Courtesy
L'arc in Paris
French people are appreciative of proper manners and greetings. It is customary to address/greet before speaking, and before photographing others, a request is always required. It is considered to be rude when a person speaks in languages other than French, since they are regarded as not making an attempt to learn the language (arrogance). Since there are a lot of people in Ile-de-France, they are often forced to be within close proximity of each other. For example, customers of a coffee shop may be at different tables and with different parties, but will be touching hips because of the space shortage. People are expected to speak quietly because of this lack of personal space. Also, unlike waiters in the United States, waiters in France are not expected to ask customers every few minutes if they are okay and rush them their food and check, but are expected to take their time and subtly check tables from afar.
Clothing
Parisian girls
Scarves are popular in this area, usually worn knotted around the neck. While adults are expected to dress crisp, clean, and classy, younger generations dress similarly to their counterparts in the United States. Clothes are pressed, hole-free, and fit well. Pleather jackets, chuck taylors, skinny jeans, skirts, tights, trench coats, and fitted suit jackets are all common sights. People are know to dress in suits (usually double-vented), even while travelling by foot or bicycle, and clothes almost always match. Parisians are not known to sag their pants or wear shorts, and value clothing quality over quantity.
Religion
Sacre Coeur at night
France is a Christian country. There are beautiful churches and cathedrals in this area, including Sacre Coeur. Sacre Couer is the site of a nonstop vigil, ever since its construction. The French expect people to dress conservatively and speak quietly in church. Notre Dame is another notable religious location in this area. It is a cathedral, constructed in three parts and finally completed in 1250. Cathedrals and churches in this region are richly detailed, from the altar to the pews. A candle area is also available in most churches, where candles are available for purchase in honor of an individual, a group, or a saint.
Street Performance
Street performer in Paris
There are many street performers in this region, particularly in Paris. People perform everything, from the accordian to miming to riding a unicycle. Metro musicians must audition to obtain their permits, and target tourists primarily for tips. Groups from schools and organizations also perform on the streets. The Centre Pompidou Square is a well-known haunt of street performers.
Miscellaneous Customs
Smoking Parisian
In restaurants and hotels, gratuity is normally included in the bill, however if a person is satisfied with the service they can leave extra change. Normally gratuity is around 10-15 percent in this area, sometimes more in tourist or business sectors. The French also tip doormen, hairdressers, and taxi drivers. It is considered vulgar to overtip. Smoking is mainstream in France, and although it is forbidden to smoke inside enclosed spaces, people are allowed to smoke anywhere outdoors. Some restaurants have separate sections for smokers and non-smokers, but due to this rule, most do not.