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When entering a shop in Paris, you are expected to say hello. The shop clerk's job is to serve you; you need to announce your intention so she would know what to do. If you only want to look around, say so. If you want to look at merchandise, say "May I...?" If the merchandise is not in plain view, ask to see it. Do not reach up and do not rifle.
In a clothing store, do not try on innumerable articles just to see how they look on you. After you pick out a couple of items that you would like to purchase, tell the clerk you are going to make a decision after comparing them. In the end, if you decide you don't want anything, thank her for her trouble. When walking out of the shop, whether after a purchase or just a look-see, always say goodbye and thank you.
Shopping is the first encounter that usually leads to an immediate opinion in the mind of most travellers. As Americans, we are used to wandering in shops, checking things out, touching this and that, and then taking it to the cashier, all without much personal attention. Think of the reverse, now. Think of times when you were young and your Mom took you to a general store; the first thing she told you were "Don't touch" and then the man behind the counter said, "How may I help you?" The question was not rhetorical then and it is still not now in Europe.
In the restaurant, don't expect the waiter to come asking if everything is fine with your meal. Waitstaff in the US earn their living upon tips; thus, they check on customers often and make sure the tables are turned over in timely matter. In Europe, besides the fact that tips are not required, meals are social events and there is no rush. If you don't ask for the check, no one will give it to you. If you need something from the waiter, discreetly signal instead of calling out for his attention.
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Destinations near Paris- Île de la Cité, 1.22 km / 0.76 miles
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 Comments for Ciambella about Paris | | | | |
TravellerMel Thu Sep 4, 2008 19:12 UTC
Your Pere Lachaise Cemetery tip was beautiful - I "felt" with you! Personally, I love that place - very peaceful. I always have to stop and say "Hello, I love you" to Jim Morrison... | mvtouring Mon Apr 14, 2008 12:07 UTC
Brilliant tips ;-) | parismumsie Fri Mar 21, 2008 14:15 UTC
Your photos of la Tour Eiffel are stunning. Would love to know what settings you used to get the beautiful "sparkly" one! | clementine31129 Fri Feb 1, 2008 21:09 UTC
From the center of the city, how long did it take for you to walk here? |
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on Feb 13, 2006
