Will it be an unpleasant experience?

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Kristina L

I was in Paris last year and I know the phrases than White Spirit listed. And I know how to say "Parle vous englais?" Which I totally didn't spell correctly but it basically means "Do you speak English?". I found the people there to be wonderful and many spoke English. The ones that didn't were still willing to help me when I got lost through a variety of pointing at the map and pointing directions. People were very kind. The French get a bad rap because they are a little more reserved than some of the Americans that go there. If you act respectful and kind, then people will be more than willing to help you. Plus if you are only going to see the Louvre - nearly everyone there speaks English since it's such a touristy place. Many of the visitors are foreign and English is a one of the core languages that many countries teach kids in school.

white spirit

As a frenchman, here is my opinion:
Certainly you won't have any problem of language.
However, a little advice....Endeavour to use the basic polite vocabulary easy to learn in ten minutes. This will be greatly appreciated and people will be really seduced
(such as :
"bonjour" instead of hello
"Merci" instead of thanks
"pardon" instead of sorry
etc...
Be sure you won't regret it...

Bobby L

I was in Paris less than a year ago, and also in the Louvre. The french were surprisingly accomodating with all things. That includes the Louvre, the little cafes we ate at, and in Notre Dame. I think you'll find the french get a bad reputation that they don't really deserve.

Rillifane

It will make almost no difference at all that you don't speak French. Cerrtainly it would be nice if you did but if you don't, as a tourist, it won't be a problem.

Almost everyone in the hospitality industry in Paris speaks at least some English and, indeed, only 34% of all French adults say they can't speak any English at all.

bellabamm

Don't even worry about not speaking French. The French are very nice, not rude, and will help you out with most of whatever you need. You probably won't even need much help either. But trust me, they are very accommodating. Almost everyone you see on the streets or work there know English.

Good Luck!

S L

I have been going to Paris for years. I have never been treated rudely and always have a wonderful time.

The French do not dislike us; they dislike our President. In fact, contrary to some vitriolic statements I read on YA, the French are very grateful for our help in WWII.

You can get around very easily without knowing much French. However, the polite thing to do when entering a shop is to say "Bonjour, or Bonsoir Madame. When leaving please say, Au Revoir or some other appropriate French phrase.

Most Americans are not deliberately rude; we have just gotten out of the habit of basic etiquette.

If you believe you are going to have a good time, you will.

There are easy ways to get into the Louvre and difficult ways. Check those out with Frommer, Rick Steves, or Fodors. Also tripadvisor.com is good as is slowtravel. Maybe that latter recommendation for your next trip.

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