Canada - The Land of "Peace, Order and Good Government"

Glorious Canada is a lovely multi-cultural, duel-language Country with the famous Canadian Mounted Police, Niagara Falls, the Thousand Islands (1800 islands to be exact), delicious French Quebec bakeries, Victorian architecture, British Colonial cultural traditions and the Toronto Stock Exchange. 

Ottawa is the Capitol of Canada. Total population numbers about 30 million. Montreal with 3 million population, Vancouver with 2 million, and Toronto has a population of approximately 3.5 million. Median Income is $20,000 USD. The currency is the Canadian Dollar. Canada operates on the metric system. The weather is Arctic cold, cold, wet and cold. Celsius is Fahrenheit x 2 + 32. Cars are equipped with engine "block heaters", or you can bring your own extension cord and hair dryer!      

Most Canadians speak British English and French. Surprisingly, household grocery store brands and pharmaceutical products at the "Chemist's" are listed in French and English. In Quebec, 80% of citizens speak French, so best to brush up on a few 'magic words' in French. N'est-ce pas?  

Canada's natural resources include timber, fish, natural gas, petroleum and many minerals. Agricultural products include beef, wheat, eggs, hogs, cattle and milk. Canada is known for its cars and trucks, wood, machinery, electronics and mining. 

Canada prides itself on its low crime rate, however, when traveling, always remember to use your common sense and be careful. Ontario is big city mentality like New York City. Western Canada is like California, and British Colombia is like Seattle, WA. Unpopulated Northern Canada is for the Vikings! Quebec is very French! 

Canadian manners are reserved and very 'Old World' and formal. Use formal British and French names and titles until invited to do so otherwise.  Never embarrass another person. Sense of humor does not translate well in foreign countries. Do not compare Canada to the US. Remove your hat and sunglasses when speaking to someone or being introduced. Do not use hand gestures as most translate into obscene meanings, and keep your hands out of your pockets. Handshaking is 2 firm shakes, then down. Be sure to maintain eye contact and smile. 

Use your French and English 'magic words.' Please = 's'il vous plait', Thank you = 'Merci', You're welcome = 'De rien', Have a nice day = 'Bonjourne.'  To Toast: "A votre sante" (to your health). 

Canadian Holidays: Boxing Day is the day after Christmas, December 26th. St. George's Day is April 23rd. Discovery Day is June 27th. Orangeman's Day is July 10th. Heritage Day is August 2nd. 

Gift Giving for the host: avoid red roses (love) or white flowers (funeral). Any other flowers are fine, as are gourmet chocolates, a nice wine, or good scotch. Corporate gifts include a coffee table book from your home region, food from your home region (for example, Virginia peanuts), Logo gifts, desk set and a fine pen set.

Table manners include Continental style dining, and please use your finest formal table manners. Do not refer to the wait staff as "Garcon" which means "boy." Call the wait staff Monsieur or Mademoiselle. Linger a bit at the table after the meal with a rum, coffee and/or dessert. Take your time as meals are to be enjoyed! You will not be given the check until you ask for it: "L'addition, s'il vous plait." Just as in the UK and most of Europe, a "Service Compris" may be included and should always be listed at the bottom of your check. If in doubt, ask the Captain or the Manager if the service charge (usually 12% - 15%) is included. If the service is excellent, leave 5-10% extra cash tip on the table, or hand it directly to the server on your way out.

Tip the maid $5-$8CA per day. Tip the Taxi driver, tour guide, Spa attendant, Hairdresser and Barman 10% -15%. Not tipping is considered very insulting and rude. Always tip everyone. You will get better service, better tables, better drinks and enjoy your vacation more!   

Hotels may charge a 17% - 20% V.A.T. (Value Added Tax), G.A.S. (Goods & Services) tax, or P.S.T. (Provincial Sales Tax) tax, so be aware. Read the fine print. 

              Remember, never sing "Alouette" as it is considered condescending. 

Valentine's Day can be cruel for some. Be nice.

 

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you all reach out to the ones you love. Just remember, kids and adults can be cruel. Mean for sport. Behaviors that become habit. Please remember to be kind. 

Style Magazine, Family Style Section, May 2001

Wales "Cymru" The Lushest Land Since The Forest of Arden

 Wales "Cymru" is one of the most lush lands since Shakespeare's "Forest of Arden." 

With a land mass a bit larger than the size of New Jersey, ancient Wales has a burgeoning population of 3.1 million. Wales is known for its grazing grasses, moors, King Arthur & Camelot, the infamous literary "cywydd metre"(elegies & eulogies), the William Morgan 1588 Bible, "The Bard" 1774, the Prince of Wales, Welsh choirs, popular Portmerion pottery, the famous Tintern Abbey 1131, the Battle of Hastings 1066, Cambrian mountains, Pembrokeshire wild horses, many famous Church choirs and glee clubs, and Welsh Rugby.

Famous actors and artists include: Catherine Zeta-Jones, Anthony Hopkins, Richard Burton, Dylan Thomas, and Tom Jones! Movies and TV include "How Green Was My Valley", "Dr. Who", "BBC Sherlock Holmes", "Torchwood" and "Third Star", starring Benedict Cumberbatch. 

Natural resources in Wales are coal, slate, iron, limestone, wool and many metals & minerals. Wales grows barley, oats, dairy, hay, potatoes, turnips, and of course, cows & sheep graze on the vast and lush yet rough grazing grasses. The Capital of Wales is Cardiff which is an ancient and quaint yet sophisticated city, and a cultural & media center. GDP per capita is about $30,000 USD. The weather is cold, foggy and wet. Average temperatures are 40-70 degrees F., so when packing, best to layer.

Dress code is casual chic. For any means of travel, a thin wool Pashmina is worth its weight in gold, as is a light weight travel rain coat with hood. Navy or black is best because it blends into any city scape, can be easily dressed up, and can mix and match with jewel tones or beige. Comfortable black walking shoes and black clothing may be boring but it makes you look thinner for those travel photographs! 

When out and about, please use your 'magic words' ('Thank You", "Please", "May I", and "You're Welcome') and be quiet and reserved. No hand gestures. Don't rub your nose (means 'rub your nose in it"). Don't put your hands in your pockets. Do not eat or drink while walking down a public street, or in a taxi or bus. Eating & drinking in public is considered rude.

Some helpful Welsh catch phrases: Hello = 'S'mae', Good Morning = 'Bore da', Thank You = 'Diolch o gallon', and Goodnight = 'Nosda'. Do NOT say "pants" as these are underpants. Say trousers or slacks. 

Hand shaking is 2 firm shakes, then down. Eye contact is to look someone square in the eyes and smile. Do not stare. Introductions are more 'old world': "How do you do?" and stand. Women extend their hand out first. Welsh demeanor is reserved, quiet, very polite and courteous. Private. 

At the Pub: Men order a "pint." Women order a "half-pint." Over 28 famous Welsh beers available. Study up on which beer you'd like to order!

 Welsh cuisine is famous for Welsh rarebit (don't worry, there is NO rabbit on the rarebit, just cheese), Glamorgan sausage, Bar birth, mutton and lamb stew or 'cawl', Conwy mussels, leeks, Sewin (trout) and samphire (greens), laverbread (Welshman's caviar), and crempogs (cakes). A Century old tradition for the miners, is a half moon shaped pastry consisting of a meal in a pocket called a "Pastie." It is layers of pork or beef, potato, vegetables, onion, and jam at the base. The "Pastie" was made by wives of miners to put in their lunch box and eaten mid-day, as the miners did not come up from the mine until the end of the day. Try one! They are a treat!

Table manners include Continental dining only, using your finest and most formal manners. Tipping is 10-12% as servers are paid a "living wage." Leave an extra 5-10% cash on the table (or hand it to the server) if the service is excellent. If you attend a dinner party, it is tradition that couples do not sit next to each other.

Take registered Taxi's only (Black Cab). It is customary to round up to the nearest GBP (Great British Pound). Tip the Porter 1-2 GBP per bag. Tip the maid 5-10GBP per weekend, 15-25 GBP per week. Tip room service 15%. 

St. David is the Patron Saint of Wales and St. David's Day is March 1st, so many establishments and businesses may be closed. 

Remember: the Welsh are very private and to themselves. Be respectful. 

Post Covid19 Big City Travel Tips and a Top 10 List of International Faux Pas

 Having a bit of Covid "cabin fever?" Once Covid has subsided, here are a few tips to help you travel easily, and please remember: travel with handy wipes, wear your mask, keep your distance and wash your hands often. 

15 Smart Travel Tips: 

1. Drink plenty of water when flying, and avoid too much alcohol and sodas as these will dehydrate you.

2. Ladies: invest in one neutral colored (grey, black, beige or navy) very light, very thin, wool pashmina. I wear mine as a scarf in the winter, on train trips, on my lap covering my legs at the movie theatre and even on flights to warm climates! 

3. When first on the plane set your watch if changing time zones. 

4. Eat when you are hungry. E-mail or call ahead to your hotel and ask what type of coffee makers are in the rooms and bring those coffee pods/bags. Hotels charge a fortune for extras. Also, if your Country allows, pack a bit of half & half pods, travel sized salami, cheeses, olives, nuts & chocolate (the kind that do NOT need to be refrigerated) and crackers (& other foods you may like that do not need to be refrigerated) so you will have a bit to eat if you arrive late and everything is closed. Can't tell y'all how many tapas style dinners we have had this way while traveling! Save your bottled water and nuts from the plane too! Also, bring a few kitchen zip lock bags for leftovers as those "doggie bag" boxes are huge and take up too much room in your mini-fridge. Leftovers and plane food can be easily stored in any hotel room mini-fridge and you will save money and waste nothing!  

5. Get up and walk around and stretch as much as you have opportunity on long train trips and flights. 

6. Be alert always. When entering any room or theatre, look for the exit signs and doors, and remember where they are located.

7. Blend in. Do not be loud or boisterous. Ladies, if an establishment allows you to sit at the bar by yourself, just be mindful. Do not ever leave your drink on the bar to use the restroom, and return to drink the rest of your drink. Please take care and be careful. Do not give out your phone number. Have the gentleman give you his phone number, then you are in control. 

8. Travel lightly. Many people duplicate and triplicate pack. You won't use half the clothes you will pack. No matter how long the trip, pack for 6 days & nights only. Stick to one pair of nice looking, yet comfortable black shoes for the day and 1 dress pair of shoes for evening, and pack black & navy clothing. One jacket. One skirt. One pair of casual and dress pants. One black sweater. A few light jewel toned shells or beige shirts to mix & match will do. Travel websites have washable under garments for ladies and gentlemen that will hand wash & dry overnight! 

9. Use covered luggage tags. 

10. Bring extra copies of your passport, prescriptions & important documents. I store mine inside my makeup case.

11. DO NOT travel with any valuable or sentimental jewelry, engagement rings or watches you cannot live without. If you do, keep them on your person. Don't wear fake bling jewelry either as muggers don't know the difference. Tuck your necklaces IN. Muggers will rip them off your neck & knock you down, even if they are fake. They won't know the difference or care. Ladies: if you must wear rings, turn them around when out on the street. 

12. Seek out a local Pharmacy and go inside & ask for the business card of the pharmacist, usually  available on the pharmacy counter. Ask for a fax and an e-mail incase you need to have your Doctor fax in or e-mail a prescription.   

13. DO NOT wear a "fanny pack." This item in particular screams "Mug me here!" Travel catalogues have reasonably priced belts, shirts, and pants with interior hidden zippered pockets. They have annual sales too so with a bit of planning ahead, you may purchase these items on sale! 

14. Always walk where there are people. If you feel you are in danger, dodge into any building with a doorman, a hotel, or any restaurant. Don't yell "help." Yell "Fire!" People always run towards a fire to help out. 

15. Just use your common sense and don't be where you're not supposed to be when you're not supposed to be there. Gas up your car when reaching your destination. Always travel with a lighter, matches and a flashlight. Lock your car. Lock your door.     

Top 10 list of travel faux pas:

1. Don't assume things outside of America will be the same as within America.

2. If abroad on business, relax, socialize and develop your business relationships a bit first before getting down to business. 

3. Don't compare customs, quality of goods and services or business practices inside the United States to those outside of the United States. Check guide books on local customs and business practices before you travel. 

4. Even though in some countries and cultures (one example is Malaysia), it is proper to ask how much someone makes for a living, don't talk about money. Ever. For any reason. Inside or outside of the US. It's considered by most to be déclassé.  

5. Don't misinterpret body language, such as standing too close, "close talkers", bowing, staring or not smiling. Different cultures have different mores and manners. Know before you go. 

6. Don't fidget with your feet. Don't touch or point with your feet. Don't show the soles of your shoes. Feet and the soles of one's shoes are considered "dirty" or bad luck in many countries. 

7. Watch your hand gestures. Many hand gestures have obscene meanings abroad. Also, keep your hands out of your pockets. Don't stand around with your hands stuck in your pockets. Europeans will wonder what you are doing in there. Pockets are for making change only. Also, don't touch anyone. Don't point with your finger. Don't point with your feet. Best to simply keep your hands at your sides. 

8. Try to dress up a bit. Dress simply and be clean. Don't "go native." Just try to avoid looking like you are cleaning out your garage. No bra straps showing or tube tops. Tuck your shirt in. Clean your shoes. Wash your hair. It is also best to wear covered shoes. No one wants to look at your dirty toes, filthy feet or gross sandals on a plane. If you are late and need to run to your plane or train, tripping on flip flops is not the best way to get anywhere or exit quickly from a building or plane. Remember: Casual chic will admit you  anywhere. Blending in is the best way to go. Black or Navy always works, and you can mix black and navy with either beige shirts or jewel toned blouses. You'll look thinner in black or navy too!  This way, you can pop into the best hotel in the city and use their lovely, clean restrooms, and after, have an ice cream or drink in their cafe or bar. You'll look nice and fit in anywhere, because half the fun in traveling is treating yourself and enjoying your trip to the fullest.  

9. Always veer towards the formal. Always use proper and correct titles and surnames until invited to do otherwise, especially with elders. 

10. Always follow the appropriate dining etiquette and customs. In Europe, and especially in Germany, you will be considered dishonest and hiding something if you eat in the American style and place your hands in your lap. Eat in the Continental style! Even today, they will think you "have something up your sleeve."   In many countries, it is considered crass, or strange, to eat while walking down a public street or drink your coffee while riding in a car. As a general rule, do not chew gum in public. Do not decline food or drink from your host. Never show displeasure with a particular food or drink you may not like.  

Remember to use your magic words ("please", "thank you", "may I" and "you're welcome") when traveling and save your change all year so that you may tip often & generously. You will receive better service, better tables, better seats, better travel! 

    

International Protocol Quiz - Do You Think You Are Ready?

Do you think you are ready for high society and a global world? Traveled internationally? Starting a new job in Washington, DC? Know all about your international manners, etiquette and Protocols?  

Alrighty then. Let's test your knowledge! 

1. Q: How do I address the President of the United States at a White House function when introduced?

    A: Mr. President or Sir. The President's last name is NEVER used when addressing him personally. 

2. Q: How do I address a US Ambassador when introduced? 

    A: Mr. Ambassador, Excellency or Sir/Madam.

3. Q: What gifts are appropriate for a corporate host in Germany?

    A: Gifts are given at the end of the negotiations. They should not be Logo gifts, extravagant gifts or personal gifts (soaps, perfume or jewelry), as it may embarrass the Host. An American made fine pen or desk set is nice. Good Scotch or gourmet chocolates are appropriate as well. A bouquet of flowers in an uneven number (but NOT 13) are great, however, DO NOT give red flowers (love) or white flowers, in particular, chrysanthemums or calla lillies (funerals).  

4. Q: Why is the American custom of crossing your legs at the knee frowned upon in Europe, Asia and the Middle East?

    A: In Europe, crossing one's legs at the knee is considered bad breeding, and in Asia and the Middle East, crossing one's legs at the knee and the ankles, thus showing the sole of one's shoe, is considered to be dirty and an insult to your Host.

5. Q: Why should one be very careful in outwardly admiring possessions belonging to Middle Eastern clients/hosts/hostesses?

   A:  Tradition in the Arab culture is to make a gift something that is admired by a new friend. If you verbally admire something, your Host will give it to you! As well, you will be expected to reciprocate in kind. 

6. Q: What gift should NOT be given in Japan because it signifies death? 

    A: A clock. Signifies time ticking forward to death!

7. Q: Why should you never give knives, sharp objects or scissors for a wedding, Christmas, or even a Birthday, even if you place a 'lucky penny' inside your gift? 

    A; In many cultures, including older generations in America, the superstition signifies bad luck and/or signifies death in giving such potentially dangerous items.

8.  Q: Gentlemen, should you all stand up at the conference table when a woman executive exits or enters? 

    A; Sorry, but the answer is NO. Women executives may appreciate the occasional chair pulled out for them or the door held for them (especially those heavy glass doors) but gentlemen rising when a woman executive exits or enters the conference room is not necessary any longer, as women executives are considered equals in the board room. Interestingly, the host traditionally enters the restaurant first in Europe as it gives them a chance to introduce themselves to the Maitre'd, check to make sure the seating for their party is nice (not near the kitchen or bathroom), direct to whom the check will be delivered, etc. 

9. Q: Do grade school children in Europe greet each other by shaking hands on the play ground? 

    A: Yes they do! This tradition is why handshaking is prevalent in Europe. 

10.  Q: At a business dinner, does the most important, oldest, honored, and/or highest ranking person still sit to the right of the host and the 2nd most important person sit to the left of the host? 

       A: Yes. Except Korea. Korean etiquette places the most important person in the middle of the table, and facing the door (which is where the power in any room is located), and is superstition to face the door because you can see who is coming and going. 

11. Q: Which countries use the metric system? 

      A: Every country except the USA, Myanmar and Liberia! Thank you Thomas Jefferson!

12. Q: Why should one eat in the Continental Style (wrists above the table at all times) while in the UK, Europe, and especially in Germany?

      A: Upon the popularization of tableware in the 15th Century, when sitting at the King's table, bad men placed knives up their sleeves and could potentially stab their King, or others in power. Showing one has "nothing up your sleeve" is a matter of trust in these societies, even today. If you place your hands or even one hand in your lap at any time, people around you will think you are hiding something, therefore are dishonest.

13. Q: What flower in France is a funeral flower, so should never be given as a gift?

      A: Chrysanthemums. Any color, especially white. 

14. Q: Should you tip in the UK, New Zealand, Canada?

       A: Tipping is not expected for normal services in restaurants and pubs, as servers are paid a living wage. Also, an approximate 20% V.A.T. tax or approximate 12.5% consumer tax may be added to all purchases of goods and services. Check the laws with the concierge at your hotel or the Maitre'd in your local restaurant. Know if this charge is to be listed on the bill before dining out and what to expect before going out. 

15. Q: What are some gift giving guidelines in China?

       A: During a final negotiation, gifts may be exchanged. Wrap the gifts nicely in quality paper once inside China  (once through Customs). Give a gift to each person on the negotiation team, otherwise you will "lose face." Do not give personal or intimate gifts such as soaps, perfume or jewelry (reserved for couples). Acceptable gifts include: Logo gifts from your Country, records, tapes, stamps, sports equipment, coffee table books from your home region, food specialties from your home region (for example: Virginia peanuts), fine chocolates, or a fine desk set. Check what foods are allowed into the Country before departing. Do not be surprised if the gifts will not be opened in front of you.  

16. Q: In Germany, should you refer to someone as "Reverend Doctor Schaefer, or Mrs. Doctor Baker?"

     A: Yes! German titles are very important and used in excess! Always use all titles and honorifics when addressing a business contact. 

17. Q: When doing business in Mexico, Latin America, southern Europe, India or China, should you, as an American, get 'right down to business?' 

       A: No. First, 'Old World' niceties must be observed. Take your time. Tour the local attractions. Have lunch or dinner with your host. Make new friends. No business yet. Enjoy your afternoon or evening. 

18. Q: When offered refreshments before a business meeting with your Middle Eastern host, should you accept?  

      A: Yes, absolutely. If you refuse refreshments or coffee, you are insulting your host. Also, do not ask about the spouse and children, do not cross your legs when you sit down to have your refreshments, and do not accept your refreshments with your left hand, as it is used for toileting. 

19. Q: When walking down the street with a man, should the woman place herself on the outside of the sidewalk or place herself on the inside of the sidewalk?

      A: Both. In America, the custom is to place the man on the outside of the sidewalk. In European countries, the tradition is to place the man on the LEFT of the woman, which places the woman on the inside and outside of the sidewalk depending on which direction you are headed.  

20. Q: When in many foreign countries, can I use the "victory" or "peace" hand gesture, and can I lightly slap someone on the back or usher a woman into a room by touching her lightly on the shoulder?

     A: NO. Just say no to all hand gestures as most have obscene meanings abroad and NEVER touch the Queen, including on the shoulder ushering her into dinner, and don't touch any other woman.

Travel safely and enjoy yourself, but always remember you are not in America but are representing Americans! 

Dining Skills Quiz In Time For Christmas!

Want to make a good impression and have impeccable manners at Christmas Dinner with friends and family? Here is a Christmas quiz to catch up on a few tips to keep your manners tip top! Remember: Leaders always make others feel special. Don't ever criticize anyone else if their manners are not as fine as yours.

                                                                           

DINING QUIZ 

1. Being a good guest includes offering to hang up coats, helping to serve the meal, doing dishes. T  F

2. When sitting down at the table, enter on the right side of your chair (from your left hip)   T  F

3. Grace is said after one picks up one's napkin and places it on one's lap.  T  F

4. My butter plate is on my right, and my drink glass is on my left. T  F 

5. When passing the bread basket, it is proper to offer bread to the person on your right, take a piece yourself, then pass the bread to your left.  T  F 

6. It is proper to rest your wrists on the table when eating Continental style.  T  F

7. It is proper to leave the table anytime when you are finished with your meal.  T  F

8. It is proper to grab a piece of bread with your hands, tear it in half, and place the remaining half of that piece of bread back into the bread basket.  T  F

9. It is proper to hold the gravy boat above your plate when serving yourself gravy from the gravy ladle. T  F

10.  If you have to sneeze, grab your napkin, then sneeze into your napkin and blow your nose into your napkin. T  F

11. The secret to the table setting universe is: Use your utensils from the outside in,  T F

12. It is proper to break my roll, then butter the entire 1/2 of the roll before eating the whole thing. T  F

13. With all the different dishes on my plate, it is proper to eat my food in a circle instead of eating my favorite foods first.  T  F

14. It is not necessary to write a "Thank You" note to the host/hostess.  T  F

15. I dropped my fork on the floor, so it is best to wipe it with my napkin and continue eating. T  F

16. The sharp blade of the knife always faces out towards another person, not ever towards me. T  F

17. When eating soup, it is proper for me to rest my soup spoon inside the soup bowl as opposed to resting it on the soup plate. T  F

18. If I do not have a soup plate, it is ok for me to ask the waiter for one.  T  F

19. If you are not the host, it is proper to offer a toast at the beginning of a meal.  T  F

20. As a good guest, it is not necessary to bring a hostess gift.  T  F

21. Should you say something if the person next to you uses your bread & butter plate as their own? Y  N

22. In India and the Middle East, it is proper to only use your right hand when eating.  T  F 

23. It is suitable to place one's small clutch purse and cell phone on the table during a social or business luncheon or dinner. T  F

24. It is proper for you to pick up a toothpick at the Captain's Desk on your way out of the restaurant and pick your teeth in public.  T  F 

25. To signal to the waiter "I am finished" with my meal, I place my knife and fork in the 10:20 position, fork in the center and knife above the fork with the blade facing me.  T  F

Key:

1. T     2. T     3. F     4. F     5. T     6. T     7. F      8. F     9. T     10. F     11. T     12. F     13. F

14. F     15. F      16. F      17. F     18. T     19. F     20. F     21. N     22. T     23. T     24. F     25. T 

 Sit up straight, relax & enjoy your lovely meal with family & friends!

Paris, France - The Most Beautiful City Ever! Bonjour!

Paris is still the most stunningly beautiful City! A Fall 2025 update, just returned from 6 days there, and found the Parisians are more accommodating than when i visited in the 1980's, and their English speaking is more widespread. However, to be polite and as a greeting when entering a Hotel Lobby, restaurant or shop, please say a happy "Bonjour" with a smile, and you will be given excellent service even if your French is not excellent! The French will, of course, immediately assess you are not French and will speak to you in English, so don't worry!   

Back in 1981, my college  friends and I spent 5 days in Paris and Tra La La, were we busy! There is so much to do and see! The many museums, bridges, the Eiffel Tower, Churches, gardens, Versailles, the famous Notre Dame, Sacre-Coeur, the Palais Royale, the Left Bank and street cart crepes with warm strawberry jam, cafes, and the Haute Couture street fashion! Bring good walking shoes as you will need them! 

We stayed on the artistic Left Bank in an inexpensive B&B which had circular stairs. The light went on as we went up the stairs then off after we had passed the sensors. Electricity is expensive. We paid 5 Francs ($1.25 back in 1981) for a "3 minute hot shower." Well, it was lukewarm and 3 minutes is NOT a long time if you haven't showered for 3 days and are a girl washing your hair! So, just be aware. Our room had 10' ceilings, handmade quilts on the twin beds, a sink (bathroom down at the end of the hall), an iron & ironing board, and 3 floor to ceiling French windows which opened out onto French Balconies. Everyone in Paris drinks their morning coffee standing by their French balconies! Great "people watching!" 

Be aware, the French are VERY particular about their French accent being spoken perfectly, so unless you grew up there and can quickly small talk in a Parisian colloquial accent, a simple "Bonjour" will do. Also, taxi's are very expensive and arrive 10 minutes early, then charge you for the 10 minutes, so beware. The Metro is very clean and manageable, but WATCH OUT for the gypsy children who are taught to pick pocket. They place a folded sweater to sell on your lap, then while distracting you, take your rings, bracelet & watch off.  If you can afford to hire a driver for the day to drive you to many sites, do it! Worth the expense, as the traffic is now extremely congested. The key to Paris is blending in as much as you can with your city chic wardrobe, perfect French accent and French attitude of belonging! 

Here are a few French tips:  

• Use your best "Old European Manners" (See August 12, 2020 post). 
• France is a Republic of 65 million people. It is about 2 times the size of Colorado.
• The French GDP per capita is $41,400 USD. 
• Currency is now the Euro. 
• The French are famous for their fabulous cuisine & wine and culture, culture, culture. Also known for their Haute Couture fashion, champagne, Limoges region fine china and the Moulin Rouge, Paris is the heart of romance! 
• Temperatures are 32 degrees - 75 degrees F., so layer! Bring a light travel rain coat & foldable umbrella too as you may need them! 
• Dress code in France is "City Chic." Black, black and black goes with everything. 
• Dress up a bit in Paris as you may end up in a fancy location! Also, you will be able to walk into any fancy hotel or venue and use their downstairs public restroom, or "Les Toilettes" and carry some change or small Euro bills for the restroom machine or attendant (whatever is posted). 
• In France "froide" means 'cold' and "chaude" is "hot." The washroom faucets are reversed and are marked "C" and "F", so be careful! "C" means hot water!
• Do NOT wear white tennis shoes. No "fanny packs." (travel websites have clothing with hidden inner pockets with zippers). No dirty or sloppy jeans. No bra straps showing or tube tops. No shorts at night. Layer. 
• DO NOT put salt & pepper on your food before your first bite. The French take great pride in their famous cuisine and in their efforts to prepare food perfectly for you and they think their food should not need any salt, pepper or any other spice added. This action will insult the chef and the waiters will scoff at what they consider to be your bad manners. 
• Always eat in the Continental Style, and clean your plate!
• An empty wine glass means you want a refill.
• Dining is always Continental style always. Eat everything (except bread) with your knife and fork. If there is no bread/butter plate, place your bread next to your fork on the table. 
• Cut your fruit. Cut your cheese at an angle (superstition). 
• As per the Christian tradition, break your bread with your hands before buttering or eating.
• De l'eau gazeuse is sparkling water. 
• Know your dessert spoon and fork.
• Cross your knife and fork, and it means you want another helping. 
• Placing your knife and fork in the 10:4 position means you are finished.
• Gentlemen, leave your jacket on!
• If you are invited to dinner, you must bring a hostess gift. Wrap your gift very nicely with high quality wrapping. Include a hand written personal note inside your gift. Appropriate gifts include nice wine, fine chocolates, coffee table books, or flowers. No red flowers (love only) or white flowers (funeral). 
• Do NOT give Logo gifts. 
• Do NOT chew gum in public or eat food or drink while walking down a public street. Considered rude. 
• Vegetable market vendors serve you. DO NOT touch the vegetables. 
• Greet clerks when entering or exiting their shop. "Bonjour, ca va?" means: Hello, how are you? "Merci, bounjourne" upon leaving means "Thank you, have a good day." 
• Speak softly in public and do not argue. Don't joke. DO NOT be the loud, ugly American. 
• Close the door and turn off the light when exiting any room. Electricity in France is very expensive.
• DO NOT discuss money, politics or mention salary when chatting with the French. Rude.
• If attending a special occasion party, arrive 15 minutes "socially late." 
• If attending a dinner party in a French home, be on time. Bring a hostess gift and small gifts for th children (hard candies or small trinkets). DO NOT ask for a "house tour."
• Give business/personal calling cards to everyone. Status symbol!
• Bastille Day is July 14th. Huge National holiday. Stores/Restaurants may be closed. 
• In France, you must ask for your check or the waiters trust you simply want to hang out. "L'addition s'il vous plait" with a hand motion of a signing your palm means you want your check. "Service Compris" (usually 15-18%) is included on the bill and should be listed at the bottom of the check. If the service is extra good, leave a bit of cash on the table. 
• Family and close friends "air kiss" both cheeks. NO hand kissing. 
• Titles are important. Use Titles and last names until invited to use a first name.
• Shake hands with everyone. Ladies extend their hands first. NO kissing of hands.  
• Champagne is sometimes served before the meal.
• Whisky, rum and sometimes a martini is served after the meal.
• Always try the local delicacies such as quiche, crepes, frog legs and escargot. 
• Families are small but family life is important.
• Ladies, sit with your knees together or ankles crossed. DO NOT cross your legs at the knees.
• Gentleman, keep your hands OUT of your pockets. 
• Stay away from all hand gestures. Especially the "thumbs up" gesture. Most are considered to be obscene.
• Toasts: "A votre santé!" 
• Do not cut your salad. Fold your salad. Cutting (thus bruising) your lettuce will insult the chef.
• If unsure, use "Madam" for both single and married grown adult women.
• Bring small change and bills for the restroom or "W.C." charge and tip the attendant 1-2 Euros.
• Tip an Usher/Bellboy 2-3 Euros per bag.
• Tip the Maid 5 Euros per day. Leave daily as you may not have the same maid service daily.
• "Service Compris" (15-18%) is always listed on the bottom of the check and leave a little bit extra cash on the table (or hand directly to the server) for great service (5-10 Euros, depending on the amount of the bill).        

Vivre la France!