[Learn] Parlez vu Francais? Let's learn French.

Bonjour Monsieur, parez-vous Anglais? 
Hello sir, do you speak English?

This is the one phase everyone must learn coming to France. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is. The French often get a reputation for being rude, but in reality, they are quite friendly if greeted properly with an attempt at French. Most of the locals speak English in Paris but will appreciate your attempt at their language.

The first time I used this phrase, my friends and I were at a pizza brasserie and the waitress had just greeted us in French. After greeting her in French with Bonjour Mademoiselle, parez-vous Anglais, she immediately lit up and responded in perfect English. Once she had seated us in a nice spot outside and brought us our water (make sure to ask for tap water since bottled is not free), she asked us where we were from. Then she went out of her way to sit down, translate the menu, and make some recommendations. The entire dining experience was lovely. Most of the time, when I use this greeting, it is clear the recipient appreciates the effort.

The second phrase I used the most is l'addition, s'il vous plaît, to ask for a check. In France, it is considered rude for servers to rush diners, so to get a check, we’ve had to ask.

French dinners take an average of 3 hours, and dining is a quieter, more private event unlike in the U.S. where meals are often loud. This has to do with the more reserved culture of France.

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On the first day of class, Professor Freixes taught the students a bit of French to get around the city. Take some notes, try the phrases out, and you'll have a much better experience communicating with Parisians!

Here are some phrases to get you started with the French language:

bonjour, bonsoir -- hello (bonjour is used until 6PM; after 6PM, use bonsoir)

monsieur, madame, mademoiselle -- sir, madame, miss

parlez-vous Anglais -- do you speak English?

je ne parle pas Francis -- I don't speak French

merci -- thank you

de rien or pas de quoi -- you're welcome, of nothing

pardon, excusez-moi -- excuse me

l'addition, s'il vous plaît -- check, please (if it pleases you)

où est la toilette?  -- where is the restroom?

a droite, a gauche, en bas, en haut -- right, left, down, up

une carafe d'eau bouteille d'eau -- to ask for free tap water (bottled water is not free)

c'est combien -- it is how much? (asking for the price)

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Sunsets at 9 p.m.

Good luck and have fun learning!

Until next time,

Sherry