Cuisine

. Food is one of the great passions of the French people.
. French cooking is highly refined and involves careful preparation, attention to detail, and the use of fresh ingredients.
. It varies by region and is heavily influenced by what is grown locally.

French Family Values

. The family is the social adhesive of the country and each member has certain duties and responsibilities.
. The extended family provides both emotional and financial support.
. Despite their reputation as romantics, the French have a practical approach towards marriage.
. Families have few children, but parents take their role as guardians and providers very seriously.

Relationships – Public vs. Private

. The French are private people and have different rules of behaviour for people within their social circle and those who are not.
. Although the French are generally polite in all dealings, it is only with their close friends and family that they are free to be themselves.
. Friendship brings with it a set of roles and responsibilities, including being available should you be needed. Friendship involves frequent, if not daily, contact.