You Think You Know French, But You Probably Don’t
Learning French might seem straightforward, especially if you had years of formal education like myself. However, real-world communication can be quite different. At a bustling boulangerie, rapid-fire exchanges of questions can make your flawless grammar feel irrelevant.
Phrases are often clipped, and subtext is easily missed. Full sentences can get lost in translation. In this expat-friendly community, the majority of people typically switch to English when they detect hesitation. I’ve become more confident about asking them to continue in French for practice, but the response varies depending on the individual. Remember, they’re not your teachers, though showing effort makes them warmer toward you.
Manners Are a HUGE Deal, Until They Aren’t
Getting an icy reception can often be attributed to breaking social norms in France. Most visitors already know that greeting someone with “Bonjour” and saying “Merci, au revoir” before leaving any establishment is customary. Addressing strangers as “Monsieur” or “Madame” is also expected.
We’ve encountered a few exceptions, though. The stereotype about the French not picking up after their dogs holds true. As the responsible dog owners we are, this is frustrating. We’ve seen some residents who actively offer bags to those who forget this final step, but those forgetting this task are more common here than in other places we’ve lived.
They Eat So Much More Bread Than You Think
It’s rare to see a day pass without spotting people walking with at least one baguette. We often joke about the type of day they’re having if they’re clutching more than two. Eating bread on the go is considered acceptable, which might surprise some visitors.
Kids are in on the fun, too. Usually, an after-school treat is a brioche slathered in Nutella or one of the many delicious pastries available throughout the country. Access to the best bread at affordable prices is a part of French life that we’ll miss when we return home.
The French Love to Walk
Walking isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s a way to simply move and clear the mind. Living in France, where the food is known for being indulgent, this makes perfect sense.
Sometimes, their walks are purpose-driven, heads held high. Other times, they’re wandering around in forests collecting chestnuts or mushrooms. And often, they’re walking simply to walk. It’s a strikingly mindful activity for them, one in which they seem effortlessly at peace. We’ve tried to adopt this practice ourselves, but the mindfulness comes naturally to them.