PROPLAN VISION TRAVEL

• Do learn some French phases when travelling, it is helpful.

• Do dress well as the French are fashionable people.

• Do place your napkin in your lap after seated for a meal and keep your hands above the table. 

• Do tear bread into bite sized piece before eating. It is impolite to bite from the whole bread.

• Do shake hands usually for greeting or the French kiss both sides of the cheek.

• Do wait until invited to use first names, they are reserved for friends and family.

• Do say "good morning/evening" (bonjour/bonsoir) and "goodbye" (au revoir) using honorific title, Monsieur/Madame when entering and leaving a shop and also when greeting neighbors as expected. 

• Do behave properly to earn trust and respect.

• Do arrive on time when invited for dinner or meetings unless you call to say you are late.

• Do wait to be seated by host. 

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• Don't start eating until the host says 'Bon Appetit.'

• Don't try to get others to work during lunchtime hours. The French value their lunchtime.

• Don't try to impress others with your wealth which is seen in bad taste.

• Don't give red carnations, which symbolizes bad will in France.

• Don't communicate across hierarchy lines.

• Don't exaggerate claims, the French do not like hyperbole.

• Don't appear to be overly friendly, especially for business.

• Don't use high-pressure sales tactics.