parisian) who also lived in the US and other EU countries, I can relate to quite a few points but 2 of them are not really mainstream : 1/French people do go to grocery stores ( the markets are nice but apart from WEs people don t have the time during the week when they work to go to markets in the morning) 2/ French people do bring wine to dinners or parties. It is not rude at all. An opportunity to discover new wines together or later (bottles are not always drunck during the dinner)
100% agree with your points. Franco-American family in Bourgogne.
I would say that it's even a tradition here to gift a bottle of wine when invited at dinner
It's coming with empty hands who would be rude
Impoli d'offrir du vin alors que cela fait parti de notre patrimoine national , mais qui a sorti une bêtise pareille , incroyable !
@@PhenecX Absolument vrai !
Id say we dont gift a bottle when we bring it to a dinner. We bring it to drink it. That is why it is common to ask your host in advance what will the meal be. So that you can bring the right one, that suits the meal !
Loved the video! As a German, who lives in the south of France, I have two corrections to make. First, it depends on the region you're in, how many bises (kisses) are usual. Here in the vicinity of Nîmes, it's always three! Second, at least here in our region it is perfectly common to bring wine to a dinner you're invited to. Our french friends do that all the time, but they also commented on our wines we serve and even ordered some Alsace wines because they liked it so much at our place. It is more a thing like "Look, what I found, you have to try this wine, too!" Oh, and a "épicerie" is not always a speciality shop, in the next village are two: One with amazing cheese and wines and snacks, the other just with fruit, vegetable and some dry goods. I look forward to your next video!
you are right! I'm frensh and it totaly depends on the regions in france.it's not the same thing evrywhere.
I just returned from 3 weeks in France and your videos helped so much! My big surprises: how friendly the people are, the amazing roses everywhere, and how awful parking our rental car anywhere was!
So true!
I would never try to drive in Paris after living here. So much easier to take the Metro or the bus!
Please understand, I did not drive in Paris except for the very outskirts where I picked up and dropped off the car. There were so many places in Normandy and the Loire Valley that we wanted to see that I sacrificed my “fear” and did the deed. My torment came just trying to park even in the tiny towns. It didn’t help that our visit coincided with two French holidays. I’m not sorry we did exactly what we did, the trip was magical!!! We stayed in some very out of the way countryside chateaus that would only have been possible if on a tour bus and we just didn’t want to operate on a schedule. It was a true vacation in every sense of the word..we slept in, ate when and where we wanted.
As a Frenchman who visited the US multiple times, I found your advices really on point!
However, some of them are really related to Paris or big French cities only (like small appartments, families don't own multiple cars, can walk to go the grocery store, buy grocery often and in small quantities) This does not apply outside of big cities 😊
Just came back from Paris! Very true with your statements!! Realized that life can be appreciated no matter what size our houses are. Loved the paristian way of life
the price of the surface area (m² or 10.76 ft²) is 9000 to 13000 euros and more, which explains the dimensions of the rooms
I just came back and to be honest l love aspects French lifestyle in the sense that life is a little more slower more compact and distances are great for travelling. Plus the food is amazing
I’ve learned to duck into a cafe and buy a cup of coffee if I need a toilet. You must buy something however.
Same in America, they have a sign that says : Rest room is for customers only
That's mostly / only Paris
Oui et cela n'est pas bien du tout !
@@jean-claudeduclos5248 Traduction?
@@worldview730 He agreed and said that it's not great at all
I am an American living in Paris for 30 years. I also have a 2nd home in the countryside. Parisians generally do not have cars, this is very similar to New Yorkers. When you go outside Paris or other large cities, you find homes with cars parked outside.
You must compare apples with apples and peaches with peaches. Most people who live in big metropolises do not own cars as public transportation is very good, so not necessary.
WONDERFULLY produced, succinct and to the POINT! Thank you both! ♥♥♥♥
Thank you
Hi Enrique, how have you been? Funny to find you here, it's been a while. Life in Florida still good? Wayne/NYC
@@waw63nyc WOW! Lonnnnng time! Hello Wayne! Miami is fine... both parents passed. I am retired and traveling some when I can afford it. And you? Still living near Columbia? :)
I enjoyed this video very much!! The first time we went to Paris, I was surprised by some of the differences. I'm thankful we got to visit again, because I was able to appreciate these differences and learn a new way of life for the duration. "Bonjour" is really the magic touch, though.
Loved this and I found it fascinating. As a Londoner who has spent the last year learning French and hitting Paris on the Eurostar 4 times in this year, I have never understood the myth around French people being rude. I'm in love with the city and people, and like anywhere, being aware of self and how warm you are with others goes a long way. Watching this, I also saw how more European London is and how there is another layer of cultural difference with the States despite our common language. Many of my American friends have said they find French people rude, and this video captures how that difference could come about. I think if your expectation is always of how others should treat you, and not how warm you are with them, it's going to annoy people and that can apply to anyone, but if you travel without disarming your own culture first there is always the potential for difference. Keep up the great work, your videos have been an accompaniment to my joy, indeed as we travel back again in a couple of weeks.
You "saw how more European London is". Well, it's only a new thing because it was not before, it had very much English characteristics. It started to become continental under Tony Blair at the turn of the year 2000 with a view to opening up to tourism.
So many things mentioned are European and not only French in nature. Untrue, though for wine. We take a bottle for the hosts to serve or enjoy at their leisure. It is always appreciated.
I believe that this reputation of being rude began short after WWII, when American soldiers couldn't understand why all French people didn't speak fluent English. At that time, is was kinda rare, so those French people probably just shrugged and said nothing, not understanding a word. As a result, they gained this reputation and it goes on until today.😅
Je suis parisienne, je suis née et ai grandi ici toute ma vie et il y a un point avec lequel je ne suis pas tout à fait d'accord malgré la super qualité du contenu de cette vidéo : la majorité d'entre nous fait son shopping au supermarché à cause des coûts élevés des produits sur les marchés ou dans les magasins spécialisés (fromageries, poissonneries indépendantes, etc.). Le marché reste un endroit pour les gros budgets et même si je suis objectivement assez privilégiée, ça ne me viendrait pas à l'idée de faire mes grosses courses au marché du quartier 😄
Bonjour,
C'est surtout une question de quantité et de qualité.
Je préfère acheter moins de fruits et de légumes sur le marché qu'en acheter beaucoup au supermarché qui, finalement, vont finir à la poubelle.
La qualité est inégalable, plus encore en ce qui concerne les fruits. Les supermarchés, malgré des débits hyper élevés, s'obstinent à acheter des fruits pas mûres Tout ça à cause du transport, mais aussi et surtout de la palparion importante que subissent ces fruits avant d'être acheté par les consommateurs ou finalement reposer dans leur cagette. C'est pourquoi sur les marchés ou boutique spécialisées fruits et légumes, c'est le vendeur qui les choisit à votre place.
Plutôt qu'eux-mêmes jeter des milliers de tonnes de fruits et légumes chaque années pour des raisons de marges finalement pas si évidentes au regard du coût à l'arrivée et de perte définitive de ces derniers, soit chez le client, soit directement depuis le magasin, ils feraient mieux d'embaucher des vendeurs à ces rayons. Certes, les fruits et légumes seraient un tout petit peu plus chers (ce qui n'est même pas sûr), mais finalement tout le monde y trouverait son compte, la nature y compris.
En plus, un vendeur compétent vous guidera sur la variété à choisir suivant ce que vous vous proposez de faire avec ces fruits et légumes (soupe, compote, purée, confiture, vapeur, cru, woke, cuisson lente, etc.).
Un fruit doit mûrir sur l'arbre ou le buisson. Une fois décroché de celui-ci, il ne fait que s'altérer, pas mûrir (plus encore soumis à un tel traitement).
Combien de fois, j'ai jeté des poires, des framboises, des pèches, etc., à cause de ça.
La seule chose, c'est qu'il faut se lever de bonne heure pour faire le marché.
Bon weekend.
Yep, some things are certainly different in France, as they are where I live. I’ve never lived in Paris, but have spent many extended periods there, and am chomping at the bit for the next one. Bring on the differences, from the quirky to the sublime. For me, that’s what travel is all about. Vive la différence !
Even if I'm a french native speaker married to a French guy I enjoy watching your videos and you often remind me of those tiny little cultural differences...
Miscommunication hairband happens in the nuances. Especially when we expect that we are the same.
Bonjour !! Love your videos so informative and interesting - the Best …. J’adore et allez on y va … hugs from Canada 🇨🇦
As a longtime visitor to Paris, I would say this video gives excellent advice. One of Les Frenchies best for good, practical advice. Having just returned from my latest visit, I was surprised at how much more English is spoken and at my sense that people were much more tolerant of my French.
This video was very helpful! I'm an American and I've lived and worked in Japan, but I'm going to Toulouse to get a teaching certificate. I'm doing my best to pick up a little of the language and learn about everyday culture and this helped a lot!
Just finished our first trip to Paris (we live in California). I can say this list is 100% spot on! We have watched many of your videos and they were an invaluable source of information. We planned our trip based upon them and they prepared us for what to expect. We loved our time there and are already planning on returning next year. Saying Bonjour and Merci goes a verrrry long way
Paris n'est pas représentatif de la France .
All those stripes...street shopping looks fun. Where I lived growing up we were 50 miles from the grocery store. My mom bought 4 or more shopping carts full of food. Shopping was every 2 to 3 weeks. Daily shopping is mind blowing. Many new ideas to get used to. Thank you for sharing.
Daily & weekly shopping changes everything, truly
I'm French and in my experience everyone brings wine or champagne to parties, it's not considered offensive at all, it's generally very appreciated as a gift. Also i've never seen the salad come at the end of a meal, i've always seen it either as a starter or as a side dish with the main course.
Funny I only see salad coming at the end of the meal, with or just before cheese
I never seen it at the beginning
I'm from South of France though, maybe a cultural difference between regions ?
Je t'ai répondu en anglais pour que les gens qui lisent voient et comprennent les deux versions existantes
Yes, it depends on the region.
I had a feeling this video would be absolutely hilarious and it definitely didn’t disappoint!
I was struck by the comment on air conditioning. In Paris, of course, it's not very frequent, because the climate (with generally very mild summers) doesn't require it, but we live in Perpignan, in south France, and almost everything is air conditioned. A number of other comments seem to apply more to Paris than to France in general.
AC is in 25% of homes in France, so I think they pretty much spot on.
You are the exception in south of France
💙" BONJOUR " Frenchies, You have my favorite 'Embrace the French' tutorials 😊
You will find that for most people outside of France Paris=France despite being one of the most unpleasant places to be
Paris has regulations against window units because they are unsightly
I love your videos, but find some of them, like this one, a bit Paris-centric. Outside of Paris, like here in Nîmes, you CAN find free toilets at shopping centers, we kiss three times (not two), though handshakes are certainly acceptable too. Paris has its own holiday rental rules, so they're not the same everywhere in France. While it's true that French people shop at small stores all the time, I don't think it's true that they don't do a fair bit of their grocery shopping at the local supermarket. Going to the local outdoor market, or the local les Halles is certainly preferred, but most working class French people I know could not afford to buy all their groceries that way, and do use the supermarkets to balance things out. Similarly, French people do shop at big chain stores, which aren't always only found in touristic areas. France has malls and shopping centers and big box stores ... and outside of Paris they're usually found just outside the city center. I actually think that, at least around here, the shopping center/mall is more popular than they are back in my old US community, where the shopping malls seem to be dying. Keep up the good work, but try and note that there are differences (often pretty profound ones) between "Paris" and "France"..
Air B&B and similar agencies are blowing up the rent and house prices in our major cities. For the reason of solidarity with the average citizen I try to boycot them. We wouldn't like to feel the consequences either. I prefer to spend slightly more in a hotel or pension.
Exactly what I was thinking, that’s Paris but not France.
I agree that France can't be all about Paris! It's not even like living in an expensive subburb of the great Parisian area. There're so many different lifestyles to discover here in France. Enjoy, but pl don't generalise about all of us based on Parisians.
Hey bonjour chez vous ;) what is said hère is very true, lifestyles between Paris and France are very différent, if you're willing to visit France consider visiting other places you'll have a tremendously différent expérience. Most advices given by tourists after a trip in France is actually based on expérience from Paris only so people think the entire country is the same.
I went to Paris last week and have great desire to discover the rest of France. I enjoyed the food which is much different than here in the US.
My wife and I are immensely grateful for your videos. Our trip was so much better thanks to your advice!!! One thing i would add is that hotels dont have wash clothes, or at least that was our experience.
You're right. In France people use "wash-gloves" (gants de toilette), not wash-cloths. Most hotels won't provide any, just towels.
That is awesome!
@@LesFrenchiesTravel and... what about using ''disposable '' wash clothes' or gloves when 😢traveling.. ?
Great information! Very helpful for are upcoming move…we want to be able to fit in as a local 😊 Thank you so much !
Thank you. For your guide. For the love you show for each other.
A lot of the things you mentioned are also common in other parts of the world. As an American who grew up in Malaysia, I also noticed a lot of food waste in the US as opposed to Malaysia. Like the French, my Malaysian Chinese mother would go to the market every morning and buy just enough food for the day. Nothing was wasted and everything was fresh
The longer I live in France, the more obvious I see the ways in the US. I think it's a personal choice that deserves to be modeled in American homes.
It just makes sense
I love Paris and France in general. I hope to visit again. Love how car independent it is.
Magnificent videos. WOW, you pack SO MUCH information that is so practical. Merci beaucoup !!
I just retired in Texas and want to do the usual London and Paris trip in a couple years. I’m excited to start learning French (2 years in high school in the 1970’s wasn’t enough).
Appreciate and thoroughly enjoy all of your videos. This one especially! Keep them coming ❤
More to come!
This was very informative. Im so glad I came across your videos. Thank you!
I’m French and thons video is very real ! Good video !!
It was interesting to see both differences. Thank you for your sharing.🤩👍
Thanks ❤️ I love yours videos! I love france! I visited once & I wanted to come back again! It's something that I can't explain about paris that make me feel so attracted 😢
10:58 Indeed. Buses in Paris are a great way of transportation in daytime because they allow you to discover the cityall along the way of your ride and not only on your departure and arrival point. It allows you to stop where you haven't planned to, just because you've just seen someting beautifull or intriguing.
Wow, I never imagined the two countries being different! Enlightening.
Quickest way to find a toilet ("restroom" for Americans) anywhere in France (and indeed in Paris) is simply to go into a bar or cafe and order a coffee. They will always have a "toilettes" (always a plural word in France even if there is only one WC). This is invariably what I do. Never occurs to me to look for a public toilet.
What a fun and informative video. I love your channel and can't wait to go to France again. ❤
Great video. In my group of friends and neighbours, we do offer wine but don't open it for that meal. We consider it a personal gift and it also prevents any embarrassment if the wine tastes of cork. Champagne is a great favourite.
I have been watching your videos since I knew we had an 8 hour layover in Paris. That’s how I found y’all. I love your videos! I’ve been educating myself on their culture, clothing and eateries. I’ve also watched your videos on pick pocketing. I think that is the only thing I am scared about. So I have prepared myself for what to look for. Thanks for your wonderful educational videos. Maybe we will run into y’all on the streets. That would be amazing. Looking forward to more videos. Thank you!!!.
Hello you guys. I have noticed that many times when you say "France" you actually mean "Paris". Uber for example works very well in other cities like Toulouse :) But I still love your content :) :) :)
that's very true, but most tourist only go to visit Paris. We have several videos planned to showcase the rest of France....stay tuned 😉
My wife and I just got home from Paris. We had great holiday. Thank you for your advice, your videos helped us a lot. All the best from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺
Visiting Paris for the first time this week….First time in France, period. Your videos are very helpful!!
Bon voyage!
Bienvenu ! mais Paris ce n'est pas la France . Si je devais aller aux états unis je n'irai pas dans une ville cosmopolite , si je vais aux états unis c'est pour voir des américains et rien d'autre !
@@jean-claudeduclos5248 Nous n’avions que trois jours et le seul souhait de notre fille était de visiter le Louvre. Quand on ne dispose que de trois jours, visiter le reste de la France n'est pas une option, mais nous avons apprécié les personnes rencontrées lors de ce court voyage.
love this. thanks for sharing. very thorough and insightful
I love your videos! My 30 yr old son & I just returned from Paris & we went to two of your recommended restaurants …delicious
🙂🙂🙂
Excellent video. Thank you!
Yes thing’s are different, but just enjoy the experience 😊. Very well done video ❤
I’m going back to France in a couple months. Love it there
This video was great! As a fully french person, i'm glad there's finally a video that is actually accurate. For people visiting other than Paris tho, paid bathroom is a thing mainly in the capital. I don't recall many places in other cities (such as Lyon or Marseille) needing money. In malls, there's always toilets, that you can enter even if you didn't buy anything.
It's really fascinating, interesting, educational, challenging, to learn the values and cultural differences in a foreign country, compared to the norm where we come from.
Indeed
@@LesFrenchiesTravel Wonderful. 😀
So much easier when the price on the ticket is the price you pay (same in the UK)
I love your videos...however, I'm British married to a Parisian and have lived here for 10 years ..and no one is offended with me bringing wine...everyone brings wine to a party or dinner party .. xxx
Great video! I have lived in Paris for 6 years now and this video reminded me some of the culture shock that I had when looking for an apartment here: the size - and the price!!!! - Of a basic apartment and the bathroom and toilet separated were definitely a mouth drop experience.
Also, the street markets are so great that I definitely stoped buying food in supermarkets.
I also sold my car 2 years after moving here - no one needs a car in Paris (at least if you live and work in the city), the subway is way too good and walking in Paris is very worth it!
What no one says is that the weather is awful, especially if you come from a sunny city, it can be very depressing. Your best friend in Paris is an umbrella. That's why a sunny day in Paris is so valuable!!! Once you live here you enjoy the sun as if it was a rare pearl!
Well that’s climate change. It never used to rain as much. As for small apartments and pricey try NY or SF.
Well, it depends! Last year, in 2023, we had in Paris (and the rest of France) a dry winter, followed by a dry spring and a very hot and dry summer! It didn't rain until mid-autumn! This year, it's too much rain even in the summer!🤪
@@kath6720, my boss lives in Paris for 37 years now and he says Paris is one of the rainiest cities that he knows, so forget climate change. Plus, I come from an European country so I compare housing prices and sizes according to other European capitals, not America.
@@loreleiocarolain2209 in 2023 I was living in the Nord and the weather was far from being dry 😅
@@pinhaoadriana6723 Yes but They comme from the US so it stands to reason that comparisons are made with homes there.
Great information, thanks. 👍😀
Great video, thanks!
I lived near Paris for a few years. I love the fact that you squeeze your vowels like a true French person! You obviously speak it fluently- as there's no escaping the truest of SL accent 😊 The info was so accurate, presented well (you're both so European now!) , great pace and content. Keep up the great videos ❤
Merci
I believe that Antoine was born and raised in France, so I’d expect his vowels to be spot on, lol…. You can hear his accent in his English. The videos are great, indeed!
I love that video, it’s very accurate, except perhaps for the wine you can offer if it’s a good bottle people will enjoy later. For the drinking part, most of us are no more drinking for lunch when we work but it’s true we love to take our time to enjoy our meals and talk, talk, talk for hours 😂😂
Good sweet France❤
I love your channel. I lost a lot of my french, but I always use the appropriate salutations when entering and leaving an establishment, it is much appreciated. just out of a logistic stand point, how long did you have to rent in paris to know where you wanted to live? Did you keep your house in Florida while looking? Did you bring all your belongings when you finally decided to move? I look forward to hearing from you. Francis
I'm finding all of your tips absolutely true! When we visit Pont-en-Royans (at the base of the Vercors mountains), we shop ONLY local and at the weekly market, as well as small artisanal shops in other towns. Don't worry about pasteurization. Our friend only eats pasteurized from the local equivalent of Walmart (which has a wonderful, proper restaurant in it) when she is pregnant on the advice of her OB doc. Watch were the locals go, which venders they frequent at markets, and what they buy and you will find the best stuff.
I lived in Paris for 7 years and totally relate to everything you said. If it’s a friend, you kiss them 3 to 4 times. Thank you for refreshing my memory. I’m coming to Paris in 12 days to see my friends and dine.
Exactly!!
Je suis français et je n'ai jamais aimé faire la bise , j'ai horreur de ça !
"La bise" in Paris is always 2 kisses starting with your right cheek. (Fun fact: in Lyon and the surrounding area it's also two kisses but we start with the other cheek.)
@@drgk5540 Pour moi c'est la bise si je veux ! et comme je ne veux jamais le problème est réglé .
It's 2 kiss in most of the France, 3 for the southerners, up to 4 in some regions.
It can easily confuse tourists, because even all southerner don't do this, some non-southern do 3 for the joke and etc....
Some of my Uber experiences were wild. The one out of CDG airport waited until he could slip in behind another vehicle so he wasn't charged. Several only dropped me off close-ish to my requested destination. One wanted me to walk 0.8 miles (according to the app) to get to them. It turned out he didn't want to pay to leave the dinner boat cruise dockside area.
We did experience servers who expected to be tipped and said service wasn't included.
Yes, avoid Uber whenever you can even if it's cheaper... Or report them to the company if you have a problem. Service is always included in restaurants and cafés! And also, tipping is not required.
After two weeks in Europe I was so excited to get back to my top sheet! I didn’t remember not having one from my previous trips.
Bonjour ! I don't really share your opinion with the 32th. I am french, i live in Paris. I ALWAYS bring one or two bottles for dinner. These bottles are not necessarily intended to be opened during dinner but to make your host discover some new liquors or a wine he doesn't know yet (there are so many different chateaux !) whenever he wants. But you can add some flowers as well or send them the day after :)
I also bring wine when I am invited. I think it is pretty common for French people to do that. For toilets, the solution is to go to a McDonald's or similar fast food "restaurant"
Nice compilation of differences!
Glad you enjoyed it
Just discovered your channel and we are “binge watching” your adventures and appreciating your advice. Hoping to head your way in Fall 2025. Many thanks.
Awesome! Thank you!
J’aimes les attentes polies! 😊
Thank you!!! ❤
I am always amazed by the vision of France from Americans who publish videos on RUclips. What they show and therefore what they see is a Disneyland-type amusement park. It is a France for tourists that is absolutely not representative.
dude, I'm French, I was born here. And get this, my name is Antoine Dupont 🤯 🤣
Love this, especially since I’m a dual national of both nations!
Thx for the "Bonjour" ;)
You bet!
Thank you again for this great video!!!!
You're welcome!
I swear I've seen you two eat pomme frite with your fingers 😮😂
I cann not wait to get back to France next year!
Great video! I appreciate the effort you put into sharing cultural insights. However, as a frenchman there are a few points I'd like to clarify:
1) This seems to focus mainly on Paris. While it's true that Paris has its own unique characteristics, it's important to note that larger homes and spaces are more common throughout the rest of France, especially in the countryside-much like in the US. ; But I agree everything is bigger in general in the US.
4) I was surprised by your mention of elevator issues. In France, it's extremely rare for an elevator to be out of order. As a French person, I can tell you that whenever it happens, it causes significant frustration among residents. If someone told you that broken elevators are common, they might have been exaggerating or trying to mislead you. Maybe in some old parisian building, old elevators are more likely to have issues but this is not to be expected in general.
7) In France, it's very common to have toilets in the bathroom, and showers almost always have doors or enclosures to prevent water from splashing everywhere. Showers without doors are quite unusual here.
8) I've never seen a kitchen in France without a refrigerator. Most homes also have washing machines, and many have dryers as well. If someone told you that a lack of such appliances is normal, they were likely trying to excuse the deficiencies in their apartment. It's not representative of most French homes.
10) Regarding shopping habits, most people in France go to supermarkets for nearly everything-food, wine, cheese, household items, electronics, and more. Local markets are more of an occasional visit, at least for me and most of my friends and family. Maybe it’s different in some parts of Paris, but generally, supermarkets are the go-to option.
12) A word of caution on the term "artisanal" when it comes to croissants. In France, a bakery can have an artisanal label for making its own bread while still selling frozen croissants. Unfortunately, the label doesn’t guarantee that pastries are made from scratch. With some experience, though, it becomes easier to spot the real deal.
I’m looking forward to watching the second half of the video later. I don’t mean to be negative-you're doing an awesome job promoting travel and cultural exchange! I just wanted to correct these few points to provide a more accurate picture :)
Very practical and very funny video !
I had a great host via VRBO. The elevator was super small and older. We also had no AC in July, but we were out most of the day. Over all we had a great place and host
Very good info. As a frequent visitor I knew most of these. One thing I do if I need to go to the bathroom, if possible, I pick a 3-4 star hotel and walk in like I belong, then use their bathroom. Just look the part. 5-Stars usually have a doorman and/or security so you will be seen coming from the street and they may ask or object.
Bonjour Antoine and Coleen. Growing up in the Bronx in the 50s we had a butcher shop, bakery, deli and pizza shop. Pharmacists were more like physicians assistants.
Then came the A&P😊
My Bronx experience exactly!
Thank you ❤
Also, the smaller house/fewer rooms is a thing in other countries too. My host family in Brussels had a house that was tall, but very skinny. All the homes around that neighborhood were built that way.
your vids are great congrats robert
The part about small businesses vs malls is one of the reasons I love living in NYC vs anywhere else in the U.S.
NYC’s urban plan is probably the most analogous to a major European capital like Paris. That’s why I love both cities.
true story
Of course we do have malls in the outer boroughs of NYC; but I do prefer making the short trip into Manhattan to shop.
I decided to try lunch at a restaurant in the St. Germain area. They had 4-5 options for a fixed lunch menu which included a glass of wine or beer and dessert. Nothing looked good, but it was the best deal and I am thrifty. One option was faux filet and I took the plunge and ordered that. It turned out to be a delicious steak. Why faux? I don’t know!
The formule menus are affordable without sacrificing the quality the restaurant offers ♡
Faux because it's not the filet, another part of meat. In a T-bone you have two parts on meat one on each side of the bone, filet and faux-filet :)
9:25 The French term for these sales is _soldes_ :)
Ahah lot of these things are true, is always funny to see how cultures can be differents. However, i can say that bringing a bootle of wine to a party, or a dinner, is pretty okay, and i think it will be even more appreciated than flowers in the most of cases (except for dating i think). Got flowers is very pleasant too, of course, but as a frenchies, wine is in our hearts . One possible outcome in this case, is that bottle will not be the one opened at this dinner, but more considered as a gift to your hosts for their wine cellar. The advantage is that you don't have to worry about whether it will match with the evening's dishes. ;)
Always a pleasure to watch your vids !!!
GREAT ADVICE!!!!
MANY THANKS!!!!
LOOKS LIKE I'LL BE JOINING YOU, AS MY PARISIAN FIANCE WANTS ME THERE!!!!
MERCI BEAUCOUP!!!!
Great video! Merci
I am not American. Your tips are very good. I made note of the taxi service! Thank you.
Yeah, G7 is great. Used the app on recent trip. On time, and reliable.
Very happy that you chose to spend some time here 🙂. Just a comment, I think it is totally ok to bring a bottle of wine. If the hosts already had a clear plan for which wine to serve, they may not serve it, but it is totally ok.
In France, once you are seated, that table is yours for as long as you want to stay. Lounge, take every course of the meal as an opportunity to socialize from the first drink to the last coffee or digestif. You will have to flag your server for the check. Once, in Avignon, we waited 30 minutes to receive our check after having requested it. It was explained by our friends that this was in case we changed our mind and wanted another coffee or wine.