How American Tourists Piss of Paris

[@butchj6326]

When you sit down to eat in Paris a waiter would think it was rude if they brought you the check without you asking for it because they don’t want you to feel like you’re being rushed out the door. When you are ready to leave just use the hand gesture of making a checkmark in the air and you’ll have your check within a minute. Great video, I love Paris!

[@mrn13]

I am a local, and specially for lunch I just go up to the counter (the bar and where the cash register normally is) and pay there. this is very normal to do here. (and nope, no tipping needed!)

[@juliejulie3564]

Actually in Strasbourg I sat down and when I ordered she asked whether I would pay by card or cash right after. Which made me feel uncomfortable. It was in the morning so they weren’t closing.

[@mm-yt8sf]

it'd be so sad if the customers kept waiting while getting madder, and the waiter is thinking "how long are they going to sit there and do nothing...this place needs to do business...and they don't even look like they're having fun" until it's closing and everyone is mad :D i actually waited at a fast food place for my order and didn't say anything noticing people who came in after me got their order and finally the manager came over to me and asked what i was doing there and i showed him my receipt, so i got the sandwich free, but i don't think it was worth the 40 minutes or so i was sitting by the window :D (and this was before phones could entertain us!)

[@andreebesseau6995]

That's right

[@andreebesseau6995]

@@juliejulie3564 german influence

[@dhanshreea]

One thing I got from Rick Steve's France travel tips is that France rewards you for taking it slow and really taking your time with things. And it couldn't be truer. Honestly, the human pace of things is absolutely amazing.

[@fabrice1435]

Hello. The opinion of a Parisian. First you have to realize that most Parisians were not born in Paris, but live there. I am an exception. I agree with the list made by Wolters with one addition. One thing that can annoy me is that tourists might think that we don't understand what they say to each other in English in the subway, in restaurants, cafes or museums. Most French people have studied English as their first foreign language. We don't practice it on a daily basis and can sometimes have trouble with certain accents, but overall we understand. So when you are in a public place, and you criticize our cleanliness, our history, our habits... know that we understand you and that we judge you. And if we like tourists in Paris and share with you what makes our joy and our daily life, don't forget that we are not extras in an amusement park: we live here and like that our visitors, our hosts, show some respect. For example, please leave the seats in the metro to the elderly or pregnant women; And a "hello", "goodbye", "thank you" or just a smile are sometimes your best friends.

[@athanase6613]

Pas mieux !

[@TheNevets7777]

🏳️

[@olivierdk2]

Les touristes les plus rudes ( je ne suis pas Parisien donc je m'inclus ) que j'ai rencontré étaient Anglais et américains . bruyants, odieux, grossiers ...et pas seulement à Paris. Je crains que tu ne prêche dans le désert.

[@thedude5599]

S' il vous plait, parlez vous Anglais, is a must. When I was in Paris and said hello do you speak English majority of people would say NON. As soon as I said " S' il vous plait, parlez vous Anglais" the majority would say yes I speak a little English. I also learned just S 'il vous plait eveything. S'il vous plait schwarma, s'il vous plait coke s'il vous plait everything you say and people in Paris are so welcoming. As a person who can not speak french other then a few basic words sentances S'il vous plait was a great way to make it threw Paris.

[@Isobeln]

@@olivierdk2 doubt it will make you feel any better, but these Americans are also terribly rude when they travel within the U.S. and to our city. I’m embarrassed of these people.

[@tiredoffools8929]

As an American who just came back from Paris, and I absolutely loved the Parisians I encountered. From the locals on the Metro, to restaurant owners and servers. I am not fluent in French and I have never personally met a rude Parisian. I've witnessed some of these things you described from other tourists while I was there, so you are 100% correct. You can clearly see when a Parisian is annoyed, but I align with their point of view so I was also annoyed with the tourist behavior myself. It is a shame that some tourists won't even try to learn or understand the customs of a place they are visiting, but I am hoping that more people discover your channel so that they become aware and be better tourist in the process.

[@feliciasampson8032]

What's the point of travel if you don't even try to venture out of your comfort zone?!

[@pongop]

I'm also American and my parents love visiting France. They would concur. They've been multiple times, made friends, brought back so many things, and considered moving there. They love the people, the culture, and the lifestyle.

[@deenastrik5981]

This was one of the things that annoyed me when I used to work in Amsterdam, especially in public transport: Tourists, don't stop right at the bottom or top of escalators or stairs! Please move along to a spot on the side, where you don't obstruct traffic and THEN look at directions, or on your map / phone, etc.

[@misty1tl]

That’s truly one of my pet peeves traveling.

[@buddymitchell6216]

Amen… people do that all the time on my wife wants to strangle them and we’re from America.

[@frannybkranny8760]

Honestly, these are just basic "good manners" one should practice ANYWHERE you go in the world.

[@AnneMB955]

I so agree, when tourist groups take up the whole path in my home town it is annoying. A little forethought and manners go a long way. 🇦🇺

[@JustSomePunx1312]

The transitions!!! Glad to see your videos to go from a basic camera to a professional informational video. Love it!!! Keep it coming !!!

[@gilar002]

Parisian here. Number 1 reason I see which upsets my compatriots is shooting a question without first asking « excusez moi/pardon »(sorry), acknowledging that you are sorry to interrupt. And say merci or thank you at the end. It is basic education here and perceived as something International although it might not be. Second,6 Wolters is right about restaurant attitude and being upset about service pace: you should know that, beside the fact that we tend to have a few waiter per restaurant, it would also actually be seen as pushy to bring a bill too fast or rushing you to get you serve in some places because you are there to enjoy. Meaning sometimes very nice restaurant seem to be slow while it is on purpose

[@jwbeaton]

First time to Paris in 1996, I found it very unfriendly, and my attempts to speak French seemed to make it worse :( BUT - second time - married with small children 7 years ago, we LOVED it! We loved the extra grace locals gave us with small children, the extra patience and support. Obviously a more family-first culture, which we really appreciated, especially as sleep-deprived as we were! We are going back this year, this time our kids are teenagers, we will see how it goes!

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Hey, Jacob ! Where do you plan to go with your teens ? 🙂

[@Mac-xo2zj]

HaHa! I was in Pairs in 2007 and they made my girlfriend cry. She had studied French for like 4 years and was so excited about using it. They made fun of her accent so much she got to embarrassed to try anymore. I could give a damn after that I embraced being the loud American prick. "Hey Garson! Bring me another one of those rolled bread things. Chop chop!"

[@heliedecastanet1882]

@@Mac-xo2zj Maybe you were just paranoiac ?

[@claudiopiazza3793]

​@@Mac-xo2zjToo bad the French, in Argentina we treat tourists better and we support them if they try to speak Spanish, we would never make fun of their accent.

[@euroschmau]

Paris is so overwhelming! In this post-covid era, it's best to take it slow. In France, I recommend the Dordogne region in the south central part of the country. It features impeccably preserved medieval towns, lush natural beauty, extraordinary food and wine and a beautiful culture; it's the best of France in my opinion.

[@MobiusCGI]

This is the best advice anyone could get, Laris is nice but it’s such a small portion of the country as a whole.

[@MobiusCGI]

Paris*

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Did you got to the Lot (Quercy) ? It is just east Dordogne (Périgord). If not, go there the next time, if ever you come back to France. The Lot is amazing.

[@davidperry7128]

@@heliedecastanet1882 I agrree, the whole of the south west is wonderful, it is why we moved here (Tarn et Garonne)

[@heliedecastanet1882]

@@davidperry7128 Really ? 🙂 Where were you from, initially ? Given your name, I guess an anglophone country ? 🙂

[@lisalu910]

You are one of the few American travel vloggers who REALLY gets Paris. I've been visiting Paris since 1980 so I feel like I know it pretty well and everything you said is spot on.

[@californiahiker9616]

Having visited Paris several times, I agree with Mark that as a whole Parisians are not rude. I found them to be accommodating and helpful. During our last stay my husband and I were living in an apartment for 3 weeks. We interacted with locals daily, and it was great! That was our best stay ever. My husband joined some local chess players in the Jardin du Luxembourg several times. He doesn’t speak any French, and he was really welcome! We hope to go back soon!

[@carlfromtheoc1788]

Your list applies to most, if not all major and medium cities anywhere in the world. Also, as a tourist, it annoys the stuffing out of me when others do the things you described especially the random stopping in the middle of a sidewalk,. Also, I do not care how in love you are, if the sidewalk is only two people wide and you are coming towards me holding hands, one of you is going to have to walk ahead/behind the other, because I am not walking in the street. Also, as a solo tourist, the tour groups clogging up the sidewalks are a huge pain. Also, why would you go to Paris, or any new city or country and NOT try the local foods, including snack foods? And why wouldn't you say hello to the shopkeeper when you enter their shop. At least learn how to say hello/good day, please, thank you, and do you speak English is the local language. You are a guest in someone else's country, act like a good guest not a giant flaming cheese weenie.

[@jo-annmacdonell3301]

Saying hello to a clerk, shopkeeper or otherwise is pretty normal for us Canadians because we are so nice. LOL Can't wait to try out my 3 years of highschool French!

[@darrenburns123]

100 percent agree! Took me a while to click that they are not rude, they just like you to make a bit of an effort, soon as I did, even though my accent and language was poor, the fact I tried, they really appreciated it

[@taureanblue]

Mark, I think your travels and language studies have made you good at understanding and getting along with people. It is so refreshing to hear about the good side of Parisians and New Yorkers!

[@feliciasampson8032]

I like to believe that if we are genuinely courteous, kind and interested, we will have positive experiences. There will always be misanthropes and such, but I think they are not the norm.

[@annaburch3200]

The #1 tip I ALWAYS tell friends and clients going to France is remember BONJOUR!!! That's a good one. So important to TRY. Bonjour is easy.

[@sbn.mototube]

Don't know what you're talking about. Just came back from 5 days in Paris, and watched some of your vids prior to the trip. The Parisians were so welcoming and nice. Helpful and communicative. Even when we "dared" stop them in their hurry at the Chatlet station for directions. Just be nice and polite. That's all. And Tnx for your videos. They sure are informative and helpful 👍

[@matthewwilliams4948]

I'm loving the new graphics on youre videos!!!

[@TammyTravelsTheWorld]

All of these, to me, are just common sense acts of respect and courtesy. It's really a shame that people have to be told these things. I've been to 10 countries so far and it's definitely a plus to learn a few words (or more!) of the language, read about their customs and history, always be patient, and learn how to adapt and appreciate other cultures. Looking forward to Paris and London this winter. Practicing my French. Great video, love your channel.

[@feliciasampson8032]

Great video. I love your enthusiasm! It seems that these tips should be part of basic etiquette and good manners...as a guest or at home!

[@eleveneleven572]

I'm English and live in Brittany. Its tourist season now and already I've met a British couple in the supermarket...loud, rude, not attempting French, repeatedly asking the assistant for something in English and the wife announced "She's no good, can't speak English". I had to step in for the sake of the poor staff member. With Americans they seem to inhabit a bubble. Don't interact with locals, eat pizza and burgers rather than try local dishes. They miss out on so much because the locals are very friendly.

[@b.w.9244]

Well you need to meet us then!

[@aaronhurst4379]

Yeah I'm British and feel constantly embarrassed by how many of my compatriots behave when abroad

[@ScipioAfricanus_Chris]

As an American I agree that many of my compatriots have a pathologic fear of deviating from their normal and familiar dishes. Worse than that, the local language they learn extends to asking for said boring food.

[@walideg5304]

The worst are probably the Britons in Spain… drunk, loud, rude. Spanish hate them.

[@jigilous]

Many Americans just order pizza and burgers because that is all they recognize on a menu that is in a foreign language

[@matthewcamino1601]

I'm going to Paris next year for my 28th birthday, and I have to say you are a lifesavor. I'm glad I found your channel. Merci !

[@kamrenwalker]

ok i’ve had a fear of visiting paris 🤣😂 but this gives me more clarity and understanding so now i’m down, i’m down to visit

[@fredbauscus3712]

When you ask a French person "do you speak English?" what they hear is "Are you fluent in English?" So they are likely as uncomfortable speaking your language as you are theirs. It's common for them to say "I speak a little," but that little is more than enough to help you. The French are also very specific about language. Don't be offended when they correct your pronunciation or grammar (& they will)

[@perthfanny3017]

I love it so much when you talk about my country!

[@SNAKE1375]

Bravo Mark, you've absolutely got it all concerning Parisians! An excellent "vade mecum" for tourists 😍

[@philippegosselin7756]

that tour group thing is not just in Paris and it annoys other tourists as well. I remember in Florence being almost shoved off the sidewalk by some tour groups coming from a cruise. And there was not only 1 of them. There were 4 groups. For the service, I have only 1 complaint. My first language is french and one of the waiter in Paris kept talking to me in bad english, and I was talking to him in french. But that only happened when I was really close to the Louvre. it did not happen elsewhere.

[@Lulu-ue2lj]

Great video! I love the bugs bunny reference-so true!

[@tobi8676]

Thank you so much for your videos on Paris. They were very helpful for my stay there! I speak a tiny little bit French and you really can't emphasize enough how much of a difference it makes to say "Bonjour" and start in French. Most of the people I met highly appreciated my effort and really opened up. They became really helpful! This tip is so good!

[@sams3015]

The Bonjour thing really makes a huge difference in France

[@lifewithjosef]

Supporting this. Every business we went in, we always greeted the staff with Bonjour and a smile

[@billybob-ro6qf]

or maybe WHAAAAAAT"S UP!

[@pongop]

Emily in Paris should have watched this before going! She is guilty of most of these. Thank you for the interesting tips.

[@meursaultscourtroom8886]

When we travel we try not to go to restaurants or use public transportation during "rush" hours. Let people get to work and get home in peace....you're on vacation you don't need to be out there. We've never had a problem with any locals just by staying out of their way!

[@koenven7012]

where possible I try to do that too. It not only makes the local's commute easier, but it also makes my trip easier as I don't have to stand in overcrowded metros or buses and have more time to search for my destination. Especially if I'm with my dad who's' in a wheelchair and therefore takes up more space.

[@TMAItalia]

These are excellent tips, I have seen tourist do all of these things while traveling in Italy!

[@francoisleyrat8659]

And another point to consider for Anglo-saxon visitors to Paris : there is less staffing in popular venues such as restaurants, cafés than in comparable circonstances in their home countries, because labour costs in France are high for employers (social cotisations paid by the businesses), plus the current post Covid hiring difficulties.

[@joenroute9646]

To be polite is France is to show respect and not to be overly familiar ( overly and fakely friendly)

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

Yes. Very important to understand that. Being polite in France is to show respect, to be formal (what the Americans call arrogance). Being overly friendly with someone you don’t know looks strange, even weird.

[@michaelkrupar9808]

I'm just back from Paris (and Roen and Bayeux). It's great to see it all again in your video. Also, like you say a couple of times, everything you say here about Paris/France can be said about anywhere in Europe, or any foreign country that you may visit. If you remember these whenever you travel abroad, your experience will be so much better.

[@ericjuli6576]

On our honeymoon my wife and I stood across the street from the Arc for at least 3-5 minutes staring trying to figure out how the heck people got over there lol.

[@rexx9496]

Lol

[@jkinnear81]

There is an underpass but it's not well indicated

[@ericjuli6576]

@@jkinnear81 we found it eventually. Felt silly as hell when we did!

[@billybob-ro6qf]

My motel was close to the ark & I never knew about these stairs to lead to it either LOL. I got lost in a store while I was there. I was trying to find my teacher for over an hour. Then I decided to ask for help & had them announce on the intercom where to find me. But I didn't even think to tell them to say the announcement in English. I never heard the announcement, but thankfully my teacher did & finally found me.

[@NDUWUISI]

This is taking me back to my honeymoon back in March. I love Paris!

[@Lisa-Lisa53]

I am glad I saw this. I was saying I did not want to go to Paris because of some of the things u said. Thank you. I have always wanted to go to the Museums.

[@mmc9828]

We had only 1 experience while in Paris that was unpleasant. The four of us walked into a restaurant that was half empty and wanted only a glass of wine and appetizers. The waiter was so miffed that we weren't ordering full meals and was incredibly rude to us. We actually thought it was funny because he was so over the top with his rudeness. Other than that everyone was wonderful and very helpful.

[@phonogramme9921]

Did you say "bonjour" ?

[@mmc9828]

@@phonogramme9921 Yes, when we entered the restaurant.

[@younot-ez3xr]

Sounds like that waiter expected the tourist to spend lots of money at that restaurant

[@athanase6613]

We have also our own morons here. As a french, i experienced a lot of truly bad restaurant in Paris where i worked. I tried them once and never come again. Now when i want a good place to eat, i use my smartphone and can find easily good stuf !

[@Mac-xo2zj]

I almost got a in a fight with a guy at a bar. He kept going on and on about how great it was that we could just speak English anywhere in the world and people would understand. I kept saying yea that is great. Eventually I got annoyed and said "Now I have no need to waste my time learning French." :P

[@petehoeft6518]

When my wife and I were in Paris a few years ago, we went to Fouquet's on the Champ-Elysees. It was a beautiful sunny day and, as normal, they had street facing seats and small tables. They had a sign out front asking that people use inside seating for dining. We were there a few minutes and an American (we're Americans) man with some other folks came in and he was loud and obnoxiously asking the server to give them the street facing seating for dining. The waiter was doing their best to dissuade the tourist who amped up their volume and were telling the server that they'd make it worth their while and so on. In the spirit of toning things down for everyone else, the server eventually gave in. My fellow American did exactly what my wife and I were trying to avoid, which was being an ugly American. We had followed the spirit of this video and had an awesome time. We walked the back streets. Tried off-beat cafes and ate different and wonderful food. And all the Parisians we met were wonderful people. We definitely were ashamed of the American. Fortunately, the Parisians see all types and they treated us with the same respect as what we gave.

[@heliedecastanet1882]

I agree with you : positive people meet positive people. Negative people meet negative people 🙂

[@andeeharry]

thanks for sharing this.....you did open my eyes and change a few things here, thanks for that.

[@dimitrabir.4177]

Honestly I'm Greek and I agree with the French on almost all of these!!!

[@missj.4760]

Yes, it is the kind of things that are disrespectful everywhere. The only one that is perhaps not universal is being loud as it is something normal in some culture (ex. USA, at least to some extend, China, Germany and Mediteranean countries).

[@jefferyowens1762]

Was just there wish I could have spotted you! Thanks for advice for a first time traveler to Europe!

[@nathanjw940]

When I was in Costa Rica. I asked the waitress for a recommendation on a local dish. They had food I recognized but it really opened them up.

[@retirementbudgettravel699]

We found the French to be helpful & lovely. 🇫🇷❤️👍🏼

[@vashonm]

This need to be posted in the paris fb group they need a full education on traveling!

[@StamfordBridge]

Great one, Mark.

[@infantata]

Have patience in your schedule, your best rudimentary french in your head, and kindness in your eyes,...and you will be treated so very well.

[@b.w.9244]

I'm nervous about not knowing if I should wait to be seated, or just go to a streetside seat. I will probably stand outside and watch some other groups go in first!

[@jkinnear81]

I agree with you Mark. Although I have seen French people completely lose it at times and yes I have seen the arrogant remarks they make at times which I can pick up on as I speak French myself and the French don't have the reputation of being the most patient people on earth. Considering all that, I feel like many situations tourists could have easily avoided and save alot of bad rap. You did mention a very important one. People just stopping in the middle of the sidewalk. That didn't only annoy the locals by the way. It annoys me the tourist too when I see that. In Montreal where I'm from people are doing that all the time and we those of us who live here need to get from A to B and yes it can be annoying as hell. Also, I am far from being the most fluent person on earth when travelling but I try to at least learn a few words about each place I travel to as it helps more than getting frustrated over the communication barrier. Quebec, the Canadian province where I am from is a perfect example of this. The French speakers here (Quebecois) felt like Quebec was losing their language and identity and now they just recently introduced Bill 96 over it which I am not in agreement with and it will have major repercussions but I am not here to talk about the details or to talk all about politics. I am here to agree that it's always polite to always communicate at least a few basic words in the language of which you are travelling. That's just common courtesy. It's also shocking how many people attempt to run across the road to get to the arc de triomphe without taking the underpass. That's extremely dangerous and I've seen people do this on numerous occasions, it's amazing how some of them didn't get hit and go flying. I am also done driving in major European cities ever since I've had a bad experience in Florence. It's not because the driving intimidated me, it's because I wasn't aware of all the local traffic laws and it came back to bite me.

[@BubblyViolin11]

As an LA local, the whole stopping in the middle of the sidewalk/st is a massive annoyance, but with the rise of TikTok, I’m less annoyed by the tourists and more annoyed with the locals….. the number of people trying to go ‘viral’ on social media that film in the middle of the sidewalk is mildly enraging at this point 😂

[@jinjysbro]

I am American and I also live in Québec. I personally think it's fine if a tourist does not speak the local language and most people I find here in Québec do not mind this, especially in tourist areas like Old Port in Montréal or the Old Town in Québec City. I think they get upset when people end up moving here and not learning French, just expecting everything to be in English due to Canada being a "bilingual country" even though French speakers would not be granted the same courtesy in most of the rest of the country. I believe that was much of the motivation behind Bill 96.

[@PhantomOfDarkness]

there is no reason to be in a rush anyway, you are on vacation. so sit back, enjoy the vibes, eat your meal, and just live in the moment. idk why anybody would want to rush through anything, especially since your paying big bucks just to experience an entirely different lifestyle/culture.

[@sa21g22g23]

Great and so georgeous information cultural of the lovely city of Paris for buy and travel , très magnifique et trés jolie thème pour pouvoir acheter et voyager á Paris

[@missmayflower]

Asking for decaf coffee, that’s me. Folks, you have to allow at least two hours for lunch. If you’re in a hurry, just go to a boulangerie and take out a sandwich to eat in the park.

[@PascalGienger]

That's normal. For French lunch or dinner is quality time. It is the time you spend with your family or your colleagues - NOT talking about work. French always shake their heads when seeing brown bags in the US where employees get their food for lunch in a brown bag to immediately return to work and eating while working... US: Eating for fast nutrition, let's not lose a minute from work. France : Eating is a social and personal event. You enjoy it and you leave work at work.

[@ninaelsbethgustavsen2131]

Good advice ! 🤗 Also, if you're a woman, dressing in a "french" way always works in Paris. Trenhcoat or a cardigan. Wedge heeled pumps. A chic little crossbody bag. And red lips ! 💄💋 I know roughly 12 words in french. Yet I manage very well. And service is exellent ! Love from Norway 🇳🇴

[@rodjones117]

Yes - get a baguette, not McDonalds.

[@davidperry7128]

@@PascalGienger The French love a decent work-life balance, long lunch, not expecting shop workers to have to work Sundays and sometimes Mondays. It is changing unfortunately.

[@Isaiah-zd3iz]

These are kind of general things that piss people off in every country. Great video though!

[@Aaron-yc2eq]

So don't be an obnoxious jerk. Basically social rules that are expected everywhere. Love these videos. Thank you for them -

[@einundsiebenziger5488]

About the service "being slow": Most awful behaviour of most tourists to any area all over the world is not realizing that they're on vacation and asking everything to move fast. You do not need to back at the office in half an hour, so sit down, relax, and have a good time.

[@koenven7012]

It's because they pack their days with too much stuff. If you want to do five museums on one day because you're only in Paris (or any other big city) for two days as you try to do the whole of Europe in three weeks, you have to rush. But you shouldn't do that (and Mark has said so many times in his videos).

[@brettbuck7362]

I think it is about not wanting their precious vacation time wasted by a bunch of lazy locals.

[@katiet.7656]

The “Bonjour” tip is so important! I’ve been to Paris three times, always lead off with my high school level french (often they kindly switch to English) and have never had a problem. I’m naturally reserved and find it incredibly restful that french waiters don’t insist on me being enthusiastically involved in knowing their names or telling them my plans for the day. Just sayin’

[@Cindypisces]

Yea I came back from Paris about a month ago and everything you stated is 100% true. Parisians are definitely one of the nicest people I’ve ever met and definitely one of the friendliest. It was honestly a treat to just literally lay back and not rush. I come from New York so everything is always on a Rush Rush level. So it was good to just kind of take a step back and be calm for a while. And yes it does make a huge difference if you can just learn a few words in French. It would make your experience way way better. Also another thing that we also hate in New York that tourists do that the French hate also…is on the escalator make sure if you decide to ride the escalator is stay on the right side. Leave the left side for those people that want to walk up the steps. Because they follow the same rules in Paris as they do in Ny.

[@martijnkeisers5900]

I am from Amsterdam, and this applies to the tourists here too!

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Especially the French ones, I heard. I was told that the French tourists (I am French) are really disrespectful in Amsterdam. Is it true ? If so, I do apologize for my compatriots. What an embarrassment !

[@cherylb.7362]

Excellent advice (and a lot of it not just for Paris).

[@woltersworld]

a couple will pop up on our "how to annoy people in France" video as well :)

[@chrisfritsch7934]

I couldn't agree more! I pretty much abide by all of these! When we go to stores, we always say "Bonjour, ça va?" Hello how are you? Last time we were in Paris, we only met one rude woman who line jumped in front of us and called ME rude! I asked the girl at the counter if I was in the wrong. The woman said she's probably just Parisian. Otherwise, people were VERY nice and very helpful. But on that note, I'm from Chicago, and grew up two blocks from Wrigley field. When big cubs games happened, people would block our driveway, vomit in front of our house, fight on our street, you name it. Just act like complete a-holes. And I love the Cubs but not all the fans, because they act like they're entitled to misbehave. This happened all over Chicago, not just Cubs fans but people visiting from the burbs for festivals, street events, or you name it. So I feel for the Parisians. You visit for a few days so what's the big deal? Well, they have to deal with those people 365 days of the year, so anyone would get prickly. Try to be a diplomat of where you're from, listen to Mark's sage advice and have a little humility. That's all! It's easy.

[@ahmd5]

This topic is gold 🤣😂🤣😂

[@DRspeaks]

This video DEFINITELY makes Parisians sound like snobs, despite saying they’re not.

[@melaniezette886]

Very usefull

[@LincolnClay98]

Mark is so lucky, he's had a better life than 99% of people.

[@woltersworld]

You make me blush

[@kawadia]

My daughter and I love Paris, especially the people. Everyone was kind and helpful to us. We knew enough conversational French to converse with People we interacted with and they appreciated that. Great Tips!

[@nicolesolotraveler]

I went to Paris for the first time a month ago and it was amazing. One of the things that did shock me was how the stereotypes, regarding French people, were so wrong!!! I loved the Parisians and the French, honestly some of the best interactions I had throughout my entire European vacation were in Paris/Versaille, and I just could not believe that everyone else thought differently. Even when getting back to the states, when I told everyone about how much I respected and loved the French, they were shocked and told me about how when they were in Paris, the Parisians were rude to them or whatever. It honestly made me think "what kind of annoying American tourist you must've been to continuously encounter rude French people". Because 95% of the people I met were amazing and nice...and the ones that weren't were rightful in their annoyance towards me (I was late to a Seine river cruise/was annoying in a bar one night...people aren't perfect lol)!! Honestly, as long as you try to speak French, are respectful of their culture, and are overall just aware of how you carry yourself on your trip, you will have a fabulous time and be able to meet amazing people!

[@nemamime2834]

Great vid

[@chasingadeline]

Yeah that’s Europe when it comes to restaurant there are lot more slower than here in America. Here it’s about getting you fed and getting you out.

[@ChristopherBroomeBalt]

I found Paris and Parisians to be very friendly, very kind, and generous. The big thing is that nothing in that city is geared toward beginners. No one's going to explain the metro to you, there's no explainers on culture, how to queue up for museums, etc.... Once you get a little acclimated though everything runs smoothly. It's a lot like New York. The vibe is "you came to us, we didn't ask you to come. Make do on your own". Like Wolter says, learn the basics about how to say "please" and "thank you" and you're 80% of the way there.

[@kathyrussell9610]

I have traveled widely in Europe, including visits to Paris and other parts of France. A;s everyone has said, most folks in Paris, and France as a whole are really helpful. I have never studied French but learned a lot living in Montreal as a grad student. I can get by pretty well, and the locals don't always switch the conversation to English. That being said, Paris accounts for a disproportionate fraction of the small number of unpleasant experiences in my travels, including the worst one. My daughter, grandson and I were near the Eiffel Tower and were mobbed by a group of souvenir sellers who surrounded us, wanting to sell us those little models of the Tower. We said no, merci, but they yelled at us and one of them spat at my feet. It was a little scary, as we were simply walking along the street.

[@tobiojo9454]

Cool and interesting video

[@spydude38]

Some of these things don't just piss of Parisians, but good things to remind folks about.

[@deejayk5939]

Loved Paris, loved the French! Back one day….

[@Lulu-ue2lj]

I love France 🇫🇷 but to be honest Parisiennes are not as friendly. It reminds of the difference between New York City and smaller towns nearby. Maybe it has something to do with being a city dweller or in the suburbs or countryside. I do also love the formality in Europe which shows in conversant language. I wish America was a bit more formal and took the time with The niceties as they say. Thank you

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

I think one reason Parisians (or big-city dwellers in general) are going to be less friendly right off the bat is that there are a lot more people trying to scam you in a big city, so you naturally become less trusting. In particular if you are a woman, making eye contact with a strange man is a bad idea because he'll take that as an invitation to come over and hit on you. In small towns you can let your guard down.

[@babsr8479]

I didn't even know there was an underground path to the Arc de Triumph, so I took a picture from across the street and zoomed in.

[@robertmaxa6631]

I had a fantastic time when I was in Paris, hardly speaking French. My cousin told me, when you walk into a shop, or first meet someone, start with "bonjour", and after that, you could ask if they speak English, in French, and they aren't offended. A crepe vendor, and I became buddies.

[@scottlindsly]

Prior to discovering Mark's videos here, I'd spent many years being ignorantly-prejudiced against Paris (after a not-so-nice experience in Straßburg, which he also showed me was not the norm, and told by well-travelled friends "if you didn't like it there, don't ever go to Paris!)...though very interested in seeing its countless sites as a history-buff & not adverse to French culture (as a New Orleans native). So we're planning a Summer '23 trip, and these tips (along with his related vids) are priceless in hoping for a wonderful experience!

[@cmolodiets]

Straßburg, ja voll!

[@billylong6925]

What I've learned traveling abroad, is just make it seem like you tried to learn some of the locals language. They appreciate it alot! I'm going to Italy in a few weeks so I learned all the greetings words "excuse me I don't Italian, do you speak English?" And can I get one beer!

[@c4arla]

yeah one that could be useful too is about german ppl and what are the most friendly cities to visit in germany

[@mmc9828]

We are going to Berlin in a couple of months. Would like to see a video on Berlin restaurants.

[@shanghaidiscovery2664]

As a French person who lived in Paris as well as other parts of France and other countries, I can say that Paris is the least friendly place in France. Now the service part is a problem all over France and the slow service upsets some of us too. Some of us can be sympathetic if a waiter handles 20 tables, but then again that is also not really our problem. My opinion, if you are in a hurry, absolutely no problem in complaining and asking for the bill or faster service. Complain enough and you might slowly become French because that is one of our favorite activities.

[@katesleuth1156]

Public washrooms in Paris are few and far between. You can’t ask the restaurant owners if you can use their washroom.

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

You can use a café’s toilets if you’re polite and order a cup of coffee first. Or another drink. It’s called having good manners.

[@walterkancyan2722]

Generally - a lesson in manners - something parents no longer teach!

[@britainluver431]

Thank goodness I took French class in high school for 2 school years.

[@kueller917]

Honestly my problems with tourists outside of some of those little gripes is just the critical mass of being one of the most visited cities in the world. I tend to not stay too long in the big touristy areas because it gets crowded and a lot of the scammers hang around there. And that's not the tourists' fault but it just happens. Also naturally areas around the landmarks can be tacky and expensive so even less reason to be there regularly. Individually they honestly also get a bad rep. I enjoy being able to help someone find their way with the detail of a resident, or chat coming back from the airport about where they're from or what brought them to Paris. It can be fun having access to so many people from around the world.

[@wholesomegaming734]

Hello! First time in Paris and it's been a week! Before I came over, I was told that as a Chinese person I would probably experience some racism but if I'm being honest I have yet to have a bad time here. Everyone is super nice if you just engage them with a good vibe, even if initially they seem like (for lack of a better word) a "douche", keep up the smile and engaging attitude then they'll start to come around. Definitely thank you for the advice you've given!

[@joenroute9646]

It is mainly a cultural gap.

[@johnathin0061892]

Don't believe the media about "western racism", especially from the self-hating western media. Even if you are different, as long as you are a nice, reasonable person most people will treat you with respect in kind.

[@MichalBergseth-AmitopiaTV]

In Norway, it is common to eat on the subway, tram, or even busses. I think that people in Paris don't like that. Felt a bit odd when eating a Snickers at the Paris Metro ;)

[@missj.4760]

I spend a few days in Paris last summer. I don't know if it is because they were missing the tourists but except one garçon (waiter) in St-Germain, everybody was super friendly and helpful. I travel budget and I also had excellent and quick service most of the time.

[@cmolodiets]

We are sorry we haven't been up to our reputation. If you would come back, I promise you the worst service you ever had for the highest price. An experience you'll remember for life, touriste stupide

[@missj.4760]

@@cmolodiets I am friendly and respectful, I don't travel in group and I speak French. It helps having a good service 😉.

[@michaelsmith7902]

Don't say garçon. You're insulting him lol

[@missj.4760]

@@michaelsmith7902 French is my first language. To my knowledge "garçon" is not insulting although it not an expression we use in Québec were I am from. Garçon means boy. I understand it can be diminutive but it is an expression that is widely used.

[@davidperry7128]

@@missj.4760 No it isn't, not in France. The waiters are professionals in France and should be respected and noy referred to as boy!

[@pauldegregorio6432]

Loved London. Paris not so much. I would like to try Paris/France again sometime. Poured for two days. Seine was flooding. Dark and miserable. The sun in your video gives me hope that our short excursion was a one off. Germany, Austria and Czech Republic this summer!

[@davidperry7128]

Best thing in Paris is find some of the small neighbourhoods, tourist limited. Go with the flow. If you want the sun try Bordeaux or Toulouse.

[@hawa7264]

One time in Paris I tried to get an information about a train. I was asking the SNCF person in french (which I speak poorly) and as she didn't seem to understand me I asked her "parlez vous anglais?" and she just straight up ignored me and called the next person that was queueing behind me. In Marseille, Avignon and Nice people were really nice but I have to say in Paris the vibe was kind of meh for me. And I'm from Berlin. We have tourists blocking the sidewalks (or worse the bike lane) too, we have tourists not bothering to try to speak a word of German etc etc. But unfortunately that's just how tourism is nowadays. No reason to get upset.

[@hawa7264]

@@enle2002 my french was worse than hers. For sure. I learnt french in school and then almost never used it until I that holiday

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

I understand what you are saying, but keep in mind that Paris brings in six times the number of tourists per year that Berlin does. It's harder to be patient when those things happen all the time. EDIT: the "six times" figure is probably wrong because it's based somewhat on data from COVID times. But it's at least double.

[@AlyaMcMelancholia]

Well you just met a rude person, but I assure you not everyone is the same. As a Parisian I also had some of those experiences, people downright ignoring you or just making it very clear that they don't want to talk to you

[@kolerick]

well... how to say it... the SNCF agent, bare a very huge mistake, can't be fired... ever they have no incentives to be nice but then, they have to be "efficient"... it's more about quantity than quality in this kind situation when interacting with public servant, it is very likely that you will see the true character of the person talking to you... some are nice, some aren't... and then, they also have to interact with peoples and before you you came with an innocent and valid question, the public servant probably had many "idiots"... as I said, no incentive to be nice, so why put in additional effort.

[@rizwankehumsafar]

Interesting

[@salag13]

As someone who’s been to Paris, a little French really goes a long way.

[@mccorama]

My comedy story is when I worked at St Thomas's Hospital with a friend working in the House of Commons. We arranged to meet for lunch in the House for lunch. Crossing Westminster Bridge at lunch time in June took twenty minutes! Literally 20 minutes for 400m

[@michaeljoyce2096]

People block the isles in a grocery store. And I find it rude. I can relate.

[@jacquelineb4375]

My colleague is from Paris, & she herself thinks many Parisians are snobby. I just think there are good & bad people everywhere, in addition learning a little about the customs & also just having some basic good manners does go a long way.

[@cruisingforone]

Bonjour is the absolute minimum, and as you say, try a little French first. I think this is appreciated everywhere actually, not just in France.

[@MizzKittyBichon]

Out of all of the big cities I've ever been to, Paris has the _least_ stuck-up people. Also, ditto on the driving. Parisian traffic is scary AF.

[@thibzedit8026]

Indeed, even for local : we make fun of non-parisians trying to drive in Paris xD

[@davidperry7128]

@@thibzedit8026 Perhaps that is one of the reasons the rest of France dislike Parisians when they visit on holiday.

[@jtstacey83]

We were thinking of renting a car while in Normandy, but the online reviews worry us; any suggestions?

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

This was an excellent list; I agree with every single one. Although I would say it's okay if you don't try a few specific things that you really don't want to, like escargot or pâté de foie gras, as long as you generally are open to most new things (especially the cheese and wine).

[@koenven7012]

Or if you know you're allergic to certain things. France has excellent healthcare but best to avoid if possible.

[@rodjones117]

Obviously nobody should feel obliged to try something they really don't think they'll like, as you say. But - if you're not even slightly adventurous (looking at you tourists who go to McDonalds all the time) it's you who are losing out. If you don't want to try local food etc, just go to Florida.

[@backtotheblak]

Never tell a Frenchman that foie gras is paté, I'm avoiding a 'faux pas' by telling you that, amicalement.

[@rodjones117]

@@backtotheblak Surely there is such a thing as foie gras pate though? Pate with foie gras as an ingredient?

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

@@backtotheblak Ha, I do know that! My partner is French and I learned the important distinction this past Christmas. 😛But Americans (or maybe anglophones in general) know it as pâté so I used the term they would understand.