Non-touristy France: how people live in the world's most romantic country

Life in France is legendary. Foreigners believe that everything here is as it is shown in movies. But in reality, everything turns out to be completely different. Find out how the locals live in OBOZREVATEL's selection.

• Small portions and meals on a schedule

It seems completely abnormal to all foreigners, but the French are used to eating on a schedule. The whole country eats breakfast at about 10 am, lunch between one and two o'clock, and dinner around seven. Local restaurants open only when they expect guests. For example, from three to six o'clock you are unlikely to find a single working restaurant designed for the French. This rule does not apply to tourist facilities that accept foreigners.

At the same time, many tourists complain about too small portions. Chefs are used to serving dishes in such a way that they are enjoyed, not just eaten. Therefore, some tourists buy hot dogs at the nearest fast food outlets after going to a restaurant.

Locals never eat on the road, in traffic, or at their desks. There is a cult of food in France, so this process is treated with special respect. Even a small croissant is usually stretched out for several minutes to enjoy the unique taste of the pastry. And once a Frenchman has sat down at the table, he will not be distracted by the phone or TV. He is completely surrendered to the moment.

• Stores are closed on Sunday

Most grocery supermarkets have clear opening hours. From Monday to Friday, they are open from 10 to 19 hours. On Saturday, some of them accept customers up to 21, but on Sunday, everyone is off. On this day, you can buy food only in small Turkish shops or in some markets. But the French don't do that. They spend the last day of the week with family and friends. Locals don't leave household chores for Sunday, but try to switch gears and have a good rest.

• There is no difference between people in France

For the French, a wealthy businessman and a homeless person have the same value. They are people, and therefore deserve respect and good treatment. There is no need to teach children tolerance in schools here, because the locals live as if there are no differences. This applies to everything: skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, social status, etc. At first, people who move here for a long time are afraid of unexpected acquaintances and conversations on the street. But then everyone gets used to it. The French are open and sincere, so it is considered normal to treat everyone well without exception.

• There is nothing superfluous in apartments (even space)

French apartments impress with their incredibly small size. Studios are the most popular housing among the local population. Even large families can cram into 20 square meters and feel absolutely comfortable. That's why minimalism in the interior is so common here. There is simply no place to put large shelves and sofas. The housing is decorated very modestly and tastefully: light walls and ceiling, a small bed, a few chairs and a small dining table - that's all you need for comfort.

The French simply do not buy wardrobes. New apartments are initially equipped with comfortable dressing rooms that take up much less space.

• Rallies as a way of life

It is very important for the French to influence the development of their country. They are actively involved in all matters related to the manifestation of civic position. Therefore, rallies and strikes are held here almost every week. Employees here do not tolerate poor treatment and, especially, violations of the law by their management.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL wrote about the peculiarities of life in Germany and Japan.