Of course customs and etiquette may vary from one country to another
and it is extremely important to think about it when abroad. This
lack of concern by Americans is the exact reason we are looked down upon
in some places, because too many people do not respect other people's customs
and offend people without even knowing it. Below are a few simple
tips to keep in mind when in Paris specifically, but should be in the forefront
of anyone's mind all the time.
Greeting someone in Paris
As in most countries, hand shaking is considered a standard greeting
even if you are meeting with somebody you are already acquainted with.
It is not customary to use christian names unless you yourself have already
been addressed in this way. When you first address someone, either
attempt to speak in French and do your best (offen times the French person
will start speaking English) or immediately ask them, in French, if they
could speak English to you.
Tipping advice
Service charge is generally included on all restaurant bills at around
15 %, but adding a little extra onto this amount is normal if you were
happy with the service. You do not need to tip the waiter/waitress as you
might in the States. Taxi drivers also expect small tips. Porters,
doormen and room service will expect a small tip for their services, of
approximately 10-20 FRF depending upon the number of bags, and theatre
and cinema ushers should receive 5-10 francs.
Paris dress code
Casual clothing but classy and attractive is typical. Some restuarants
and hotels may require a jacket and tie or more formal attire. Most
Parisians do not wear shorts, even in the heat of the summer. Pants,
usually jeans, are worn as casual attire in the daytime. Personally,
I cannot wear pants in 80-degree heat no matter what, so I give in and
wear shorts, even though it immediately identifies myself as a tourist.
Smoking
Smoking, although more widely accepted in France than in many other
European countries, has recently become an issue. Expect to find no-smoking
signs in many public places, although most cafés and restaurants
will allow smoking in at least part of their premises. If you are a non-smoker,
you may find this difficult, as smoking is so common in France. |