Answered by Christian Mayer from Paris, France 1232 days ago

Hi,
French is not necessary, but if you start off any conversation by asking "Do you speak English?", you will get some rather cold reactions. Try to say "Bonjour" first, or "Excusée moi" (Pronounced Ex-Koozay-Mwah). Its a matter of protocol. Imagine aforeigner comingup to you in the US and saying (rapidly) "parlez vous Français?".... You would probably take a step back and say "Hey man, this is the US..." Its the same here in France. Chances are, if you try to speak a few words in French, the person with whom you are trying will recognize your accent and then respond in English, but if you just blurt out "Do you speak English", that same person will give you the cold shoulder....
I hope this helps. If you're interested in an introductory Paris tour, or an Excursion to Normandy or the Loire Valley Castles, or The Champagne wineries, please look me up: www.americandriverinparis.com

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Answered by a Localyte from Krakow, Poland 1230 days ago

Paris is international city. If you know english it is enough.
Have fun:)

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Answered by Gil CANTINELLI from Grenoble, France 1215 days ago

Yes, it's ok if you speak english but try to know some easy and common words... French are sometimes very proud of their language and will be happy to hear you trying ;)

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Answered by Ekaterina Pugacheva from Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia 1178 days ago

Basically you can, especially in the service area (shops, restaurants, etc), but it's better to learn a few words - the French are very proud of their language. So a few words in French would be a nice way to start a conversation and to create a warm atmosphere.

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Answered by Kickstar from Paris, France 1177 days ago

hey,

i think you should learn such basics like hello, thank you...that makes tourists very cute and sweet. after then you can speak in english :)

in case you wanna montmartre tour, i am an expert- contact me.

enjoy paris :))

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Answered by Anson from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 1168 days ago

As a foreigner and a tourist that cannot claim French as a first language, I fully agree with Christian. At least try to have basic phrases like Bonjour, Merci, Excusez-moi. Try asking for direction partly in French and partly in English will endears you to them and the Parisian will gestulate in order to show you your destination. Policemen are very helpful, just say Bonjour, ou est le direction a ...Montmarte (for example, a helpful phrase to learn). A great smile is always helpful. Bon voyage

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Answered by Kickstar from Paris, France 1094 days ago

hello, very soon you will find all answers at www.cityfreetour.com

enjoy :)

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