The cliché is true: walk around any French town or city and expect to walk past a woman carrying at least one fluffy little dog before you've made it to the end of the street. These adorable little pooches come at a price though, as the French don't seem to clean up after their animals - keep your eyes on the pavement.
2. Baguette from the supermarket is a serious no-no
The same goes for pastries. Why buy poor-quality, mass-produced, flavourless 'bread' when there's a charming local bakery just across the road. Pick up a baguette in the supermarché and expect looks of disgust/pity.
3. Cat-calling is far too common
Apparently men in France seem to think if a young girl or group of young girls walk past them in the street they have every right to holler, wolf-whistle, click their fingers and request sexual favours regardless of your age, time of day or what you're wearing. This NEEDS to change.
4. Wine
It's socially acceptable to have a glass at 11am. On a weekday. In public.
5. Nights out start much later
While back at home we might start preing as early as 7pm (Wednesday sports socials anyone?), clubs out here open as late as 2am and can stay open until around 7 in the morning! Thursday is the big night for students before they go home for the weekend.
6. Dog Boutiques are everywhere
Go to any French town and expect to find the following: bakery, restaurant, newsagent, small supermarket, pharmacy, beauty salon, dog parlour - clearly all the daily essentials covered. Perhaps this is explained by #1.
7. There is nothing to do on a Sunday
Somehow everyone and everything shuts down and disappears for the day. Make sure you've stocked up on groceries the day before otherwise you're going to go very hungry.
8. Remember to bring your own shopping bags
The English are only just cottoning on to this trend. Go to the supermarket, do a massive shop and realise you've forgotten your trusty Bag for Life. Either buy another one to add to your collection or have an interesting time carrying it all home.
9. Admin
No matter how many forms you sign, how many photocopies of your passport, bank statement, proof of address, birth certificate... you have sent off, there will always seem to be more that magically appear. It's fine though, somehow it will all sort itself out and after signing one or two forms it's important to reward yourself with a 2 hour lunch break and a glass of wine.
10. Customer Service
Order your food in a restaurant, it might come in minutes, days, weeks... who knows? Attract a waiter's attention and they'll wave you off and tell you they're coming - maybe in half an hour's time if you're lucky. Never go for a meal when you're rushed for time, a 'quick bite to eat' does not exist in France.
11. Everyone smokes
Cigarettes are cheaper and chicer across the channel. I'm yet to meet a young French person who doesn't smoke at all. Even the gym instructors!
12. They love coffee
Whatever time of day, a cup of coffee is appropriate. Just not in a big mug, espresso shots are the only way to go.
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