Quote:
Originally Posted by oldE
Regarding the French language and people: 5 centuries ago, French was the language of the royal courts of Europe. The aristocracy from almost all countries in the region spoke it, hence "lingua franca".
When English eclipsed it as the international business language, the reaction was to jealously protect what they had.
Milt, my wife and I traveled in both Quebec and France. Our experience was typically we would attempt to converse in French, but the person at the cash or the server would seamlessly switch to English at some point. My wife speaks more fluently than I, but I was pleased with how much I could understand while in France. Conversely I have never been able to understand more than a word or two of the Acadian french spoken within 60 miles of my home.
I think there are good things which can be learned from almost every culture. When you think you know it all, it's a sign you've stopped learning.
Best
Les
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Agree. Was that pertaining to this thread? About French?
Quote:
Originally Posted by brshap
This is far from the norm in France (can't speak for Quebec). The French by and large really appreciate foreigners attempting to speak the language and will very graciously reply in English if they realize you are not a comfortable French speaker.
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Far from what I hear from travelers. But my understanding is that either dead center in a major city or far into the countryside things are much more congenial, for different reasons.
Quote:
Originally Posted by flatbutt
Mine too but only in Quebec. Toronto and Montreal no problem at all.
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Been to Montreal. There is definitely a divide there. It may be subtle in most places of business.