Five Everyday Habits Of The French That Might Surprise You
- 18.08.2026, 18:13
Daily life in France is very different from that in Belarus.
France, a country of exquisite cuisine and high fashion, attracts tourists with its unique atmosphere. Many people dream of living in Paris, picturing cozy cafés and elegant apartments. However, the reality of daily life in France can differ greatly from these romanticized notions. Several aspects of the local way of life can surprise—and sometimes even shock—an unprepared foreigner, writes “Mail Home”.
Compact Housing
Housing in France, especially in major cities, is generally smaller than what residents of many other countries are accustomed to. In Paris, for example, you can find apartments as small as 9 square meters, which is considered the minimum acceptable size for living. Such micro-apartments are in high demand due to the high cost of real estate in the capital.
Shoes Inside the Home
Be prepared for the fact that it is not customary in France to offer guests slippers. Moreover, many French people walk around their homes in outdoor shoes. This may seem strange to those accustomed to taking off their shoes at the front door. The French, however, like Americans, often don’t see this as a problem, considering the streets to be clean enough. However, given the actual condition of the sidewalks—especially in major cities—this habit may raise hygiene concerns.
Light-Colored Interiors
A distinctive feature of French interiors is the abundance of light colors in wall finishes. White, light orange, light pink, and other pastel shades create a sense of space and light, especially when combined with the large windows characteristic of local architecture. These muted, creamy tones lend rooms a sense of coziness and elegance.
A morning shower replaces an evening one
A morning shower is considered the norm for most people. However, in France, it’s not customary to take a shower or bath in the evening. Many French people prefer to go to bed without washing off the day’s dirt and dust, leaving that for the morning. This practice may seem unhygienic to those accustomed to bathing before bed.
The “art de vivre” culture
The French way of life is closely tied to the concept of “art de vivre”—the art of living. It is a philosophy centered on the ability to find beauty and pleasure in the little things of everyday life, to surround oneself with beautiful objects, and to cherish every moment. The local interior design style reflects this philosophy, combining elegance, comfort, and functionality. “Art de vivre” is not simply a set of rules, but rather a way of thinking that permeates every aspect of French life, from home interiors to the choice of dishes at a restaurant.