Northern France
Paris and Île-de-France
Parisian Characteristics: - Faster pace of life - More formal initial interactions - Quick to embrace international trends - Direct communication style - Less time for pleasantries - High cultural expectations
Etiquette Particularities: - Brief greetings suffice - Efficiency valued - Cultural knowledge assumed - Fashion consciousness high - Restaurant reservations essential - Public transport etiquette strict
Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Picardy
Northern Warmth: - Despite stereotypes, genuinely welcoming - Strong working-class traditions - Beer culture alongside wine - Hearty cuisine and portions - Carnival traditions important - Belgian/Flemish influences
Social Differences: - More direct than southern France - Humor tends toward self-deprecation - Community solidarity strong - Less formal in daily life - Weather creates indoor culture - Mining heritage influences values
Normandy
Norman Character: - Reserved but reliable - Strong agricultural traditions - Cider and calvados central - Pride in D-Day history - Dairy products predominate - Weather-hardy attitudes
Etiquette Notes: - Take time building trust - Appreciate local products - Respect war memorials - Don't rush conversations - Quality over appearance - Practical over fashionable
Brittany
Breton Distinctiveness: - Celtic identity strong - Independent streak - Maritime culture - Crêpes and galettes tradition - Fest-noz (night festivals) - Environmental consciousness
Cultural Particularities: - May speak Breton among themselves - Strong regional pride (don't call them French first) - Superstitions and legends persist - Hospitality once trust earned - Seafood expertise expected - Religious traditions stronger