@MattA wonder if you can help me.
My first trip to France (Paris only), 20+ years ago I didn't enjoy socially as I (with 'schoolboy French', at best) had the 'classic' rude/rip-off experiences with waiters, restaurants etc and general unfriendliness towards the Anglo. It really, really put me off the whole country, although I know Paris was probably the worst place for this type of thing. After that, I had a few business trips to Paris, but was looked after by local colleagues.
Now, I'd really like to have a good look round, especially the historical areas in the south-east. I had one trip back 2 years ago and it wasn't bad but I was reluctant to engage much in fear of having a rude reception. (I assure you I've been to over 90 countries and enjoy socialising and eating out everywhere I go!
)
So, a question - in your time there, did you mostly use your (I think) decent French or did you sometimes try English? If the latter, how
really was it received? Friendly-and-happy-to-do-business-with-you? Or just a reply in French with stubborn look (I know in rural areas they may not speak much English so its not necessarily rudeness)?
Cut to the chase - if I went to those little cafes, street markets that you did, and first applied my schoolboy French greeting and then English, how would I fare in general do you think? I am just not into being made to feel awkward or embarrassed when I'm just trying to relax and spend money at a place.
Ta.