[Infographic] American vs. French Culture 8 Things Every Traveler Should Know

[Infographic] American vs. French Culture 8 Things Every Traveler Should Know Sign up successful Share this Image On Your Site pstrongPlease include attribution to TakeLessons.com with this graphic./strong/pbr /br /br / pa href=https://takelessons.com/blog/french-culture-differences-z04img src=https://takelessons.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/america-vs-france-infographic.png alt=American culture vs. French Culture width=720px border=0 //a/pbr /br /br / p American Culture vs. French Culture: Things You Need to Know 1. Driving America:  The majority of Americans travel by automobile, even in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. In fact, three out of four Americans drive to work, while a mere 5.2 percent take mass transit. France:  You won’t see roads full of  SUVs in France, as the country is known for having an excellent public transportation system. Most people use the underground subway systems and tramways to get around. 2. Dining France:  In France, there’s no such thing as a meal on-the-go.  Rather, people take their time eating and typically don’t eat dinner until around 8 p.m. America:  It’s not surprising to see someone eating a slice of pizza while rushing to get to their next destination. Typically, Americans eat much earlier and faster than the French. 3. Fashion France: The French wouldn’t be caught dead wearing sweatpants and sandals in public. People take pride in their appearance and dress more moderately compared to Americans. America: While every city has its styleâ€"for example, New York is more high-fashion, while California is laid backAmericans are all about comfort and being casual. Swim trunks and a t-shirt on a hot day are A-OK in their book. 4. Drinking America: Americans are more apt to reach for a refreshingly cold beer. Over the past years, however, wine has become increasingly more popular. While not celebrated, public intoxication isn’t rare. France: The French have a reputation for drinking in moderation and their drink of choice is typically wine. After all, you can find a wine bar at just about every corner. In French culture, public intoxication is heavily frowned upon. 5. Dating America: Americans are all about playing the field. It’s not uncommon for a stranger to ask someone  out on a dateâ€"which typically includes some sort of meal or outingâ€"if he or she is interested. France: The French don’t date. In fact, there is no real word for “date” or “dating” in the French language. People get to know each other through social circlesâ€"and exclusivity is always implied. 6. Communication America: Americans are super friendly and outgoing. They are likely to greet friends and acquaintances with a big hug. You could say that communication is very informal, whereas the French are more formal. France: Hugging is sometimes considered more intimate than kissing in France. The French don’t use the first name of a person unless they are invited to do so. What’s more, speaking too loud is considered a sign of anger and impoliteness. 7. Body language France: When it comes to body language, the French are quite reserved. Placing your hands in your pockets or slouching are big no-nos.     America: Oddly enough,  both American and French culture are very similar in this category. Americans value their personal space and don’t respond well to unnecessary fidgeting.   8. Small Talk America: People in the U.S. are very open and polite. It’s not uncommon for someone to ask  his or her  mailman or pharmacist how his or her family is doing or what his or her plans are for the weekend. France: Stick with small talk. It’s okay, for example, to talk about the weather, but anything beyond that isn’t normal in the French culture. Tip: 50 French Phrases You Need to Know Before Your Trip to France Happy Travels! Now that youre up to speed on the French culture, youre ready for your trip. Dont shy away from meeting locals, as immersing  yourself in the French culture will ensure that you make the most of your trip! Do you live in France? If so, share your advice for traveling in the comment section below. Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher