First-time visitors to Paris, don't be surprised by these everyday French habits

Planning a trip to France? 🇫🇷 After living in Paris for more than 37 years, I've noticed that some everyday French habits continue to surprise visitors from around the world. From saying "Bonjour" before asking a question, to never receiving the bill until you ask for it, to the French relationship with tipping, meal times and restaurant etiquette, this video explains 16 cultural habits that often catch visitors off guard. The goal isn't to say that the French way is better or worse — simply different. And once you understand the logic behind these habits, France suddenly becomes much easier to understand. Whether you're visiting Paris for the first time or you've already been here several times, I hope this video helps you enjoy your trip a little more like a local. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:05 1. Bonjour Comes Before Everything 01:59 2. French People Don't Do Much Small Talk 03:16 3. Shop Assistants Leave You Alone 03:48 4. French People Smile Less at Strangers 04:21 5. Money and Religion Are Private Matters 05:04 6. Complaining Is Almost a National Sport 05:42 7. Shops Close At Surprising Times 06:23 8. Lunch and Dinner Have Fixed Hours 07:14 9. French People Don't Snack All Day 07:45 10. French Children Often Eat the Same Food as Adults 08:52 11. French People Eat Food the Way the Chef Prepared it 09:38 12. Nobody Brings the Bill Until You Ask 10:33 13. French People Can Sit for Hours at a Restaurant 11:50 14. Tipping Is Appreciated but Not Obligatory 12:56 15. No Free Refills 13:37 16. French People Use a Lot Less Ice 14:31 Conclusion