Pros and cons of visiting France
I am still day dreaming about eating fresh croissants in France and observing the Parisian way of life. We had so much fun in France that I am actually already planning my next trip there!
If given the time, I could write multiple blog posts on the pros and cons. But for now, here are my top pros and cons you should know about before visiting France.
Pros
There is history around every corner (literally)
From walking around the village where Pablo Picasso once resided to lighting a candle in the oldest church in Paris, there is much to be seen.
There are many different regions and landscapes
Whether you are a beach goer and want to sunbathe in the French Rivera or prefer to explore the palace halls of Versailles, there is something for everyone. I began my trip with long days lounging on the beach and having aperitifs sea side. Then, we traveled to Provence where we explored medieval villages, had too much wine, and ate with locals. Finally, we made our way north to Paris where we saw the city life, ate along the Seine, danced around the halls of Versailles, and saw the Eiffel Tower sparkle up-close and personal in a vintage car.
The food will have your mouth watering
We were a bit skeptical about how much we would find to eat in France that we liked. The movies make it seem like it is all frog legs and snails, when in reality, there is far more to offer the palate.
We indulged in fresh pastas, fish straight from the sea, sweet and savory crepes, and even some local cuisine (yes, snails). We didn’t have a bad meal there.
If you are a picky eater, rest assured you will still be well fed in France.
The lifestyle
People watching in Paris in a sport. Their lifestyle is how you say, c'est manifique.
Stop and enjoy a coffee outside of a brasserie or café and just be. Don’t rush to the next art exhibit or tour. Take your time wandering the streets and enjoy your time. C'est la vie.
Cons
It’s not cheap
While you can visit any country on a budget, if you want to explore the top tourist destinations, like Paris, be prepared to pay more. For example, I saw cappuccinos in Paris priced for eight euros. While in Italy, they are less than two euros.
The French don’t always like tourists
While it has always been a stereotype that French don’t like Americans, it can sometimes be true, but for good reason. Don’t go to France and expect the French to cater to you. You are in their country and need to act accordingly. I learned this the hard way when I didn’t finish a meal in Provence. Apparently, I deeply insulted the chef and didn’t even realize it. I wish I would have just finished my soup!
Which leads me to my next point…
Not everyone speaks English
English is a fairly common language spoke in different countries, especially touristy areas. However, don’t just assume everyone will speak your language. It is important to learn key phrases like how to order food at a restaurant, ask for directions, etc.
I had a lot of trouble ordering in French (my fault) and ordered the wrong thing at a restaurant (the soup I referenced above). This simple mistake ending up being a huge cultural clash that probably could have been avoided if I spoke more French.
Overall, though, if you can at least say hello in French and then ask them if they speak English first, it will go a long way and they will appreciate the effort.
Have something specific you want to know about? Leave me a comment below!