USA CULTURE SHOCKS | Will YOU be surprised by the 9 things a FRENCHMAN would change about the USA?

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Hey guys! I filmed this video about Culture Shocks in the USA a couple weeks ago, but hadn't put it out yet with everything going on. I've been staying away from the news lately because it's been pretty depressing, so I thought maybe this was a good time to have some content not related to COVID-19. This video is all about what drives my French husband crazy when we are in the US. Hope you guys enjoy his thoughts and get a good laugh out of some of them! Take care and stay safe!

[@pattibravard]

Wow... I am American but totally agreed with your hubby on everything. I did live in France for 15 years and realized many of those things on my own, wishing I could change some of what is done here. I would also add how 'loud' Americans tend to be and how invasive they are in what they want to know about you when you first meet. There was so much that I fit in with in France... I am happy to be home for the ease of driving, family and language, but miss the food, the quietness, the 'bissous' and the fact I did not have to be overly polite to people I don't know.

[@timotheelegrincheux2204]

I am a 73-year-old American male. I too am put off by strangers asking how I am doing. It is just a perfunctory verbal ritual. My standard answer is just, "OK." And I don't inquire how they are if I don't know them.

[@DoNMoSs2]

it's illegal to cross by the right in france it's in the "code de la route"

[@ameliecarre4783]

Yep, I was about to write that too. Normally you can't pass someone on the right. We do it when someone stays on the left lane but doesn't go fast enough, but technically we could get a ticket for that.

[@NelsonBHitchcock]

same here.

[@solofein3985]

It's just that, it's forbidden in french driving rules, thus even if french drivers are supposed to stay aware of their surroundings on both sides, they are compelled to watch their left side mostly because nobody will normally cross by its right, so it would surprise us french drivers consequently we see it as a dangerous behaviour.

[@fredc9552]

It's illegal except in cases when traffic is moving slow and you end up passing someone on the right, so it can happen on congested roads. There are also much fewer cases where you want to turn left and need to hoard the left lane. Lane hoarding is also a thing in the US and no one sees anything wrong with 2 SUV's side by side doing 50mph in a 55 mph zone....It's all a question of what gets enforced, for example, don't you dare not using your turn signal in France.

[@krissyyssirk2643]

Also most highways in France only have 2 lanes (as opposed to countless lanes in the US) so you don't get a 3rd option when there is a lot of traffic. You're either passing or you're just chilling. If you don't wait for your turn to get in the left lane to pass, the people who already are in the left lane trying to get back in the right lane get stuck. I find in the US, I often can't get back in the right lane after passing because someone else is trying to pass me, and then it sucks to get to my exit sometimes.

[@jm-ky3ii]

About passing on the right, in France, it's a real rule more than a driver tip, i mean, you can really take a ticket for being too slow on the left side or passing by the right, so I guess it's a rule we follow more (for once!)

[@Redgethechemist]

Yep, it's a rule from the driving code, you're not allowed to overtake on the right, and as a consequence, it's very surprising and upsetting for the driver when it happens, because you don't expect people to overtake you on this side, unless you drive in Paris, crazy drivers. But when you're on the highway and there are at least 3 lanes, it happens more often.

[@Findalfen]

And it is not just a rule but a safety feature as well as a flow control. As in fluid dynamic, you have less friction (so better traffic), if the speed of each lane is different and increasing in only one direction (from right to left in this case).

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

I thought it was a rule in the US too? But maybe i'm wrong. havent taken a written drivers test in 16 years!

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

I've been learning to drive a stick in Paris and I would agree with you that it seems like anything goes there!

[@jolly14579]

Unintentionally Frenchified omg please do a vlog style of you learning to drive in paris! That would so fun! Your hubby could hold the camera

[@katiecourreges]

You are literally describing my husband when we go to the US haha especially my energy level and the superficial "hello, how are you?".

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

It's not always easy to be on two completely different energy levels 😂

[@patchworkmermaid]

Sales tax can't be included on the price of items because Sales Tax is different for each state. Retailers don't want to advertise that you can get lower prices on everything just by driving across state lines. People just aren't educated on taxes and all the different ways we are taxed. Comparatively, we have taxes built in the gas prices and people are shocked to find out that there is any tax there. The US Superiority Complex is nothing compared to the Texas Superiority Complex.

[@jm-ky3ii]

Fun fact about "the bise" vs the hug... The "bise" is a short name for "embrasser", and ethimologically, it means "take in your arms" (bras=arm), so historically, people did hug each other! Embrasser = embrace, same root, same origin!

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Thanks for this! My husband loves explaining to me where words come from, so love getting some insight on the hug!

[@OptLab]

Pour une fois j'ai envie de dire, "touché" Merci pour ton commentaire

[@Derry_Aire]

Yes. If you watch old French films they all tend to hug and kiss when meeting. I've also just realised the word "brassiere" is probably more to do with the arm-holes than the cups!

[@quoileternite]

Oui, il faudrait quand même dire que "bise" vient du verbe "biser" dérivé de "baiser" (wiki), avec le sens que l'on sait mais aussi dans l'expression le "baise-main". Ok pour l'origine d'embrasser.

[@jm-ky3ii]

​@@quoileternite Tout à fait, j'ai effectivement fait un raccourci sémantique histoire de pas alourdir mon post... les verbes "baiser" et "embrasser" ont une histoire assez semblables, les deux ont vu leur sens dériver au fil du temps... =)

[@thierrymorales9797]

I like your husband 😊 he is perfectly right about everything.....but I'm biased, I'm French 😀😀

[@clairebreuleux2928]

I think there's something good in every country , it depends on what you're looking for in your life.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Absolutely!!

[@DaLionessGirl]

The "Hi, How are you" is also a thing in Sénégal and I was just as uncomfortable as your husband in the US as a French girl 😂 The first time I walked into a store in Dakar and the cashier said "Hello, how are you doing" I thought "have I met this man before and simply can't remember?". But no, he was just polite 😂 After a while, I have to admit, it's nice.

[@julienf2301]

The "Hi, how are you ?" feels a bit weird for me as a French in Spain as well: I regularly get some "Hola, qué tal ?", or even just "Qué tal ?", sometimes just asking this question while they keep walking without leaving me any time to answer before they're gone. I haven't yet fully figured out how to deal with those.

[@perthfanny3017]

I feel like hola que tal is way less confusing to me as how is it going (as a French)! I sometimes say it in Spain but would be unable to say it in the US. It would feel so awkward. Maybe because it is way shorter?

[@perthfanny3017]

Same as in the US. In Spain you are not expected to answer the hola que tal question!

[@julienf2301]

My understanding is that in the US you are expected to answer a bit of something, like a "Fine, thanks. " It's just that you're not supposed to answer honesty and to enter into details, but you shouldn't entirely ignore the question neither. So it's not just about "answering or not", there is a grey area. In Spain I feel like our position within this grey area depends more on the situation. Sometimes it's kind of a genuine question and sometimes you don't even have time for a "Todo bien, y tu?". The Americans are a bit fake with everybody, while the Spaniards choose with whom they want to be nice.

[@perthfanny3017]

@@julienf2301 yes you are right about both countries! It's true that in the US I've heard some people respond "fine. how are you?". So awkward. I could NEVER do that 😱😂 In Spain, I feel like if a cashier or post office clerk says "que tal?" you are not supposed to respond but if a neighbor does you should definitely respond^^

[@MichelleF1320]

With social distancing both the “bise” and the hug are out now 😄

[@MichelleF1320]

The whole sales tax thing in USA is so weird to me. Sales tax are in included in the price in South Africa as well.

[@MattSezer]

The issue with sales tax is that it varies based on the city that you're in as well as on the product that you're buying. Where I am, clothing under $100 is exempt from sales tax, but is a hat considered clothes? If I buy a can of Coke in a grocery store, I don't have to pay sales tax, but if I buy it in a resturant, I do. Is a cafe in a grocery store considered a grocery store or a restaurant? It's not just some simple number that you can add to everything.

[@jrgilmore935]

The "how are you"!!! I can't cope with it! I'm German and have spent some time in England and Australia. I understand it, I KNOW how it's meant and it still confuses me!!! When someone asks me how I am I just start thinking about how I am. Then I realise that nobody cares and I just have to say "good thanks" but by the time I do there has been a bit of an awkward silence sometimes. And it's so reverse. In German when someone asks how you are ,a quick "good, thanks" might sound a bit like "I don't wanna talk to you". It is much more polite to actually say a few sentences about how you really are. It is an actual conversation starter. But we only ask if we care. So if a German asks you: tske the time to answer andf you might find a new friend ;) .

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Good to know for the hi how are you in germany! Would have totally taken it as, don't respond too much otherwise it's wierd!

[@sylvaintaif8128]

It's strange because I feel that I've been asked all my life (in France), all the more at work with colleagues and professional acquaintances, how I was going and finding it really superficial because indeed no one actually cares whether you're fine or not. And since it's not logical to me... I never end up asking in return... which is pretty awkward. But, when I do ask, it's usually because I anticipate that something's wrong AND hopefully I can be of some help. But then again, if I have any suspicion as to how useless I'll be regarding the problem you face, then clearly I'll avoid asking, for you not to be bothered, having to explain when it's none of my business and me asking will only bring more sadness. That's my logic.

[@AlainNaigeon]

Yes, often american people seem to think that if you don't make something like they do in the USA, it means you haven't found yet the right way to do it.

[@m3ganmcguir3]

what i hate the most? the noise level in restaurants... why do you make me have to SCREAM to be heard across the table??

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

So true, so true! We talk so loud in the US 😂My husband will often be like kate, stop screaming please. We are right next to each other 😁

[@timotheelegrincheux2204]

I am American and I hate the loud music that is played in just about any store, especially at a mall, and in most restaurants. Many times my wife and I have walked into a restaurant and upon hearing the obnoxiously loud music, just turned around and left.

[@Tamar-sz8ox]

m3ganmcguir3 : I’m from the USA 🇺🇸, restaurants are often too loud I agree and it’s hard to enjoy and digest the food 🥘. 😩. The only time I experienced a louder restaurant culture was in Italy 🇮🇹😄 God bless Italy

[@gardenerinthesand]

Sadly, the high noise level in restaurants is not just in USA.

[@pierrehachin6113]

I loved the drinks and the hugs, it made me laugh a lot

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

:)

[@TheCMLion]

My husband (also French) still has issues with sales tax--and so do his friends. It makes me laugh they get so upset about it. They are always so calm about everything, but THAT gets them all riled up. The hug has gotten me in trouble a lot in France. I'm going for the hug, they're going for the kiss... (cue car crash sound effect). The American Pride thing: I thought every country felt the same way about their own country. I was really surprised (and a little embarrassed) at our ego.

[@romulusthemainecoon3047]

I like the pleasantries (often at the cashier) of "Hi how are you?" "So, doing anything fun this weekend?" "I love your earrings!" I mean it might be a bit superficial but I appreciate the cheeriness of total strangers in the USA.

[@wolffpaul8867]

As a French, I agree on all the cultural shocks haha

[@StormWolf01]

Yeah, i spent one year in Australia. I can't describe my frustration and disbelief when, at the ripe age of 30, i had to show my ID every time i wanted to buy some beer. It's hard to put into words how ridiculous this is to someone from Europe, where you can legally buy beer from 16 years old onward, and where you are *never* asked for your ID. Yeah. I'm 35, and in my country, i have never been asked to show my ID when ordering any kind of alcohol. Not even once in my whole life.

[@camillerose4737]

StormWolf01 I work in an American restaurant. The reason we ask anyone under 65 for ID is because we are legally liable if we serve alcohol to anyone underage. For example, if I were to serve someone alcohol who appears to be 30, and I don’t ask for ID, but in actuality they are 20 and then they get into a car accident while intoxicated, I could be fined or jailed.

[@AlainNaigeon]

@@camillerose4737 But the guy who sells a gun to someone going to kill 15 teens in a school, I've never heard he gets a fine or a jail sentence. BTW, the remark was, IMHO, about this rule in the USA, and not about people like you who are forced to respect it (which is quite understandable).

[@johnstoddart5523]

I’m Australian, you won’t be asked for ID unless you have a baby face! Which I had until I was 35! Sympathies , I guess.

[@alicemolinari1759]

I’m italian and we do the kisses on both cheeks like in France, but I’ve always felt uncomfortable about it since I was born. I’d rather be hugged than kissed on both cheeks everytime. I think hugging is more spontaneous and less intrusive than kissing. Nice video :)

[@thierryf67]

you think than sticking your breast and belly to someone is les intrusive than just a fake kiss in the air ? well, i fell less confortable to hugg.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

To each his own! I love hearing of someone who grew up kissing, but prefers the hug! And I am a HUGE fan of Italy. My husband is 50% Italian and we spend a lot of time in Italy, you're so lucky! I hope you are staying safe right now though!

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Honestly, i wouldn't say we always slam our chests onto other people. You can hug with your butt out in a way where you don't at all touch someone else. But it takes practice if you aren't used to it!

[@alicemolinari1759]

thierryf67 actually I find the all kissing thing a little bit “posh”, not really spontaneous and easygoing. I like hugs when they’re not too sticky. Of course I kiss on both cheeks as everybody does here in Italy, but If I could choose, I’d go for hugs. Just my personal opinion.

[@davidevans8059]

I feel the opposite, hugging invades my personal space, which I share with only a few, kissing on both cheeks is a lot more impersonal, no body contact.

[@JohnDoe-pf6qp]

It really makes perfect sense: if you're dining in you should get the smallest size and refill. But many people do take out and may want a larger cup size. Almost all of the cost in a drink is the cup, therefore there is a price difference for a larger cup.

[@julienf2301]

Those would be the 8 most obvious points to change about the USA for me (some are quite political so not everybody will agree, but I'm sure most Frenchies would agree with them): - get a proper health system (and retirement) - wrecked hobos rotting in every street corner of your country, and the amputated veterans here and there as well, that's creepy - the quasi absence of cities or city centers and the extreme reliance on cars - those annoying tips to compute all the time - the freezing air con which always gets all the Europeans sick - guns, and the level of violence in general - the remains of alcohol prohibition everywhere - shitty foods with poor regulations, and the weird drugstores selling Coca-Cola and diabetes-inducing cookies along with prescription drugs And I'm struggling to find the 9th without getting into petty or questionable points, or trying to make deep changes about the Americans themselves (including the "energy level" and "superiority complex" you're referring to), so I'm stopping here.

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

My French boyfriend agrees with all of these except the carding for drinking - that doesn't bother him that much. But, he HATES the tipping. 😅 Direct quote about the patriotism: "A good country would include the tax in the price." 🤣

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

hahahahah what a quote 😂

[@blueskies1415]

I am a 78 y.o American male from NY and I believe that Robin is totally Correct on everything. Hold in there Robin; you are definitely correct!

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

haha i'll let him know!!

[@quoileternite]

Génial, j'adore ta souplesse d'esprit et ta bonne humeur ! Continue, tes videos sont super.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Merci beaucoup!

[@Roukmoutification]

Hi I really enjoyed your video. I agree with your husband I was always very shocked by people passing on the right on the highway. If it happens in France then you get yelled at basically

[@evawettergren7492]

This was a really fun video. Love your energy and positivity. And your husband sounds like the typical European, sooo much 'yup, I agree' with his opinions for me (I'm also from europe).

[@seanwalsh5717]

Sadly, the United States has some of the highest levels of infant mortality and economic inequality, and also some of the lowest levels of social mobility and access to education and health care (compared to other developed democracies). Be safe and enjoy spending time with family. Our family is hunkered down here in the US and having fun despite the isolation.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Yea living in another country made me quickly aware of all the social inequalities and lack of healthcare access in the US. It's a shame but not something we cant change!! Stay safe over there!!

[@neofils]

The U.S is a rich third world country with a wealhcare inside of a healthcare where people are considered more like consumers than a citizens. Whe

[@bevzombified9548]

A few weeks ago, I actually told my speech class about how personal the hug was to French people. We were talking about la bise and the people in my class were so squeamish about the subject! 😂 They all seemed surprised when I told them about French hugs. It showed me a lot of Americans focus inward on what makes us uncomfortable rather than on what could make others uncomfortable. I hope that changes, I’ve met too many Americans who don’t care, they never want to go abroad, explore other cultures, and make different friends. It makes me kinda sad sometimes. But I also know that some Americans lack the funds to travel. The expenses of life here are too much in college and healthcare. I hope that changes too. Thanks for the video it was pretty interesting!

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Glad you enjoyed! Yes the hug is so personal to the French. It's so interesting to see how different cultural behaviors are surprising to other people! And i completely agree that some people don't have the funds to travel unfortunately, but hoping that healthcare takes a turn for the better after the COVID-19!

[@OptLab]

Go to japan and you will see that both hugs and kisses feel invading :D

[@PARAPENTESUD]

Every teen should travel to open their eyes on other cultures, to open their spirit. You never learn as well than by travelling !

[@zeiters2055]

10:14 Even American candy will say "Fat Free!" on the package lol

[@bvignola2907]

Pour les Québécois, le plus souvent tout le monde roule sur deux voies à 115-120 km/h (car les amendes sont donnés à partir de 115, même si la vitesse limite est de 100 sur les autoroutes). Si tu veux aller plus vite. Bonne chance. Peu de gens respectent le principe de la voie de gauche quand la circulation est dense.

[@stephm4047]

Very cool video 👍🏻 I think most French guys would agree. The drink and 0% fat is typical, we tend to be extremely « Cartesian » as we say. The marketing in the US seems so exaggerated for us. Regarding understatement versus American exuberance, I feel it is a shared point all over Europe. English people are the best at this game. In Europe showing understatement is perceived as being cool. 😂

[@aalexad]

Hey! Loved your video 😍 I'm French and wow about the car passing on the right line in the US, that is so true! This is so confusing for French drivers haha but I guess it's because driving schools in France are like obsessed with this rule. Also we are fined if we pass on the right line, that's probably why French people do respect this rule. 😅 Regarding the 0% fat and full fat I think it's exactly the same everywhere. If they remove the fat , well they have to compensate and... add more sugar! But it's definitely not just in the US :) I didn't know Yuka was working in the US, that is so cool !! Anyway love your channel and energy level! haha

[@midom9143]

cause back in te day before 1980 99% of cars don't have mirror on the left door... imagine what happened when someone come from the left line...

[@angelinac7411]

I am an introverted American, I feel like sometimes people are too much here also. To those who say America is the greatest country in the world, it's probably because they have never been anywhere else.

[@simivalley1908]

It is actually illegal in France to pass to the right unless there is an obstacle blocking you. You can get a ticket for it . In some US states, it is not recommended but not illegal. Oregon is strict about this rule .

[@Halli50]

That your husband finds the "Hello, how are you" nonsense silly surprised me. You see, I used to work with French-speakers, and they had exactly the same ritual - in French! I guess the difference might be the fact that they were Swiss-French, not French-French.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

So true! I think the Hello, he understands since you have to say bonjour in French. But i think the "how are you?" is more wierd since you don't say "ca va?" to strangers when they walk in a store. But so true for the bonjour!

[@marietalinda]

My husband is spanish and he feels the same as your husband about the hug 😂 im Swedish myself, and we do hug.. meanwhile spanish gives the kisses on the cheeks. So I can totally relate ☺️

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

I didn't realize you hug in Sweden. I wrongly assumed all europeans were kissers!

[@501archer]

Passing on the right usually happens when the car in the leftest lane is going too slow and you're blocked from shifting properly. So if there's an opportunity in the right-most lane, then I usually take it. You're not technically supposed to do that but I see lots of people do and only mostly when forced to.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Do you do this in France or the US? I feel like it's pretty common in teh US especially if you feel like the person in the left lane is going slow.

[@jean-claudevoillemin4618]

Dis à Robin qu'absolument TOUT ce que tu as décris dans cette vidéo m'ont tout autant surpris ou choqué la première fois que j'ai rendu visite à ma belle famille aux Etats-Unis, il y a 15 ans. Ma belle mère aime bien la bise, finalement, mais a fait une drôle de tête la première fois. Il doit avoir sûrement d'autres sources d"étonnements ou de surprises. La conduite aux States, j'ai toujours du mal .... beaucoup d'anecdotes sur le sujet. Bon retour , take care

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Hahah je vais lui dire! Ma mere fait la bise quand elle est en France, mais plutot des "hugs" quand on est aux us! bon courage!!

[@hiroyoshi00]

Oh... When I go to the US I’ll be so tempted to reply to the question "how are you" with a half an hour monologue about how terrible the day has been, just to see what happens.

[@mr.barkyvonschnauzer1710]

Careful, that 30 minute monologue could turn into an hour or longer. Americans are quite sociable and if they hear an accent it might make them even more intrigued. If you're European then you're interesting to talk to.

[@angelinac7411]

As an American, I also want to try this but I honestly don't think I have the capacity to talk to a stranger that long.

[@lttnono2379]

Passing on the right : it's not so much a "cultural" difference I think but a legal one. In France it's definitely forbidden to overtake on the right except in a few specific cases (art. R414-6 du Code de la route).

[@lttnono2379]

And you'll get fined for it too!

[@ulrikalejnarova7248]

I think in the whole EU.

[@ameliecarre4783]

For real though, in french we also say "Hello! Hello, how are you? Fine, how are you?" as a polite greeting, but to the people we know. And it's not a conversation starter either, no one expects anyone to say, "I'm having a bad day." However, from strangers, like salespersons in stores or clerks in an office, the "how are you?" already feels beyond polite and a little bit intrusive. That's my take.

[@jordanehornaert8917]

J'adore. Mais mon anglais est plutôt faible. Merci, pour plus de vidéos en français. Encore merci.

[@andrayellowpenguin]

Lol! The thing about the ID! I think in Europe in general the only people who ever ask for your ID are the police and the bureaucracy (like for getting a bank account or registering for school or something like that). Oh and the post when you pick up a package. We are always shocked when asked for ID at a restaurant or liquor store. ^^

[@lorihoward903]

Yes ..my experience is that most of the French (in the south) DO pass on the left mostly. Also because the French 'get over' to the right when they are slower (or at speed). My husband also makes that comment when in the US. (and now it drives me NUTS in the states! Its dangerous. Way to go France) - Loved your video. I'll be using it for some of my English lessons.

[@nikkiscott4341]

Some with-fat or even high-fat products are actually quite nourishing, so in small occasional doses do less harm that a no-fat full-sugar item.

[@Joliefleur252]

Yes ! I’m french and I haaaaate hugs 😂😂

[@gardenerinthesand]

As a Canadian that has lived most of my life overseas ( not in France) with many lovely American friends, I do identify with pretty much all the things your husband takes issue with, including the small/large glass, passing on the right, "America is the best country in the world", the too-close-to-me North American hug, and the 0% fat passing as healthier-for-you food.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Hello Rebecca ! Thanks I am sure I will appreciate your comment 😂

[@petyai1348]

Regarding sales tax. In France you pay VAT which is much higher than sales tax.

[@cristiane5859]

I think most US citizens are trained from a young age have this unwavering patriotism. As a result they will see their country as the best when there are many systems that need improvement. This mentality slows progress to those improvements because no one wants to criticize their own country. This is my observation as a non US citizen.

[@garydavis6136]

I ask people how they are all the time. I think it is caring and sometimes there are lonely people in the world who appreciate it.

[@historymysteries4134]

Kate, have you considered “cards” in the top corner for links to your other videos?

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Yes! I just completely forgot to add it in. But huge thanks for the tip! I'm not a content expert yet on youtube, so i could have easily not known what it was.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Just added them in. Didn't realize I could after the video was published!

[@valerie-wy7xp]

Je ne comprends pas l'anglais, sniff 😥 dommage qu'il n'y est pas de sous sous-titres traduction en bas car ça a l'air très intéressant. Je regrette de n'avoir pas assez étudié l'anglais à l'école 😥

[@hachimdhoulkamal7335]

valerie 1965 il est jamais trop tard

[@magicmirrorphotoboothla668]

For all not Americans Who constantly accuse Americans in being fake I’m explaining what “hi, how are you” means. It is just a greeting which means “hello”. Sometimes it happens in languages when words lose the original meaning over time, You do not need to translate this literally.It is just the longer version of “hi”. You don’t need to start telling about your feelings to a cashier. Trust me, if someone really wants to know what your feelings are, you will know the difference from the situation or context. To me French,for example, Grenache “air kiss” looked fake, But then I understand that this is a cultural difference and then it does not bother me. And... yes, I feel like America is the best country, not because it is better than some other countries but because I personally feel great living in America. ❤️🇺🇸

[@cquinnth]

In my state, Maine, it is legal to pass on the right on divided highways with multiple lanes, and also if the driver ahead of you is turning left. I think most of the northeastern states have that law...it might be all states. Check your home state laws.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Good to know!!

[@mw3860]

French living in the US here. Re. 2/, in the “code de la route” , taking over is only authorized from the LH side, so you’re husband would be rightly shocked (as I was) when being taken over from the RH side

[@mw3860]

*your husband

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

He gets angry ever. single. time. it happens 😂

[@mw3860]

Unintentionally Frenchified Sensible dude!

[@Kirstendutchie]

Loved this video Kate! I'm from The Netherlands and could not agree more with your husband😄. What surprised me as well when I visited the states was when you go out to eat the waiter presents you with the bill without you asking for it. I sometimes love a second cup of coffee or go back to wine after finishing a meal 😉 Love the US however and the whole refill your glass for free thing is the best in my opinion! 🙌

[@martinasandoval5326]

That is more likely to happen in big cities like NYC not in every states.

[@mchess6141]

Bonjour Another cultural schock i notice is about country flags outside the house. It seems to be quite common in the USA. You won't see that in France excepting when celebrating victories in sport or to express résistance After terrorist attacks. Hope you understand as m'y english IS narrow and rusty

[@zweibrucker]

Love your insights in this video, thanks. What was the name of the App that your husband used to learn the nutrition or dietary content of products? Steve

[@nikkiscott4341]

Passing on the right, on the "inside" is a road traffic offence in France. In the UK, obviously on the other side, the same principle applies. In the US, I get pretty scared when someone overtakes me on the inside!

[@nathanangelus]

The first thing just blows my mind !! It's refillable as much as you want and it seems normal for Americans to pay more for a bigger cup... Wooooowwww... Definately some kind of scam that would NEVER work in France... ^^ Considering the passing on the right, if French drivers don't do it (I mean 99.9% of the time), it's simply because it's forbidden by the highway code!! ^^

[@mcgloinm1]

I'm 73 therefore I know (from experience) that when I started driving until I guess ten years + ago, people followed the rule of the left lane was for passing, only. I and others get rather frustrated at "left lane road hogs". I believe that it's from what has become a national trend of selfishness.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Good to know! I feel like the rule is really respected on two lane highways, but not as much when its 3, 4, 5 lanes for example!

[@mcgloinm1]

@@UnintentionallyFrenchified four lanes+ is what I was writing about,

[@perthfanny3017]

Your kid is very lucky! It was a dream of mine to be half French half American 😫😫😫🇨🇵🇺🇸

[@mikebrown1881]

So he had to pay taxes even if he's not living in the US? Strange dream.

[@knucklehoagies]

The "bonjour" thing in France is basically the same thing as the "hi, how are you?" thing in the US. It's just a formality. It has nothing to do with actually wanting to get to know the person and develop a relationship with them. It's basically just a conversation opening. It seems fake because it IS fake. It's a formality.

[@denysenielsen8115]

Bonjour means good day. It is a greeting and a respectful acknowledgement.

[@anissaholmes4495]

I’m surprised he didn’t talk about our orange cheese or processed cheese. 😂. I watched a video and was like hmm why do we make it such an unnatural color?

[@wvv3758]

6:37 I just got curious how Robin looks.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Check out my instagram, he makes appearances from time to time!

[@MichelleF1320]

I would also forget my ID... we don’t carry it everywhere in South Africa

[@Yamamotoseto]

The difference is when u take it to go. Big drinks can carry more to go. That’s why u get charged more.

[@geotrevor]

I agree with him about the passing on the right! They follow it much more strictly in France than North America. I'll give it to France on that one. I prefer the hugs though!

[@Viennafly1]

I feel like there's a gap in our driver's ed: I was never told to pass only on the left, and I only realized several years ago that passing on the right was something A-holes do. I felt so bad for my previous years of driving and obviously corrected my behavior.

[@perthfanny3017]

People staying in the middle ones are the A-holes. They are slowing down the traffic. Other drivers have to either pass them on the right or move two lanes over (which is really annoying!)

[@IwanGlain]

That is so awesome! Please, I would like to ask as business perspective, if Americans have difficulties working with foreign companies instead of companies exclusively from the US? Fantastic videos, it has so much to learn thanks a lot for all those insights! 🙏

[@lzLizzie22]

My dad has been asked for ID in the USA many times for buying alcohol. HE IS 60 YEARS OLD!! It’s ridiculous, honestly…

[@thhanh1003]

"he's pro-american" I don't know haha, he seems pretty French to me😄

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

He's very French, but he loves certain things about the US, so i'd consider that pro usa 😂

[@knucklehoagies]

The small vs large drink thing never occurred to me. You're essentially paying more for no reason when free refills are pretty commonplace in the US.

[@magicmirrorphotoboothla668]

That’s weird. If there is a refill option, then they offer one size cup. I don’t know what restaurant she’s taking about.

[@maten146]

For the drinking is just that when you go out, you can refill a last time and with a large you have more

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Yea, if you want to leave with the glass, this is true!

[@maten146]

@@UnintentionallyFrenchified I'm French and that what American told me when I went over there

[@YorranKlees]

#2 In France, you can be fined for passing a car to your left. Yep, the rule is hardcore implemented for sure. #6 One has to have an ID in France no matter what. Bad habbit in France first hand Robin :) Let alone abroad haha. That was fun to watch, as always. I could add speaking about earning money as well. In France, it's quite private and on the need to know basis. In the US, it would seem to me that you define someone on what they earn.

[@fip62]

I'm British and agree with your husband on most of these points, especially the 'Hi, how are you?' and the hugging. Both seem fake to me although hugging has become a thing here with younger people. I think us Europeans are slightly more reserved than American folks.

[@ezekiel3791]

Doesn't "how are you?" exist in England too?

[@martinasandoval5326]

Lol I rather be hugged than kissed. Plus the hugging is only for people that know each other not random strangers.

[@idonthaveanoriginalname2881]

In most restaurants you just can't refill drinks

[@wendyhsu192]

How about when an American waiter walks away with your credit card to charge it, vs bringing the machine to table side.

[@tritchie6272]

Maybe to us the USA is the best. That don't mean we're lying. As for the sales tax, I like that it's separate. I want to know how much of what I'm spending on something is going to the government. Seems to me like it's easier to go along with a tax hike if you don't even have a clue what you currently pay.

[@luxomars4049]

That’s because you forget a point. Here in France, tax is included in the goods you buy but the breakdown of the amount is on your ticket. So on the shelf you get let say 10€ and your ticket you will find 10€ from which 2€ is tax

[@tritchie6272]

@@luxomars4049 How many people even bother looking at the breakdown on the ticket vs blaming the whole thing on the shop keeper? I want people to be slapped in the face (figuratively speaking ) with how much the government is taking directly from them. Although I wouldn't mind a breakdown as to how much taxes the shop keeper paid on that item as well. But putting it on the ticket is better than hiding it though. I'm glad they at least do that.

[@luxomars4049]

@@tritchie6272 we do know the tax scale on products by memory. It is 20% by default on all good except some for daily use (tooth brush for instance) which is 3% or so. Just to say that it is not actually a topic when you live here, that’s a topic when you come as a tourist perhaps

[@spgtr1]

I have also lived in France as an American and appreciate insightful cultural videos. However, I disagree with the idea that the USA is not 'technically' the best country; she leads the world. It's okay to recognize her exceptionality, especially on her own soil. An attitude of confident responsibility is what makes Americans the accomplishers that they are, it wouldn't be the same nation without it. It also enables Americans to reach outside themselves, and believe they can do more and give more than has ever been done or given. I never wish that spirit diminished or demeaned, nor do I consider it a flaw. It doesn't make any individual more valuable than another in the world. But when it comes to countries throughout history to present day, the United States is in a league of her own.

[@AlainNaigeon]

Bises versus hugs, that's quite cultural. I'd be moved by a hug with a woman, I'd feel that much more personal than a bise.

[@grietga]

In France, it is forbidden to pass on the right. Doing so will get you a fine of 135 Euros and you will loose three points on your driver's licence. In some cases, your license can also be suspended. 8:08 Ah la sirene de police francaise dans les rues de Paris... I can definitely tell you're not cheating and that you're effectively in France. I'm a French living in the US and hearing it was a bit of a "madeleine de Proust" moment... Talking of sirenes: You should ask your husband what he thinks of US fire trucks going through cross-roads... When I first saw one, I thought it was carnival...

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Good point abotu the sirens! It's such a different sound!

[@rolflin]

passing on the right is VERY DANGEORUS forbidden here

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Good to know that you agree with Robin!!

[@rolflin]

@@UnintentionallyFrenchified XD its not that..its the law You have here (at spain)three exceptions: 1-when the car in front of you is going to turn LEFT at crossroads 2-when there is a traffic jam at the highway and your line naturally is faster than the one on your left side, if police see you changing lines to pass on the right good luck with them XDD 3-inside city(ONLY) with two or more lines delimited clearly you can pass on the right carefully , changing lines to go on the right is not good for your pocket also X_D, and besides all said about spanish police they are not corrupt so don't try to bribe em or you'll go to jail Love your channel! Hope you are well :)

[@noefillon1749]

@@rolflin In france we only have the two first. In fact the third one looks like the second. In cities we can go faster it we are on the right lane but it is only if someone is turning left or if the two lanes are filled with cars (and the right lane goes faster) "file ininterrompue", quite like a traffic jam, in that case, like in Spain we mustn't change lane. I would summarise it by "if there is a possibility for the cars on the left lane to go on the right one, then it is forbidden to pass by the right.

[@rolflin]

@@noefillon1749 sounds pretty the same redacted in a different way, EU has some directives to make all countries manage the traffic kinda similar.

[@noefillon1749]

@@rolflin EU has directives on traffic ?

[@ctk1604]

So what country is better?

[@krissyyssirk2643]

I want to add 3 notes about driving in the US vs France: - passing school buses: France, no problem, what's the big deal vs US: are you insane you'll get a really painful ticket (I'm still struggling after all my years in the US to remember that school buses have special rules - in France, you can't even tell what buses have school kids cause they use regular looking vehicles) - making a right turn on a red light: that's a huge no-no in France, don't even think about it, vs US: usually legal (and you better go if you don't want the people behind you to beep you) unless there is a specific sign forbidding it - emergency vehicles: in France, if you hear the cops or an ambulance, no biggie, just do your thing and let them pass vs US: you better make way and stop as quickly as possible. Also adding: roundabouts: France: they're everywhere vs US (although it's changing): a lot of people have never seen one and don't understand how they work.

[@nicolknappen6596]

Krissy Yssirk the right turn in red was begun in the 1970s when there was a global fuel shortage. That is, don’t sit there with your car running, that’s wasting gas, so keep moving.😊

[@swpfranky]

C'est drole pour moi. Parce qu'au Québec nous sommes entre les 2 cultures. Avec nos particularités, bien sûr. Es-tu déjà venu au Québec ?

[@thedavidguy01]

I also find places that check every ID for the drinking age really annoying. There’s a nearby place that checks my ID every time. I’m 65. On a really good day I can pass for 62! It’s stupid.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

It's a little much at that point!

[@lindapots3992]

Hi Katie, I am trying to locate the app you mentioned for comparing different versions of food products, but in spelling it as “yukka” I am not finding it. Can you spell that for me? Merci.

[@norwegianblue2017]

I usually get the small sized drink when I dine inside the restaurant. It's plenty big and, like you said, you can fill it up as many times as you want. And if you're getting a sugary drink, the large is way more than anyone should drink. Nobody should drink that much liquified sugar (or aspartame) , so bad for you!

[@georgiancrossroads]

I'll bet the French never bought the whole margarine is healthier than butter insanity that went on for years in the US. I find myself always having food related reverse culture shocks after I go back to America after spending quality time in France. Not that the French do everything perfectly or that Americans don't know how to make great food. But it's that weird feeling I get when walking down the frozen prepared food isles in the states. (Here in Georgia they don't even have any prepared microwavable dinners etc.) And don't get me started on what commonly passes for cheese in the USA. Thanks for the observations!

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

hahaha but i love Cheddar cheese! Even after years in France, i go home and have some cheddar cheese on crackers and i still think its amazing 😂

[@georgiancrossroads]

@@UnintentionallyFrenchified Yes indeed cheddar is great! But then I'm a fan of the aged variety. And I have to give to the English for having the best.

[@Falconlibrary]

Americans: the Golden Retrievers of the world.

[@ChristinaChrisR]

Aww that’s such a sweet way of thinking of it! And 😂 If I ever get annoyed with my American friends in the future, the Golden Retriever is definitely the thing I’m gonna remember❤️

[@sarrouchka16]

Hi. What was frustrating for my husband and myself was how much we should give to the waiter in a restaurant... 10%,15%,20%... We were giving 15-20% and apparently we never made them happy. So my question is : why not mentioning it on the menu or include it in the total bill ?! Just like in France. I don’t find it fair for the waiters neither for us 😅

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

Oh the tips are even frustrating for me as an American. I'd much rather pay a bit more for my food and have the actual owner of the restaurant pay his staff enough to live off of, then constantly feel pressured to pay a great tip because they make no money when i'm unhappy with the service. I think that's a tough one!!

[@AlexisLopez-pb8ms]

How do you not carry identification with you every time you leave the house.

[@loridelia8806]

You and your husband could write a sit-com. LOL! The US is the best concerning opportunity, that I will fight anybody on. It doesn’t mean you don’t have to work hard. Any country with a big immigration problem is a great country. I also think France is a beautiful country. I find Europe to be extremely expensive.

[@OptLab]

I agree with your husband, everything he says. I like many things about the US. Though I would like to know if you and your husband discuss about strategical economic rivalry between europe and the US? Given that: - The US bought a part of Alstom after putting in jail Frédéric Pierucci, forcing alstom to sell to the US. Mainly because they did not want the french group to merge with Siemens and other international groups. - The GAFAs barely paying any taxes in Europe and play a game with Ireland vs the european commission. - Companies like Mcdonalds and Coca cola who are based in Luxembourg (very low tax) don't pay any taxes for their revenues in other members states, while european companies HAVE to. - No european companies are allowed to attend public tenders on US soil, while allowed in Europe. - Through the NSA and the Gafas, the US spy all their rivals, especially their supposed allies. It feels like the US want to make sure the allies are US dependant. And they also spy Macron and Merkel communications to make sure Europe remain divided. I have huge respect for the love you give to France and to the US. I wish we could all do this, though I'm just curious if you talk about these topics with your husband. I think there should be sadly no hypocrisy between supposed friend and allied countries.

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

We talk a lot about politics with my husband and foreign policy and domestic policy and what's great in the USA, and whats a huge failure and what France does so well and what we would change. I'm married to a typical Frenchman that loves learning and debating so we talk about all the things you brought up!

[@j-loosenfout67]

@@UnintentionallyFrenchified :))) j'aime bien votre enthousiasme, votre effervescence, ce pétillement qui vous caractérise. Quand vous parlez de vos "après" séances de cinéma., ça me rappelle quand j'étais jeune et que nous sortions ensembles du cinéma avec les copains et copines super excités si le film nous avait plu. Et on "débriefait" sur le film comme des dingues en se remémorant les scènes ou les répliques les plus frappantes. C'est vrai que ça peut paraître un peu juvénile de faire ça quand on est plus âgé, et pourtant... Y a pas de mal à se faire du bien. C'est bien l'enthousiasme s'il est sincère ...Ne changez rien ! :)

[@czeliaca2734]

Oh my god, the hug ! I hate it so much. I'm always freezing and counting the seconds until it ends. Please don't hug me 😂 I can totally relate the "hi how are you" comment sometimes I juste say "fine thanks" and people respond with "yes thank you" 😂😂 Also passing on the right lane in France is illegal, always on the left that's why we are always commenting on it (I do it all the time too 😅)

[@UnintentionallyFrenchified]

ahhah it's so funny how much other people hate the hug and i never realized!!