From Baguettes to Bordeaux: 10 Things The Non-French Associate with France

A beautiful girl in a white dress, a red beret sits against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Travel to Paris. Ideas for a photo shoot.

When it comes to France, there are multiple things that define the country in the eyes of the world. From its rich history to renowned cuisines and innovative products, the list is endless. Let’s see it from the perspective of a few non-French people who shared what France reminds them of on an online platform. 

1. Silent Letters

Man talking with alphabet letters coming out of his mouth. Communication, information, intelligence concept
Photo credit: ESB Professional // Shutterstock.com

Not one but several users wrote about French having many letters that had no role when speaking the language. Typically, there are three categories of silent letters known as: E must, H (aspire and must), and final consonants. Similarly, if any word ends with n, p, s, t, x, or z, it is not pronounced. 

2. Desserts and Bread (Croissants, Pastries, and Baguettes) 

Young blonde woman with bang eating croissants at a cafe. Girl bite piece of croissant look joyful at restaurant. Cheat meal day concept. Woman is preparing with appetite to eat croissant.
Photo credit: Ekateryna Zubal // Shutterstock.com

Someone wrote that France reminds them of the delicious croissants. A user replied to them and further mentioned that even chocolate pastries and baguettes in the region are quite popular. Many agreed with this stance, emphasizing the scrumptious breakfast items one can enjoy in the country. 

3. Breathtaking Beauty

Watergate im Canaö de Bourgogne in Burgundy in France
Photo credit: Klaus Brauner // Shutterstock.com

France’s countryside is often celebrated for its natural beauty. Pertaining to this, a user shared that the country’s mention reminds them of its nice farmhouses with vines growing on the side. The French landscape is indeed dreamy, as it has inspired artists and poets alike for centuries. 

4. Madeline – A Cartoon

Madeline (1989)
Photo by DIC Entertainment, L.P.

A user associates France with a cartoon that was popular in the country during the 90s. Madeline, a children’s series, was about a young girl with unique red hair. She used to wear a yellow hat along with a blue coat. The user also wrote about another famous character from the show, Miss Clavel. They sarcastically remarked, calling her a nurse who dressed like a Nun. 

5. Azay-Le-Rideu

The Renaissance castle of Azay-le-rideau, France.
Photo credit: CBH // Shutterstock.com

Although there are countless places in France to explore, a user had one of their memorable experiences at Château of Azay-le-Rideau, one of the communes in the country. They mentioned how gazing at a castle by the river is registered forever in their mind. While it was not something extraordinary, the rich history of France had left them in awe. 

6. TGV Trains

Paris, France - June 6, 2022: TGV high-speed trains of SNCF at Gare Montparnasse railway station in Paris, France.
Photo credit: Markus Mainka // Shutterstock.com

A Non-French user wrote a number of things that they associate with France, including the country’s Train a Grande Vitesse. Popularly known as TGV trains, these are high-speed modes of transportation that revolutionized the travel industry in Europe. The trains are typically known for their sleek design and high performance. On average, they can achieve a speed of over 300 kilometers per hour. 

7. Bordeaux Wine

Close up of serving red and white wine in social setting. Close up hand pouring wine.
Photo credit: Yang Zhen Siang // Shutterstock.com

A user shared their opinion about France producing the best Bordeaux wine in the world. And there are no doubts about it. What makes French wines unique is the concept of terroir. It describes that the drink’s characteristics are particularly shaped by the environment where grapes are grown. Following this, each wine-producing area in the country complies with a set of standards to maintain the quality and distinct identity of its beverages. 

8. Eiffel Tower

Paris Eiffel Tower and Trocadero garden at sunset in Paris, France. Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks of Paris.
Photo credit: Neirfy // Shutterstock.com

It’s rare for people going to France not to visit the Eiffel Tower and get photographed there. The tower is basically the source of natural pride, and no doubt, many non-French people associate the country with this wonder. Over the years, it has featured in countless works of art, literature, and films, cementing its link with French culture. 

9. Violin Music

Young woman learning to play violin at home. Romantic girl playing violin with bow. Portrait of female musician performing on string instrument. Dreamy violinist fingers pressing strings on violin
Photo credit: Depiction Images // Shutterstock.com

For multiple users, the thought of France reminds them of violin music, as the country has been a significant center for classical music. Paris, in particular, is a hub for composers and performers showcasing their talent with this instrument. A few famous artists who have intertwined violin in their compositions include Camille Saint-Saens, Maurice Ravel, and Claude Debussy. 

10. Holidays

New Year fireworks display over the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. France
Photo credit: Patryk Kosmider // Shutterstock.com

A British resident shared that France’s holiday routine impressed them the most. They mentioned losing count of the number of offs they got during summer and winter while residing in the country. The user even shared about receiving a six-month working holiday in the country, which is slightly uncommon in other parts of the world.

Source: Reddit

11 Things Europeans Do That Americans Find Really Weird

Europe travel vacation fun summer woman dancing in freedom with arms up happy in Oia, Santorini, Greece island. Carefree girl tourist in European destinatio
Photo credit: Maridav // Shutterstock.com

Every country has different cultures and traditions. One thing that is normal in one country might be weird in another. On an online platform, Americans shared what they find weird in Europeans.

Read more: 11 Things Europeans Do That Americans Find Really Weird

The Best European Cities To Visit in Winter

Munich, Bavaria / Germany - Feb 20, 2020: Frauenkirche with snow-capped alps (mountains) in the background. Symbol & landmark of the bavarian capital. Beautiful panorama captured during winter season.
Photo credit: Chris Redan // Shutterstock.com

Traveling to Europe during the winter can be perfect for several reasons, such as getting cozy and witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights or even taking part in winter sports such as skiing. If the cold is not your thing, Europe can also be the best winter destination to escape from the cold. Head towards southern Spain for some winter sun, giving you the best of both worlds.

Read more: The Best European Cities To Visit in Winter

12 Foods Europeans Eat Regularly That Are Really Weird to Americans

Young dissatisfied european woman eating caesar salad looking at it, dont like it smell and feeling disgust while sitting in kitchen interior, above view
Editorial credit: Prostock-studio / Shutterstock.com

From unique meats and seafood to fruits you’ve never heard of, there is a whole world of cuisine available in Europe that you’d be hard-pressed to find in the United States. According to an online forum, this list of popular European foods are nearly impossible to find in America.

Read more: 12 Foods Europeans Eat Regularly That Are Really Weird to Americans

How to Spend 2 Days in Athens, Greece: An Easy Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Aerial view of Acropolis of Athens, Greece
Editorial credit: WorldTravelPics / Shutterstock.com

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through one of the world’s oldest cities, Athens, Greece is calling your name. This city is a treasure trove of history and culture, from the iconic Acropolis to the lively streets of Plaka. Athens has a little something for everyone.

Read more: How to Spend 2 Days in Athens, Greece: An Easy Itinerary for First-Time Visitors