After living in France for two weeks, I’m certainly not an expert, but here are some things I noticed that are much different than back home.
Public transportation is efficient.
You mean I don’t have to wait 20 minutes for a train?
Grocery stores have a lot of fresh produce, but few snacks.
Only five cereal selections, what is this???
The few snacks they do have are flavored very differently.
Horseradish flavored Lay’s? Hard pass.
Bathrooms aren’t readily available.
French people must never have to go because it’s impossible to find a restroom.
When you find a bathroom, it’s less than desirable.
This is a hole in the ground...
Eye Contact and smiling at strangers is a big no-no.
*accidentally makes eye-contact* Please don’t kill me, sir.
People talk very softly in public places.
It’s only tourists who shout across the room to their friends.
You have to sit down to drink coffee.
At local cafés they would think you’re crazy if you ask for a coffee to go.
Waiting tables is a very serious profession.
Maybe the reason your server is snobby is because he is highly trained and doesn’t appreciate you calling him “garçon”.
Fashion is much more “au natural”.
Don’t want to brush your hair or wear a bra? Move to Europe!
That said, people usually look very chic and put together.
Sorry, no yoga pants allowed.
Overall, the people are nice, the food is good, and the cities a beautiful. Yes, life is different across the pond, but also keep in mind that these are generalizations. They don’t apply to everyone. In fact, most of the stereotypes I heard before coming proved to be false. I'm trying to embrace the differences, but sometimes I have to draw the line at going to the bathroom in a hole.
