France
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in France?
We asked people in France if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"Oh God yes! I once asked a guy about making a local dish. He told me his mother made the best. The next thing I know we're on his little moto going to her house -- where she gives me a cooking lesson, feeds me, and we spend the night learning why the local wine is better. People here are really nice, outgoing, sharing. If you break through the first barriers, you've made it. Another time I asked someone where they got a really nice shirt, the next day I got an all morning shopping tour," remarked another expat who made the move to Pezenas, France.
"It is important to remember not to make sudden physical contact without permission and to maintain a certain level of personal space. Making fun of the French language should also be avoided. Furthermore, dressing too casually and being discourteous or impatient in public can be seen as a sign of disrespect. Refraining from speaking loudly and using offensive language is also critical for avoiding cultural faux pas. Finally, always show politeness and gratitude by greeting people, learning a few local phrases, and using proper etiquette when dining," explained one expat living in France.
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Other Questions:
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- Is there a lot of crime in France?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in France accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in France like?
- Is the cost of living in France high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in France?
- What are healthcare services like in France?
- Is the cost of living in France high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in France?
- What is the weather like in France?
- Are there good restaurants in France?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in France?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in France?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in France?
- What do I need to know when buying property in France?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in France?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in France?
If you live in France, newcomers to France would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
