Wait a minute! I accidentally put it on mute and thought they were talking about NYC, Chicago or gosh anywhere else! Great advice for good manners all over the world. Bravo!
I was in Paris last fall, friendly people everywhere. My trip was fabulous. Saying Bonjour upon entering an establishment breaks the ice. Lovely city. I will return.
Bonjour Colleen & Antoine! I was just in Paris & Normandy a month ago & while my French is dismal, I DID learn to say “Je suis désolé, je ne parle pas bien français” as well as Bonjour, Merci, & s’il vous plaît. It certainly helped in a few situations & one lovely lady told me “…but you said that so well!” This was another very helpful video! Merci beaucoup!
I had a French airline employee compliment my very competent 'bonjour!' and ask what other French I knew when I was checking in to go home. Funniest compliment I got during the whole trip. LOL
I’m just back from spending a week in Paris. Loved it. I found all the French people I spoke to very friendly. I done my part by learning some key phrases, and of course the bonjour and merci. Even if I ended up butchering what I was trying to say, they really appreciated me trying and they would jump in to save the day haha. I would try and better my basics when I would hand in my hotel key at the receptions. Always met with a “very good” haha. Don’t be scared to try, people will appreciate the effort.
Thanks for touching on influencers hogging the space at a site! We went the Musee de l’Orangerie, and this girl and her photographer took hundreds of pictures in front of each of the water lily panels. It hard for those of us who just wanted a couple of photos and then tried to sit and enjoy the panels. It was hard to enjoy the room and the artwork.
I agree manners and respect are everything . It even makes upset in America . I work at a dental center and shake my head when I see disrespectful people . Be nice and kind everyone .
Great video. I am in my 70s and walk with a cane. On the metro in Paris I have never had anyone give up their seat to me. In fact I have had many French speaking young people push by me to take a seat I was walking to.
I’m about to leave Paris tomorrow and I wouldn’t have made this trip if I didn’t watched any of your videos. They informed me very well and although we missed a day (because of the snow) we had a lot of fun on the other two. My wife, my daughter and I will try to come back in about 2 years when the weather is nicer for sure. Thank you for your content. FYI: I live in Miami so I know that change from South Florida to here must be a big one!
Funny you should mention. I ate at a nice pasty shop, I had a coffee and croissant. There were no customers in the shop. But the pastries and cakes looked so lovely. I wanted to take a photo.The shop was called Maison Gregoire. Nice guy and a girl work there been there twice now actually. But I asked if it were ok if i taken a photo of thr pastries.. They were very nice about it. The young girl said yes but she moved out of the shot and seemed really shy. But both of them were genuinely nice people. It got me though how shy she was, so i am very glad i asked first. But you got to appreciate other people's personal space and privacy no matter where you are.
Very good tips. I'd like to add which I'd label as 7a: Do not wear your backpack in the Métro or train when standing in a crowded area. You not only increase your risk of pickpocket but it is damn annoying when you swing around and knock everyone in their front because your backpack is sticking out. ALWAYS take your backpack off and carry it at your feet before you enter the train.
All of this is common sense no matter which country you visit, which country you come from, or which country you live in. My thought - let's let all the decent people move to France and leave the rest of the uncouth behind. Well done!
MERCI mille fois 🙏 En tant que Parisienne tout est vrai dans votre vidéo et ces comportements sont relous par momebt Merci encore et prenez soin de vous ❤
sans parler des " frotteurs " dans le métro, ces types qui se frottent la braguette contre vous (parfois le zizi sorti ...) , un cauchemar pour la jeune fille Parisienne que je fus ... ces " frotteurs " sont bien connus de la Police mais se font rarement prendre , zizi vite rentré dans la braguette : no prove ! wonder, je me demande si c'est pareil dans métros New-Yorkais ? !! and ... do you know WHAT ? : one day in a Restaurant on the Champs Elysées , an american young couple sat next to us, very near, tables touching- and they were speaking VERY loud, my hustand and I couldn"t even talk together, so ... I decided to SHOUT to him, normal topic conversation " what are you going to have on the menu my love, etc..." and reading the menu SHOUTING , the US young couple immediately STOPPED talking staring at us ! as soon as they tried to shout again, I shouted at my husband - believe me ... they didn"t add a word for the rest of the dinner ! and left rather quick ...
Thanks for this. I think this guide would apply anywhere! I love it when people say Hello and Thank You even in the other tourist capitals ( San Francisco, New York, London) Thank you for putting this out.
Bonjour Antoine and Colleen. Thanks for teaching me to say “Bonjour “ wherever I go. I now try to do that everywhere. Paris, or the equivalent in other countries. Even at home. Merci for the life lesson😊
I learned on my recent trip to Paris that not only do you say bonjour going into shops and restaurants, but also getting on the bus to the bus driver! After I sat down, I saw locals getting on and greeting the bus driver each time. Yikes! I was sure to say bonjour every time after that.
After getting off the train in Aix-les-Bains and walking into town, it was about 14:00 when I sat down at the cafe next to the laundromat. I asked in French if it was too late for lunch and they replied that of course, it was. There was a hint of annoyance in their tone because we both knew that lunch is served from noon to two. I ordered a beer and waited for my laundry. After about 15 minutes, the server said they could make me a bavette. I thanked them and said that I appreciated it. They went above and beyond because I was polite and accepted that I was too late for their schedule. Lunch was delicious. The French respond to courtesy and respect with kindness and a desire to help. During my 20-day vacation, I met only one rude person (not counting tourists). I can't wait to go back.
Do not think that parisians are "complicated". We are not. Simply, do not behave as if you were alone and the center of the universe in public places, subway : Don't block the way, don't block stairs, don't block subway exits etc. Paris is one of the most visited capital city in Europe. We are used to see tourists everywhere in the city and we like them. We don't care how tourists are dressed. In restaurants take your time, lunch and dinner are not a timed olympic competition in France. The bill will never come until you request it. Lunch time 12 PM to 2 PM. Dinner time 8 PM to 10 PM (you can stay longer if you wish). Don't expect to be served a lunch if you show up at 4 PM : there is probably nobody anymore in the kitchen !
Bonus item: asking to over personalise your menu item at a restaurant. you can ask to hold the sauce or the Chantilly, ask for olive oil to add to taste, but don't reinvent thee chef's salad. It's made that way for a reason!
*Synopsis: Have manners, resect and common sense!!!* This applies to everywhere in the world, stop being fools and bozos in public. NOT being critical of this channel, not by any means. I think this channel is great and will hopefully result in better behavior everywhere! 🙂
Franchement, si déjà tous les Parisiens appliquaient ces règles simples de courtoisie et de politesse, la vie quotidienne serait tellement plus agréable à Paris!
As always, a great video. Thank you. These are great tips for NYC and DC, too, where we get lots of tourists. In DC, we have the same problem with visitors blocking the escalators in the Metro, stopping suddenly to take selfies everywhere, being reckless on bicycles and scooters, and being loud and demanding in restaurants, etc.
Was just there a month ago. We're very polite and always learn as much of the local language ss possible. "Please" and "thank you" in the local language plus a smile do wonders. I found Parisians, and the French people in general, were awesome!
We went to Musée de l'Orangerie in September and tried to quietly appreciate the art. Much to our chagrin, far too many narcissistic tourists (we were also tourists) just HAD to pose on front of Monet's works for their social media accounts. Some were taking selfies and quite a number of them employed local photographers. It pissed me off and I asked one of the employees why they weren't enforcing the "No Selfie" and "Please be quiet and respectful" rules. Sadly, they've been told not to enforce the rules. I sound like a grumpy old man with each passing day.
Always carry some cash. Cafés & boulangeries & definitely market stalls often do not accept bank cards or only over a minimum eg 10€. Despite living here for 4 years I let myself be caught out by this only today. On a more positive note - since Covid all cafés sell coffee to go (à emporter). This makes it much more convenient to use a café's toilet if you need one, as you don't need to spend time sitting to be served. But ALWAYS buy a minimum espresso in return for using the facilities.
All spot on. Saying “bonjour” and “merci” or “bonne journée” when entering and leaving greatly improves your experience. Speaking even a tiny bit of French will help; even the French people who say they don’t speak English may eventually admit they do speak a little bit, but they don’t think they’re very good. (It’s usually better than my French!) I laughed when you mentioned cutting in line, because I think it’s the French who have trouble queueing; my Parisian cousins told me that’s well known!😂
I was in Paris 10/19/24-11/4, my 6th visit, friends joined me for their 2nd visit and my sis had her 1st visit. I sent them your videos to watch to make sure they about not being rude Americans. I found more restaurants asking us to add a tip or adding one automatically. I questioned a waiter and he said the included service was for the restaurant and our tip was for him. The next one, and I’m naming them, Cafe Marley at the Louvre, told us we forgot to tip him. In 2022 the waiter at Marley did the same thing. I told my friends that if the wait staff are extra then tip, and we would leave in Euros or, if just standard service we’d round up. We went for dinner cruise on Le Calife-fantastic! We did night ride in Citroen with Authentic. Wonderful. We dined at Chez Rene, Cafe St Germaine. Both delightful and wait staff lovely. Unexpectedly saw The French Bastards across from St Germaine and bought their last caramel eclairs for breakfast the next day. I wanted to slap someone they were perfection. You had to split one in thirds they were so rich and decadent. We rented a huge apartment in the 1st where we stayed 2 years ago, looking down at Angelina’s back door. We walked past the lines of tourists at Cedric Grolet and Angelina’s shaking our heads in amazement. Thank you for your guide and helpful videos. We had one planned event every other day and went back to some of my favorite restaurants, shops, gardens, sidewalk cafes, places on my list I’d missed before, more classes at Le Cordon Bleu, people watching, picnics, trying new cheeses and wines, early morning Uber rides to different bakeries in the mornings and as we have to do every trip, a Batoboat ride. Thankfully, we made dinner reservations because we watch people being turned away. We couldn’t get reservations at a lot of restaurants. I’ve always visited Paris in October and have never seen it so crowded and unable to get reservations at restaurants. I hope it’s a good thing for Paris. Merci!
Our family of 4 is going to France next month! Paris, Tours, Bordeaux, Dordogne région, and Toulouse! I’ve been watching your videos all year to prepare myself for I took French in high school and college so I feel prepared enough to not be another typical American. I really appreciate your tips and insight!! Allez on y vas!
Bonjour Antoine and Colleen! I love ALL of your videos but this one is right on. I’m not Parisian but I’ve always disliked when people are loud on the phone no one wants to hear their business. Thank you so much for telling how it is. ❤ Merci!
Spot on with your tips. We visited in 2022 and I only knew Bonjour and Merci/sil vous plait and never got any reaction but pleasantness from the French from Strasbourg to Paris, Angers,Bloise, Nante, Normandy,MontSnt Michel and Lille. Start with Bonjour and end with Merci. My spouse spoke a little more but A1-A2 at most and the response was even friendlier.
Visiting from South Australia, we found people not having the courtesy to walk one side, but instead block the entire footpath and not move over. I hated the "model" posing.
Mmm while hauling luggage may annoy everyone, it is unavoidable… maybe there is a luggage porting service that we need to know about or an annoyed parisian can set it up?
I've found that if I say/ask that I don't speak French will you speak English I get the best service and even received "extras" when shopping. When I don't act entitled and am polite I get so much further. I really feel all of these tips are how people should act everywhere. I also agree with the photo stuff. Every place I went (museums and the like) they were always a pair dressed up with too much makeup etc. Photographing themselves as if they are all you tube influencers. I've found that being polite, not overly made up, and not being loud I've had the best experiences.
I'm with you except for bringing too much luggage. One carry on? We travel very differently! Last trip, I attended six historically costumed events. The carry on is for the laptop, bonnets, & ball gowns. We thought we were doing well with three suitcases between my husband & I, but we didn't schlep them through the metro. We know when it is the proper time for a taxi.
I was with a guided tour on bicycle today. I am Dutch and might disagree what the tour guide considered a bicycle lane and agree with the Parisians. We arrived on Friday at gare du Nord. During the hotel transfer by bus to the hotel in the 15th arrondissement we noticed some really unsafe cycling situations where cars almost drove over cyclists when turning right. Cycling I. Paris is getting safer and better but it is nowhere near the Netherlands or Kopenhagen. Watch out. For the rest, I live in a city loved by tourists myself . Thanks again for your wonderful videos . I will be at the Marché Grenelle this Sunday, today, because of your videos.
My oldest son walked into a bar in Carentan as we waited for the train. He only spoke English and that did not go well. Daddy to the rescue. Also, blew my mind that the cashier at Pret inside CDG took USD from the customer behind us. Of course after we paid 100 euros for drinks and food as we waited for our flight departure.
I remember that as a child and leaving my boarding school on Friday evening I did not give up my seat on the metro to an old lady, the supervisor having noticed it I returned to the boarding school and I did not come out again until the following Friday... I never forgot courtesy again.😏
I love visiting Paris and abide by all of the rules as you describe as a matter of basic manners. But I have to tell you... cutting lines or blocking sidewalks.... the Parisians could teach courses in this. Otherwise, very polite, friendly, fun people.
" fun people " ? are YOU making fun of them OR are they " funny people " (in what way ?) that's an odd comment isn"t it ? being an ex true " pur jus " Parisian I wonder ... I remember when rude Americains talked to me as if " on avait gardé les vaches ensemble toute notre vie ..." ( please "les Frenchies" translate for me, merciii !) : I used to answer : sorry I don"t speak english (though I had my Proficiency Certificate ) and pretended not to speak ANY other language ( though I gratuated in German and spanish too ...) mind you I could have pretended to be deaf too !! I must try that ! (having a shield note " je suis sourd " !
My experience as an American has only been in Quebec, but I have to say do not underestimate the power of bonjour and merci. If you don't know any other words, these two will go a long way.
Excepting bonjour merci these tipsc apply globally. And in some countries you walk left and keep left. Basically be conscious of local customs. And three more 1. If a sign says dont touch. Dont touch 2. Dont climb on or walk on things like an art installation, statue or landmark. Its disrespectful. 3. Follow all signs. No entry. Staff only. Pick up only. Etc.
I've just returned after being in Paris for two weeks and I was extremely surprised by how well people treated me. I was a little bit afraid because everyone told me that French people can be rude and cold, but then I watched some videos before travelling and learned that saying some key words in French like "bonjour" and "s'il vous plait" when talking to someone or entering a place would help me a lot. And it's true. I did this and everywhere I went I could find people who were kind and friendly toward me. I could see they found a little bit funny but appreciated my effort. Plus, I dressed the way most people dress in Paris and received some compliments. Also, I'm very friendly myself, I smile easily and I think that by being like this while at the same time respecting their culture and way of behaving made them open up a little bit. It certainly was the case with some men who asked out for some dates, hahahaha.
One thing true in Emily in Paris, is the most icon photography of Paris, at night, at dawn and during the day.They tick most if not all of the boxes for the most historic place, Palais Garnier,, Palais Royal, The Panthéon, Pont Alexandre III, Pont des Arts, Pont Neuf , La Coupole, Versailles, L’Atelier des Lumières,, Père Lachaise, Inside of Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Inside of L'Opera, Rue de l'Abreuvoir Just to name A FEW.
Hello Les Frenchies! I landed in Paris this morning and your tips helped so much !! Tomorrow I'll take the Metro. It would be great if we can meet. I'm a big fan. May be tomorrow Sunday afternoon at 5pm for an Appero?
I like your tips and agree wholeheartedly. I think sometimes when people travel they figure nobody knows them there so they think it’s ok to act a fool. I love visiting France. Thank you!
No. 2 is not an issue for me, I'm a Francophone from Québec, only thing that might happen is if they don't understand my Québécois accent, lol! That and getting called "Cousin du Québec". As for taking pictures, I've been doing this for over 40 years, and I've developed the knack over the years of taking pictures with my camera while I walk. If it's not possible, I'll move over to the side or get myself out of the way to get my shot. I found that Parisians are really very friendly overall, never had a bad experience in two trips. We really want to go back, my wife and I, but we have other travel plans for next year. Maybe 2027 for our 20th wedding anniversary, spend a couple of days to finish our trip after visiting Normandy and a couple of other regions up north (no real plan made just yet, only definite thing is to visit Juno Beach). Salut!
I think the rude Parisian stereotype was from the early 1970s. I know there was a big difference between the people I dealt with back then and the ones I dealt with this year. I did an experiment in 1974, I had been in Western Europe for 4 months, spring and summer. I did the first trip as an American tourist. Then in 1975 I went back and stopped at my cousins' house in Heilbronn. Small town in what was then West Germany. I transformed myself into a German. Bought clothes at various German stores. At that time I was fluent in German. I noticed a big difference in how I was treated even though my German self had the same issues as my American one did. Lack of language skills, I only spoke those two languages but the only time I used German was in Germany or Austria. A funny story, I was in Florence at one of the local markets and I heard some voices that sounded annoyed, on both sides. I wandered over and in German asked the vendor what the issue was, he knew enough to tell me that these people wanted to pay the price he quoted and not haggle. He was offended because these people would eventually mention it and make him look bad. So I asked the tourists (American) if they spoke German, they said no, then asked if I spoke English. I hadn't spoken any English in 2 months and had almost forgotten I spoke English until they asked. Then I talked to them in perfect American english. Once I explained the situation all the parties were happy and they bought whatever they were after.
I wouldn’t blame tourists as being the only culprits for not respecting other road users or street lights. The bad behavior clearly starts with us Parisians. Also, I’ve noticed in the metro or bus, the people most likely to yield their seats to elderlies or disabled are kids visibly from the suburbs : the young well dressed executives heading to La Defense will usually keep their eyes stubbornly glued to their phones. My best advice is : the best approximation of Paris for an American is NYC.
More Annoying Tourist Behaviors 😂: 1. Not speaking French 2. Greeting a French stranger 3. Acting like you belong there. 4. Expecting polite service. 5. Not being intimidated by the French (stop doing that - very annoying). 6. Thinking you're good enough to judge their food, or anything for that matter. 7. Being a tourist (very annoying). 8. Not wrapping your scarf correctly (barbarian!)
when French people go to other countries they themselves are called tourist too so we just have to let the tourists be tourists but what is important is be a respectful tourist
I think these tip's is very good advice for anywhere you travel and even your own city. Here in Canada, l would say this certainly applies to our lifestyle, be polite, dont think of just yourself and be aware of other people, it's just good manners and behavior.😊😢
I’ve seen tourists making rude comments about France/French people in English in front of the French assuming they don’t speak English. Talk about embarrassing.
A lot of these are the same social norms found in a lot of western cultures. So, basically be polite and aware of how your effecting others and make your introductions in french, even if you don't speak the language.
I'm always ready with the appropriate currency. But I remember my first visit to Paris in 1998. A souvenir shop on the Champs Elysees had a sign, We accept US dollars at an exchange rate of 5.9 francs / dollar. That was the best exchange rate I got on that trip.
Not just in Paris, but people (especially we/you USA), need to adopt all of these courtesies worldwide - yes, including in the US. I still recall a trip years ago on a puddle-jumper flight from Athens to Crete. The tiny plane - 4 of us, had to delay takeoff for a good 30 minutes because (of course) an incredibly loud American woman had a 26" suitcase that needed to be boarded. As did her travel partner!!!!!! They had to bring them in the main entrance as they were too big to squeeze into the cargo hold. Then the first woman loudly complained the entire flight. It was hideous. My travel companion and I pretended to be Canadian....
This applies everywhere you go, but I wonder why people (many of us) continue to do these things. I have seen many people come to NYC and do the same foolishness. Anyway, I spent my birthday (a full week ) in Paris and it was fantastic!!
I had traveled to France 5 - 6 times and was there in last October, most of the time I forgot to say " bonjour and mercy" It seemed like they didn't care but I was very polite saying "hello and thank you" .
Even when I speak French in France they switch to very hard to understand english, once I got annoyed and asked why, barman said I don't look french so he switched to english, which he couldn't speak well, I kept replying in French and was asking in french what he means and he understood but kept replying in english to which I said that I didn't understand, it was so annoying, Enlish isn't even my first language!!
I travel alone. When I was planning my trip to France, I did A LOT of research on how to act. Because I wanted to blend in, and not draw attention to myself. I watched so many of your videos, and they were incredibly helpful. Stopping, getting in the way, and taking photos is a dead giveaway that you are a tourist. When I took photos, I was always discreet. I was always very polite and started with "Bonjour! Je suis desole. Mon Francais est tres mouvais. Parlez-vous Anglais?" Many people said "Non! Ca Va!" Now I do not know if they were just being polite, or maybe my pronunciation was very good, but that gained a lot of respect. Just trying to speak the language, goes a long way. Everyone was super friendly when I made that effort. I was always very quiet too. There was only once where I got a little loud. I was at Jacques Gennin Chocolate. I just had the best chocolate in my life, and I shouted "Mon bouche est Avons un orgasme!" Now I do not know how grammatically correct that was, but the clerk definitely understood, because she was laughing hysterically. I do have a question though. I absolutely want to go back to France. I love cheese fondue, but most of the fondue restaurants are 2 person minimum...and I go alone. Would it ok to ask a local, after talking with them to go with me? Or is that just a bad idea, making me a prime target to get robbed?
At some restaurants, they now have the tip screen on the credit card machines that they bring to your table. The wait staff says "you don't have to..." but it's so awkward. I now say "I'll leave tip in cash" and leave what I want (a few euros vs 10%, 15%, 20% suggested on machine). Do they do this to all diners, or do the wait staff just skip that screen when they know you're local (bc i imagine Parisians would balk at that)?
One annoying thing, not necessarily distinct to Paris but probably happens in Paris frequently due to it's world class museums is people taking photos of themselves in front of paintings and expecting people to wait for their photoshoot to be done. And it's not just one photo they want to take but a series of photos. It seems to be younger people who are posting on instagram. I have a professional camera and I take photos all the time but I never impede people's viewing. The museums are crowded and the purpose is to see the great works of art on display. If you want to take a photo, take it but don't impede other's experience. In this case I got in front of these people to look at the this particular painting. I didn't care I was in their shot. They were annoyed I could tell but too bad. Don't wait for people to take their photos in museums. This was in Musée d'Orsay by the way just this last February
Hi guys, great video. Once when I was there I tried to order an espresso before my meal. It took 15 min to explain to the server that in my country it’s normal. He finally brought me one. I tipped him €5 on the way out the door lol. Nice guy but it was funny. Anyways have a good one eh!😁🇨🇦
I'm a native New Yorker and we aren't quite that, er, uptight. No need for constant pleasantries in shops, for example. There would be a cacophony of "Good Mornings," etc., if everyone exclaimed that when entering a store or ordering. I don't like pleasantries, myself; they are rote and insincere. Otherwise, though, simple courtesy marks one as decent and classy person. And if I visit Paris (and I hope I do!), I will abide by the customs.
me too, french elderly woman who used to work on the Champs Elysées at some time ... AND the loud Americans were to annoying in the near by restaurants at lunch time : I decided not to speak any language at all ... wanting a midday break on my own and be quite ... ( even if I love foreigners ... in their own country ... and speak french-german-english and spanish - a shame some don"t behave when playing tourists in France !)
There is a whole lot of information here that will work in more countries than France. Thank you Thank you for the phone call comment that one is one of my pet peeves. Do find your videos informative and very useful
Hi Antoine and Colleen Re requests to take photos. We did a tour of the Palais Garnier and the guide requested that she not be in any photos. Sadly, an older couple (of Americans) seemed to make it their mission to take her photo! We kept stepping in between them and the guide. It was all very embarrassing.
How Parisians feel about the Tourists, that's their personal problem. In tourist areas, tourist have always been there for hundreds of years, and in non-tourist areas where most of the city are, Parisians will not see the tourists. The tourists will be there for only a few days and move on. In the tourist areas, it's expected that tourists will act as tourists. especially for businesses and people who caters to the tourist. It's an expectation how tourists will act and for Parisians who are annoyed by the tourists are complainers to start with and are probably unhappy with their own lives and taking it on to the tourists. Perhaps they are envious that the tourists are happy and have money to spend on a vacation and they don't. I used to live in NYC and when I go to Manhattan, I expect the tourist to be tourist, and when I am back home in Queens or Brooklyn there no tourists only New Yorkers.
I say Hello or good morning/afternoon, etc... in every establishment I walk into here in the USA or at a counter. Isn't this the American way still or maybe just small town now? I said it when I lied in Washington, DC and road the subway/buses. I nod and smile at the people I pass and sometimes say Hope your day is good, etc... as we pass. Have we just lost our humanity/kindness?
I definitely try to at least learn some of the basic phrases when I go to places. Although sometimes I get confused - one time in Paris, I asked where I could find a depanneur. Problem is, depanneur is Quebec slang for a convenience store (I think the literal translation is repairman?) and I had no idea! And just recently, I was on a cruise and I kept mixing up my Italian and Spanish phrases. Oh well. It's the effort that counts, right?
Stopping in the middle of the busy sidewalk to check gps or take selfies or just gawk is the height of rudeness and the way to really annoy locals…..in Manhattan. Not just Paris. Any large city with large amounts of people using sidewalks and subways to get around, It’s just a lack of experience and thinking things through on the part of the visitors. But these behaviors slow things down horribly for locals who’ve allotted a normal amount of time for getting places … the tourists have through a monkey wrench into the works. Don’t do it, not in Paris, not in New York, not in Vienna.
I was just wondering if that would be the case in NY - are they some " frotteurs " too in the NY tube ? (those men just rubbing their " todger" on you when wagons are full of commuters ? )
@@Maimitti Not the same way. Nor in London. In NYC any group of guys trying to pickpocket as a gang in the subway are as likely themselves to get pickpocketed. Or beaten by others.
Everyone has the right to check gps, orient themselves, stop to admire something especially in a free country like USA. The value of LIBERTE also applies in France the last time I checked. It is not the height of rudeness. But being “entitled” that you should have unobstructed 24/7 footpath access without someone “blocking” your way could be considered or not stopping when someone says “excuse me” when someone needs help. People could have a disability and walk slow or regaining balance and to be a human being is to treat everyone with respect and humanity.
I would have a real problem eating in France. I like to eat dinner at 5 or 5:30. I get up at 5am and go to bed at 9:30. I do not like getting home from a restaurant and then going to bed on a full stomach.
I do have ti say that even being polite and speaking French I've had some slightly rude reaction at times but I am trying to ignore that in order not to disturb my experience. My overall impression with the french is still positive.
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Wait a minute! I accidentally put it on mute and thought they were talking about NYC, Chicago or gosh anywhere else! Great advice for good manners all over the world. Bravo!
You are perfectly right, I think this behiavour is despised everywhere...
I was in Paris last fall, friendly people everywhere. My trip was fabulous. Saying Bonjour upon entering an establishment breaks the ice. Lovely city. I will return.
Bonjour Colleen & Antoine! I was just in Paris & Normandy a month ago & while my French is dismal, I DID learn to say “Je suis désolé, je ne parle pas bien français” as well as Bonjour, Merci, & s’il vous plaît. It certainly helped in a few situations & one lovely lady told me “…but you said that so well!”
This was another very helpful video! Merci beaucoup!
Love that!
Moi aussi.
I had a French airline employee compliment my very competent 'bonjour!' and ask what other French I knew when I was checking in to go home. Funniest compliment I got during the whole trip. LOL
I’m just back from spending a week in Paris. Loved it. I found all the French people I spoke to very friendly. I done my part by learning some key phrases, and of course the bonjour and merci. Even if I ended up butchering what I was trying to say, they really appreciated me trying and they would jump in to save the day haha. I would try and better my basics when I would hand in my hotel key at the receptions. Always met with a “very good” haha. Don’t be scared to try, people will appreciate the effort.
For sure!!
In this day and age when we travel so much, a tourist manners guide it's a good idea
Glad you think so!
Thanks for touching on influencers hogging the space at a site! We went the Musee de l’Orangerie, and this girl and her photographer took hundreds of pictures in front of each of the water lily panels. It hard for those of us who just wanted a couple of photos and then tried to sit and enjoy the panels. It was hard to enjoy the room and the artwork.
they can be so annoying 😑
I agree manners and respect are everything . It even makes upset in America . I work at a dental center and shake my head when I see disrespectful people . Be nice and kind everyone .
It's a bit of the basis of living in society, imagine for a moment a civilization without politeness. It would implode every day.
Great video. I am in my 70s and walk with a cane. On the metro in Paris I have never had anyone give up their seat to me. In fact I have had many French speaking young people push by me to take a seat I was walking to.
I’m about to leave Paris tomorrow and I wouldn’t have made this trip if I didn’t watched any of your videos. They informed me very well and although we missed a day (because of the snow) we had a lot of fun on the other two. My wife, my daughter and I will try to come back in about 2 years when the weather is nicer for sure. Thank you for your content. FYI: I live in Miami so I know that change from South Florida to here must be a big one!
Funny you should mention. I ate at a nice pasty shop, I had a coffee and croissant. There were no customers in the shop. But the pastries and cakes looked so lovely. I wanted to take a photo.The shop was called Maison Gregoire. Nice guy and a girl work there been there twice now actually. But I asked if it were ok if i taken a photo of thr pastries.. They were very nice about it. The young girl said yes but she moved out of the shot and seemed really shy. But both of them were genuinely nice people. It got me though how shy she was, so i am very glad i asked first.
But you got to appreciate other people's personal space and privacy no matter where you are.
Exactly. That's the #1 complaint we hear from shop owners..."just ask first" - they don't want to be in your photo shot
Very good tips. I'd like to add which I'd label as 7a: Do not wear your backpack in the Métro or train when standing in a crowded area. You not only increase your risk of pickpocket but it is damn annoying when you swing around and knock everyone in their front because your backpack is sticking out. ALWAYS take your backpack off and carry it at your feet before you enter the train.
All of this is common sense no matter which country you visit, which country you come from, or which country you live in. My thought - let's let all the decent people move to France and leave the rest of the uncouth behind. Well done!
MERCI mille fois 🙏
En tant que Parisienne tout est vrai dans votre vidéo et ces comportements sont relous par momebt
Merci encore et prenez soin de vous ❤
sans parler des " frotteurs " dans le métro, ces types qui se frottent la braguette contre vous (parfois le zizi sorti ...) , un cauchemar pour la jeune fille Parisienne que je fus ... ces " frotteurs " sont bien connus de la Police mais se font rarement prendre , zizi vite rentré dans la braguette : no prove !
wonder, je me demande si c'est pareil dans métros New-Yorkais ? !! and ... do you know WHAT ? :
one day in a Restaurant on the Champs Elysées , an american young couple sat next to us, very near, tables touching- and they were speaking VERY loud, my hustand and I couldn"t even talk together, so ... I decided to SHOUT to him, normal topic conversation " what are you going to have on the menu my love, etc..." and reading the menu SHOUTING , the US young couple immediately STOPPED talking staring at us ! as soon as they tried to shout again, I shouted at my husband - believe me ... they didn"t add a word for the rest of the dinner ! and left rather quick ...
c'est vrai et nous nous énervons aussi envers les Parisiens ou les touristes français mal polis qui ne respectent pas ces règles de bienséances
Thanks for this. I think this guide would apply anywhere! I love it when people say Hello and Thank You even in the other tourist capitals ( San Francisco, New York, London) Thank you for putting this out.
Bonjour Antoine and Colleen. Thanks for teaching me to say “Bonjour “ wherever I go. I now try to do that everywhere. Paris, or the equivalent in other countries. Even at home. Merci for the life lesson😊
Our pleasure!
I learned on my recent trip to Paris that not only do you say bonjour going into shops and restaurants, but also getting on the bus to the bus driver! After I sat down, I saw locals getting on and greeting the bus driver each time. Yikes! I was sure to say bonjour every time after that.
You don’t greet bus drivers in your city? I thought it was normal to greet bus drivers, taxi drivers etc.
@ Nope. I just get on, pay and sit down. Often, they’re enclosed in plexiglass barrier and can’t really be heard well.
After getting off the train in Aix-les-Bains and walking into town, it was about 14:00 when I sat down at the cafe next to the laundromat. I asked in French if it was too late for lunch and they replied that of course, it was. There was a hint of annoyance in their tone because we both knew that lunch is served from noon to two. I ordered a beer and waited for my laundry. After about 15 minutes, the server said they could make me a bavette. I thanked them and said that I appreciated it. They went above and beyond because I was polite and accepted that I was too late for their schedule. Lunch was delicious.
The French respond to courtesy and respect with kindness and a desire to help. During my 20-day vacation, I met only one rude person (not counting tourists). I can't wait to go back.
that's a great story, thank you for sharing
Good manners are appropriate everywhere. And those speakerphones are annoying
true story!!
Do not think that parisians are "complicated". We are not. Simply, do not behave as if you were alone and the center of the universe in public places, subway : Don't block the way, don't block stairs, don't block subway exits etc. Paris is one of the most visited capital city in Europe. We are used to see tourists everywhere in the city and we like them. We don't care how tourists are dressed. In restaurants take your time, lunch and dinner are not a timed olympic competition in France. The bill will never come until you request it. Lunch time 12 PM to 2 PM. Dinner time 8 PM to 10 PM (you can stay longer if you wish). Don't expect to be served a lunch if you show up at 4 PM : there is probably nobody anymore in the kitchen !
Bonus item: asking to over personalise your menu item at a restaurant. you can ask to hold the sauce or the Chantilly, ask for olive oil to add to taste, but don't reinvent thee chef's salad. It's made that way for a reason!
Exactly 💯
Bonjour ! j'ai apprécié TOUS les points que vous présentez ici. cheers from Landes !
Cheers!!
*Synopsis: Have manners, resect and common sense!!!*
This applies to everywhere in the world, stop being fools and bozos in public.
NOT being critical of this channel, not by any means. I think this channel is great and will hopefully result in better behavior everywhere! 🙂
Franchement, si déjà tous les Parisiens appliquaient ces règles simples de courtoisie et de politesse, la vie quotidienne serait tellement plus agréable à Paris!
@CharlotteGill: Yes and worldwide as well.
As always, a great video. Thank you.
These are great tips for NYC and DC, too, where we get lots of tourists. In DC, we have the same problem with visitors blocking the escalators in the Metro, stopping suddenly to take selfies everywhere, being reckless on bicycles and scooters, and being loud and demanding in restaurants, etc.
Was just there a month ago.
We're very polite and always learn as much of the local language ss possible. "Please" and "thank you" in the local language plus a smile do wonders.
I found Parisians, and the French people in general, were awesome!
Awesome 👌
We went to Musée de l'Orangerie in September and tried to quietly appreciate the art. Much to our chagrin, far too many narcissistic tourists (we were also tourists) just HAD to pose on front of Monet's works for their social media accounts. Some were taking selfies and quite a number of them employed local photographers. It pissed me off and I asked one of the employees why they weren't enforcing the "No Selfie" and "Please be quiet and respectful" rules. Sadly, they've been told not to enforce the rules. I sound like a grumpy old man with each passing day.
Always carry some cash. Cafés & boulangeries & definitely market stalls often do not accept bank cards or only over a minimum eg 10€. Despite living here for 4 years I let myself be caught out by this only today.
On a more positive note - since Covid all cafés sell coffee to go (à emporter). This makes it much more convenient to use a café's toilet if you need one, as you don't need to spend time sitting to be served. But ALWAYS buy a minimum espresso in return for using the facilities.
All spot on. Saying “bonjour” and “merci” or “bonne journée” when entering and leaving greatly improves your experience. Speaking even a tiny bit of French will help; even the French people who say they don’t speak English may eventually admit they do speak a little bit, but they don’t think they’re very good. (It’s usually better than my French!) I laughed when you mentioned cutting in line, because I think it’s the French who have trouble queueing; my Parisian cousins told me that’s well known!😂
The French are the worst at cutting in line!! 😅
I was in Paris 10/19/24-11/4, my 6th visit, friends joined me for their 2nd visit and my sis had her 1st visit. I sent them your videos to watch to make sure they about not being rude Americans. I found more restaurants asking us to add a tip or adding one automatically. I questioned a waiter and he said the included service was for the restaurant and our tip was for him. The next one, and I’m naming them, Cafe Marley at the Louvre, told us we forgot to tip him. In 2022 the waiter at Marley did the same thing. I told my friends that if the wait staff are extra then tip, and we would leave in Euros or, if just standard service we’d round up. We went for dinner cruise on Le Calife-fantastic! We did night ride in Citroen with Authentic. Wonderful. We dined at Chez Rene, Cafe St Germaine. Both delightful and wait staff lovely. Unexpectedly saw The French Bastards across from St Germaine and bought their last caramel eclairs for breakfast the next day. I wanted to slap someone they were perfection. You had to split one in thirds they were so rich and decadent. We rented a huge apartment in the 1st where we stayed 2 years ago, looking down at Angelina’s back door. We walked past the lines of tourists at Cedric Grolet and Angelina’s shaking our heads in amazement. Thank you for your guide and helpful videos. We had one planned event every other day and went back to some of my favorite restaurants, shops, gardens, sidewalk cafes, places on my list I’d missed before, more classes at Le Cordon Bleu, people watching, picnics, trying new cheeses and wines, early morning Uber rides to different bakeries in the mornings and as we have to do every trip, a Batoboat ride. Thankfully, we made dinner reservations because we watch people being turned away. We couldn’t get reservations at a lot of restaurants. I’ve always visited Paris in October and have never seen it so crowded and unable to get reservations at restaurants. I hope it’s a good thing for Paris. Merci!
You are very welcome, cheers 🥂
Our family of 4 is going to France next month! Paris, Tours, Bordeaux, Dordogne région, and Toulouse! I’ve been watching your videos all year to prepare myself for I took French in high school and college so I feel prepared enough to not be another typical American. I really appreciate your tips and insight!! Allez on y vas!
Allez, on y va!
Bonjour Antoine and Colleen! I love ALL of your videos but this one is right on. I’m not Parisian but I’ve always disliked when people are loud on the phone no one wants to hear their business. Thank you so much for telling how it is. ❤ Merci!
Spot on with your tips. We visited in 2022 and I only knew Bonjour and Merci/sil vous plait and never got any reaction but pleasantness from the French from Strasbourg to Paris, Angers,Bloise, Nante, Normandy,MontSnt Michel and Lille. Start with Bonjour and end with Merci. My spouse spoke a little more but A1-A2 at most and the response was even friendlier.
😁👍
Visiting from South Australia, we found people not having the courtesy to walk one side, but instead block the entire footpath and not move over. I hated the "model" posing.
model style posing is unbearable some days 🤬
Mmm while hauling luggage may annoy everyone, it is unavoidable… maybe there is a luggage porting service that we need to know about or an annoyed parisian can set it up?
I speak french and i dont go near the tourist traps and i have an excellent time in France ( I am from the UK) i go to paris every few months
I've found that if I say/ask that I don't speak French will you speak English I get the best service and even received "extras" when shopping. When I don't act entitled and am polite I get so much further. I really feel all of these tips are how people should act everywhere. I also agree with the photo stuff. Every place I went (museums and the like) they were always a pair dressed up with too much makeup etc. Photographing themselves as if they are all you tube influencers. I've found that being polite, not overly made up, and not being loud I've had the best experiences.
that's very true
I'm with you except for bringing too much luggage. One carry on? We travel very differently! Last trip, I attended six historically costumed events. The carry on is for the laptop, bonnets, & ball gowns. We thought we were doing well with three suitcases between my husband & I, but we didn't schlep them through the metro. We know when it is the proper time for a taxi.
exactly. You can bring 10 suitcases if you want to, just take a taxi, don't take the Metro!!
Carry-on only when the limit is 7 kg is impossible for a 3-week visit too. The American airlines obviously have more generous limits.
I believe these are just common courtesy rules to follow. But I may be biased because I’m an American named Yvette.
Merci mon ami. ❤
my pleasure Yvette!!
I was with a guided tour on bicycle today. I am Dutch and might disagree what the tour guide considered a bicycle lane and agree with the Parisians. We arrived on Friday at gare du Nord. During the hotel transfer by bus to the hotel in the 15th arrondissement we noticed some really unsafe cycling situations where cars almost drove over cyclists when turning right. Cycling I. Paris is getting safer and better but it is nowhere near the Netherlands or Kopenhagen. Watch out. For the rest, I live in a city loved by tourists myself .
Thanks again for your wonderful videos . I will be at the Marché Grenelle this Sunday, today, because of your videos.
Remembering to say "bonjour madame" or "bonjour monsieur" is important. It's not difficult to do and always appreciated.
This is just universal ''Savoir vivre''
Common sense sometimes seems "uncommon" but don't let it deter you from visiting. Just remember to say" Bonjour" and "Merci"😊❤
My oldest son walked into a bar in Carentan as we waited for the train. He only spoke English and that did not go well. Daddy to the rescue. Also, blew my mind that the cashier at Pret inside CDG took USD from the customer behind us. Of course after we paid 100 euros for drinks and food as we waited for our flight departure.
I remember that as a child and leaving my boarding school on Friday evening I did not give up my seat on the metro to an old lady, the supervisor having noticed it I returned to the boarding school and I did not come out again until the following Friday... I never forgot courtesy again.😏
you only make that mistake once 😉
I love visiting Paris and abide by all of the rules as you describe as a matter of basic manners. But I have to tell you... cutting lines or blocking sidewalks.... the Parisians could teach courses in this. Otherwise, very polite, friendly, fun people.
" fun people " ? are YOU making fun of them OR are they " funny people " (in what way ?) that's an odd comment isn"t it ?
being an ex true " pur jus " Parisian I wonder ... I remember when rude Americains talked to me as if " on avait gardé les vaches ensemble toute notre vie ..." ( please "les Frenchies" translate for me, merciii !) : I used to answer : sorry I don"t speak english (though I had my Proficiency Certificate ) and pretended not to speak ANY other language ( though I gratuated in German and spanish too ...) mind you I could have pretended to be deaf too !! I must try that ! (having a shield note " je suis sourd " !
@@Maimitti they said fun, not funny. fun is a compliment in this context.
@@Maimitti Meant as a compliment. Fun means having a good nature and a sense of humor.
My experience as an American has only been in Quebec, but I have to say do not underestimate the power of bonjour and merci. If you don't know any other words, these two will go a long way.
💯
Excepting bonjour merci these tipsc apply globally. And in some countries you walk left and keep left. Basically be conscious of local customs. And three more
1. If a sign says dont touch. Dont touch
2. Dont climb on or walk on things like an art installation, statue or landmark. Its disrespectful.
3. Follow all signs. No entry. Staff only. Pick up only. Etc.
I've just returned after being in Paris for two weeks and I was extremely surprised by how well people treated me. I was a little bit afraid because everyone told me that French people can be rude and cold, but then I watched some videos before travelling and learned that saying some key words in French like "bonjour" and "s'il vous plait" when talking to someone or entering a place would help me a lot. And it's true. I did this and everywhere I went I could find people who were kind and friendly toward me. I could see they found a little bit funny but appreciated my effort. Plus, I dressed the way most people dress in Paris and received some compliments. Also, I'm very friendly myself, I smile easily and I think that by being like this while at the same time respecting their culture and way of behaving made them open up a little bit. It certainly was the case with some men who asked out for some dates, hahahaha.
Great episode
Thank you 😁
One thing true in Emily in Paris, is the most icon photography of Paris, at night, at dawn and during the day.They tick most if not all of the boxes for the most historic place, Palais Garnier,, Palais Royal, The Panthéon, Pont Alexandre III, Pont des Arts, Pont Neuf , La Coupole, Versailles, L’Atelier des Lumières,, Père Lachaise, Inside of Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Inside of L'Opera, Rue de l'Abreuvoir Just to name A FEW.
indeed
Merci Antoine et Colleen! Frankly, each and every one of these annoy me as well, at home or while travelling.
Yes they are!
Hello Les Frenchies! I landed in Paris this morning and your tips helped so much !! Tomorrow I'll take the Metro. It would be great if we can meet. I'm a big fan. May be tomorrow Sunday afternoon at 5pm for an Appero?
I like your tips and agree wholeheartedly. I think sometimes when people travel they figure nobody knows them there so they think it’s ok to act a fool. I love visiting France. Thank you!
No. 2 is not an issue for me, I'm a Francophone from Québec, only thing that might happen is if they don't understand my Québécois accent, lol! That and getting called "Cousin du Québec".
As for taking pictures, I've been doing this for over 40 years, and I've developed the knack over the years of taking pictures with my camera while I walk. If it's not possible, I'll move over to the side or get myself out of the way to get my shot.
I found that Parisians are really very friendly overall, never had a bad experience in two trips.
We really want to go back, my wife and I, but we have other travel plans for next year. Maybe 2027 for our 20th wedding anniversary, spend a couple of days to finish our trip after visiting Normandy and a couple of other regions up north (no real plan made just yet, only definite thing is to visit Juno Beach).
Salut!
Thanks again. Your videos are so insightful and enjoyable.
Glad you like them!
I think the rude Parisian stereotype was from the early 1970s. I know there was a big difference between the people I dealt with back then and the ones I dealt with this year. I did an experiment in 1974, I had been in Western Europe for 4 months, spring and summer. I did the first trip as an American tourist. Then in 1975 I went back and stopped at my cousins' house in Heilbronn. Small town in what was then West Germany. I transformed myself into a German. Bought clothes at various German stores. At that time I was fluent in German. I noticed a big difference in how I was treated even though my German self had the same issues as my American one did. Lack of language skills, I only spoke those two languages but the only time I used German was in Germany or Austria. A funny story, I was in Florence at one of the local markets and I heard some voices that sounded annoyed, on both sides. I wandered over and in German asked the vendor what the issue was, he knew enough to tell me that these people wanted to pay the price he quoted and not haggle. He was offended because these people would eventually mention it and make him look bad. So I asked the tourists (American) if they spoke German, they said no, then asked if I spoke English. I hadn't spoken any English in 2 months and had almost forgotten I spoke English until they asked. Then I talked to them in perfect American english. Once I explained the situation all the parties were happy and they bought whatever they were after.
Absolutely a great video~~~nice job!
I wouldn’t blame tourists as being the only culprits for not respecting other road users or street lights. The bad behavior clearly starts with us Parisians.
Also, I’ve noticed in the metro or bus, the people most likely to yield their seats to elderlies or disabled are kids visibly from the suburbs : the young well dressed executives heading to La Defense will usually keep their eyes stubbornly glued to their phones.
My best advice is : the best approximation of Paris for an American is NYC.
💯
More Annoying Tourist Behaviors 😂:
1. Not speaking French
2. Greeting a French stranger
3. Acting like you belong there.
4. Expecting polite service.
5. Not being intimidated by the French (stop doing that - very annoying).
6. Thinking you're good enough to judge their food, or anything for that matter.
7. Being a tourist (very annoying).
8. Not wrapping your scarf correctly (barbarian!)
when French people go to other countries they themselves are called tourist too so we just have to let the tourists be tourists but what is important is be a respectful tourist
I think these tip's is very good advice for anywhere you travel and even your own city. Here in Canada, l would say this certainly applies to our lifestyle, be polite, dont think of just yourself and be aware of other people, it's just good manners and behavior.😊😢
I’ve seen tourists making rude comments about France/French people in English in front of the French assuming they don’t speak English. Talk about embarrassing.
Australian here and these rules are just basic human politeness to me.
true story
A lot of these are the same social norms found in a lot of western cultures. So, basically be polite and aware of how your effecting others and make your introductions in french, even if you don't speak the language.
I'm always ready with the appropriate currency. But I remember my first visit to Paris in 1998. A souvenir shop on the Champs Elysees had a sign, We accept US dollars at an exchange rate of 5.9 francs / dollar. That was the best exchange rate I got on that trip.
Oh wow!
Not just in Paris, but people (especially we/you USA), need to adopt all of these courtesies worldwide - yes, including in the US. I still recall a trip years ago on a puddle-jumper flight from Athens to Crete. The tiny plane - 4 of us, had to delay takeoff for a good 30 minutes because (of course) an incredibly loud American woman had a 26" suitcase that needed to be boarded. As did her travel partner!!!!!! They had to bring them in the main entrance as they were too big to squeeze into the cargo hold. Then the first woman loudly complained the entire flight. It was hideous. My travel companion and I pretended to be Canadian....
i wore an Australian Straw Hat in Paris. Some people laughed and called me a "cowboy".
Always great advice. Topic suggestion - SCARVES! 🙃
This applies everywhere you go, but I wonder why people (many of us) continue to do these things. I have seen many people come to NYC and do the same foolishness. Anyway, I spent my birthday (a full week ) in Paris and it was fantastic!!
Great advice, thanks🤩👌🏼
Glad it was helpful!
I had traveled to France 5 - 6 times and was there in last October, most of the time I forgot to say " bonjour and mercy" It seemed like they didn't care but I was very polite saying "hello and thank you" .
depends where you go
Even when I speak French in France they switch to very hard to understand english, once I got annoyed and asked why, barman said I don't look french so he switched to english, which he couldn't speak well, I kept replying in French and was asking in french what he means and he understood but kept replying in english to which I said that I didn't understand, it was so annoying, Enlish isn't even my first language!!
😅
I had a feeling this would be absolutely hilarious and it didn’t disappoint!
“Carnival-ette” 😂
😅
I travel alone. When I was planning my trip to France, I did A LOT of research on how to act. Because I wanted to blend in, and not draw attention to myself. I watched so many of your videos, and they were incredibly helpful. Stopping, getting in the way, and taking photos is a dead giveaway that you are a tourist. When I took photos, I was always discreet. I was always very polite and started with "Bonjour! Je suis desole. Mon Francais est tres mouvais. Parlez-vous Anglais?" Many people said "Non! Ca Va!" Now I do not know if they were just being polite, or maybe my pronunciation was very good, but that gained a lot of respect. Just trying to speak the language, goes a long way. Everyone was super friendly when I made that effort. I was always very quiet too. There was only once where I got a little loud. I was at Jacques Gennin Chocolate. I just had the best chocolate in my life, and I shouted "Mon bouche est Avons un orgasme!" Now I do not know how grammatically correct that was, but the clerk definitely understood, because she was laughing hysterically.
I do have a question though. I absolutely want to go back to France. I love cheese fondue, but most of the fondue restaurants are 2 person minimum...and I go alone. Would it ok to ask a local, after talking with them to go with me? Or is that just a bad idea, making me a prime target to get robbed?
you won't get robbed but I doubt someone will agree
In the museum, refrain from taking a selfie in front of every single artwork. What is that even about?
I like explaining the space invaders tile art to first time "Space Invaders".
At some restaurants, they now have the tip screen on the credit card machines that they bring to your table. The wait staff says "you don't have to..." but it's so awkward. I now say "I'll leave tip in cash" and leave what I want (a few euros vs 10%, 15%, 20% suggested on machine). Do they do this to all diners, or do the wait staff just skip that screen when they know you're local (bc i imagine Parisians would balk at that)?
One annoying thing, not necessarily distinct to Paris but probably happens in Paris frequently due to it's world class museums is people taking photos of themselves in front of paintings and expecting people to wait for their photoshoot to be done. And it's not just one photo they want to take but a series of photos. It seems to be younger people who are posting on instagram. I have a professional camera and I take photos all the time but I never impede people's viewing. The museums are crowded and the purpose is to see the great works of art on display. If you want to take a photo, take it but don't impede other's experience. In this case I got in front of these people to look at the this particular painting. I didn't care I was in their shot. They were annoyed I could tell but too bad. Don't wait for people to take their photos in museums. This was in Musée d'Orsay by the way just this last February
Hi guys, great video. Once when I was there I tried to order an espresso before my meal. It took 15 min to explain to the server that in my country it’s normal. He finally brought me one. I tipped him €5 on the way out the door lol. Nice guy but it was funny. Anyways have a good one eh!😁🇨🇦
I'm a native New Yorker and we aren't quite that, er, uptight. No need for constant pleasantries in shops, for example. There would be a cacophony of "Good Mornings," etc., if everyone exclaimed that when entering a store or ordering. I don't like pleasantries, myself; they are rote and insincere. Otherwise, though, simple courtesy marks one as decent and classy person. And if I visit Paris (and I hope I do!), I will abide by the customs.
You're videos were a great help a couple weeks ago when we went to France, but you missed Bonsoir!
good catch!!
As a Manhattanite, this should be mandatory viewing on every tourist coming to any large city.
As usual, spot-on.
Emily in Paris is not a fantasy, it's a pure nightmare... OMG, as a Frech older woman, I hate that thing with a passion!
Me too!!
me too, french elderly woman who used to work on the Champs Elysées at some time ... AND the loud Americans were to annoying in the near by restaurants at lunch time : I decided not to speak any language at all ... wanting a midday break on my own and be quite ... ( even if I love foreigners ... in their own country ... and speak french-german-english and spanish - a shame some don"t behave when playing tourists in France !)
There are some circles where the line is barely exaggerated... Unfortunately.
the stereotypes are just awful!
@@LesFrenchiesTravel Certes.
There is a whole lot of information here that will work in more countries than France. Thank you Thank you for the phone call comment that one is one of my pet peeves. Do find your videos informative and very useful
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Antoine and Colleen
Re requests to take photos. We did a tour of the Palais Garnier and the guide requested that she not be in any photos. Sadly, an older couple (of Americans) seemed to make it their mission to take her photo!
We kept stepping in between them and the guide. It was all very embarrassing.
How about 25 worst Parisian behaviors 😅
I have a short list of 100 🤣
How Parisians feel about the Tourists, that's their personal problem. In tourist areas, tourist have always been there for hundreds of years, and in non-tourist areas where most of the city are, Parisians will not see the tourists. The tourists will be there for only a few days and move on. In the tourist areas, it's expected that tourists will act as tourists. especially for businesses and people who caters to the tourist. It's an expectation how tourists will act and for Parisians who are annoyed by the tourists are complainers to start with and are probably unhappy with their own lives and taking it on to the tourists. Perhaps they are envious that the tourists are happy and have money to spend on a vacation and they don't. I used to live in NYC and when I go to Manhattan, I expect the tourist to be tourist, and when I am back home in Queens or Brooklyn there no tourists only New Yorkers.
okay
I say Hello or good morning/afternoon, etc... in every establishment I walk into here in the USA or at a counter. Isn't this the American way still or maybe just small town now? I said it when I lied in Washington, DC and road the subway/buses. I nod and smile at the people I pass and sometimes say Hope your day is good, etc... as we pass. Have we just lost our humanity/kindness?
I definitely try to at least learn some of the basic phrases when I go to places. Although sometimes I get confused - one time in Paris, I asked where I could find a depanneur. Problem is, depanneur is Quebec slang for a convenience store (I think the literal translation is repairman?) and I had no idea! And just recently, I was on a cruise and I kept mixing up my Italian and Spanish phrases.
Oh well. It's the effort that counts, right?
Exactly 💯, at least try 😁
I'm from Quebec and I would have done the same! I don't actually even know what it is called in France. La bodega?
@@bengt_axle Truthfully I've no idea. But see - this is what trips to Montreal (I'm from Toronto) caused me to do!
Great content🤪
Glad you think so!
agree with everything…but i’m still going to walk around with my coffee in hand. ☕️🤠
Great advice for anywhere! I don't know how many times I can find the American by their volume.
Brilliant. Merci!!
Stopping in the middle of the busy sidewalk to check gps or take selfies or just gawk is the height of rudeness and the way to really annoy locals…..in Manhattan. Not just Paris. Any large city with large amounts of people using sidewalks and subways to get around,
It’s just a lack of experience and thinking things through on the part of the visitors. But these behaviors slow things down horribly for locals who’ve allotted a normal amount of time for getting places … the tourists have through a monkey wrench into the works.
Don’t do it, not in Paris, not in New York, not in Vienna.
I was just wondering if that would be the case in NY - are they some " frotteurs " too in the NY tube ? (those men just rubbing their " todger" on you when wagons are full of commuters ? )
Exactly!!
@@Maimitti
Not the same way. Nor in London. In NYC any group of guys trying to pickpocket as a gang in the subway are as likely themselves to get pickpocketed. Or beaten by others.
*Thrown
Everyone has the right to check gps, orient themselves, stop to admire something especially in a free country like USA. The value of LIBERTE also applies in France the last time I checked. It is not the height of rudeness. But being “entitled” that you should have unobstructed 24/7 footpath access without someone “blocking” your way could be considered or not stopping when someone says “excuse me” when someone needs help. People could have a disability and walk slow or regaining balance and to be a human being is to treat everyone with respect and humanity.
1:52 It's because of American tourists that we see tips becoming almost mandatory in some countries (Greece is the first that comes to mind).
I would have a real problem eating in France. I like to eat dinner at 5 or 5:30. I get up at 5am and go to bed at 9:30. I do not like getting home from a restaurant and then going to bed on a full stomach.
French people can be straight forward, but I like it!
I do have ti say that even being polite and speaking French I've had some slightly rude reaction at times but I am trying to ignore that in order not to disturb my experience. My overall impression with the french is still positive.