The French celebrate the traditional Christian holidays of Christmas and Easter. They mark May Day, also known as Labor Day, on May 1. Victory in Europe Day on May 8 commemorates the end of hostilities in Europe in World War II. Bastille Day is celebrated on July 14.
Another tip to respect the French etiquette is politeness. Manners are very important to French people and can be tricky for overseas visitors. “Please” (s'il voul plait ) “Thank you” ( merci ) and “You're welcome” ( je vous en prie or de rien) are used in any circumstances, whenever given the chance.
French values
The French national motto “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity” reflects the core values of French society. Equality and unity are important to the French. Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité'are often identified as essential to what it means to be 'French'.
Slapping your fist.
In France, slapping the palm of your hand over your other fist is seen as an aggressive gesture that suggests you want to beat up the person it's aimed at.
Equality and unity are important to the French. The French also value style and sophistication, and they take pride in the beauty and artistry of their country. Family is also highly valued in French culture. Mealtimes are often shared with family, and extended-family gatherings and meals are common over the weekend.
It is expected that you will shake hands with everyone present when arriving and leaving. Among friends and relatives, the most common greeting is the 'la bise' (kiss on both cheeks). The la bise consists of placing one's cheek against another's, making a kiss noise, then repeating it on the opposite side.
In the southeastern and eastern areas of France, it's left cheek first. In the rest of the country, it's the right. There are, however, two islands in each of these broad regions: In the blue zone, the French-speaking part of Switzerland stands out. In the red zone, Haute-Normandie is the exception.
PDA is Acceptable in French Dating Culture
Public displays of affection (PDA) aren't a taboo in France. Couples hold hands, hug, and kiss regularly. Perhaps this is the reason why the reputation for French romantic freedom is so widespread.
In France, saying bonjour in French is a sign of respect and a cultural norm. It's not optional to forgo the greeting if you want people to know that you understand French manners.
The French have an undeniable reputation when it comes to love and sex. They are passionate, enticing and simply irresistible. French people have a way with words and actions that's all about love. And when it comes to displaying their fairness in bed, they are said to be absolute sex gods!
“Je t'aime” means I love you, but “Je t'aime bien” means I kind of like you.
Indeed, in France life doesn't revolve around work, money, or having the nicest and most expensive things. Instead, the French lifestyle is all about enjoying the best moments in life, whether it's through social gatherings (with the “apéros”), French cuisine, arts, or philosophy, among other things.
French people prefer good cuts and pretty fabrics to beads and evening gowns. Don't wear anything too flashy: think Armani, not Versace. The outfit can be very simple – actually simpler is better – but needs to match and fit you nicely. Pack things that don't need ironing, and that you can mix and match.
Indeed, some 66 percent Parisian men say they've had a one night stand, compared to 50 percent of women. In fact, 44 percent of Parisian men say they've even slept with someone whose name they didn't know.
“French men pay attention to things like women wearing make-up, perfume, dressing well, and they enjoy a woman's sensuality.” This doesn't mean they expect women to be mere 'eye candy,' though. To the contrary, explains Carol: “French culture appreciates both the sensual and the intellectual."
The French very rarely hug. In France, hugs are not a part of daily life. Unlike Americans, the French do not use hugging as a greeting. Instead, they kiss cheeks (faire la bise) informally and shake hands in formal settings.
4 – Flirting is an Artform in France
It's in our genes and it's socially accepted in France. A Frenchwoman is expected to play her feminine side, and be “admired” for her beauty and wit among other qualities. Frenchmen like to flirt as well, even if they know very well there is no hope of it leading anywhere.
During the week, evening hours are spent relaxing at home, doing homework, watching television, or reading books. Dinner is typically eaten between 7 pm and 8 pm, when all of the family is home together. However, the weekend is completely for family time.
It's not a sign of unfriendliness but simply a different way of conducting interactions. French people aren't unhappy or rude, they simply smile a little bit less than Americans tend to expect. In fact, Americans value smiles a lot more than many cultures.
when you meet a person for the second time during the day you just say , “hi” or “hello”. But in France, saying bonjour several times is super rude.