More than wearing a scarf, or knowing the different ways to use “ooh la la, and ca va,” or how to slice cheese at dinner, here are a few clues:
When entering a shop, pharmacy, gas station, or anywhere, say Bonjour first. Going straight to the question is an no no. Always add merci and au revoir when leaving.
Don’t ask for substitutions in restaurants unless there is a real reason. “Could I get fries instead of vegetables?”
Order one coffee and occupy the cafe table for ninety minutes.
Learn the art of looking slightly unimpressed by everything while secretly enjoying it.
Discuss food while eating, and discuss what you are going to eat next while still eating your current meal.
Vape.
Master the subtle shrug. An entire conversation can be conducted with a shrug and a facial expression.
End every social gathering by saying goodbye at least three separate times before actually leaving.
Walking around with a drink in your hand, or eating on the street, is a giveaway that you are not French.
Be willing to queue for twenty minutes for a good baguette, but become impatient after thirty seconds waiting for an elevator.
Know that there is a right season for everything: strawberries, mushrooms, asparagus, and more.
Be skeptical of anyone eating lunch before noon or dinner before 7:30 p.m.
Don’t overshare with people you’ve just met—familiarity is earned gradually.
Enjoy disagreement. A debate is often seen as a way of exploring ideas, not necessarily as conflict.
Take vacations seriously.
Politeness is important, being overly friendly can be perceived as artificial.
Dress for the situation rather than purely for comfort.
Walk.
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