Meeting Etiquette
The handshake is a common form of greeting. Friends greet each other by light kissing on the cheeks, once on the left cheek and once on the right cheek.
First names are reserved for family and close friends. Wait until invited before using someone's first name.
Titles Monsieur or Madame of is bestowed when entering a shop and when leaving.
It is polite to greet your neighbours with the same title.
Dining Etiquette
It is important to dress well as the French when invited for dinner in France. They are very fashion conscious and their translation of casual is does not mean relaxed as in many western countries. If invited to a large dinner party, it is advisable to send flowers the morning of the occasion so that they may be displayed that evening. Arrive on time. You should you arrive more than ten minutes later than invited else do inform them by a telephone call and explain the reason for delay.
Table manners:
A few facts that will take you a long way up the social etiquette ladder when invited over for dinner in France:
It is basic rule that the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
You may be directed to a particular seat ,if there is a seating plan.
Until the hostess says 'bon appetit' do not begin eating.
Your hands should be visible, but do not rest your elbows on the table or rest them not in your lap.
Finish everything on your plate.
Do not cut salad with a knife and fork. Fold the lettuce on to your fork.
Peel and slice fruit before eating it.
Leave your wineglass nearly full if you do not want more.
