You think you know France, don’t you? France is Paris, wine and cheese. The French are rude and lazy, but really well-dressed. That’s what everyone thinks, isn’t it?
You’re way off the mark! France is much more than that. Forget stereotypes, the French reality is far more nuanced. See for yourself, here I break down preconceived ideas about France.
1. The French wear berets every day
We could add the marinière too.
So, berets and marinières: chic items or outdated clichés? Sure, berets and marinières are symbols of French culture, but wearing them every day? No, thanks!
These items are often reserved for specific regions and occasions. So, yes, a Parisian might wear a beret, or a sea-lover a marinière, but this is far from being the daily outfit of all French people.
2. The French hate speaking English
It’s time to stop saying that the French don’t speak English!
In reality, many French people, especially in big cities and tourist areas, speak English fluently and enjoy using it.
This apprehension often stems from a reluctance to make mistakes, but most are happy to practice and help English-speaking visitors.
3. France is Paris
Paris, Paris, Paris… We hear it everywhere, as if France is nothing more than the Eiffel Tower and croissants! But that’s obviously a bit reductive.
From the mountainous landscapes of the Alps to the sunny beaches of the Côte d’Azur (French Riviera), France offers so much more than just one city. So why limit yourself to just one place when you can discover all of this rich diversity?
4. The French are rude and arrogant
Are Frenchies rude? That’s a bit of an exaggeration, isn’t it?
Of course, the French like to speak frankly, but it’s not arrogance, it’s just the way they express themselves. In fact, politeness is sacred in France. It’s just a question of culture, with all its subtleties!
5. France is dangerous
Get ready for a little match of crime stats between France and the United States.
According to WHO data, in 2019, while France recorded a modest homicide rate of barely 1 per 100,000 inhabitants, the US faced a solid 5.8.
Of course, as everywhere else in the world, there are corners to avoid and precautions to take, but overall, France remains a pretty safe country. Crime is often less violent than on the other side of the Atlantic.
6. Everyone eats frog legs and snails
So, according to some, everyone in France feasts on frog legs and snails every day. Do you really believe that?
Well, some French people do eat them from time to time, but it’s actually quite rare or reserved for special occasions.
7. The French are lazy
So, apparently the French are lazy? Let’s just say they know how to enjoy life!
The work culture in France is different, especially compared to the US. Here, the French attach great importance to work-life balance. They don’t live to work, but work to live!
Working intelligently and enjoying life’s pleasures doesn’t mean being lazy, but rather knowing how to prioritize well-being and quality of life.
8. The French are chauvinists
In reality, what is often interpreted as chauvinism is nothing more than deep-rooted cultural pride.
Yes, the French are proud of their heritage, their cuisine, their art; and why shouldn’t they be?
But that doesn’t mean they believe they’re superior to others. As in any culture, there are some more nationalistic individuals, but most French people appreciate and respect the diversity of people’s cultures.
This national pride is more of a love regarding what makes France unique than a belief in its supremacy.
9. French life revolves around wine
Do you also picture the French with a glass of wine in their hand every day? Well, think again!
While they do enjoy the occasional toast—and let’s be honest, wine is an integral part of French culinary culture—drinking wine every day isn’t the norm. Some enjoy it, others prefer to vary their choices, or go without alcohol and reserve it for meals shared with friends and family.
And then there are the beer, cider, champagne and Pastis lovers!
10. The French are romantic
Sorry to disappoint you, but not all French people are inveterate romantics.
Although France is often associated with romance, the reality is more nuanced. Like everywhere else, there are romantic people, but there are also pragmatists. Each person and each relationship is unique.
11. The French are always on strike
Are the French the champions of striking? It’s true, France is often ranked at the top for its strikes. Yet the majority of French people work every day, without interruption.
Strikes, while they make the headlines, are in reality one-off events reflecting the French passion for social rights and public debate.
12. Life is expensive in France
Sure, budgets can be a little tight in Paris, but that’s not all there is to France! Between the little cafés in the provinces and the local markets, there’s plenty to eat without breaking the bank.
And, let’s be honest, even in Paris, with a bit of resourcefulness, you can go sightseeing without going broke. So, yes, France can sometimes be a bit pricey, but with a bit of ingenuity, you can enjoy it without ruining your wallet.
13. The French are always grumbling
Is grumbling France’s national sport? Perhaps, but it’s first and foremost a form of artistic expression!
Yes, the French may seem to grumble a lot, but it’s their way of showing that they care about quality and fairness. This tendency to openly express discontent is, in fact, a sign of commitment and passion for life.
Don’t see it as pure negativity, but rather as a constant search for improvement and a deep love for debate.
14. French cuisine is always gastronomic
Here’s a little tidbit that may disappoint you: French cuisine isn’t always gourmet!
But that’s far from being a bad thing: true French cuisine is also about simple things like quiche or croque-monsieur, for example! And every region has its own speciality. So, even if France offers sophisticated dishes, it also has a rich culinary diversity to suit everyone’s tastes.
15. The French smoke all the time
In the past, the French had a reputation for always smoking. But that image belongs in the past.
Between smoking bans, health awareness and the prohibitive price of cigarettes, many French people don’t smoke, and overall consumption is falling.
16. The French are all artists and writers
Sure, art and literature are an integral part of French culture, but the French have a multitude of professions and passions that expand far beyond the creative fields.
Let’s face it, there are as many bakers, engineers and accountants as there are artists in this country.
17. Parisians are obsessed with fashion
Contrary to popular belief, Parisians aren’t all about fashion and haute couture.
While fashion is very much present in Paris (let’s not forget the Champs-Élysées and Fashion Week), the majority of Parisians aren’t constantly preoccupied with their appearance. Many have a casual, varied style.
But it’s true that you don’t see people in their pajamas on the streets. As soon as they leave their home, if only to buy a baguette, Parisians dress appropriately.
18. France is stuck in the past
Yes, France has quite a historical heritage, but that doesn’t mean it’s not evolving. France is also about innovation and modernity, while preserving its cultural heritage. It’s a nation that’s always on the move.
19. French women never get fat
If only! Let’s take this cliché apart.
French women, renowned for their elegance, are generally careful about what they eat, controlling their intake without excess and often incorporating physical activity into their routine.
But, between crisp croissants, divine cheeses and irresistible pastries, temptation abounds! Nevertheless, they try to maintain a balance, because eating well and enjoying life is a key part of French culture.
And of course, like everywhere else, there’s a great deal of body diversity in France. Stereotypes about weight and appearance vary greatly from one person to another.
20. The French eat cheese at every meal
The French and cheese: a love affair?
Seriously, some might think that the French eat cheese at every meal, but frankly, not everyone does.
There are those who love it, those who nibble from time to time, and those who pass on it altogether. To each his own, right? Some people literally can’t live without it! But others happily skip this part of the meal.
21. French education is superior
Come on, let’s have a quick word about education in France.
Okay, the education system is pretty good, with equal access to education and a solid academic program. But let’s face it, there are problems too, like social inequalities and people dropping out, unfortunately.
The education system is good, but there’s still work to be done, that’s for sure!
22. The French are anti-American
The idea that the French are anti-American is a stereotype that needs to be tempered.
True, there may be cultural and political disagreements, but this does not translate into generalized hostility.
In fact, many French people are fascinated by American culture, whether it’s cinema, music, fast food or lifestyle.
So it’s more accurate to say that the French both appreciate and criticize certain aspects of America, as is often the case in international relations.
23. The French are all soccer fanatics
In reality, there are many sports in France (soccer, rugby, handball, swimming, cycling…), and the French have different interests. And thank goodness for that! And some simply don’t like sports.
But it’s true that during major sporting events such as the World Cup, the Euro or the Champions League, soccer is often the subject of discussion. But not for everyone.
And once these events are over, many forget all about soccer! Not all French people are soccer fanatics all year round.
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
