Etiquette – France Part II

I hope you enjoyed yesterday’s Part I of Etiquette in France.  

Here’s Part II 

Dining Etiquette Continued 

• Modifications to food orders are frowned upon  
• If you have food allergies, it is best to do your research on the restaurant ahead of time. The chefs are not accustomed to all the food allergy omissions and requests. 
• Have a hearty lunch as dinner begins at 7:30. Not many restaurants are open at 6 pm for dinner. 
• Allow men to pour your wine. They take great pride in doing it, and it would be an insult if you say no.  
• Leave something on your plate. It could be the last nut, cheese, olive, or anything.  
• Do not touch cheese with fingers, to not remove the skin from cheeses like brie and camembert, and do not spread foie gras with a knife; instead, place a slice onto your bread, and then eat it.
• Do not ask for steak well done. It’s just not prepared that way in France. 
• Do not cut the lettuce on your plate. The right thing to do is fold the lettuce leaves and put them in your mouth.
• Do not spread your Foie Gras on anything. Cut a piece then eat it.
• Do not ask for ketchup  

Dress

Leave your LuLu Lemon’s at home; the French do not do Athleisure. Get your fashion inspo via Pinterest French./Parisan chic to plan out your outfits. The French rarely wear shorts unless it’s on the beach. If they do wear shorts, they are nicely tailored. Go for effortless and simple chic, so you can avoid looking like a tourist and being a target of pickpocketers.  

French women take great pride in their looks; they often wear makeup, even for a trip to the grocery store.

Gifts 

Stay away from gifting flowers in 6 or 12 (for lovers), odd numbers, especially 13 since it is considered unlucky, chrysanthemums, or red roses since they are used in weddings. Instead, you can bring a beautiful box of chocolates or an exceptional bottle of wine.  

Mind Your Please and Q’s 

This country values politeness, so saying “please” and “thank you” goes a long way.  

Conversations

Do not ask personal questions. Sure the French are friendly and like conversations, but they are not oversharers, nor like to be asked personal questions. Avoid discussing politics, especially now.   

In any and all settings, keep your voice low in public. Yelling is ultimately considered rude. 

Personal space 

Do not take up too much space. Carry smaller bags if you can; be aware of your personal space, and don’t take offense if someone stands a mere millimeter behind you in line.  

Do not give a bear hug. “Totally unknown in France. Hugging can be considered more intimate than kissing.

Time 

Expect the French to be late at least 15-20 minutes. They’re on Mediterranean time, and they don’t care about punctuality as much as we do.

Did I miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

Sending wanderlust vibes! 💋

Featured photo credit: Kristina Makeeva