Social Customs In France

France is a famous country rich in various types of social customs for example French cuisine, family values in France, Relationships, and meeting, dining, table manners etiquette.






French Cuisine.

In France, there will be several courses in their meal such as

  • Hors d’oeveres - known as appetizers 
  • Fish course - served often in between appetizers and main course 
  • Main course – served with meat and vegetables often with small side dishes
  • Salads and Cheese – served after the sain course 
  • Desserts – signal to end a casual meal which is usually served with coffee


Family Value In France.

Each member in a family has a certain duty and responsibilities to take care of the family . Extended family usually provides financial supports . France has a reputation for romance but they have a practical approach when it comes to marriage . Parents take their roles as a guardian for their children seriously and provide them with the essential needs for daily use .

Relationships.

French people are more to private type of people . They often have different rules towards their behavior to the people they know and to those they don’t know . French people are polite to one another but when it comes to friends and family, they are free to be themselves .




 Meeting Etiquette.

The most common greeting in France is the handshake which is widely used. Greeting among friends is usually greeted by kissing lightly once on the left side and the right side of the cheeks. Each time when you enter a shop, you are expected to say bonjour and to say au revoir before leaving.



Dining Etiquette.

There are three golden rules when you are invited for dinner at someone’s place in France

  • Always arrive on time. If you are running late, it’s appropriate to call the host and let them know 
  • Always dress well since France is well known for their fashion sense. Arriving with shorts and t-shirts is usually not accepted 
  • Always bring a small token of appreciation for the host such as chocolates, bottle of wine or flowers.


Manner Etiquette. 

Table manners in France are continental. The fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right hand while eating. If you are not finished eating your meal, you are required to put the fork crossover the knife on your plate. Elbows shouldn't be rest on the table although your hands should be visible and not on the lap. Lastly, finish everything on your plate.

formal way of arranging cutlery.