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Don't expect a smile and other Paris, France Local Custom Tips

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Paris Local Custom Tips by smschley

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smschley  
I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel's sake. The great affair is to move.


Real Name: Steve & Yuliya "Julie"
Lives In: Hayward, US
Member Since: Jun 28, 2004
VT Rank: 492

 
Stereotypes: Rude, or friendly?: Don't expect a smile
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  • Written by smschley on Jun 28, 2004
  • Paris Travel Guide
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  • Paris Stereotypes: Rude, or friendly?
  • Give me a little smile
  • by smschley
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  • As an American, I think we expect a certain level of cordiality when meeting people, Either in the workplace or just going down the street we pretty much feel offended if a smile is not given or returned. For many countries in Europe this is just not done and France is one of these. On my first trip to Paris I misunderstood this to be rudeness. Of all the people in Paris I’ve met on our three trips there, I can honestly say I only met one person who was truly rude. That’s probably not much different then in the US. On out last trip it was around midnight and we were having a big problem finding our hotel. A lady saw our distress, asked us what the problem was and proceeded to walk us to out hotel even though it was out of her way.

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    Comments for smschley about Paris
    barryg23 Mon Dec 4, 2006 20:14 UTC
     Very comprehensive tips on Paris. You know the history of the city very well. I thought the Sewer Museum was interesting though probably because I had just read Les Miserables which features a long escape scene through the Paris sewers.
    codrutz Sat Jun 3, 2006 07:34 UTC
     Great documented tips. What is the secret with your photos? Polarizer? Positive film? Or? :) Very curious..
    mapakettle Sun Apr 2, 2006 07:59 UTC
     You have to learn to leave your furs at home. LOL. Great pages. Ma Kettle and I are going to Paris in June. Thanks for the advance peek. Pa
    Marisola Tue Dec 27, 2005 00:42 UTC
     Love your pics on Rodin and Pere Lachaise! Two of my favorite places in Paris! Happy travels 2006!
    See More Comments

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