If I travel to Paris, can I get by with just English?

In Paris you may speak your native tongue at home, at work and with your friends, but if you don't speak French, you definitely need to speak English. ... This is because English is the standard language of tourism in Europe.

1. Can I get by with English in Paris?
2. Is it rude to speak English in Paris?
3. Can you get around Paris without speaking French?
4. Is English widely spoken in France?
5. Where should you not stay in Paris?
6. Can I live in France without speaking French?
7. How safe is Paris?
8. Is French hard to learn?
9. What do the French really think of the English?
10. Can I wear jeans in Paris?
11. What should I avoid in France?
12. How do I not look like a tourist in Paris?

Can I get by with English in Paris?

Before any trip abroad, it's a good idea to know how well the locals will speak English. Before my first trip to Paris I remember wondering: can I get by with English in France? Yes, you can speak English in France and almost always get by.

Is it rude to speak English in Paris?

In France, it is considered rude and offensive to talk to someone you don't know in the street without greeting them first. You can say “Bonjour” or “Excusez-moi”, but “Excuse me” will work just as well (99% of French people know that much English). At very least say “Hi” or “Hello”. That's really important.

Can you get around Paris without speaking French?

Lots of people speak English and at the very least are used to dealing with tourists who do not speak French. Restaurants frequently have menus in English. In general, it's good courtesy and very useful to learn basic phrases, especially greetings, basic questions, and polite terms.

Is English widely spoken in France?

English is not very widely spoken overall in France, but is quite widely spoken in the tourist areas of Paris specifically, at the well known attractions and at restaurants and hotels in the capital.

Where should you not stay in Paris?

Avoid Going to These Areas As Well

• The Eiffel Tower on a Saturday Afternoon in Summer. ...
• The Metro. ...
• Gare du Nord Area at Night. ...
• Châtelet Metro Station. ...
• The Area Around “Porte de Montreuil”
• The Nightclubs Around the Champs-Elysées. ...
• The Bois De Boulogne. ...
• Northern 18th and 19th District.

Can I live in France without speaking French?

Many people who move to France do so without being able to speak any French. Although it might be acceptable for certain professions, most expats will find that their having more fun as they pick up the language. Generally, people develop their language skills out of necessity.

How safe is Paris?

Paris is considered as a quite safe city. You can wander in almost every district with a very low risk of mugging. However, some areas are safer than others. The center and most touristy area of Paris (Le Marais, the Latin quarter, the Louvre area….) is very safe, as it's a vibrant area either at day or night.

Is French hard to learn?

But fear not! Because as this post is going to explain, French is actually one of the easiest European languages to learn. In many ways, it's even easier than learning English! And as French is a world language, spoken by over 220 million people, learning French can give you access to a huge chunk of the world.

What do the French really think of the English?

The French people we talked to complained of the British being big-headed, strict and uptight. “They think way too highly of themselves,” said Eric, 63. “Everything shocks them and they are quite moralistic,” said Margaux, 30. Brits were also seen as difficult to get.

Can I wear jeans in Paris?

You can wear jeans, if they are discreet, dark and well cut, but not in the evening, and not with a tee shirt and sneakers – you would look too casual. ... Most nightclubs won't allow you in if you're wearing sneakers and jeans. Don't be afraid to get creative with your Parisian outfit and dress up a little!

What should I avoid in France?

10 Unacceptable Things U.S. Tourists Should Avoid In France (10 That Are A Must)

• 17 Don't Eat One Course in a Restaurant, Only Go if You're Hungry.
• 18 Don't Assume Shops are Open All Day Every Day. ...
• 19 Don't Try and Buy Your Baguettes in the Afternoon. ...
• 20 Don't Expect Frog Legs and Snails on Every Menu. ...

How do I not look like a tourist in Paris?

How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist in France

1. Dress Appropriately. Leave the baseball caps at home. ...
2. Have Good Table Manners. No doggy bags please. ...
3. Avoid Outdated Stereotypes. Say "non" to a beret. ...
4. Use Your Indoor Voice. Be seen, not heard. ...
5. Learn a Few Key Phrases. A little French goes a long way! ...
6. Skip the Hug. Two bisous will do. ...
7. Don't Leave Huge Tips.