Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Accommodation
The French prefer t
o
stay in mid-range accommodation. Country house hotels are popular in France, but
a British equivalent must be similar in terms of value for money. B&Bs are popular, but mid-range and
above rather than bud
g
et. Young travellers prefer to opt for youth hostels or university accommodation,
again because price is an issue. In a hotel, they expect a clean bedroom with private bathroom and toilet.
Their own hotel bedrooms tend
to be functional, clean and good value. As in many Latin countries, many
French people are smokers, so
a
designated smoking area is appreciated (subject to the UK non-smoking
regulations).
Food and drink
Food is extremely important to the French. A
l
though they like to change their habits during their holidays
(even when it comes to food), there are some areas where the French will not make concessions. Provide
them with bread during lunch or dinner, and don't take it away until the end of the meal. If they ask for water,
provide a carafe (not glasses) without ice and lemon. Their preferred coffee is expresso (short and strong)
and they like to spend time over their meals. Undoubtedly used to good service and hard to please, they
criticise easily. Be patient, smile and offer explanations and
a
helping hand should a problem arise. Food and
drink quality will always be compared with France.
Case Study Questions
1.
What particular needs do Japanese visitors have in terms of hotel accommodation?
2.
How do Japanese and French visitors differ in their food requirements when in the UK?
3.
What type of UK attractions do French and Japanese visitors like to vis
i
t?
4.
How can staff help to create a welcoming impression with French and Japanese tourists to the
UK?
5.
How do visitors from the two countries
Weblink
Check out this website
to help answer
these questions and for
more information
on VisitBritain's Country M
a
rket Profi les.
www.visitbritain.org
differ in their acceptance of poor
customer service standards?
This case study is designed to provide
evidence for P2.
