This Is the Most Outdated Piece of France Travel Advice, According to a Local

"The moment someone notices a foreign accent, they'll immediately switch to English-and be polite about it. Especially in large cities like Nice, Paris, and Marseille, those working in hospitality are conversational in English and happy to practice. If you do speak some French, they'll find your accent américain charming. But don't be offended if they continue the conversation en anglais."

"This is a lesson I had to learn myself when I first moved here, as I continued to switch back into French as if to prove through my expertly executed "r's" that I'm not a tourist. I live here! Now I see it differently, especially after the 2024 Paris Olympics. France has long held a reputation for being rude-but the reality is that the country (and culture) takes formalities seriously. It's less about being rude and more about respect."

A few polite French phrases such as bonjour and merci are usually sufficient for travelers in Nice and other French cities. Many locals will switch to English when they notice a foreign accent, especially hospitality workers in major cities. Long-term residents use French daily to handle bureaucracy and renovations. Tourists often find translation unnecessary in popular areas, and accents can be perceived as charming. French culture places importance on formalities and respectful greetings, so offering a greeting signals respect and smooths everyday interactions.

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