Useful French-isms: Cultural Tips and Being Understood When Learning French
So you're going on holiday to France, you've got your basics and you know how to order a glass of wine... but how can you get past the awkwardness? Read on to eliminate those blank looks, be understood, and feel like you've nailed it - holidays to France have never been more successful! 1. Manners in French In France, be assertive but maintain formality and be considerate . French people don't seem to apologise for things for no reason the way we British do, and quite rightly so. If you're asking for a karafe of water, don't apologise or thank them profusely - it's their job and all you need to do is ask (politely). You don't need to return the favour by helping them move house or anything. Always use please (s'il vous plait) and thankyou (merci) and make sure you mean them. Don't overuse them (as we tend to do in Britian), or let them lose their meaning. 2. 'Bonjour' This is no...