Did the 2024 Summer Olympics leave you wanting to get to France, especially Paris, as soon as possible? Americans have had a bit of a love affair with Paris going all the way back to the early days of the United States, ever since Francophile Thomas Jefferson brought home recipes and frequently served French foods and ice cream at the White House. Also, in 1889, World’s Fair in Paris saw the Eiffel Tower unveiled as a dazzling landmark for all the world to see. These events cemented our fascination with the European country.
It’s no surprise to hear someone say Paris is on their solo travel bucket list, but the notion that French people don’t like tourists is just as common. Even though Parisians are often interpreted as rude by Americans, we still flock to the City of Lights every year. On my last visit, I posed this dilemma to my French tour guide Jean Yves. I asked what over-60 travelers can do to make a Paris vacation enjoyable for both tourists and locals.
So, here are some tips for having a magnifique time in Paris, straight from a local (plus a few of my own!).
1. Know Some French Phrases
It’s not realistic to expect every tourist to speak perfect French (if you do, good for you!), but everyone should try their best to use a few key phrases. Make an effort to learn a few basic courtesy words, like these:
- Please—s’il vous plait (pronounced sill voo play)
- Thank you—merci (pronounced mare see)
- Miss, Mrs., Ms.—Madame (Jean Yves suggested using this unless you’re speaking to a young girl)
- Mister—Monsieur (pronounced mi-sure)
Whatever you do, don’t just run up to someone and ask if they speak English. In my experience, this doesn’t go over well. At the very least, say bonjour (hello) before asking if they can help you in English. Jean Yves strongly advised us against ever rushing up to someone and saying, in a very American accent, “Hiiii, do you speak English?” That seems to be especially annoying. So remember, a little effort can go a long way!
2. If You’re a Customer, You’re Not Always Right
The customer is always right in the United States, but this isn’t the case in France, or other European countries, for that matter. In French culture, the customer is certainly not king. Expect to pay for a service, then receive it—period. No extra frills. Being demanding of service workers in Paris won’t get you very far. They are there to provide a service and complete a transaction. They’re not there to chat with you and get all warm fuzzy.
3. Be Extra Polite
No matter which places you visit in Paris, be sure to be as polite as possible. Unfortunately, French people have been approached by too many “ugly Americans” over the years, and some already have a bad impression of folks from the U.S. Do your best to be extra polite, speak French as much as possible, and make interactions as positive as possible.
4. Do as the French Do
You’re in France, so take this opportunity to do as the French do! They have a long-established culture and you’re the guest—embrace the new experience! Just imagine if someone came to your house and refused to respect your house rules. While you likely want your guests to feel welcome, you’d probably be put off by the disrespect. The same principle applies here. Embrace French culture and norms, and you’ll have fewer problems with “rude” Parisians. They’ve been French a lot longer than we’ve been American.
5. Embrace the French Restaurant Culture
Whether you’re spending a weekend in the city or traveling through the countryside in France, we all have to eat! Understand that the restaurant culture in France is a bit different than what we’ve normalized in the United States. The pace is much slower in France, so if you’re in a hurry, don’t go to a sit-down restaurant. But when you have time, go and just relax. Take your time at the restaurant, and savor your conversation as well as the food. You’ll need to ask for the bill and patiently wait for it. Dining is a whole different vibe, but since you’re already in France, why not try it their way? Slooow down!
Make Your Paris Vacation Unforgettable
When I first went to France in 1993, I was put off by the encounters I had with hospitality workers. But when I returned in 2019, this time with my daughter, Liz, who speaks excellent French, it was a totally different experience. I loved it so much that I went back the next year. Take it from me—it pays to be humble and realize you are the visitor, not the main character. Learn some quick French phrases and get ready to embrace the incredible French culture. Hopefully, if more of us visit Paris with an open mind, we can dispel the ugly American image. Bonne chance et bon voyage (good luck and have a great trip)!
Where am I headed next? Find out on Instagram!