France - Culture

Shaking hands and, more familiarly, kissing both cheeks, are the usual forms of greeting. The form of personal address is simply 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' without a surname and it may take time to get on first-name terms. At more formal dinners, the most important guest or host gives the signal to start eating. Mealtimes are often a long and leisurely experience.

Casual wear is common but some clubs, casinos, and exclusive restaurants warrant more formal attire. Eveningwear is normally specified where required. Topless sunbathing is tolerated on most beaches but naturism is restricted to specific beaches - local tourist offices will advise where these are. A smoking ban for workplaces and public spaces has been in place since February 2007.