How can I be a polite tourist in France?

You'll earn respect from the French if you know a few key phrases. When entering and exiting a business, it is polite to say bonjour, merci and au revoir rather than speaking in English. Saying ca va? (an informal how are you? and I'm okay) will really earn you brownie points among your French friends!



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14 Rules You Should Follow in France so the Locals Don't Hate You
  1. Don't take “non!” for an answer. ...
  2. Don't freak out if someone cuts you in line. ...
  3. Don't expect speedy service. ...
  4. A formal, polite greeting goes a long way. ...
  5. Just don't quote “Lady Marmalade” ...
  6. If you're speaking English, take it slow.


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In France, it's considered rude not to say hello every time you enter a shop or when you first begin a conversation with a local. Brush up on these ten French words or phrases that'll get you beyond bonjour.

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A dead giveaway for a tourist is speaking with a loud voice. French people tend to be quieter than most Europeans, so keep that in mind when you are out and about. Use your indoor voice that you would have in a museum, and you're good to go!

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Our advice? Skip the baseball caps, white socks, sneakers, large colorful backpacks, and fanny packs. Instead, opt for dark skinny jeans, plain shirts without logos, and leather shoes. Use tote bags or earth-toned simplistic bags if you really want to dress in France to fit in with the locals.

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Namely, a responsible traveler will always try to adapt and behave according to local customs, culture, and tradition. You are not there to change the locals, but rather to embrace their way of thinking for a little while and understand what makes their country so special and unique.

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Yes, Paris is generally friendly to American tourists. But French culture is very different from American culture so it's best to be aware and respectful of the local customs.

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Here are the few places you may want to avoid during your stay: Northern 18th and 19th district at night, around Marx Dormoy, Porte de la Chapelle, La Chapelle, Porte de Clignancourt, Porte de la Villette. Montmarte is very safe day and night.

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How To Not Be An Obnoxious American
  1. Be quiet on public transportation. ...
  2. One more time, BE QUIET. ...
  3. Traveling in groups is safe. ...
  4. Don't wear a backpack. ...
  5. Embrace the culinary culture of your host country and the countries you visit. ...
  6. Adapt to fashion trends. ...
  7. Dress for the climate of your host country.


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