People always have stereotypes about other nations. There are certain stereotypes (as well as prejudices) about the French, especially about the most refined and even “spoilt" French – the Parisians. Let’s have a closer look at the capital citizens and try to understand their character and their way of life.

In fact, the opinion about the spoilt Parisians appeared due to the fact that they are good judges of life: they like good things, enjoy meeting with friends and colleagues in cafes, love to go to nice restaurants, regularly visit cinemas and keep up with the latest theatre opening nights. And of course they can’t imagine their life without good shopping.

Some people say the French are reserved and even haughty. But the appearances are deceitful. In fact, the Parisians are nice and friendly. Just smile to them and say “bonjour"- you’ll see how amiable they can be. The French are real patriots, they deeply respect their language, culture and traditions. So if you will put in some French words while talking to the natives you’ll meet with real cordiality. Don’t be embarrassed because of your accent – they will find it sweet and charming.

The French greet each other with four kisses on the cheek. It is a sign of friendship. But it is possible only among close friends. If you don’t want to look excessively familiar, just shake hands when greeting or thanking somebody (e.g. a shopkeeper if he or she was particularly considerate).

Another peculiarity of the French is complete disregard to traffic rules. Pedestrians should be very careful when crossing the street: it’s necessary to watch out for cars, motorbikes, scooters and even rollerbladers, as the average Parisian tend not to take road safety seriously. Look both ways before crossing the road, and make sure you respect, unlike some drivers, the zebra crossings and traffic lights. Be careful if you drive too. The French often cross the road at last second, so don’t go too fast.

The French can’t be called workaholics, spare time is very important for them. Many shops are closed at Sunday. The majority of them are open from 9am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday. Some smaller shops may close over lunchtime between midday and 2pm, or all day on Monday. Sundays and public holidays are the usual closing days, although there are some exceptions... During the week, the department stores all have one late-night opening day, known as a “nocturne" until 9pm. Supermarkets are open at different times depending on the neighbourhood, every day except Sunday, until 8, 9 or 10pm.

The French are considered to be great gourmets. Well, that’s not just a stereotype. The very expression haute cuisine comes from France. The greatest choice is that of cheeses and wines. The French say there’s 365 kinds of cheese in the country, just like the days in the year. In fact there’s much more. Interesting to note that an average Frenchman eats about 30 kg of cheese per year. The French adore cheese. There’s even a monument to the cheese inventor.

The other thing is that the people are very trendy. They always keep up with the latest fashion and perfume tendencies. Parisians are by right considered to be trendsetters.

Don’t hesitate to come to the country and get acquainted with the French!