Why the French Hate Tourists

France is a travel destination that’s on everyone’s bucket list. However, not many people know about it, but the French hate tourists like Batman hates the Joker. Not to make any sweeping generalizations here, but before you venture into the land where the City of Lights is, it’s best to know what you’ll be up against:

Let’s look at some statistics…

Maybe it’s just a rumor spread by some tourist vlogger who wasn’t given the key to Paris despite their 15 followers. These statistics may just be proof enough that we aren’t hallucinating and that France, indeed, despises its visitors:

• France is the most visited country in the world
• Tourists rate Paris as one of the world’s most hostile places and least friendly city
• 47% of French people feel frustrated by tourists in France at least once a week
• Paris was voted as one of the world’s rudest city
• Parisians do not enjoy other Parisians’ lack of civility
• The French themselves know that they are inhospitable to tourists

To be fair, France is ranked as the third most welcoming tourist destination worldwide. So, this might balance out the negativity that the country receives. If it’s really true that the French hate tourists, it may be because of the following.

Cultural Differences

The French love doing their own thing. They are big on personal space, and privacy is a priority for them. This may make them seem stand-offish which can be confused for being inhospitable. As tourists, you must understand that they value their me-time so much that you and your sightseeing shenanigans may be disrupting it.

Lost in Translation

While a considerable percentage of the French can speak English (about 39%), they are proud of their language and are seriously making efforts to preserve and promote it around the world. They believe that tourists should at least learn to say “Bonjour, Monsieur” or “Bonjour Madame” out of courtesy. Failure to do so may make you seem rude to them, thus getting reciprocated with the same attitude.

The Look of Being a Bit Snooty

The French, for most of the time, can come off as a reserved people, bordering on being snobby. It may just be who they are, but for unaware tourists, it may come off as arrogant and unwelcoming. We’re sure to find this type of person in every country; it’s just that France is more popular.

Overcrowding

With over 80 million tourists arriving in 2022, France, especially the tourist spots, can get very crowded. Overcrowding also means the price of accommodations reaches skyrocketing highs. The locals would find it pricey to stay in their own city and country. 

In addition, it can be challenging for locals to deal with and handle tourist overload. You would, too, if everyone wanted to take a picture of your city when you just wanted to enjoy a brisk walk around the neighborhood. And don’t get them started on tourists who talk too loudly.

The French Aren’t Big on ChitChat

The French are not as chatty as some nationalities are. You might think they’re rude, but it’s actually the norm for them to avoid small talk.

Tourists Ignoring Local Rules and Regulations

Let’s face it: not all tourists are angels. The French are strict followers of rules and regulations, and if you break even the tiniest of them, you’ll likely get their ire. This also rings true when tourists ignore local customs and etiquette. 

This can vary from littering to being overly pushy when asking for help or getting directions. This may make the French feel exploited or disregarded.

Economics

The French may have a disdain for tourists because of economic reasons. Tourism is an excellent way for the country to generate huge revenues, but it can also drive the locals out of their own cities. Rent, food, and service costs can increase quickly, making it expensive for the locals to stay in their own towns and cities.

Final Thoughts

It would be harsh to use the term “hate,” and the French disliking tourists may only be an exaggeration. It can only be due to certain misunderstandings or differences in culture. But for a nation that offers many amazing sights and memorable experiences to appreciate, it is still worth all the hate or rudeness that comes with it, true or not.