8 things you should not do in France and probably do anyway
France: the land of croissants, wine, beautiful villages and, if you’re unlucky, the sigh of a waiter who thinks you’re behaving like a clumsy tourist. Yes, the French take food, drink and their way of life very seriously. And rightly so. So if you don’t want to stand out as “that foreigner,” follow this golden rule: do as the French do. And above all… leave these things well alone.
Things not to do in France: 8 things tourists are better off avoiding
France may well be the most beautiful country to spend your holiday in, but there are habits that you can easily overlook as an outsider. With these tips on things you should not do in France, you’ll be safe, stay in the good graces of your French neighbours and avoid embarrassing moments.
1. Cutting bread and lettuce
In France, the baguette is always placed on the table whole. The idea of cutting it into neat slices? Sacrilège! You tear off a piece by hand, usually to dip into your sauce. And lettuce? You fold it into a bite-sized package with your knife and fork; cutting it is out of the question.
2. Rushing in the supermarket
Just quickly doing some grocery shopping? Not in France. Here, people take their time, even in the supermarket. The cashier will happily chat with every customer. And pay attention: older people, pregnant women and people with disabilities always get priority, even if you only have to pay. Things not to do in France: sigh impatiently or grumble when you’re in that wonderful Grand Frais.
3. Having a quick bite in a restaurant
The French also take plenty of time over their meals and often bring their own knife. A French lunch often consists of three courses, and dinner of five. Small bites, relaxed conversations and a good glass of wine are part of the experience. Back outside within 20 minutes? Forget it. In France, dining is a social activity, not something to do “quickly.”
4. Refilling your own glass
When you say France, you say wine. Ordering a bottle with your meal is a no brainer. In France, it is the waiter who pours. Pouring your own? Impolite. So even if your glass is empty, you wait politely until the waiter refills it for you. Yes, even if you’re thirsty.
5. Getting drunk
The French love wine, but not drunk tourists. Drunkenly loitering in a village or city is the perfect recipe for being seen as an unwelcome foreigner. Drink in moderation and raise a toast with style.
6. Doing everything in English
Many French people appreciate it when you try to speak French, even if it’s just a simple bonjour or merci. So don’t start your conversation directly in English, especially in the countryside. A little effort works wonders for your holiday experience.
7. Forgetting to tip
Although service in restaurants is often already included in the price (‘service compris‘), you should still leave a small tip; some loose change is enough. Walking away without leaving anything is considered stingy by many French people. And so do we.
8. Dressing too casually for elegant occasions
For an elegant restaurant or wine tasting, don’t turn up in your beach shorts and flip-flops. Style is important in France, so dress at least somewhat appropriately for the occasion.
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