I visited Paris not too long ago. When I went, I was very aware of the reputation Paris has for being unfriendly. Nevertheless I was super excited to go because I love history and dessert, two things Paris has loads of! And, I had a great time, I loved it. I did find the scam artists much more prevalent but I had no problem with the people or getting around.
However I had some friends who went at about the same time as me and they had a very different experience to me. So that got me thinking about why had I experienced it in a positive way, what did I do differently. Why would they treat me differently.
Whenever I travel anywhere, I always make a point of learning a few phrases here and there in the native language. Just basic things like “Hello, goodbye, thank you.” Just to be polite and respectful. I’ve also learnt how to say ‘exit’ in over 5 languages because I always trying to navigate my way out of a transition or airport! In Paris, I had a bit of an advantage, I did take 9 years of French lessons in school. This by no means indicates that I am fluent.
So whenever possible I did try and speak their language, I think this had a big impact on how I was received. I got very cocky when I could get through a whole conversation without them reverting to english. My travel partner, Daniel, has never learnt french in his life, so this was a struggle for him. So rather than have very broken conversations, he learnt how to say “I speak very little french” Often he would not even get the whole phrase out before the server spoke to us in english. But even in this instance, they were very polite.
I think, just trying to speak their language, they see it as respectful and I can understand why. I don’t know about where you are from, but in Australia, if you don’t speak English, some very racial slurs will come out! So I find it hypocritical for people ( particularly Aussies) who go to Paris and complain they don’t speak english, even though they would do the same thing if they positions were reversed. Its ignorant to expect the whole world to speak your language and you will get a lot more out of travel if you embrace the cultures you are visiting.
Although Language is important, the way you behave and carry your self is important in Paris, not only so they respect you but also to ensure you are not targeted for pick pocketing! Daniel and I were not loud and kept to our selves in public places, Parisians do not care for loud bearish people. They are sophisticated and quiet, so if you want to blend in, this is how you have to act. I think this is why many Americans find the French rude, they tend to naturally speak at a louder volume. So just be considerate of those around you and try to not be the loudest in the room. While traveling on public transport, Dan and I chose not to even speak to each other because we felt that once people hear our accents, we would be targeted.
Lastly, dress. Paris is known for its fashion and the easiest way to be targeted by scam artists is to run around in shorts and t-shirt! I made a point to always wear a dress or night pair of tights with a blouse and Daniel made sure to wear long pants and a nice pullover. Admittedly, we were still targeted by scam artists but overall it made our reception better. I think walking around in Paris in shorts and a t-shirt, is the equivalent of wearing a midriff in Dubai. You can do it, but the locals won’t approve. The benefit of this is that all your holiday snaps look really nice!
