France is one of those countries that continues to impress through its art, architecture, culture, and of course, food. However, travelers sometimes make mistakes that may impact their experience. By paying more attention to these common errors, you could enjoy this beautiful country even more authentically. Following are ten things to avoid, after which other places to add to your France travel itinerary will be discussed.

Mistakes to Avoid in France

1. Not Knowing Local Politeness

French etiquette is part of the culture. Not saying “Bonjour” when one gets into a shop and “Merci, au revoir” upon leaving is deemed impolite. Always greet with a “Bonjour” and leave with a “Merci”.

2. Not Keeping the Right Dining Behavior

Food is an event in France. It is not proper to eat on the go; take time and dine at your pace. Keep in mind that many restaurants may not open until 7 pm for dinner, and its courteous to take your time and enjoy the meal.

3. Depending Entirely on Credit Cards

While credit cards are nearly everywhere accepted, it is good to have some cash in your pocket, especially if you travel in smaller towns or for purchases on local markets. Some places will require you to have a minimum amount of a purchase for a card payment.

4. Forgoing the Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must-have: from health emergencies to trip cancellations, insurance could save you from unexpected expenses and troubles.

5. Underestimating the Size of France

France is much larger than most tourists think it is. Realistically, one can never hope to see everything on one visit. Therefore, it would be better to focus on just one particular region that you want to see and get acquainted with that area.

6. Failure to Learn Basic French Phrases

A lot of people in France understand basic English, especially when one happens to pass by places frequented by tourists. Generally, it’s proper etiquette to learn some basic French phrases, which will make the interaction all the more rewarding.

7. Wearing Too Casual Attire

The French take pride in their appearance. Very casual wear, like flip-flops or shorts, will often make you out to be a tourist in the city.

8. Not Validating Train Tickets

Before boarding the train, you will have to validate your ticket. This is done using the yellow or orange machines at the entrance of the platforms. Failure to do this and getting caught could attract a fine.

9. Not Respecting Quiet Hours

Be considerate of noise levels, especially from 10 pm to 8 am, as this is considered quiet time in residential areas.

10. Assuming the Rest of France Is like Paris

France is a country with great diversities. Each region has its culture, its traditions. Not everywhere is like the city of love, Paris.

Awesome Places to Visit in France

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is renowned for its vineyards, historic towns, and magnificent châteaux that evoke the quintessential vision of aristocratic French life of days gone by. For those wanting a bit more serene of an escape to the countryside, it’s a perfect addition to your itinerary of travel destinations.

Provence and the French Riviera

Picturesque landscapes, a warm climate-these are the factors that make Provence and the French Riviera so popular among tourists. Here, you can visit a field of lavender, seaside resorts and the glamorous town of Cannes.

Normandy

Normandy has a rich history; D-Day landing beaches, breathtaking Mont Saint-Michel, and delectable food such as fresh seafood and Camembert cheese.

Alsace

Smack between Germany and Switzerland, Alsace boasts fairy tale villages such as Colmar and Strasbourg, its route des vins, and a unique Franco-German experience.

Lyon

Much touted as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is the spot to be, extravagantly indulging in French cuisine. In its bouchons, don’t miss out on the traditional Lyonnais dishes.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is directly related to wine. It is only natural to go and see the vineyards, take a wine tour, and view the architecture and cultural scene of the city.

Dordogne

This region comprises a great number of prehistoric caves, medieval towns, and river valleys, all put together form a very beautiful gem of nature and history.

Corsica

In case you want to combine French and Italian culture together, then head to the island of Corsica. With its rugged mountains and beautiful beaches, it presents another face of France.

By avoiding some of the common travel mistakes and not joining the masses in France by going to Paris, you will be able to see the rich tapestry that is France. From the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux to the historic beaches of Normandy, France has something for everyone.

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References:

• “French Etiquette Tips for French Social Contexts.” Talk in French. https://www.talkinfrench.com/french-etiquette-tips/.
• “Dining Out in France: French Restaurant Etiquette.” France Travel Guide. https://www.francetravelguide.com/dining-out-in-france-french-restaurant-etiquette.
• “Why You Should Never Travel Without Insurance.” Lonely Planet. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/travel-insurance-explained.
• “The Essential Travel Guide to France (Infographic).” The Culture Trip. https://theculturetrip.com/europe/france/articles/the-essential-travel-guide-to-france-infographic/.
• “Top 10 Places to Visit in the Loire Valley.” France This Way. https://www.francethisway.com/places/loirevalley-topplaces.php.
• “Discovering Provence: A guide to the best of the region.” Rick Steves’ Europe. https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/read/articles/discovering-provence.
• “Normandy: A Guide to the Region and its Attractions.” France Voyage. https://www.france-voyage.com/tourism/normandy-106.htm.
• “Alsace Wine Route: Exploring the Heart of Alsace’s Wine Country.” Visit Alsace. https://www.visit.alsace/en/alsace-wine-route/.
• “Lyon’s Historic Bouchons: A Taste of the City’s Culinary Tradition.” Lyon Tourism Office. https://en.lyon-france.com/discover-lyon/traditions-gastronomy/the-bouchons-lyonnais.
• “Bordeaux Wine: A Guide to the Wines of Bordeaux.” Wine Enthusiast. https://www.winemag.com/region/bordeaux/.
• “Dordogne Travel Guide.” The Telegraph. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/france/dordogne/.
• “Corsica: A Guide to the Island of Beauty.” Corsica for Hikers. https://www.corsicaforhikers.com/.