Comments on: French Habits and Traditions That Might Seem Strange

By: Enrique

Enrique — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 04:03:39 +0000

Hi, Lenka,

That’s really interesting. I’ve heard many countries in Europe share similarities like the ones you mentioned. Those things may not seem strange to you, but to people in the U.S. or Latin America, they are. I guess that happens because we’re heavily influenced by American culture on this side of the world.

Thanks for sharing your experience. 🙂

By: Enrique

Enrique — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 04:00:34 +0000

In reply to Christine.

Hi, Christine,

I can imagine the culture shock you’ve been through. It’s interesting to realize that even simple things might differ in two cultures.

I think the French way of dating is better lol, especially for those of us that are shy to ask.

Thanks for commenting.

By: Lenka Sophie

Lenka Sophie — Sat, 03 Oct 2020 13:13:14 +0000

Hello Enrique,
this is a very interesting and thought-provoking article. I can see many similarities in French habits with Spanish ones (kissing each other on cheeks, saying hello very often – “bon jour” in France / “hola” in Spain).
Some of the French habits are also similar to the habits in my country. We also don’t say “I love you” easily, I remember when I was younger it was even hard for me to say it to my boyfriend.
Also regarding portions, we also eat rather small portions, especially for breakfast (most people just eat one piece of bread or bread roll with something, I have a protein shake every morning), but also for lunch – usually a soup and then a small piece of meat with potatoes, rice, or dumplings.
I like reading about habits in other countries. It belongs to their history and sometimes you find their habits are better than yours 🙂
I’m looking forward to your next article.
Lenka

By: Christine

Christine — Sat, 03 Oct 2020 00:09:51 +0000

This was very interesting. Although I am from Belgium (a neighbor to France) I can see some similarities. We also greet with two kisses, sometimes even three. The apéro is ppopular and I have always enjoyed it, I miss that sometimes, since I do not live in Belgium anymore.
I also spent a lot of time in France in my youth, so I can relate to everything you write about.
Your point about dating – or not dating – in France made me realize that this is perhaps the reason why I struggle here in North America with romance. I don’t understand why the question “what are we” needs to be asked. I don’t understand that dating someone doesn’t always imply romance, and I have been here many years … Your article made me realize that, so I thank you for the cultural explanation 🙂 Maybe it will help me with future dates 😉