Language

The main language spoken in France is, unsurprisingly, French and is used by everyone, although regional languages and dialects are spoken by minorities in Brittany, in the Basque Region, in Languedoc-Roussillon (Occitanie) and in Provence.

While some locals speak English, this is not normally the case, especially in the more rural areas. It pays to assume that the people you come across don’t speak English so begin any conversation in French, if only out of politeness. Often it is resented if you assume people speak English – if they do they will usually switch over when they realise where you’re from and if they don’t, well it can be hard work!

As always when travelling it is a good idea to know at least the basics mentioned above. Using these will get you a long way especially when you accompany them with ‘monsieur’ or ‘madame’!