French culture vs. German stereotypes since I moved to France... *culture shock*

[@vaiachatzi4566]

I am Greek living in the Netherlands the last 10 years and I can relate with all mentioned aspects. Regarding food: I remember taking food at work cooked by my mum (stuffed tomatoes & peppers) and once I opened my lunchbox my manager and colleagues were (positively)amazed 😆, it seemed so special to them who were just having a very basic sandwich every day. Another aspect I would like to point out is the family patterns- in NL people are more independent but also not having that strong family bonds while in Greece it is the opposite, stronger bonds, feeling more close and “warm” but in the same time it is very common to see parents who tend to interfere more in their child’s decisions and choices, so boundaries tend to lack sometimes. I think every culture has a lot to learn from another one and definitely living abroad or traveling helps enormously to that!

[@athomeinRwanda]

I was once part of an international group conference in NL and we all complained vociferously about the lunches offered to us: what was a normal lunch to them, was simply unacceptable to the rest of us (from several different countries). I'm not surprised that you colleagues were amazed.

[@eaglenoimoto]

The Dutch obsession that they need to have a cheese sandwich as a meal at least once a day, if not twice, is always so weird (and kinda sad) to me. And I’m German + grew up a mile from the Dutch border. It’s been quite exhausting travelling in Asia with Dutch friends, they were always like junkies looking for bread and cheese 😂

[@ApricusInaros]

In Switzerland we have it like in NL. More indepedent and less close to the family. I appreciate the fact to have been raised learning to be independent, but now as I'm getting older, I would like to have a big family with a strong bond, no matter if they talk too much or wanna have their hands in my life.

[@isabelleweiler5603]

@@eaglenoimoto I find that sad too. What's even the point of travelling if you want to find abroad what you have at home? When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

[@lisac6139]

@@athomeinRwanda I am Dutch and fed up with the cheese sandwiches and the short lunch breaks. I think a hot meal in the afternoon would be much better ;-)

[@janelangley3287]

I'm a nurse in the US and completely agree with living your life fully everyday and not waiting for retirement. Throughput my career I have taken care of so many patients who have waited to retire only to suffer from devastating illness. Keep up the great posts!

[@valelliott2106]

Can you do both, save/ invest and enjoy the now? I think you are doing that. An investment in your future growing business and enjoying life through travel, friends and of course food.

[@marthahawkinson-michau9611]

My husband’s parents pushed themselves incredibly hard during their working lives, and they had a long bucket list of things that they wanted to do with their time when they retired. Now, while they were both able to retire early because of the time they had put in, they were also both forced to retire before they really wanted to because their bodies were wearing out. They didn’t get to enjoy their retirement years because they were broken physically. Their disabilities caught up with them and they didn’t get to do the things they had put on their dream list.

[@Diana02400]

Then you have the opposite: I know a woman who spent spent spent as her heart pleased, and now is living with her daughter limited on what she spends her money on etc., little freedom, and constantly stressed about money. Due to he health she cannot work. She’s 80

[@dr.christopherjohnson1406]

@@Diana02400 Hello Diana

[@dr.christopherjohnson1406]

@@Diana02400 How are you doing?

[@ChocolateJewels]

"The little Frenchies are wearing socks and sandals. What's happened while I wasn't here?" OMG, LOL so hard. This was funny. I've liked your videos and down-to-earth approach for years now, and still do. It's fun to see the changes over the years.

[@Sarah1212mm]

while in Europe i could always spot the Germans with their socks in sandals!! 😂 however now my youngest son wears socks and sandals (we live in Canada) and even my husband who is Italian started that. Yes style is changing apparently! 😉

[@isabelleweiler5603]

@@Sarah1212mm Oh, my god, even Italians!😱 This is bad! I hope it doesn't come to that in Italy!

[@pizdamatii5001]

@@isabelleweiler5603 didn't the romans wear socks with sandals :p there is archaeological evidence that the roman legionaries wore 'udones' (socks) with their 'caligae' (sandals) in cold climates (eg. britain, germany)

[@susan8823]

I remember my German track coach would wear socks and sandals if he wasn’t running 🤷🏻‍♀️Back in the 70s😂Now everyone is doing it. From San Diego

[@memechacha143]

😂😂😂

[@amandabecker642]

I live in Wisconsin which was mostly settled by German immigrants. Most of my ancestors were German, too, and I see every German characteristic that you described right here in my own local culture. Expectations of punctuality and practicality; emphasis on comfort, cars, and cohesive living spaces; obsession over retirement funds: de-emphasis on food and fashion. Amazing, now that I come to think about it. I really love hearing about how other countries live differently. It helps me avoid thinking that my way is “the only way” to live happily. That’s a trap that can lead to all kinds of ugliness. Thank you, Justine!

[@JessieBenson93]

I lived in Germany for a while and I noticed that German people are very outdoorsy (in a different way to the 'outdoor living' you describe for France)... in that, they're happy to spend way more than I usually would (as a Brit) on outdoor gear, appropriate outdoor clothes for every different kind of sport and season and they really appreciate a good hike, like getting out to the lakes, woods and mountains is a real holiday favourite. I lived in Bavaria though, so it's quite a different culture to Berlin for sure. Great video! x

[@yuzan3607]

Exactly. This reminds me of one of my German friends who would cheap out of eating a proper meal for lunch (to only bread!!!) But then will happily spend hundreds for hiking gear that they'll only use like twice a year. This used to really confuse me lol.

[@sabines.4271]

I am German and I really have to laugh several times, because you described our chracteristics so well. One important point: German men love to go to the hardware store. They don't spend money on craftsmen, but want to do everything by themselves

[@DM-nw5lu]

I remember helping my stepdad putting down tiles in the basement, covering the walls with wood, renovating my childhood room (including shaving down and fixing up my wooden floors and fixing all my walls) haha. Only time we ever got handymen was to replace a huge window after it was destroyed by a hail storm.

[@wonderwoman_11]

I agree! But it’s not only for men - also women like me learn that habit from childhood and do everything by myself. Recently I proposed my mum (80 years old) to get a craftsman for something we needed. Her answer: “We can go to a hardware house and di it by ourself. It’s cheaper!”😅 She is gorgeous!🥳

[@maryokeefe5351]

True here in Canada as well!

[@jangreig6206]

It's like that in Australia too. If your husband or partner is a handy man, it can be very frustrating.

[@mariadej.torresdelatorre1345]

I'm a Mexican 67 years old woman and like to paint walls of my home, fix things like plummer work or wood furniture because I want to save money and stay busy. I would be German. 😁😅

[@caroleangel9287]

Our Daughter in Law is French, from St Etienne, and I am always amazed at her absolute love of food. Planning, preparation, eating and discussing food. I have never know anyone that adores food the way she does. I love that she loves it so much….

[@seelenwinter6662]

but bought the food in germany like all french at the border to germany... every weekend the park spaces from aldi, lidl, rewe and co are full with big suv`from france, luxembourg or gelgium... and they put as much as possible in their car...

[@hardshell9236]

@@seelenwinter6662 I’ve heard Swiss also do it😂

[@fablb9006]

For us food is not just a biological necessity, it is a major pleasure of life

[@sulalee7413]

No, Justine, I didn't think for a moment that you were biased in favour of France. I was thinking, "How objective she is in her assessments"! I enjoyed your video very much, it was fun to hear of the differences. Being English I can say: the English are an odd mix of Aldi/Lidl standards for meat yet expect French fine dining with only basic cooking skills! Have a great day! :)

[@leadoucet1432]

That reminds me of a flight back from Paris to Montréal a few years back on Air France. The lady next to me recounted her only time on BA, shuddering at the mention of the food offered. I still laugh about it.

[@sulalee7413]

@@leadoucet1432 Must have been some years back, as the food is now excellent, I hear. This is due to the high quality French chefs they now hire. ;)

[@sarahheri7027]

yes, i was thinking that, too, and i am german :D

[@leadoucet1432]

@@sulalee7413 yes, it was a few years ago, maybe 10? Glad to hear they've upped their game lol I have nothing bad to say about BA but my flight was a short hop between London and Rome 5 years ago.

[@patriciasauermann3805]

@@sulalee7413 🤣

[@Tabatha437]

I looooove this video. It was so fun to see a French person seeing their own country from an outsider’s point of view. It was also fun learning about the differences in culture in both countries. ❤️ I would love to see a video like this about your time in Chile.

[@0deline_fi0n]

As a French who also lived in Germany, I loved the lack of pressure about appearance there. I feel that French people are a lot more judgmental about how you dress. As a student in France, I started to carry all of my university stuff in a giant handbag, because all the girls were doing so. Whereas in Germany, girls have a backpack, because it's waaaay more convenient !

[@nevine87]

In France there is social pressure about Everything ! Nothing like that in North America..live and let live

[@dagmarvandoren9364]

And uglier....they are Americanized....viva la France. Und ich bin deutsch

[@renchui9436]

I think the most popular German products, which Chinese would like to invest, is not the cars but the cooking sets. I once thought,if German people can make such nice knifes, they should also be very professional at cooking…. Until I later came in Germany….

[@frectiedmenthos1]

@@renchui9436 german food is tasty, but it deppends on the region. In villages in the southern half there's the best german food in my opinion.

[@tamerebel]

*vive

[@TheEmyCap]

Dear Justine, as italian i really enjoy this video. France and Germany are both great, wonderful countries but each with its own caracteristcs. That's why makes travelling through Europe so funny and interesting. All the best! Emanuela

[@maureenrhysjones4643]

You're SO right!

[@simona_ab]

Food=the same in Italy! We spend hours cooking, eating, and once we eat, we talk about what we ate, and plan what are we going to eat at the next meal! And what can we say about the quality! 🤤🤤🤤. Btw, wellcome to Italy for vacation ❤🤗⚘

[@graziaorlandini6796]

Wanted to write exactly the same 😂

[@lilac951]

That is so boring. Do you read or have any hobbies?

[@graziaorlandini6796]

@@lilac951 better: I’ve been living in Germany for many years now (Freiburg 18 and berlin almost 10) 😂

[@wingmorgan6674]

Chinese are exactly the same!! That's probably why our countries have amazing foods :-D

[@claudiacatoni8152]

I can confirm, that's wy Italian food is special. But please don't cross the street if the signal is red or even jallow!!

[@_elfifle_]

As a 34 year-old Dutchie I've been living in Barcelona, Spain for over a decade. I so recognize all your points! In my case, I had to get used to the southern culture and habits. For example, waiting for someone I meet for over 10 minutes made me a bit nervous and angry, which is pretty much the only typical nordic thing I kept. Also being self-employed, no retirement plan for me because of the same reasons as you. I learned to live more in the moment instead of making future plans, being more flexible with myself and others and life in general, which has made me a less stressful and more mindful person. When I go back to The Netherlands now and then, it feels like my roots and at the same time those differences are so clear. I'm always glad to see my family and friends, the surroundings and nature, and then happy to go back to Spain ;-)

[@nicholas4453]

Years ago I drove through Germany and France. The firewood was piled so perfectly in Germany and going into France the wood piles were not! I thought that was telling! Love both places and they are different!

[@martinamarialauermacintyre3881]

When I go back to Germany, I feel like a Canadian. In Canada, I am still very German. You put your observations into context, like climate, traditions etc. and that makes this video so valid. More than twenty years ago, Canadians often annoyed and shocked me. Now I understand how much the wether and geography influence our daily lives. Great video!

[@SchlichteToven]

How did Canadians annoy and shock you???

[@barbaralachance5836]

​@@SchlichteToven yeah I'm curious 😂

[@YamIa3gypsy]

I will offer an “American” perspective: my husband’s family has a German/English background and I have a French/Hungarian background. While we have these roots at the same time we often don’t have any connection to them. Example, I am big on food, quality, presentation, complimentary dishes enjoying and savoring separately and I love to sit and chat for awhile after I eat. My husband on the other hand piles huge portions on his one (large serving), mixes dishes together on his plate and in his mouth and then eats it all in a flash and excuses himself from the table…now I know why and after 40 years of this I laughed so hard I almost fell off the couch!!! Thanks (merci) Justine! 🌸

[@hollyholstein6758]

Yes, same. His ancestry is Holstein, Germany. It explains so much!

[@dr.christopherjohnson1406]

👋 i hope you’re safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity love and peace ❤ 🕊🕊 all over the world 🙏🌍 I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson originally from California 🌟🌟🌟🌟 and you where are you from if I may asked?💭💭

[@simonestreeter1518]

@@dr.christopherjohnson1406 1)you're clearly not from the US at all. 2) you come off like a creep.

[@ronjakh]

I live in Norway and we have a similar relationship to our homes as the Germans do. We spend a lot of time nesting and making our indoor spaces cosy because we only have three months of somewhat warm temperatures. My home is my sanctuary and it reflects who I am 🙂

[@patriciasauermann3805]

I feel the same. All the more since the world has gone mad.

[@canukmrsben]

@R: Here in Canada we are the same as have similar seasons as that in Germany.

[@caroleh1522]

I feel the same, living in Scotland. I have spent years getting my garden looking good for spending time outside in the summer, and by August each year I ask myself Why? We spend most of our time indoors because of the weather, sadly.

[@franceshanna3724]

I love this about Northern European countries and find their interior design inspiring, while on the other hand I love the French sense of fashion.

[@RenateWaas]

@@caroleh1522 but you probably look at your garden from inside a lot - so it´s nice to have a lovely view

[@gloalmendras9748]

Would you ever make a video talking about where you lived and what you did while in Chile and New York? It would be fun to look at one single issue from the 4 different perspectives you have 🙂

[@ClassicalConcertHall]

As a New Yorker, when I was in my 20s and 30s, it never would have entered my mind to go to and from the gym in my workout clothes. My parents would have questioned their parenting skills if they knew when in college I went off-campus wearing jeans and sneakers! But mores/conventions have changed over the decades. Now I’m in Chicago; the Midwest dress code, if there even was one, is very relaxed. But I too will never get used to socks with sandals. And we do obsess about food in the Midwest, much more so than in NY. Even food at the airports is good!

[@Off_the_clock_astrophysicist]

I have a colleague (American) who did his postdoc in Austria. One Saturday night he was out with colleagues very late. The traffic was non-existent. They came to a red light and his colleagues dutifully stopped. He asked why they were not crossing, considering the complete absence of cars. One colleague said that it would set a bad example if a child saw them. My colleague did not say it, but thought "If a child is out at this time, they need a lot more help than our good example". I found the story funny and his thinking not without merit, but I understand his Austrian colleagues. If one starts to turn the "setting a good example" on and off, then it may be off when it should be on. It's like turning signals on a car. Regardless of whether there are cars behind, they need to be used.

[@Darkrose42]

What you're saying is very true for the daytime in Austria. And I have heard this a million times, to set a good record for children. But at night usually no one cares. I rarely see people stop at a red light at night. They only do so if they're chatting or if they're lazy.

[@mariaathans2865]

I am a Greek living in Germany, I was raised in Greece where as a kid I watched people crossing with red light, my parents crossing with me the red light and I still learned very well when and how I should cross a street as a pedestrian, I just have to use my brain.

[@miajay507]

​@@mariaathans2865kids do not have the cognitive abilities yet to estimate how close and how fast a car is. That's why they should learn to stop at a red traffic light. Since I have my daughter, I only walk when the lights are green, even when only adults are around. I don't think about it, it's a habit. And automatisms like that make your daily life easier.

[@uweinhamburg]

I am German and i can relate. I do cross streets with a red light, if the situation is clear and safe. But i simply cannot do it without checking first if there are any kids close to me who might think that elderly grownups can be a role model.

[@rumpelstielzchen6359]

"Being on time" in Germany actually depends on the situation. For a business meeting you should be present and prepared a couple of minutes before the meeting begins. When you are meeting friends in a casual situation outside their house/appartement: you can be a couple of minutes late. But if you visit someone at their home, it is really very good manners to be 5 to 10 minute late! The hostess/host has been preparing her/his home and the meal. Give them a bit of time to relax before the guests arrive. But at latest you should arrive 10 minutes after the agreed upon time. Being later than that ist really, really bad manners!

[@sonjagatto9981]

I agree with you Rumpel Stielzchen. Ach wie schoen, dass niemand weiss.... Hi from Canada in mein Heimatland...I love Germany and France and miss that Lifestyle. Canada is a complete different story 😒🌍🌳♥ 🥐☕

[@stefaniac2095]

I soooo agree, I am Italian and I was very atypically raised by my parents to be early so I can be ready when a meeting is scheduled. Of course I grew up waiting for people , and even now that I live in America I am always waiting. Nobody has respect for people’s time anymore.

[@hildaelson4203]

I once went on a date with a German and I was running late, so I ran the last 500 yards just to try to be on time. I don’t normally do that with guys from other countries, but I began to imagine him saying ‘do you want to go to the Stasis?’ Or something like that. Whereas Italians 😂

[@adabekee4964]

Am I wrong for pronouncing your name as Rumpelstiltskin?

[@Stettafire]

This is very interesting to me as a Brit. Here if you say you are to be at a friend's house at 11, and you arrive at 11:10 no one would say anything but it would be considered inconsiderate to leave people waiting for you. For work and formal occasions, being late is a terrible thing. It affects how people think of you. As reliable and dependable or as lazy and unreliable.

[@luciemedici]

I’m a stickler for punctuality 😀 Being on time shows respect for my time and that of others

[@purpurina5663]

Me too. I used to always be late, trying to cram as much as possible into every minute. Germany taught me to be responsible for my time (no excuses for tardiness!). On top of the tranquility of being on time, you learn to plan with leeway for unexpected delays, which means you go around much less stressed.

[@dianemunson9698]

I agree as an individual who worked by appt as well as welcoming “walk-ins” professionals if doing a stellar job at their trade often can run behind schedule it is very stressful for us because we try to put ourselves in our clients shoes but we do need their understanding & patience that when we get to them we will not rush their time either🤗🙏🏻🤩😍👏🏻

[@carochan86]

I just don't want to be the person who is pointed at as the last person to arrive that everyone is waiting on.

[@globescience1728]

Im from Czech Republic, we are closer to German than to French culture, also we tend to be closest to German/Austrian habits from all Slavonic countries. I realized that when I was studying one year in France, not only the food culture, but also humour is different, sometimes the french were using so much irony and sarcasm that I didn't understand if they are being for real, on the other hand we tend to have more dark and "dry" humour and we make a lot of fun from each other, what made my french friends speechless sometimes 😁 but I have to tell you, I really appreciate how the life almost "stops" in France, that you take time to do things and the others are not upset that you seem to enjoy yourself more than giving that workoholic vibe impression if you know what I mean. Once I came back home from France, I felt again very stressed and also criticised a lot for being bit slow than others, the criticism is really huge thing in our culture and I personally hate it and the impact for human being and life rythm. Also, I learnt that not everything have to be on time, like in France you have many Grèves and stuff, at the beginning I didn't like it cause I had to be somewhere or catch another car/bus/train, but to my surprise it always worked somehow and I got everywhere without many problems and people were nice and patient, that's great 😊

[@emsmomma4606]

Hello Justine! I’m from the US, more specifically, the Midwest (WI) where many people that live up here are of either Scandinavian or German descent. For me, I’m both and when you explained the differences with the French vs. German, I can honestly say that I can relate to the German side. Even though I’m an American, the points you brought up is how my family is. Lol. Punctuality, precision, directness in communication, and cars…I’m 52 and I still remember how my Dad stressed not being late. Don’t even get me started with my grandparents, lol. I had to chuckle when you mentioned cars and right away I thought of my 22 yrs old daughter when she bought her first car, a brand new Volkswagen. Personally, I wouldn’t be caught dead in a pair of sandals with socks, but then my 22 yo does wear that occasionally. I just shake my head and let her two older sisters deal with that issue, lol. I did live in Germany for a year and felt that I never left home, however, I did travel to France and felt more relaxed there…people were more easy going, much like how you described here in your video. Thank you for sharing 🥰

[@Saba15-t9d]

What is wrong wearing sandals with socks? 🤔I am a Norwegian by the way.

[@cristinamao9309]

After spending over 10 years in the US, my dinner time duration has gone from a Chinese typical 1 hour or more to less than 20 mins. But even in that 20 minutes, my American husband loves to talk about subjects that require full attention or high brain functioning (e.g. math or physics theories) when all I want to think about while eating is the delicious food in my plate.

[@virginiadavidson7862]

My American husband is half German and a quarter Scot, by ancestry. He, too, loves to talk at meals about math and physics and history and philosophy and politics and religion, *and* doesn't really taste his food. So if there's one peach that is perfect and the other is not quite, I will take the perfect one for myself and not feel selfish at all--because not only would he not taste the difference, he truly wouldn't care. Oh--and my mother's people were French. I'm fascinated by what comes through the genes!

[@dr.christopherjohnson1406]

@@virginiadavidson7862 Hello 👋

[@DAKESIS17]

he needs to get a grip, and probably lose some weight, right?:)

[@mirunapopescu]

I think you'd like The Financial Diet, Justine. They're all about living your life while also being responsible for your retirement (since statistically, you'll most likely live to be that age and it's no fun having no money when you're old, sick, and unable to work). Ik they're American, but a lot of the principles stand here in Europe too

[@alphabo1]

The bit about food made me very happy. In a world where our bodies don't even know what kind of substance enters through our mouths, hearing that French people pay attention instead was like a bit of fresh air, and it also explains why French people are definitely healthy compared to other Western people. I enjoy your videos very much. Thanks Justine

[@janeburkhart4051]

This was so interesting and fun. I would love to live in France! As a 62 year old American, I have to agree with the Germans on planning for retirement and old age. Nursing homes, memory care facilities, rehab facilities are all so expensive and it's an eventuality we all have to think about. My mother is in a memory care facility so my perspective comes from a place of truth.

[@carlinetorweihe4246]

Germans don't have to plan health care. It is automatic and mandatory. No health insurance, no residence permit for example. This is no comparison to the US where most everyone is left on their own for health insurance. Germans plan most everything. Just going to the supermarkt on the spur of the moment is "no go." Spending hours in the store is not a pasttime. Not condoning the thrift but first " die Pflicht" dann "die Kür". Grüße an Dich, Justine!

[@littleblackpistol]

Very few people's pensions will cover nursing homes. Maybe the tope earners who paid into private plans, but your average person? It's a joke. Nursing home care will drain any savings very quickly and then you need to sell your house and that will get eaten up quickly. Honestly, I'd rather die a bit early than live pointlessly for an extra decade, with some of it spent in a care warehouse. I don't think our civilization's apparent goal of extending life beyond our ability to care for ourselves or enjoy life properly is actually very admirable or worthwhile.

[@charlottehruska9955]

@@littleblackpistol This is a very hard statement, because there are a lot of young people too who cannot live without care. It is like you say those lives do not mather. Every life should mather just because you are born you have a right to live.

[@fuzzycatbutts]

@@littleblackpistol I strongly disagree. My grandmother lives in an assisted living community that is payed for by her health insurance, and she has a vibrant life. She goes to dances, museums, plays, and restaurants on trips organized by her facility. I know there are some "warehouse" facilities, but you appear to have a very outdated and generalized understanding of what assisted living facilities are. And if you retire with health insurance, a lot of the costs can be covered. Edit: And she was a tenured high school teacher, hardly a "top earner."

[@leslie4551]

Thank you! Coming here, also 62 years old, with aging parents in their 80s, and you definitely need to think ahead and save.

[@Mynervas]

I'm Dutch, and our culture is very similar to the German culture, I recognised myself in most of your German observations (and cringed at your retirement plans but I get your point). I've been to both France and Germany many many times, and I think you're spot on! I do think you can now apply the best of both worlds though: German efficiency with French laidback-ness, a French house that is cosy and well put together both inside and out!

[@ellekirk7369]

I was in Florence in May and the biggest change in fashion (my opinion) was beautifully dressed women from 16-96 were wearing tennis/sneakers all times of the day and evening. They looked great and their face was void of the pain of high heels and pinching shoes. Nice video.

[@juliabazanska]

Regarding French cars: Grand Tour did a whole episode on how French people treat their cars, it's called "Carnage a trois" and it is imho the best episode they've ever made, highly recommend! Also in terms of general life planning, Germans have insurance for *everything*. When a friend's kid broke our TV it was fine because they were insured. When I drove into a column it was fine because I was insured. You buy additional dental insurance on top of the dental plan already included in your medical insurance because it covers more. You break a leg your way to work - your work insurance covers that. Coming from Poland where insurance is (pretty much) only bought if legally required - it's crazy! (But of course I have Zahnzusatzversicherung...)

[@ColleenJoudrey]

That Grand Tour special was excellent!

[@MelissaClaasen]

I'm a South African living in Germany, and can confirm that insurance observation. In South Africa, many people don't have any insurance because of the poverty level, people don't own much and don't insure things. The wealthier people have insurance for house and car, and medical insurance, but that's it.

[@MelissaClaasen]

And I've seen that Grand Tour episode. It was brilliant. I cried laughing.

[@Neenerella333]

@@MelissaClaasen In the US, we are required to have liability insurance for the privilege of owning a car. Of course there is replacement cost(which is lower than you expect)but also if you hurt or kill someone. I was hit by an 18 year old, who was supposedly still on his mother's insurance. Turned out, his license was revoked AND his mother's insurance company refused to pay for that reason. I had an older, but extremely well maintained little truck that I also used for my business. If he had insurance, it would have helped me buy a replacement and pay for my doctor visit(my head went through the back window).

[@MelissaClaasen]

@@Neenerella333 oh my word! In Germany, we have liability insurance as well. That covers any accident we have that causes injuries to another person. I am horrified to read about what happened to you! Absolutely devastating! I can only imagine what trauma you went through. What a nightmare. Hope your medical insurance covered your care. 😭

[@sarapimentaclaro]

I am a Portuguese living in Israel and I totally get your insights. I feel after all these years as an ex-pat I am neither Israeli nor Portguese anymore and I actually see this being in-between cultures as a huge advantage. One thing I learned to love is the directness of Israelis, something I found really rude in the beginning but now I find so convenient 😃

[@janicevin4207]

I agree: born and raised in France but now having lived longer in Canada I feel now neither french or canadian but It is bothering me as I don't feel I belong completely in either country....

[@klimtkahlo]

Wow! Tenho uma prima casada com um israelita e pensei que fosse a única portuguesa em Israel! 😄 Portugueses pelo mundo!!!

[@anadelwrites2144]

I totally understand your reverse culture shock. I was born and raised in the U.K. and have lived in London most of my life, but ethnically my family is Serbian and I grew up bilingual. I’m the first generation born in the U.K. I’ve always lived between the cultures, especially as I’m Orthodox Christian and a practising Christian, so I celebrate Christmas 13 days later and Easter also varies. So I’m used to seeing lots of differences, but also similarities. Many of these cultural differences are amusing. For my relatives in Serbia my punctuality is incredibly English, but my attitude to food is very Serbian for my English friends. English punctuality is closer to German than Serbian, whose attitude is far more flexible than French. Food in Serbia is closer Italy and USA than England, in that a lot of time is spent at the table, with friends and family, but the silly portion sizes in Serbia are closest to America. I adore French culture around food. To me it’s the perfect attitude to food and especially ingredients and the respect for food. England has many wonderful cheeses, but my favourite cheeses have always been French: Roquefort, Camembert, Reblochon and Sainte Maure de Touraine. In general I’m huge Francophile. I love the French attitude to life, its culture, gastronomy, art, language. However, the Virgo in me loves German punctuality and general orderliness. I wish both Serbia and the U.K. trains would learn from Germany. In England the leaves on the line from trees can cause delays, to the point that a Serbian joke about timetables always comes to mind: timetables are there to tell you how late the train is. There is so much fun in looking at cultural differences and so much for us all to learn from one another.

[@mimd2134]

So cool! I’m from Canada and when I was in France I fell in love with your culture’s behaviour towards food. My husband and I stopped to eat at an outdoor cafe in a small town and two young men (very early 20s) sat next to us ( they did not seem to be on a date). In Canada, best case scenario, they have a couple of beers and a sandwich + fries. The two young men in France, had several courses, including salads and vegetables and shared a bottle of wine. They were not rushed! They talked, I don’t think that their phones interfered. I loved it! Thank you!

[@marclefebvre1659]

be aware that the whatsapp comment is from a FAKE ACCOUNT, please everyone report this account and do not reply or call the whatsapp phone number, this is not JUSTINE. Justine just posted that there are accounts trying to scam and using her picture to make it look like her account

[@georgia6638]

Thanks for this video, Justine! I'm an American living in the south of France and I think that all the "French characteristics" you picked up on are the reasons I love it here! For example, I love getting "dressed up" (by American standards) but in France that's something that's expected every day. I always pack way too many "dressy" clothes whenever I go back to the US for vacation, then I end up wearing athleisure the whole time -- that's just what Americans wear when they aren't at work or a special occasion. I hope you're enjoying being back in France ! Des bises ! 💜

[@dr.christopherjohnson1406]

👋 i hope you’re safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity love and peace ❤ 🕊🕊 all over the world 🙏🌍 I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson originally from California 🌟🌟🌟🌟 and you where are you from if I may asked?💭💭

[@kmrolland67]

I so relate to German, but love the French way as well. It's so interesting that countries that are so close in proximity have differences. I think it's wonderful

[@justineleconte]

It is great indeed!

[@gorejs8396]

Merci, Justine! What a fun video. Your reverse culture shock at this early point in your return allows us to see French culture through your eyes as a sort of very well-informed visitor. Watching this definitely made me hungry for cheese. You make both countries sound appealing: Germany sounds satisfyingly organized & predictable/reliable; France sounds messier in an exquisite, artful way, & definitely where I'd want to be when I'm hungry or want to see art. Love the contrast in attitude toward cars: I guess I lean more French on that one. And the floors: making people remove their shoes whenever they visit my home? Unless I have clean socks or slides for all visitors, mais non.

[@ulrichweber5215]

We've been living in France and moving back to Germany was a clash of culture too. Today we live part time in Spain and Germany. You become a mixed personality. It's in one way difficult as you do not belong to both of the two cultures completely, but it is really fulfilling to live both ways, picking out the best of all worlds

[@akrinord]

Loved this video! You have such a positive and open outlook on life Justine, I just love hearing your take on things. The cultural differences you've noticed between France and Germany might as well apply generally to northern Europe vs southern Europe lol. As someone from Scandinavia I can relate so much to the German perspective. I think generally people in northerns Europe tend to prefer predictability/practicality/straightforwardness to the opposites you described in the French/southern culture. There are upsides and downsides to both imho, I can sometimes envy the more relaxed joie de vivre and food culture you enjoy in the south, but feel more at home in the cosy homes, natural vibe and safety of northern Europe.

[@Gwoose]

As a half French half German having grown up in Berlin and now living in the UK I love this comparison ❤️

[@alieutier]

I am a French living in London for the past 10 years. I think for style and fashion the French definitely care a lot about how they appear but that comes with a lot of judgment on how others appear. We learn to dress in a way that is flattering without being "vulgar", for example, and it's very important to be aware of that, but that's also reflecting how judgmental of everyone else's style French people are. It's very common for French (especially women) to comment on how someone else's style doesn't fit them, or make them look a certain (undesirable) way. I feel like in London people just don't care as much, and that means less judgment of yourself and others, and more space to express your individualism and own personal style.

[@jolantakozakiewicz1654]

I’m Polish , moved to the States over 30 years ago . Anything goes in America,especially rural parts of the country. I have a problem with my daughter, she buys lots of useless clothes. Recently she started going through my closets and she noticed my timeless pieces . I’m not wealthy or financially secure person . I just happen never like poorly made or designed wardrobe.

[@littleblackpistol]

Yes, French fashion is extremely conservative and I['ve heard the 'vulgar' insult used, highly unfairly IMO about women who don't fit their notion of what women should wear. English style is more eccentric, creative and frankly, way more interesting and fun. People take their expression seriously but not necessarily their clothes. I once had a French colleague say that French's women's style is 'set in aspic' by their late teens. It sounded so incredibly dull, restrictive and basically stifling to me. We can learn from each other's culture's IMO. Be inspired by French classic chic and by the English sense of fun and creativity.

[@janicevin4207]

I agree! Born and raised in France but living in Canada I still "judge" what other women are wearing but I really like to look at their style: I enjoy other styles than mine but when something is off I make a mental note. I still don't like vulgarity but I think it is a personal perception which can vary from person to person!!!

[@Neenerella333]

At cafes in the US, my friend and I preferred to "Celebrate what's great, and not focus on what we hate". Meaning, complimenting a person's shoes, bag, glasses, whole outfit, and keeping less flattering opinions to ourselves. It would give them a little boost for their day and, sometimes, we'd get the name of the shop where they bought the item.

[@kamillaerdos7636]

Yes, u re right its very different style. Im from Hungary, and when i was in Paris i dressed totaly different like local people. It was funny for me. I looked like a parrot among them, cause i like pattern dresses and bodycorn dresses. But i ve seen the other side when i was in Britain, and i ve seen how different crazy way they wear their bodycorn dresses, too short skirts, too high heels. I was smiling, but i thought ok, let the enjoy their freedown. I think in some body corn dress u can look well if they dont show too much of ur skin, and i started to get to use more lightwear flattering dresses. Better if we dont have prejudice to each other! :)

[@ps89jk24]

Please soon show us some more about your new French house or the landscape, culture and people there... 😊❤️

[@simplycj5460]

I really enjoyed this video. I’m an American who loves the French culture, having experienced it when I lived there for a year many years ago. I’ve always thought that the French have a knack for living life well. They’re not uptight. Americans (and Germans?) could learn a lot from them. I would love to see you post pics of the interior of a French home vs. a German home, and the fashion of a French woman vs. a German woman, etc.

[@shaunmckenzie5509]

The downside is that the country is horrendously disorganised

[@simplycj5460]

@@shaunmckenzie5509 So true!

[@ApricusInaros]

As a Swiss in Switzerland we get influenced heavily from Germany and France. The cultures are wildly different in so many aspects, in my opinion. To me it seems that both nationalities really struggle to bring up the will the learn French or German. A reason why I like Alsace :)

[@lissandrafreljord7913]

Charlamagne's two children evolved to be so different.

[@donnaharris8722]

I was excited to visit Alsace because my ancestors moved from there to The USA in the 1700’s. I am also 37% German. I am always on time and I love fashion

[@bonicapinkroses4049]

Justine, love this video. One detail that got my attention was inviting friends over for dinner at 9pm. I live in Australia and that would be considered very, very late - people wouldn’t want to come 😁. I think 7:30 would be the latest for a dinner invitation and often summer BBQs start at 6pm.

[@CynthiaAva]

Same here in the US

[@TriviRocks]

Haha Argentina's the same as France in this!

[@candyclews4047]

I'm in bed by 9pm!

[@stucumins8511]

I’m Australian and love eating late in the warmer months….8.30 or 9 suits me fine.

[@nancikaesemeyer1270]

Agreed...I noticed that too when my husband and I honeymooned in Europe. Definitely seemed people were in no hurry to get to work early, enjoyed their long lunches and late dinners.

[@juliea.]

What a fun video! I find that I save and plan like a German, enjoy food like a French person, but occasionally eat on the run like the native New Yorker I am!

[@maryokeefe5351]

Sounds perfect!

[@juliea.]

@@maryokeefe5351 😃

[@jobanoonoos8]

What a fun video! I'm Australian, but have lived in Germany and travelled extensively throughout France and can speak both languages. I think a key difference is also regional variations within those two countries. For example, those in rural France, are not typically as fashion focussed as those in a German city. That said, on the whole, French fashion is certainly more chic! Definitely agree that France is far more food focussed (you should come to Melbourne if you want to see a city that lives and breathes food - it gives France a good run for its money!). One thing that surprised me about city-dwellers in both countries was their general level of friendliness/hostility towards foreigners. I've consistently felt welcome and accepted in Germany (across numerous large cities), but felt like I was a major annoyance to restauranteurs, shop keepers and tourism operators in Paris. I do wonder why this is...

[@jassewalton1768]

Parisians are renowned for their arrogance. Outside Paris, very different.

[@lulukrassova2196]

I felt the opposite. In Frankfurt it seemed the people were hostile toward foreigners, and very cold in general. But in Bordeaux people were very friendly and helpful. I think it must depend on the city.

[@TallyRocky]

I agree about restaurants in Paris. Not to mention train ticket sellers there as well.

[@CountGuiscardofGotha]

You think Melbourne can compete with France in cuisine...???? 😂😂😂😂😂 Maybe your deluded Aussie inferiority complex turned people off in Paris.

[@birgitd.9274]

I live in the southwest of Germany near the french border, the people here live the advantages of both cultures for example eating and preparing their meals. I love eating in restaurants and spend hours with friends there. ;)

[@deansky-lucas7880]

It was brilliant. I’m an Australian Francophone. Classical musician and work in German and Italian languages. I am always bringing these differences in culture to the front of conversation in my teaching. It’s of fundamental importance and I thank you for taking the time to put your thoughts on video. I hope your relocation is going well and your business is thriving. 🙏🌈🍀🍀🍀🍀

[@jenniferkayes1461]

A few years ago, I was flying Air France. They made this upbeat video about putting on your seat belt and safety--dancing, right red colors, fun music. On the way back, I saw the US flight video--practically put me to sleep--all, blue and calm! Totally different takes on the same information!

[@seelenwinter6662]

i travelled many years with air france and klm to peru, where i lived over 5 years with my peruvian wife... and since a few years air france is getting so poor, that you not even get enough water to drink... the last flight people go to the kitchen and take water by themself... so sad... since then i am only flying with klm, there you get enough water and both are in the same company, but air france is only a bad joke from for 10 years...

[@Turner24994]

@@seelenwinter6662 so bad that it is considered the best European company and in the top 10 in the world, maybe you simply don't know anything about it!!

[@bkukubo]

Interesting topic. You're right about socks and sandals being on trend. My 20 year old son and 18 year old daughter wear them too and it always appalls me!

[@caddieohm7059]

They wear them ironically

[@kamillaerdos7636]

Here is somethig problem with the 20 years old women too. O often see them in romantic flattering dress and sport running shoes! Omg! And the mass fashion make me crazy, i dont undestand why they dont recognize its boring.

[@lolamas3042]

Gracias este nuevo vídeo, Justine! Cada cultura es diferente y nos enriquece a tod@s! En España pienso que tenemos más aprecio por disfrutar cada momento, y no pensamos tanto en planificar nuestra vida futura... Lo ideal es disfrutar el presente sin perder de vista al menos un período razonable de meses a futuro... Si hay niños pequeños cerca no cruzo con el semáforo en rojo...por dar un buen ejemplo...Aunque he visto muchos padres cruzar con sus bebés en los carritos con el semáforo en rojo...Es una gran responsabilidad... Cuídate mucho, Justin! 🤗💜

[@BadCatMath]

OMG, food, food, food! I grew up with a French “Canadienne” mother; her name was Lillian Caron. At the end of every meal, my mother would talk about what we would be eating at our next meal OR what we would be eating the next day. I thought it was just her, well, being her. So funny… now I realize she just couldn’t help herself. Justine, I loved this video. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@charles1413]

French canadians aren't french though.

[@BadCatMath]

@@charles1413 True, Charles. You are TECHNICALLY RIGHT. But, because my great grandparents are from Brest, France, I consider our family to be French. I was just making a comment about my sweet “Maman”.

[@charles1413]

@@BadCatMath I mean your family is of French descent but I wouldn't say y'all are French. A culture is not something cristalized in time, if you were to go to France, you'd feel extremel foreign. It's like many Americans believe to be Irish/German etc but they really aren't..

[@BadCatMath]

@@charles1413 I’ve already said that you are right. Let it go… Sheesh!

[@fran_jk]

@@BadCatMath Sheesh is right!

[@georgiaclapham9204]

Thank you, Justine, this was so interesting!! I am American, with an American father and an Austrian mother, who grew up both in Germany and the USA, and also traveled, studied and lived in various countries: Italy, France, England, Japan, Hong Kong...My husband is British and our three sons were educated mainly in the UK, but also studied in France. So I really understand how these cultural differences affect us! I have had a long-standing argument with my boys about "punctuality"--I suppose because I was raised by an American military man and an Austrian mother, we were always "on time" or even early for things! But my boys were taught at school that it was actually polite to arrive a bit late. Now I understand this better thanks to your video! I guess in our family we are a combination of all these traits! I love comfort but also always want to look nice, even when walking my dogs, perhaps because of my mother's influence. She never left the house without lipstick, mascara, high heels and a nice outfit, her hair perfect. I am of course a lot more casual than she was. We do spend an awful lot of time and effort on planning, shopping for and cooking our meals--dinner is very important to us as a family, and we also talk at great length about what we are eating and how it could be "improved". Our sons often comment that in their friends' families, it is not like this at all! So again, thank you for this video! Vive la difference!

[@sarinijssen2735]

OMG YASSS finally someone else said it about the traffic lights! I am Dutch and live in Austria and I get sooo frustrated by this. The pedestrian traffic lights are set suuuper slowly so people are waiting for what feels like minutes for the light to turn green while there is 0 traffic. And then when you cross because you have your own brain people will judge you for it (even out loud sometimes!)

[@karenley7356]

I live in Australia but I’m from Scotland. My husband is Australian and my children too. We had 2 German girls stay with us for 3 months and they used to say “I was so European” lol! They thought my husband and kids were so laid back . These young girls were so mature for their age, they loved the relaxed lifestyle of the Aussies. We were so fortunate to have them stay with us. We even met up with their parents in Berlin 👏

[@AS-tz4zi]

I absolutely agree and loved this video😂 I am a German who studied and lived in France for many years. I definitely live the best of all the cultures I've lived in. I also grew up in the States and the Netherlands. And yes, the most difficult thing in a language are the fine nuances, which only come when really diving in deep.

[@Mrs.TJTaylor]

A faction of my family came to the Americas as French Huguenots and from listening to you today, it seems we have retained the values, traditions and lifestyles from long, long ago in our history. This is particularly true concerning gardens and food. We talk about food endlessly, we grow and buy the best, we spend hours and hours preparing and we DINE in well appointed spaces on tables beautifully set and arrayed. My Grandmother instilled this in us. Thank you.

[@Annie-ye5od]

I laughed at the cars being scratched. My French friend when parking says bumpdy bump and actually bumps the front and back of her car and the other parked cars 😂

[@timoneacre3806]

I LOVED this video! I'm an American who lived one year each in both France and Germany (as well as in the UK and Australia) and can very much relate to the differences you point out between the two. I loved both countries for different reasons. I understand your reverse culture shock, as I experienced it also every time I returned to the US. It's eye-opening to look at your own country/culture as an outsider would. I laughed out loud at your description of the trains situation in both countries. I used to take the train to/from work every day in Stuttgart, and if the schedule said the train was going to arrive at 17:42, you could see the train coming round the bend at 17:41 and it would stop at EXACTLY 17:42. On the rare occasion that didn't happen for whatever reason, you could see/hear/feel the anxiety and stress among the passengers on the platform. The same with crossing the streets only when "permitted" as opposed to when it was safe - hilarious observations. Thank you for sharing! Bon courage!!

[@dominiquetheeasyminimalist]

Bonjour Justine, this was fun! My sister and I had a conversation yesterday about fast fashion and how I noticed that garment quality has decreased dramatically over the last 2-3 years. I referred her your channel for more content 😁

[@stephanieklein4164]

As I´m a German, situated in Saarland, I allways enjoy hearing about those differences :) Here we´re seeming to be a mixture of both countries. A lot of Germans still believe we´re French. Visiting capitals in the rest of Germany, I´m often told that my German is pretty good for someone not growing up with it XD

[@clairefreymann2446]

Being from Strasbourg, I also felt like I was mixed while listening to Justine! And Justine is right to point generational variations, because, you know, avocado toasts and stuff. Thanks Justine for an entertaining video!

[@tomate3391]

I was raised my first ten years in Saarland, and a small part of my family was from the other side of the border, from France. I can relate. The french part was obsessed with their cars, too, and we liked the food and the wine. Sometimes we drove to France to buy certain meat or to buy in a certain supermarket. Each of us had things from both countries. Except the language. They spoke German and French, we only German. Not sure how it is nowadays, if the people in France near the border still speak German.

[@nativefraulein5801]

I am a (metis/first nations) American living in Germany for almost ten years. It's refreshing to hear someone outright say that they prefer to invest into the 'now.' I certainly hope I live a long time, but it's a fine balance one has to strive for---living an enriching life now while also planning for the days we can only hope and be blessed will come. ...about that "German puncuality"...I am not sure if that is going to surivive another generation, it seems as if everything is delayed now but especially the trains (I blame the infamous 9 Euro ticket :) )

[@nativefraulein5801]

@@kondwira367 Liebe Grüße aus Düsseldorf :) ....and I can't believe how dangerously crowded and late the trains are this summer :( It's good to know I am not coping alone.

[@schoolingdiana9086]

@@nativefraulein5801 Which Nation, if you don’t mind my asking? I’m Muscogee, Seminole and Cherokee ancestry. All Southeast US nations. I’m currently in Seattle, though.

[@velveteenrabbit542]

They do the delay on purpose so people will Not use the Tickets too often.

[@velveteenrabbit542]

@@kondwira367 but sadly its true. The worst Cases of delay ( in history-btw) happened when this Ticket was introduced(june- august).

[@nativefraulein5801]

@@schoolingdiana9086 Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe :)

[@TallyRocky]

I (from US) will never forget observing parking practices in Paris. I was jet lagged and sitting by the window in a cafe drinking tea, waiting for my hotel room to be ready. I watched in absolute amazement (and then delight) Parisienne parkers banging their cars - front and back - into the other parked cars trying to wedge their cars in the very small parking spots. It wasn’t just a on-off situation. It seemed to be a the way they do it there. Amazing.

[@heidi.a.thomson]

Oh my mom is going to enjoy this video very much. She was born in Germany then moved to a French city in Canada. I send her links to your videos and she thinks you're absolutely fabulous. She loves you. I really enjoyed this video having roots to both cultures.

[@0o0TheQueenBee0o0]

Amazing how similar Italy and France are, much more so than with Spain I think, which we usually consider to be more similar to us. Interesting 🙂

[@jenniferdaniels701]

The traffic light thing- I've crossed streets on sleepy Saturday mornings in Madison, WI, US when the light for me was red, there were no cars, and in front of cop cars, with no problem. So I'm with you on that one.

[@DM-nw5lu]

Honestly people in Germany do, too. We are very stingy with it around kids though as we don't want to be a "bad example". Also in large cities maybe or when we know a traffic light has a camera (some do).

[@spoly8139]

Very interesting observations. I lived in Greece many years and what I noticed about the German tourists which stood out for me was meal time dining out. The Greeks are very social, noisy and expressive. You will find they dine out very late sometimes after 10:00 pm and have their little children with them eating. There is a lot of noise going on. The tables with German tourists were noticeably different. You would see them seriously eating, hardly any conversation at all and no one smiling. It looked more like a serious business meeting than a happy, social event. I won't even go into the driving in Greece. The German tourists were horrified!

[@user-no2mz9hl4f]

I laughed at your description of the German tourists. I’ve seen people like that, who view mealtime as a job to get on with. I think it’s nicer when people chat and laugh amidst the eating. Otherwise, I might as well eat by myself!

[@spoly8139]

@@user-no2mz9hl4f I agree completely!

[@mariaterzopoulou123]

Hahahaha 🤣 As a Greek myself I understand completely what you're talking about! Greeks are horrified when they visit European countries, realising that they cannot dine at 11 pm like we normally do in our country!🤣 And of course food is a fun thing for us. We don't want just to fill our stomachs. We want to chat, to laugh, to eat, to drink...all of these together and usually in high decibel level 🤣 Oh! And seriously, be careful of the Greek drivers because we're completely uncultured on that topic. It's not 100% sure that cars will stop on a pedestrian crossing (with no traffic lights). In smaller towns it's 99% sure that cars DON'T stop on a pedestrian crossing 🤦🏻‍♀️ In Athens or in Thessaloniki drivers are definitely more civilized but we really have a horrible driving culture 🙄

[@spoly8139]

@@mariaterzopoulou123 So true...the drivers in Crete, whether on a motorcycle, scooter, bus or car drive without any regard to traffic signals, pedestrians or even a flock of sheep!

[@mariaterzopoulou123]

@@spoly8139 I'm from northern Greece and I visited Crete as a child so I don't remember so many details, but Cretan drivers are pretty much famous for being the worst drivers of the whole country 🤷🏻‍♀️ not respecting traffic lights, crossings, running like crazy like there's no tomorrow. So I get your point! 😬

[@lolalover24212]

It’s so funny as a French Canadian I feel like I relate to both! We need the practical aspect due to the climate and the amount of work required to deal with the snow and the fact that canada is quite large of a country. But I feel often a lot more leisurely than other people, I LOVE food as does my entire family, and we try not to stress too hard about the rules.

[@eliali6484]

Very interesting video! I find a strange similarity between French and Bulgarian culture but my be it's the south thing :) When I was for 6 months in Germany as Erasmus student I had a real cultural shock - 5 minutes late and the look at you like a criminal or the panic for every little schedule change in the last minute... It didn't turn well so I was happy to go back home. But all that experience I find good for me - seeing another kind of living gives you an unique perspective to your own life and culture.

[@kg8487]

Such a great video! I’m an American who lived in Southern Europe a few years and much of the US is very similar to a lot of the German values you expressed. I found out just how American I really was after living abroad: while I loved my experience in Europe and adore visiting, I definitely identify with more Anglo/Germanic values of punctuality, planning, and even though my household spends a lot of money on food (local organic high quality, top restaurants) I will happily skip a meal or eat on the go for the sake of getting more work done! I actually get stressed out from taking a leisurely meal if I know I’ve got things to do. Different cultures definitely have different priorities

[@TheSwissChalet]

Same here. I believe having some meals “on the run”, or just very basic, no frills…you tend to appreciate the special meals that much more.

[@zory6509]

I can relate to this. In my opinion food should provide us with fuel to live our lives, not to become our life. Not so many people will agree with that! 😃😅

[@kuschelirmel]

I've been working for an originally German company that was bought by a French company only a couple of years before I started there. It's now been well over 10 years of working side by side with our French colleagues. I was laughing so hard at the meeting thing - since it's a running gag here on both sides where also both sides tend to try their best to be more punctual and more forgiving but often just failing most comically. I have also caught myself prefacing things I want to say with "this might sound very direct, but I can assure you I don't mean to be rude" and then editing out the things I would say to a fellow German and probably still sounding rude ^^

[@charlenehomedecor]

I am french working for a German company. I have noticed after more than 10 years that my communicating skills have become very direct. I have to deal with french customer every day and I am sure they think I am rude. I can't do the around talking things anymore... 😅 They just have no choice I am the only one speaking French.

[@karenhanson359]

😆

[@kuschelirmel]

@@charlenehomedecor haha that is quite funny - welcome to the "dark side" ;)

[@dovilematuzeviciene5415]

Talking about homes and interior, just move a bit northern to Lithuania, and you'll see, that we are freaks about nice, cozy, fashionable homes 😄 We have a lot of furniture shops, we renovate our homes every 5-7 years and hire interior designers for that 🙈 Renting is just for students, when you hit 30 years old you must MUST own an apartment, a cottage or even a house! Renting is a waste of money according to parents and public opinion 😄

[@strawberry1025]

That's fascinating to learn Dovile. I know so little about Lithuania. Here in Ireland there is the same view about property ownership, that renting is a waste of money. But increasingly young people can't afford to buy that first home and the rental market is extortionate.

[@wonderland1911]

I think everyone thinks that renting is a waste of money. But unfortunately in some countries it's really impossible to buy a house. In the Netherlands I can't buy a house right now simply because there are not enough houses available for sale

[@simonestreeter1518]

This reminded me of a maxim that I learned as a child growing up in the U.S., that was supposed to indicate a high level of morality: "Eat to live, don't live to eat." I used to agree, then felt eating was a sacred act, now I am starting to see that it has truth to it. Full circle.

[@josephfreedman9422]

I regularly visit relatives in Germany, and have been to France over the years, as well, (chiefly in Paris). I find one can have serious conversations with Germans, which I appreciate, perhaps because they do say what they think - although, being a Jew, I am reluctant to engage gentile Germans on the Nazi period. What I like about France is that, within a certain order, pleasure is allowed and encouraged. That came home to me on a visit to the Luxembourg Garden, where I could sit and smoke a cigar, without signs (so common in the USA) that smoking is not allowed. Plus, during the Covid isolation, I became much more focused on buying good food, cooking, preparing meals, so my priorities there have changed more toward the French way.

[@saminamirza5094]

Thanks! I thoroughly enjoyed this video, and I’ve never visited France or Germany. My now-deceased in-laws were the same as the French about food - and they were Indian. Talked extensively about food, before, during and after the meal. Then talked extensively about the next day’s meals. 🤣

[@marthahoffmann8674]

For the last 35 years I have been living between New York and Germany. I fully understand your comments and agree with you that cultures are quite different. We gain and lose and make the best at all times. To be fair I will say that in Germany I have become more organized, have learned to read labels so I can eat properly and fully appreciate driving streets without portholes. Life in America is too fast, stressful and we spend spontaneously money that sometimes we don't have. Yes Germans are more careful with their monies so they don't hesitate to look for bargains and I find that acceptable as long as quality is not compromised. Since I am a foodie and live 45 minutes from the French border I say Vive La France!!

[@dr.christopherjohnson1406]

👋 i hope you’re safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity love and peace ❤ 🕊🕊 all over the world 🙏🌍 I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson originally from California 🌟🌟🌟🌟 and you where are you from if I may asked?💭💭

[@danyelmoulden3803]

I was married to an American of German heritage for 15 years. (His grandmother was a war bride and I got to know her very well, and his mother inherited ALL of her mother's traits!). Your description of German culture is exactly right!! Even after living in the US for 50 years, I saw all of those traits in his mother and grandmother. Some of them, I have also adopted. I have been studying french culture for a few years now, and I also agree with your assessments of their traits. I don't see either culture as better or worse. I think there is good in each of them. It is helpful to know the differences, and how it effects the way they live and make choices.

[@GwenHembrock]

This video was absolutely fascinating. Despite my German ancestry, I'm still more German than I realized! It might also go towards explaining why I felt so at home when I spent a month traveling through Germany (including my ancestor's hometown of Hopsten). I didn't get the impression you were favoring one culture over another. You were just pointing out differences. I was planning a tour of France when the pandemic hit. I'll get there one day and will be able to see how I fit in there. The being late part would drive me crazy, lol! And I find flattering but comfortable shoes are definitely me. It sounds like a really fun time for you to be readjusting to life in France. Great video, thanks!

[@spirititi2303]

As a Franco-Belge (dad french, mom Flemish Belgian) I feel like you described both my parents and their differences. Very interesting and relatable video! I feel like a good mix of both :)

[@Valerie-gn1rr]

You're very right about the food in France, although I think it used to be even more important in the past and things have changed a little, not particularly in the right way. As for punctuality and waiting for the red light to cross the road, you are spot on. I lived in the UK for a few years, and other countries too, and people's behaviour were very similar to the Germans in that respect. Let's not forget, France is a latin country and latin people don't like discipline too much.. Welcome back to France Justine. I've been back 10 years now, after many years abroad, and somehow, it feels home of course, but I also feel a foreigner at times..Or rather a mixture of French and all the other things I've absorbed when living abroad. Still, it's good to be back and speak your own language too.. I'm sure you understand what I mean.

[@charles1413]

I do not think we're latin at all, maybe in the south but otherwise ... Nah

[@Felicia594]

Thanks for sharing💕💕💕💕I’m the only one I know who wears socks with Sandals. Not always. Just when walking longer distances and in the fall when it starts getting colder. You should try it; revolutionary! And, you could design some beautiful socks for evenings out in the fall! Cashmere/cotton blend. I would buy it.

[@mslane1106]

You are spot on, fun video. I was born and raised in Germany and now the US is my home. Punctuality, precision and planning have served me well, but my rigidness is often perceived as a nuisance 😏

[@kirstinleal794]

Same here. I am German, but have lived in the US for 33 years. Punctuality is part of my genes. I get stressed when late, but no-one else cares. My husband is American with Mexican heritage. He never stresses much about it and still gets there and gets everything done!

[@kristywhited8857]

I also live for now. I live within my means but I also enjoy my means. I do not plan to leave this world with a large amount of money stashed away for a future that may never come. I have seen my parents and grandparents do that and the relatives fight over the money after they're gone. I decided it's not the approach I want to take in my own life. Great video today! Thank you for sharing your observations!

[@patriciasauermann3805]

Can I just appreciate quickly how nice and contributing the exchange is on here? Love you, Justine 😊. (Stuck in one country, travelling on line 🥰)

[@littleninja71]

What a juxtaposition of cultures - its fun to learn of your experience having lived in both countries, thanks for sharing this journey with us. My family is German and whilst I was raised in the UK and US, when I meet and make new friends, those from the continent will note 'just how German I am' - they say this in fun, as there are just certain things that pervade German culture even one is not in Germany proper (ie you'll not see me late for anything, ever).

[@vieras.3281]

I enjoyed this video a lot Justin👌💙 In my opinion - the cultural aspects - it depends also on that, where exactly do you live in France and in Germany, I lived as forengier years in Cologne and in Munich - for me, it was completly different world, there was a universe between these two cities:D

[@yeahweburnstuff]

Italians are one of the European countries with the highest levels of savings. Most families have at least one family home that is owned outright and can be used as a multi-generational home. We LOVE our food and quality of life; and we also take good care of the quality things we have. Ultimately northern/central European cultures seem more focussed on independence (hence the perfect house and pension plan etc.). Many cultures from the south of Europe are more aware of the imminence of death and the benefits of relying on your own family/tribe: and of course we are DEEPLY sceptical of governments and politicians in general.

[@tiramilux]

Sadly it's usually only the elder that had the opportunity to earn and put away consistent amount of savings. New generations struggle to even have an underpaid job and are forced to live off of their parents' help. Eventually they'll inherit the house or whatever.

[@mariaterzopoulou123]

Guys I'm Greek and I feel like Greek people wrote all the above comments. It's exactly like that in Greece too. South European countries have so many things in common!😌

[@jill6299]

Moved few months ago to Germany and can’t help but notice all the points mentioned by you ! Especially when it comes to making the house cozy and gemütlich ! Love you videos! Would love to hear about differences in culture Chile vs France 🇫🇷

[@chromama]

Justine, I just love you. You have such a positive energy. I'm living in Germany currently and moved here from Bulgaria years ago. I can relay on so much of your observations :D

[@krentu]

So interesting! My country (Estonia) was centuries under German governance, the german mansions were built all over Estonia, our cities were in Hanseactic League, therefore we have a lot of cultural heritage from germans (and our fantastic medieval old town in Tallinn). The practicality, punctuality, planning etc are the same here. In a country with cold winters, one would not survive without planning, that's for sure :) Anyway, it was so interesting to hear about German vs France! I visited Paris in the spring, I stayed at the residential area and I was so amazed to see all the little speciality food shops one after another! However, I did get really bad food at the restaurants too (in touristy regions), so for tourists, they take it a bit easier :)

[@ColleenJoudrey]

This was so neat. I live in NS, Canada which is very German influenced in culture but my husband works for a large French company so we see the cultural nuances from France in his everyday work life and also our friends from Quebec.

[@maryokeefe5351]

German culture in NS, Colleen? I have never heard this. Love from Ottawa.

[@Kksaeyi247]

You can hear her heartbreak. The disappointment, the agony. But honestly, is there any other way one should react to socks and sandles?

[@kellylyons1038]

Socks and sandals is a great combo, idk what you guys are on about. Im not gen Z but i am from the pacific northwest. We've been rocking socks and sandals for a long time and will continue to do so.

[@lizasoliman723]

i grew up in chicagoland, lived 7yrs in the pacific northwest, moved back to chicago. **same story* personal opinion: socks with sandals is atrocious. this was rare for me to see as i was growing up. in the pnw, nearly everyone is doing it, almost all year round. and moving back to chicago, somehow, now, the "youth" thinks it's acceptable.

[@jercamesec7299]

A funky pattern low sock in a teva shoe is adorable and practical, especially on children. But a lot of times when I see the sock in sandal on the street I just think: slippery.

[@zvsvrerer2732]

I never liked the looks of sock with sandals, but as I can't wear sandals without them, I came to like the idea. My feet don't tolerate synthetic materials and real leather accumulates dirt and and moisture. So I don't really have another option. Wearing socks makes it all more hygienic and durable.

[@SingYourselfWell]

😅😅😅

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

This was SO interesting to me! I could listen to you all day Justine. I am American... my father's family background is German, and my mother's family background is French. I now see why I'm such a dichotomy, but I feel so lucky to have both influences in me! I LOVE good, quality food, and I agree, in our current world it cannot be cheap *and* good quality. I buy organic, free range, etc. wherever possible because paying for the destruction of our environment and health is where our money will go otherwise! We have to tell these corporate farmers what we think with our money! (And YES, same with fast fashion!) I am ALWAYS late... terrible, but I can't help it! I try, but I feel like it goes against my entire being, lol! I could care less how my car looks as long as it gets me from point A to point B. My husband washed my car the other day and then said something about it just yesterday... I didn't even notice, LOL! I thanked him of course, but he rolls his eyes... oops... sorry, honey... My home is eclectic, although I do long for the Scandinavian look and feel...but I love my garden areas just as much. We live where it's unGodly hot in the summer and the exact opposite in winter, so I think you have a good point about that being a big influence on home and garden design. I'm all for paper over computers, and I would probably be one to freak out if changes were made with me trying to get to my destination. That might have something to do with the 'always late' thing I have going on though... I'm definitely not good with fashion unfortunately. I would love to see fashion and comfort come together more often, and I think a lot of people would buy that. I want to be in natural fabrics and comfortable shoes. I'm not so bad as some of my fellow Americans I see in the stores wearing pajama bottoms and slippers at least... yikes, why?! I don't own a pair of high heels, but I would never go as far as socks with sandels, lol! Wonderful video Justine! It makes me happy that we have all these differences in the world and wishful that we could appreciate it and laugh with each other rather than all this fighting in the world. How boring it would be if we were all the same!

[@CherylAnderson0]

I really liked this video. I know many German people but not one French person! I watch the Daily Connoisseur and know her living in France as a student had a lasting impact on her life many years later. I'd love to visit both countries someday. You are very good at explaining things.

[@ruthstrickland6679]

My son is due to start studying French this year. This is a timely reminder for me to explain that learning a new language involves learning about the culture as well. Thank you xx

[@jacqchurchm2293]

Justine, difference is perspective and observational therefore listening to your view was insightful. I am born to Austrian immigrant parents so understanding your sharing. I am a “foodie” so know I have to make a trip to France now for sure. Gratitude from 🇨🇦 for your video.

[@suse3370]

Great video with very true observations. Especially about the cars. As a born German living abroad for over 30 years, I still am punctual on the minute 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@VHShologram]

You're making me fall in love with the French culture by explaining the way French people do things! I see so much sense in their approach to life! 😄🤩🤩

[@chicalertng]

I just returned from a vacation in Paris and my mind was blown by the fashion and the food! The French women especially really put effort into their outfits!