Before you go to France, check out the following:

• For “Books that Will Transport You to France,” click here.
• While we couldn’t find one list of movies/TV shows that seemed to include EVERYTHING to watch before visiting, this one has some great options. We have to mention John Wick 4, Lupin, Saving Private Ryan and Emily in Paris too!
• Prefer to learn or brush up on your French by listening to Podcasts? Check out these options like News in Slow French, One Thing in a French Day and more!
• Here’s a short list of songs (only 18) to help get you up to speed on the most beloved French hits.
• Striking is very much a part of French culture which of course can disrupt travel plans. Here’s a great site that translates to “it’s the strikes” with information on the very latest activity.
• Are you planning to rent a car? Here’s what you need to know.
• Know your history!

Did You Know?

• Smoking is still commonplace (and fashionable) here. Be prepared for restaurants to have smoking/non-smoking sections!
• It’s very important to say “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” when entering a shop or starting a conversation with a local.
• Meals are meant to be savored and enjoyed (sometimes for hours). There is no “rush” here, so be patient while waiting for the menu, beverages or food. Breakfast is quick, easy and early; lunch time is typically between 12-2pm and dinner begins no earlier than 7:30/8pm.
  • Wondering what some of the most popular dishes are here? Try steak-frites (a classic steak with fries), boeuf bourguignon (beef stew braised in red wine), coq au vin (chicken cooked in wine with mushrooms and garlic), French onion soup, crêpes, escargot,, ratatouille, and salade niçoise to start!
• Small, independent shops may close around mid-afternoon between 12:30-2pm, and they might not open at all on Sundays.
• The French can be particular with what to drink and when. For example, wine is commonly enjoyed at dinner and not at other times during the day whereas beer is not typically consumed with dinner.
• If you can, try to be “ok” with having coffee black or with milk and sugar. The fancy coffees many Americans are used to just simply aren’t offered or done well here.
• If you’d like to try and blend in a bit, make sure the flip-flops only come out at the beach and athleisure wear is worn solely at the gym.
• Don’t forget scarfs, pashminas and/or sweaters to cover shoulders as a sign of respect at religious sites.