I've learned in my first week of study abroad that more than just an ocean separate Americans from their European peers. Here are some major differences that just scratch the surface. Who do you think has the better approach?
Clothes:
The French, as we all know, are extremely into fashion. This is not the land of norts and large T-shirts. Paris is the fashion mecca and everyone acts accordingly. My sweatshirt is (sadly) not a good way to stay warm; French women would rather freeze, it seems.
Volume:
The rest of the world sees Americans as obnoxious. Now, I totally understand why. Americans travel in packs and all talk at the same time. The French travel in pairs and whisper. In line at a museum, I was struck at how quiet the whole ordeal was. In the U.S., there probably would have been a mob. I'm a loud laugher, and I have to do the silent shoulder shake in restaurants to avoid stares. Big groups are occasionally seen close to college campuses, but in most of Paris, our large group might as well all have matching American flag shirts.
PDA:
I used to think Americans (especially drunk ones) stretched the limits of PDA. Oh, how wrong I was. It is totally normal to lay with your significant other in the park and makeout. You can even do it on the subway, if the mood strikes you. French couples are always touching in some form. It's endearing, but also a little odd. The City of Love lives up to its name.
Food:
The food. God, the food. The French take health seriously, and their food is extremely fresh and well-cooked without copious amounts of grease. I'm sorely beginning to miss a cheap burrito or burger, but my stomach is thanking me for all the *real* food I'm giving it. Fast food is looked down upon, and Starbucks isn't a must for people heading to work all over the city. Everything in America is supersized; in France, I haven't been able to find a cup of coffee that doesn't take me six seconds to drink.
Alcohol:
Perhaps the biggest difference is the approach to alcohol. 18 is the magic number here, but no one is being carded. Ever. However, the French are not binge drinkers; most places raise an eyebrow when you order that second bottle of wine. Liquor is extremely expensive, and a glass of beer or wine is almost the same price as a soda. Bars are not so much a part of the culture; "happy hour" may end the night at some places.
I'm loving France. However, nothing beats a good greasy burger and a good night out on the town with your closest friends. 'Merica.
