France: the French

I have just came back from a short trip to France, which turned out to be a very impressive country, so I decided to publish a series of "about France" posts.

The French

There are plenty of stereotypes about the French, but don't be fooled by these legends, like I was.

Myth #1: the French are rude and unfriendly

Surprisingly, this is not true. The French are very helpful and nice, even in Paris, which is considered to be the most "unfriendly" city in France. Several times when I was lost in the city, standing and stupidly staring at the subway map, trying to figure out my location, I was approached by a number of citizens who offered their help!

Myth #2: they hate English-speakers

I thought, that when you start speaking English to the French, they take it as a personal insult... Not true. They just sometimes simply don't understand you, especially in small towns. So simply learn some basics, like bonjour/bonsoir, merci and au revoir, to stay polite.

Myth #3: they smoke tons of cigarettes

OK, they do smoke a lot. So what? I don't smoke (quit 2 years ago) and I must say that France is pretty comfortable for a nonsmoker.

Now to the facts that appeared to be true:

Fact #1: the French drink

Oh yes. They do. Trust me - I saw a French wedding. A glass of finest wine... right after a shot of Russian vodka, then, maybe, some champagne, and back to vodka. They even have time to sing a pair of songs between the toasts, and what's more, they look pretty much OK in the morning.

Fact #2: French women are pretty

True. And the mixture of different nations and cultures has made them even prettier.

Fact #3: the French cook fine food

France is known for its fine food. No matter if you are buying a fresh out-of-an-oven croissant in a bakery early in the morning, or visiting a fancy restaurant - it will be de-li-cious.

to be continued...