Two weeks spent in France in June, everyone seemed perfectly pleasant, and seemed delighted that I spoke French. I hate to say this, but if the French seem to have a down on anyone, it would be on the British. And if the attitudes of the British tourists with whom I chatted are at all representative, the admiration is entirely reciprocated.

I had occasion to speak with a retired French professor of history outside a castle in the Lot. He expressed thanks to my country. "For what?" I inquired. He looked at me sternly 'Young man, don't you know the date? It's June 6th. We French are still grateful for your countrymen's sacrifices'.

So...anytime anyone tells you that all Frenchmen are a forgetful and an ungrateful bunch, call them a liar.

Why are some folks so edgy about this topic? Is it somehow not pc to ask it?
How can you feel passionately about such an inquiry? Maybe its time for a little r and r!

I believe it is because this question is asked again & again based (primarily) on peoples opinions who know nothing of France, or its' people. It does become a tad frustrating, kudos to you for asking in the proper place & not falling victim to the uninformed advice of others.

Hi H,

It is highly unlikely that you will meet anyone who will wish to express their feelings about the ME to you.

Enjoy your visit.

hellokittie- Maybe because this question is asked ALL the time and has been for years and years.

To answer, what my first thought always is...

HOW do the "French" as in an entire country know you are an American tourist anyway? There are loads of visitors in Paris from all over the world for example. If you are going about your own business, what kind of interaction with local people are you expecting to have? A little discussion of world politics in French perhaps??