Info Sesh-a-go-go

What: A pre-departure info session
When: Yesterday
Why: To educate us about the dangers of going abroad and particularly how to act appropriately in other countries

What I Learned About France (from a handout...and some light commentary)

GENERAL PROTOCOL: Natives are appalled by the way anyone else speaks French - including some other Frenchmen.

NAMES/GREETINGS: A light handshake is the usual form of greeting, but a visitor should not offer his hand to a person of superior authority. (And here I was teaching myself how to do three kisses on the cheek as opposed to two...dag.)

APPOINTMENTS/PUNCTUALITY: Prior appointments are the rule. Punctuality is a sign of courtesy. (But my French French Prof. said time is fluid in France...so much for that, I guess.)

HOSPITALITY/GIFT GIVING: An invitation to visit someone's home, even after long acquaintance, is rare. But for that occasion, a small gift of flowers (not roses or chrysanthemums) or chocolates for the hostess will be appreciated.
Cuisine, and therefore noon and evening meals, are an important and respected part of daily life.
Gifts that appeal to intellect or esthetics are especially appreciated.
(...but what if I want to bring roses?)

CONVERSATION: Avoid personal questions, politics, and money as topics of conversation.

Also, something I deduced on my own: they eat a lot of fish in Nantes. I'd better start practicing with some tuna sandwiches...