Top 10 tips to date French Men

Top 10 tips to date French Men

Who wouldn’t want to fall in love in Paris? Deemed the most romantic city in the world, there’s a reason people say being in love here is like nothing else! If you’re wondering how to navigate the world of French dating, here are 10 tips to date French men.

1. Be yourself

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While this may seem like the most obvious piece of advice in any dating scenario, it’s especially important to be yourself if you’re interested in dating  French man. Cultural values may be different in France than what you’re used to. And one thing that is valued here is honesty, and transparency.

I’m not suggesting sharing everything about yourself on the first date, or being an open book. In fact, quite the opposite – keep some secrets for yourself.

Despite being fashionable, people here are generally simple and more down to earth. Over-the-top displays, drama, and fake appearances aren’t the norm.  But just be yourself, and don’t try to be someone or something you’re not. You’ll be dating a wonderful French man in no time.

2. Don’t be afraid to flirt

In many ways, dating in France seems more old-fashioned and innocent than in a lot of other places. And it usually starts with flirting.

French men have a (well-earned) reputation for being very flirtatious. The first moves towards dating a French man can be as simple as a glance, or a smile. This is all part of the dating game here, so don’t be afraid to play your role. Small clues can show your interest, and flirtatious banter keeps both parties interested.

3. Be open minded

There are a lot of stereotypes about dating in France, and French men in general. Most of these ideas are about how exceptionally romantic French men are.  Romantic dates, flowers, weekend getaways. These are all the hallmarks of a Hollywood French romance, right?

Well, in reality every French person is different. Some are super romantic, others less so. Just like everywhere else in the world. Remember to keep an open mind, and don’t judge a book by its cover, or a man by his charming accent.

4. Learn a little French

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If you don’t speak French already, dating a French man can be a great way to learn. that being said, one of the best tips for dating French men is to learn some basic French first. Simple greetings, being able to introduce yourself and asking where someone is from are good starter vocabulary.

Speaking a few phrases to someone in their native language makes it easier to connect, and start a conversation (even if you switch back to English).

5. Plan a creative date

While traditional dinners out or catching a movie certainly happen in France, dates are generally wider-reaching. And creative! There’s so much to see and do in Paris that options are limitless.

Picnics in parks or along the riverbanks, trips to the local market, a guided tour, or even a visit to a museum are all popular date ideas.

If you’ve been out a couple times, why not try planning a fun date for a change?

6. Come prepared for a little PDA

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Depending on where you’re from, public displays of affection or PDA might be seen totally differently. In France, it’s very common to be more open and hands on in the relationship, even if you’ve just started dating.

You’ll often spot couples in the metro, the park, even the supermarket enjoying a romantic moment. So don’t be afraid, or self-conscious. Do whatever feels comfortable for you, but be aware that it’s not looked down upon at all.

7. Dress to impress

But not too much. Remember what I said before about subtlety and flirting? This same concept applies to your French dating wardrobe, too.

The French are masters of style, and developing their own personal fashion. Keep in mind what kind of activities you’ll be doing on your date, and dress accordingly. You’ll want to be comfortable after all!

In terms of style, classics never fade. A simple black dress, a flowy silk blouse, or a tailored blazer paired with jeans. It should be flirty without being over the top. Sensual without being explicit. And then simply accessorize to make it fully your own.

8. Don’t forget the perfume

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Perfume has a very prominent place in French culture, with the world’s best parfumeurs hailing from the Hexagon. There’s something especially intoxicating about a good perfume. This is why finding your signature scent is one of the best tips for dating French men.

9. Split the check?

This one is really up to you, and depends on your personal situation. France leans towards the traditional when it comes to picking up the tab. Generally, this means the man is expected to pay for the meal or date. Often times, they will have already paid discreetly  before the waiter has a chance to bring the bill around.

But this norm is changing, and if you’re comfortable doing so or have been out a few times why not split the check. Or treat him to dinner once in awhile!

10. Be patient

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Navigating any relationship with a new person can have its difficulties. Especially when you throw in cultural differences and language barriers. Dating French men is a wonderful experience, but not without challenges. So be patient, be understanding, and try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes for a minute. One of the best parts about dating someone different than you is experiencing new things together, and being able to laugh about the process.

Now you know my ten tips for dating French men, hopefully yours will be a romance for the books.

Hope to see you soon in Paris!