10 Surprising Unusual Things Expats Notice When Moving to France
Living in France as an expat comes with plenty of surprises, but some are truly unusual! Here are 10 quirky things that expats often notice when settling in:
1️⃣ The French Love Their Red Tape 🏛️
Paperwork in France is next level—you’ll need documents for everything, and sometimes multiple copies of the same thing. Even getting a simple bank account can feel like an administrative marathon!
2️⃣ August Feels Like a Ghost Town 🏖️
Many businesses shut down completely in August, as the French take their holidays very seriously. Need a doctor, a mechanic, or even a bakery? You might have to wait until September!
3️⃣ No Ice in Drinks 🧊🚫
Unlike in many countries where ice is standard, in France, your drink will likely come lukewarm unless you specifically ask for ice. Even then, you might get one lonely cube floating in your glass!
4️⃣ The Mystery of the 35-Hour Workweek ⏳
France is famous for its 35-hour workweek, but in reality, many people work far more—especially in certain industries. However, the work-life balance is still much better than in many other countries.
5️⃣ The French Don’t Snack 🍫
While many cultures embrace snacking, the French stick to three proper meals a day. Eating between meals is not common, and you might get strange looks if you pull out a granola bar at 3 PM!
6️⃣ Kisses, But How Many? 😘
The famous la bise (cheek kisses) can be confusing—some regions do two, others do three or even four! If you misjudge, you might end up awkwardly kissing the air.
7️⃣ No Supermarket Shopping on Sundays 🛒🚫
Many supermarkets close on Sundays, especially in smaller towns. If you forget to stock up on essentials, you might have to wait until Monday!
8️⃣ The French Love Their Strikes 🚇
Strikes (grèves) are a way of life in France. Whether it’s transport, education, or healthcare, there’s always a strike happening somewhere. It’s best to check before traveling!
9️⃣ Bread Is Everywhere 🥖
The French love their bread, and it’s not just for meals—it’s a staple of daily life. You’ll see people carrying baguettes under their arms, and bakeries are always busy.
🔟 The French Are Masters of Complaining 😆
Complaining (râler) is an art form in France. Whether it’s about politics, the weather, or the price of coffee, the French love a good debate—but it’s all part of the culture!
Final Thoughts
France is full of quirks, and while some might take time to get used to, they make life here unique and charming. Have you noticed any unusual things since moving to France?
