Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
judgement. “Oh, do you think so?” asked honestly, is your
best response. Don't deny a compliment. Assume it is
given in sincerity and accept it with sincerity.
Do watch carefully, in conversation, for signs of boredom,
or the desire of your listener to speak. Be ready to
relinquish the floor, or change topics, at any time.
Do expect serious and heated discussions in business
meetings and dinner conversations, but don't take
criticism and differing opinions personally.
Do remember things work from the top down in French
bureaucracy and be patient while a solution is found to
your problem.
Do learn as much French as possible before you arrive,
and use it, even if you are not sure of your pronunciation,
grammar and vocabulary. Everyone will appreciate it and
help you along... even though they may wince a bit.
DON'TS
Don't respond to comments or solicitations from strangers
on the street, including 'the look' (direct eye contact with
you), unless they are asking for your help.
Don't make eye contact with strangers you don't want to
engage in conversation.
Don't walk down the street smiling at everything, if you
can help it. You will be immediately tagged as someone
feeble-minded, or worse: a tourist. But there is plenty in
Paris to smile about.
Don't strike up conversations with strangers of the
opposite sex, unless it is to give or get directions, or you
are interested in getting to know them.
Don't use first names unless the person also knows and
uses your first name and is your age or younger. If they
are your senior in age, use their family name until they
ask you to use their first name.
Don't ask about a person's family or salary or age unless
you have already established a friendship or they have
already asked you the same question.
Don't ask a stranger what he does for a living as an ice-
breaker. It is generally better to discuss food than money.
 
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