broker1 Posted April 13, 2007 #1 Share Posted April 13, 2007 We are planning a stopover trip to Paris next summer on route to a Med cruise . Our dilemna is that none of us speak any French . Is it possible to navigate Paris by speaking only English or would this be disastrous . Thanks for any info ...... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Albert Ross Posted April 13, 2007 #2 Share Posted April 13, 2007 Try this thread http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=528599 for answers [which are varied - and an insight into the French/Parisian national culture] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cberge Posted April 13, 2007 #3 Share Posted April 13, 2007 We are planning a stopover trip to Paris next summer on route to a Med cruise . Our dilemna is that none of us speak any French . Is it possible to navigate Paris by speaking only English or would this be disastrous . Thanks for any info ...... Yes,you can get around Paris without speaking French..no problem.Enjoy your stay in Paris. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Globaliser Posted April 13, 2007 #4 Share Posted April 13, 2007 Is it possible to navigate Paris by speaking only English ...Yes, absolutely. Don't worry about it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lord of the seas Posted April 14, 2007 #5 Share Posted April 14, 2007 Don't expect the warmest of welcomes from the Parisians,you should try a little with the language. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Irishwhiskey Posted April 17, 2007 #6 Share Posted April 17, 2007 You will be surprised how much English is understood.In many the places we visited you can hear English music being played.That should be a clue. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cberge Posted April 18, 2007 #7 Share Posted April 18, 2007 Don't expect the warmest of welcomes from the Parisians,you should try a little with the language. This can be true,but a smile and a few words in French cango a looong way.I have learned that it's not that the French are not welcoming people it's just the nature of the culture more or less.I guess I have never had a problem once I figured that out.:) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hybrn8 Posted April 18, 2007 #8 Share Posted April 18, 2007 First, always say bon jour in a quiet voice when entering a shop or cafe. Always smile and be polite without any arm waving or loud voices. Always say merci. If you use these hints wherever you go (even if it's on the street asking for help), you will be fine. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
redcentre Posted April 22, 2007 #9 Share Posted April 22, 2007 We found English was used widely in Paris, especially in major tourist locations. But it helps to know and use the major greetings in French, even if you think that the accent is not quite right. Bonjour, merci and au revoir are possible for everyone. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
whogo Posted April 22, 2007 #10 Share Posted April 22, 2007 Bonjour, merci and au revoir are possible for everyone.They are nearly required. You will get a much better welcome if you use them regularly. It is part of good manners in France. Spend any time in a shop in France and you will hear a constant barage of bonjour, merci and au revoir. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
forest_ Posted April 24, 2007 #11 Share Posted April 24, 2007 I would alway try and speak a little french when u are in Paris they can be a funny lot. They like it if you at least give it a go. Paris is stunning you will like. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Irishwhiskey Posted April 25, 2007 #12 Share Posted April 25, 2007 When you should find the need to locate a restroom or ( water closet ).Keep in mind that if you should try to use one in a private buisness like a bar,cafe,restaurant you may be stopped by the proprietor.This is the time when you realize that they can speak and understand English.As my friend found out when he was refused entry at the door in a couple of establishments.You may find that in some places they may take offense if you don't buy anything first. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CruiserPK Posted April 25, 2007 #13 Share Posted April 25, 2007 It never ceases to amaze me that many Americans think they can use a restaurant bathroom without being a patron. You may get away with that at McDonald's or Burger King at home, but it is not acceptable at most places in Europe. The easiest thing to do is buy a coffee or soft drink and then ask for the bathroom. My husband is always ready for an expresso and I use the ladies room;) . Cheers, Pam Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SaylorGirl Posted April 27, 2007 #14 Share Posted April 27, 2007 It never ceases to amaze me that many Americans think they can use a restaurant bathroom without being a patron. You may get away with that at McDonald's or Burger King at home, but it is not acceptable at most places in Europe. The easiest thing to do is buy a coffee or soft drink and then ask for the bathroom. My husband is always ready for an expresso and I use the ladies room;) . Cheers, Pam I agree with that completely! To the OP try and learn at least please, thank you, Goodmorning, etc. It will make you feel more of a part of Paris. And don't feel insulted if they don't understand English its not their language. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tech Posted May 25, 2007 #15 Share Posted May 25, 2007 Even here in America, we always buy something if we expect to use their loo. As it has been said, in a restaurant a coffee, glass of wine, softdrink is just being polite. The other is just bad form. It is not a "public loo " Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fires Posted May 26, 2007 #16 Share Posted May 26, 2007 Like many have said, you don't have to, but it is appreciated if you try and can be a great ice-breaker when you get it wrong. This is a free site and covers the basics http://www.zapfrench.com/ Terry Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Archived
This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.