Welcome to Umbert de Paris !
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“Ocean’s 8” shows us the “hand-kissing” ! Richard Armitage, allias Claude Becker, bow in front of Anne Hataway, allias Daphne Kluger, and makes her the “hand-kissing”.
Umbert is used to major international events, and he knows the MET Gala in New York, where the movie takes place.
He likes to watch pretty girls in evening dresses, all very originals.
But Should we still do the hand-kissing in Paris, New York, London, Shangaï and Auckland ?
« I am in favor of maintaining the French habit of hand-kissing; after all, you have to start somewhere », Sacha Guitry, French cineast
« Je suis en faveur du maintien de l’habitude française du baise-main; après tout il faut bien commencer quelque part », Sacha Guitry, metteur en scène Français
In this article :
1) When to do a hand-kissing
2) How to do a hand-kissing
1) When to do a hand-kissing
Nowdays, the hand-kissing is reserved to a conservative upper class or diplomats.
It is also still used in countries like Malaysia, Bruneï or Indonesia. There it is a common way to greet elder people of both genders, primarily the closest relatives (both parents, grandparents, and uncles or aunts) and teachers.
The “hand-kissing” is chic, but requires courtesy, restraint and elegance.
It is never practiced in the street, or in a public place : cafe, restaurant, opera, cinema, beach, etc …
It must be avoided with foreigners who are not used to it, except those who used to the international etiquette.
During a reception, a man can only do a hand-kissing to the mistress of the house, and the elderly ladies.
Umbert specifies that it can only be practiced with married women.
It is not appropriate for a gloved hand, except the one of a dear friend.
2) How to do a hand-kissing
The technique :
1 The man must not raise the lady outstretched hand towards him. The lady gives her hand.
2 The man must bow a little, and touch the hand he gently takes.
3 He does not kiss the hand but touches it with his chin.
4 The kiss must be fast, brief.
Don’t forget to train with a friend, it should fun !
Umbert is looking forward to traveling again to these major international events.
New York often misses him, but Paris is more into his heart.
What must be remembered : just remember the technique, so when you go to an event where you see the others doing the hand-kissing, you will be able to do it.
When Umbert is in Paris, he often goes to some very interesting talks about his favorite subjects : travel, technology, startups, emotional intelligence and many more …
Sometimes, he doesn’t really understand everything, especially when it is very technical.
When dining with friends, after several nights out, he doesn’t always know what to say or answer, because he ’s tired.
Sometimes you start talking and you may notice that your audience is not interested in what you are saying.
Or you’ve just realized that what you’ve said is so stupide !!!
Don’t talk, you are listened !
The silence is sometimes better …
“The silence is golden, so I’m silent … « , MC Solar, French singer
« Le silence est d’or, alors je me tais … « , MC Solar, chanteur Français
In this article :
1) Talking
2) Listening
1) Talking
When you are talking, sometimes, it is better to stop.
But when ?
If your speech is too long or does not involve anyone, stop immediately, otherwise the others may leave the room because they are bored, or find you too narcissistic …
If someone interrupt you, let him talk. His attitude is wrong for sure, but the best is to not do the same.
When arguing, know that you will put more pressure, just because what you think and say will be different from the other point of view, and it may disturb him a little or more.
If you have different ideas from the one who talks, let him finish first.
Depending on the situation, you may also think about your answer 24 hours, then come back to it.
Arguing is good, it helps both of you by sharing experiences.
When the debate becomes heated, watch the others, stop talking, it will help everybody to calm down.
On the other hand, If just one of you talk and the other listen, the discussion may be boring, and nobody has time for boring things.
I know some business techniques teach you that not talking and listening is the best solution. I don’t agree with this, I thinks that if you want a long term relationship, you need to share experiences and talks.
2) Listening
Learn to listen to others. Listening is as important as knowing how to speak.
It also shows that you are interested in the other and what he says.
When you visit a friend who is in pain, your presence is often enough. Words could be misunderstood in a critical situation.
When you do not understand a discussion, or do not know anything about it, it is better to stay quiet so you do not look ridiculous.
When the talking is getting to emotional, it is better to stop arguing a little, to calm down, then restart.
Umbert try to always stay calm, so he can focus on talking smart.
He knows that it is not easy when you’re stressed by your job, or something bad that’s just happened.
That’s why, sometimes, Don’t talk, you are listened !
But not always, don’t forget that life is about sharing, and talking is a way to share.
What must be remembered : talk only when you think that what you want to say is important for the others. If you have a doubt it may be that it is better to say nothing.
Immediately find something in their behavior or dress that you can emphasize on, and make a compliment.
This is not lying or being hypocrite, it is just a way to find great things about everybody.
You can even train in the street by looking at the others and find one thing nice with each person you cross.
That way you will find the world and the people much more beautiful.
3) Break the ice
Let the magic do it, don’t try to make too much internet search about the person, because the person may thing that you are playing with her by not being natural.
Try to find something you have in common, or some experiences you can share, without conflict or too much arguing.
4) Make eye contact
Eyes contact in the western world is a proof of respect, interest and trust.
Don’t be too pushy, just consider the person you are talking with.
5) Ask questions
If you ask questions, it will help you have some interest in the discussion.
It will also show that you are active in the talking and interested in the other.
6) A warm tone
The tone must neither be hysterical, nor too discreet, neither choleric, nor too moderate.
I would say be natural, and everything will be fine.
With the elderly : they are people in need of warmth and smiles. Do not be condescending or unfamiliar, but you can laugh, discuss and especially show that the age difference is not important.
With children : discuss naturally by showing that you are interested in them. Ask for their name, age, school, classmates, sports, etc …
7) Smile
Smiling is a symbol of seduction and elegance.
I know you have some problems, everybody have some, but when you meet people, try to forget them, just for that moment.
As a training, you can stand in front of a mirror, try several smiles, look at the features of your face, remember the most natural, the one that gives you the most value, and use it as often as possible.
Be carreful, a smile can be heard ! Yes, on the phone, people “hear” your smile. Before hanging on the phone, relax, smile and you will have a warm tone that will be appreciated and effective.
What does the smile mean ? Trust, affection, charm, security and it is disarming (in case of conflict with a person)
When Umbert goes to the Louvre Museum, he is always amazed by the smile of La Joconde. « How do you describe it Umbert ? Enigmatic, reassuring, tender, warm, natural, jovial, feminine …” Umbert is a fan of museums and exhibitions in Paris.
You can find his selection, every month, on this blog, in the Weekends chapter.
8) Laugh with them
If you can reach that goal, you win !
Laughing together is the best way to make friends.
Laugh is the expression of an authentic joy.
Try to laugh not too strong, not too long and not for anything (remember Don’t play !)
Umbert never laughs at the ridicule of others (stupidity, dress, attitude). It would be too easy and nasty.
On the other hand he knows how to laugh and make fun of himself.
9) Be interested
When you speak with them your entire posture and gesture should show that you are interested.
So focus on what they say and share your experiences.
10) Don’t interrupt
When you speak to them, let them finish their sentences or argumentation.
If you’ve ever encounter someone who’s always right, and always interrupt you, you know what I’m talking about.
11) Answer appropriately
It is very important to stay natural and say what you think, not what you think the other want you to think.
If you lie or play, the other will feel it, and the discussion will be flat and boring.
On the other hand, don’t argue too strongly, just answer politely.
Make the talk profitable for both of you, by sharing interesting experiences.
12) Don’t do things to deliberately bring them down
You may know some people who always try to control you by bringing you down.
They always try to find some stuff in your life, in what you like, or every where that could embarrass you.
Never do that !!!
Even if the person will have a nice attitude in front of you, just after leaving the party, she will hate you for the rest of her life.
13) Ask if they want to hang out
If you have a nice talk, ask the person if she wants to hang out sometimes.
Maybe you have a passion. In common, or something you can share.
This is, I think, the best way to make people like you.
14) Let them do what they want
A psychologist that I know always say it like this : « What do you know about their happiness ? ».
Every person is different, with a different past, different goals etc …
Sharing experiences and knowledge is very important to have a great talk, so bring something on the table.
But trying to impose your point of view or way of life must be a disaster, and it’s never appropriate.
15) Promote them
After the meeting, try to speak about them or their business.
Make positive observations about who they are or what they do.
At one point they will hear about it, and will really appreciate.
15.5) Love yourself
Being confident doesn’t mean not being humble. You can be confident and humble.
You don’t want to show off, but being confident makes you a non jealous or envious person.
The other will also feel it, and find « confortable » to be with you.
You will be a kind of hero who protects them.
15.5 Dos to make people love you, that’s a lot to do to make people love you.
Start step by step, by adding one thing after another, then you will be fine.
What must be remembered : breaking the ice, empathy and real discussions are key to make real friends or acquaintances. Train by going to random events, and start to speak to some people about anything, then narrow down to what you’ve prepared before.
When Umbert and his friends go to the theater or the opera, they know that they have to be chic, and respect the New Etiquette so everybody can enjoy the show.
It is a politeness due to the actors. They‘ve done a lot of difficult work before to be on stage that night, so you have to respect them.
« The world is a play; each of us must learn how to play his role. », Palladas, Greek poet
“Le monde est une pièce de théâtre ; il faut apprendre à jouer son rôle.”, Palladas, poète Grecque
In this article :
1) 10 Must do on how to behave at the theater or the opera
2) How to choose your seat
1) 10 Must do on how to behave at the theater or the opera
Here are some rules to follow at the theater or the opera :
Dress to impress ! The gala evenings at the opera are very dressy : an opportunity for Umbert to wear a tuxedo and a bow tie. His friend Diane puts on a long dress.
When Umbert goes to a show with Diane, he’s always in charge of the cloakroom, and the purchase of the program he offers to Diane, before entering for the room.
Be on time. Do not enter the room when the show is started. It is necessary to wait for the end of the act. In many theaters and at the opera, the doors are closed as soon as the show begins. What a shame to ruin an evening for a few minutes !
Even though a theater offers food, do not eat in the room. At the opera it is strictly forbidden.
Don’t even drink alcohol before the show, the smell may disturb your neighbors. If you are a little tipsy, excuse yourself to your friends, and wait for them outside or directly at the restaurant after the show.
It is particularly impolite to speak during the show, you have to respect the actors and the other spectators.
If you do not like the show, you have to wait for the intermission to leave, or wait for the end hoping that something will please you.
If you fall asleep, close your eyes discreetly, it is not respectful for the actors, especially if you are in the front row.
Do not sing the tunes you know.
Never criticize the quality of the show, it’s a very hard job, and you have to respect it.
2) How to choose your seat ?
When Umbert is with friends, he respects the etiquette to choose the seats, even if there is a reserved seat with a number on his ticket :
If there are 2 couples : the women sit in the middle, side by side, between the men (the wives next to their husband).
If Umbert goes to the show with 2 women, he sits between them.
If Diane goes to the show with Umbert and Charles, she sits in the middle.
In a box, women sit in the front row.
Umbert loves to go out and knows how to behave at the theater or the opera. He likes to dress and to show off a little with his friend Diane. They always have such an amazing time !
The theater or the opera are a priority for Umbert when traveling for his monthly Weekend in Paris.
It remembers him about his grand-father who was singing opera the all day.
What you should remember : always be chic, and do everything you can to not disturb the others so they enjoy the show.
Today Umbert advises his friend Alexis, visiting Paris from Montecito in California, about dating.
Alexis thinks that French girls are tough regarding the dates, that’s why he looks for any original ideas.
The 2 friends think that the more original the place will be, the better chances Alexis will have.
They don’t want to look like random guys going in a random restaurant.
They want something new, unexpected, creating a surprise them so the girl will have a crush on Alexis
That’s why Umbert advices Alexis to not go to the restaurant on a 1st date ! Try to find the Phantom of the Opera ….
« Paris is very small for those who love each other with such great love. », Jacques Prévert, French writter
« Paris est tout petit pour ceux qui s’aiment d’un aussi grand amour. » Jacques Prévert, écrivain Français
In this article :
1) Basic rules for a date
2) The restaurant
3) The cocktail or wine bar
4) Everything else is the best !
1) Basic rules for a date
The first appointment should be in a neutral place, not late at night. Never at ones home.
Choose a refined place, quiet to talk.
The choice of the place is difficult because it is also very related to the habits of the protagonists and their intellectual level.
Try to find something close to where both of you live. You don’t want to have time for a lot of hesitations on your way home.
Avoid places where your friends are, or where you know everybody. Your princess wants the all attention. You want to be as natural as possible, and you won’t be if your friends or acquaintances are around.
If you haven’t met already, remember to mention a distinctive sign so you will recognize each other (color of your clothes for exemple)
2) The restaurant
This is one of the most common idea.
If you choose this one, try to find something original and chic.
You can choose a place with an all new experience. For exemple an Indian restaurant with a Bollywood decoration, and a very friendly staff.
Another idea would be an ice restaurant, build with ice.
The goal is to surprise her, and this place will be the topic to start the discussion.
Always stay with chic places, even if they are specials.
Fine dining are very old school, unless they organise a special and fun event. For exemple an oysters and champagne evening, or a thematic party.
A woman will always be flattered to be invited to a fine dining, but Umbert would keep this option for the second time. It will improve again the surprise effect, and also reassure her.
Having a drink in a wine or cocktail bar, then dine elsewhere is a very good option.
At least, if something goes wrong, you’ll be on time to cancel the restaurant.
Choose an intimate place, with beautiful lights, perfect for the conversation. The candles highlight women, and make them feel confortable.
Avoid loud music and too much noise in general, it will stress you.
4) Everything else is the best !
Umbert likes to go for a picnic, in a calm and beautiful place. Women never expect you to organize such a thing. It is also a chic idea, that shows that you don’t want to show off, but are real, simple and sincere.
An other option that always work is to travel somewhere for the night. This means that you will have booked the tickets or the place before, but this is very exiting and you will have plenty of things to talk about regarding this short trip. If you are in Paris try some chic destinations like Deauville, Dinan or Biarritz on the coast. If you are in New York, the Bahamas for the night always works !
If she likes sport or culture, or both which is better, try to find an amazing event that you can do together. For exemple the escape game Inside Opera where you have to find the Phantom of the Opera, in the real Opera garner. This is fun, chic and amazing !
Umbert is sure that Alexis, who works in the movie industry in Los Angeles, will find great ideas. The French girls will have a crush on him for sure !
Now, dear Alexis, you have to pay the bill !
Love and romance are at every corner in Paris.
And Paris is a city where you can plan and imagine whatever original idea you want, so be creative … and she will kiss you !
Umbert knows a lot of people in Paris, and often receives several invitations for an event on the same day.
This doesn’t bother him because, fortunately, he knows how to decline politely if necessary.
Now days, everybody tries to improve his business or career, so a lot of events are organized, and you may receive a lot of invitations.
In the same way as saying “thank you”, knowing how to apologize is an important aspect of the New Etiquette.
Some of your acquaintances may insist, even try to « close » !
That’s why knowing how to excuse yourself, even apologize, is very important so they won’t be offended.
« Let’s excuse as far as common sense allows it », Anne Baratin, French poet
« Tâchons d’excuser tant que le bon sens le permet », Anne Baratin, poète français
In this article :
1) Methodology on how to apologize
2) Declining an invitation
3) Everyday excuses
1) Methodology on how to apologize
1 Apologize as soon as you can. The more the time passes, the less your apologies will be accepted.
2 Prefer to do it face to face, otherwise use Skype or FaceTime. Avoid writing on social networks or text.
3Don’t blame the other person. You are trying to solve a relationship problem, so don’t start with a fight !
4 Listen : carefully, you have to show empathy to be trusted. The other person should understand that you care.
5 Validate : repeat the problem with your own words, to show that you understand the person concern. At this time you’ve just stop the drama.
6 Apologize : tell the person that you are sorry if you did something wrong that has hurted him/her. Be authentic and sincere, it is very important. Never lie, she will figure out later anyway. You are responsible for what she feels.
7 Silence : the person should tell you if she apologize or not. If she doesn’t, restart the process.
8 Even if she accepts your apologies, real forgiveness may take time … But once done, the relationship should be stronger.
2) Declining an invitation
You can use the same process if you want to decline an invitation.
For exemple :
Umbert is invited next week, the same evening at Alexia for her birthday, and at Paul for a dinner with friends.
He will go to Alexia and FaceTime Paul immediately to apologize : “Paul, I know you’ve done a lot of wrk to organize this party, unfortunately I won’t be available for your dinner and I regret it. ”
Silence …
Paul answers : « I understand Umbert, no worries, thank you for telling me right away, I hope that we’ll see each other soon . »
Umbert : « yes for sure, let me call you next week so we can organize a get together with some friends arriving from Mumbaï, that should be fun. »
If an invitation has been sent to you by email or mail, write a thank you card, and send it the next day.
3) Everyday excuses
Now that you know the process, train at home, so you can use it immediately, all the time.
Here is where it may be useful :
Umbert is late and jostling a lady in the street : “Madam, I’m so sorry, are you all right ? Is there anything I can do ? » Silence …
Arriving late at the restaurant, he tells his friends “Please forgive me I’m late, I hope I haven’t waste you time ? Silence … Let’s enjoy this moment together”
When Umbert asks a service to someone, for example when he asks his way, or an information to a salesperson, it is always necessary to start by saying “Good morning, I don’t want to disturb you, could you ….”
With this Methodology to politely excuse yourself, without bullshit, Umbert can organized is schedule as he wants, or as he can.
Being famous, and receiving a lot of invitations is nice, but not easy.
But having none of them would be worse.
Fortunately, Umbert knows that he can count on his many acquaintances and invitations to entertain himself.
He is incredibly happy to meet them during his monthly Weekends in Paris.
What must be remembered : do apologize as soon as you can, understand the other and be sincere, then you’ll be fine.
Whether in Paris or traveling, Umbert respects the New Etiquette codes of each country.
An essential rule exists everywhere : to avoid vulgar words and vulgarity in general.
A good orator has a huge power, and if you know how to talk, you will seduce your audience.
There are many events nowadays where you can mingle with others. Follow those advices to attract most of the people.
“Everything is understood except vulgarity », Louis Pelletier-Dlamini
« Tout peut se comprendre sauf la vulgarité », Louis Pelletier-Dlamini
In this article :
1) The basics
2) The art of speech
3) Avoid rude words
4) The worst is the vulgarity
5) What about the familiarity ?
1) The basics
When he meets a friend or an acquaintance, Umbert always tries to be warm and respectful.
Articulate, be audible, do not speak too fast or too slow, and pronounce all the letters of a word, are also important.
We must use a language accessible to all, knowing who we speak to. Do not use technical words related to your work because it is often incomprehensible to the uninitiated.
Keep a measured, not peremptory or insulting tone.
Before talking about yourself, ask others about their job, what they like, the news.
Never start a sentence with “Me, I …”, but by: “It seems to me that …”.
Ask often “What do you think?“, then listen, it is a mark of respect. To know how to listen is a proof of greatness. Never cut the talk.
To argue is advised, it is a proof of sincerity and respect for the other. On the other hand, do it with a moderate tone, making logical remarks, and respecting the point of view of the other. Nobody know the truth ! Look for the compromise.
Do not mention disasters, financial difficulties, illness, conquests, and avoid talking negatively about others. Try to find some entering matters.
If a discussion about a political or religious subject goes wrong, you must know how to stop.
If you are an adult, avoid using the language of teenagers, it is ridiculous. The vocabulary of adolescents belongs to them. They do not expect you to copy them.
You must know how to end a conversation, when you detect in the interlocutor some signs of trouble : yawning, look at the watch, a hand that strikes …
Remember to always end the conversation with a polite and friendly phrase like : “I was delighted to be able to talk to you, I hope we will have the opportunity to meet again”.
2) The art of speech
Never improvise, be brief, clear, simple, do not speak too fast, but also be original and personal.
If a personality is present, you must talk to him/her with his/her title.
Remember to have the right posture : keep the bust straight, hands flat (it is a sign of insurance, knowledge of the subject), not in the pockets.
Look people in the eyes, to seem more sincere, and show that you are interested in them.
3) Avoid rude words
The evolution of the manners makes the use of the bad words very current nowadays.
Sometimes no one pays attention. But precisely, you have to stand out to please.
This is why, in all circumstances, Umbert tries to never use rude words.
The use of bad or vulgar language is ridiculous for adults.
In a company, it can shock, or not, according to the habits.
This is worse in front of children, where you should never use rude words, even to laugh. If this happens, then you have to explain them that it is a mistake.
Umbert remembers a father who had said a rude word to his son, in front of his friends : the child cried because his friends laughed at him. We must think of the reactions of other people.
When he is alone, he does a very simple exercise : replace a vulgar word with another prettier one. Umbert advises you to do this exercise, which will quickly become a game and which make you a person whom ones like to frequent.
Nevertheless if you say a bad word, and it will happen, the tone on which it is said is also important : humor, rebellion, rebellious, yes ! But never aggressive!
4) The worst is the vulgarity
There are different forms of vulgarity, other than language.
The tone is important. So it must be laid, avoiding excesses in emotions : for example screaming even if one is angry.
The posture is also important : always straight, even sitting or standing, but easy. Even when you walk, it is also important to respect the codes.
In other words, avoiding vulgarity and adopting good taste is a general attitude, and you can work on, step by step, following Umbert’s advices.
5) What about the familiarity ?
The familiarity is more and more practiced by the youngest from the first meeting.
Some people are not comfortable with familiarity. This is not arrogance, but often a mark of education or shyness.
Do not force someone to call you by your first name if the other person seems discomfort or reserve.
Someone can use the first name with you, especially if he is an old person, or someone with a higher social position.
Never use the first name for an older person or a superior, unless they ask you.
Umbert tries to respect those New Etiquette rules the most he can. Of course, sometimes, he gets angry. We are all human so not perfect.
Be careful to the manipulators who try to provoque and upset you. Their goal is to push you in the vulgarity and rude world.
Travelling is a good option to learn more, because you will have to act correctly to not shock the locals and not get any problems. You may also discover that some other behaviors and cultures are more respectful than others. You will have to stay tolerant and open minded.
What must be remembered : the best solution is to exercise when alone, so it will become more natural. Vulgarity is the worst, you have to really work on it.
Umbert is always elegant, or casual-chic, even when he plays sports.
Why ? Because, most of the time, people judge others on their first impression, especially in Asia.
Even if you don’t care about your appearance, make an effort, it is essential.
The professional category, the age, the way of life, are important in man fashion, and each person will choose his style.
It is also a proof of respect for others.
However there are basics to respect to not look old-fashioned, on any occasion. Don’t dress like a rock-star, especially for a date.
« Fashion fades, only style remains », Coco Chanel, french fashion designer
« La mode se démode, le style jamais », Coco Chanel, créatrice de mode française
In this article :
1) The basics on how to dress
2) Différent styles
3) How to dress on special occasions
1) The basics on how to dress
Wear clean clothes. This seems obvious, but it is better to remember it. Of course, you will have also taken care of your physical cleanliness (hair, nails, skin).
Wear simple clothes, but that will showcase you, in which you feel natural and comfortable.
Avoid t-shirt, jeans with holes, dirty and too old shoes.
No flashy colors, keep them for later … Avoid the black color which is most of the time reserved for the funerals.
Avoid short-sleeved shirts, unless they are bent, sleeves tight, plain, prefer timeless polos.
Large belt buckles can be worn on jeans, but never with a suit.
The socks must go up below the knee, of course nobody can see them, but in Paris you never know …;) The choice of the color is important : choose the pant or shoes color, and avoid the white ones.
If you never wear suits, avoid them if the date or meeting is casual. You can also choose a mismatched pants and jacket to be more natural. Same for the tie.
Do not wear synthetic costumes, it shines, it’s uncomfortable, and there are so many natural materials available !
Never put the tie in the waistband of your pants, the tie should barely touch the top of the pants. The small side of the tie should not be longer than the large one.
Think about your age, your profession, your style and adapt your style.
Do not try to change your style at the first appointment. You will play a role inevitably, and this will take away all your natural. People will see itimmediately ! If your style does not please, it is not worth going further.
Now you are a rock-star, so smile and relax !
2) Différent styles
The leader : during the all year, it is fashionable to wear a suit. In the coming winter, Umbert will choose dark suits with a plain, thin-striped plain shirt, and a plain or patterned tie (never the same color as the shirt), and a breast pocket.
The intellectual : fashion is not always important for them, they cultivate a style falsely neglected, that you can adopt when visiting Paris for exemple : tweed jacket, sweater with big ribs, comfortable velvet trousers, scarf.
The creative/tech : often in black or gray, no tie, but a scarf. Umbert loves to wear a cashmere scarf for the winter.
The exubérant : everything seems possible to them, but pay attention to the limit not to exceed.
3) Special occasions
On special occasions you have to ask the dress code. If there is an invitation, it should be written on the card.
Casual : try to stay natural, no excess, with a wonderful sweater or a sport jacket during the autumn/winter.
Casual-chic : you need a suit and very nice leather shoes.
Informal : upgrade for a dark pant, suit and shoes. That applies very well when you visit a friend in a 5 stars hotel or a fine dining restaurant, even if people are getting more casual nowadays.
Black tie : you need to wear a tuxedo, and the shoes that matches. Avoid to rent one, you will feel more confortable in a tuxedo that perfectly suits you.
Umbert always follow the fashion for man, but most of the time remains in the dandy-chic style, that the he loves so much.
Every month you can read about his Weekends to get updates on the best shops, and more advices.
Umbert doesn’t want to dress like a rock-star, especially for a date, because this is not his natural style.
What must be remembered: if you stay natural, but chic, and if you smile and relax, nobody will be able to destabilize you.
Umbert loves to wander around the city during his monthly weekends, or at night.
He knows that the new etiquette and good manners demands to be always discreet and not to disturb others, even in the street and in all circumstances.
He also pays attention to respect the people and their country when travelling.
If someone asks him his way, he always responds kindly, or apologizes if he doesn’t know the answer.
When a car driver gives him the passage, he thankfully nodded politely.
« Courtesy is the main part of the etiquette, it is a kind of charm by which one is loved by everyone » Jacques Deval, artist and filmmaker
« La courtoisie est la partie principale du savoir-vivre, c’est une espèce de charme par où l’on se fait aimer de tout le monde », Jacques Deval artiste et cinéaste
In this article :
1) Public transportation
2) When shopping
3) Rainy days
4) The priorities, especially with women
5) With your group of friends
6) The cleanliness
1) Public transportation
Always stay behind the line and let the people exist first, especially in the subway, taxi or bus stations.
Let your seat to older persons, women or persons with disabilities, if the other seats are taken.
Put your bags under your knees, they don’t need a seat.
It is not convenient to eat or unpack food, the smell will disturb the other passengers.
Please don’t talk loudly on the phone, wait that you will be arrived.
Always be nice with the driver in buses, or any employee from the public transportation company, they try to make their job the best they can. Umbert always says « good morning » or « have a nice day » to the driver.
2) When shopping
Umbert loves to shop around and discover new things and trends.
When he goes to a shop, if there is a push door to open, he always hold it if someone wants to enter after him or exit.
When it is a pull door, don’t forget to hold the door first, to let the other enter or exit.
When the elevator arrives, let the people exit first, then enter and let some space for others. This is the best way to not waste your and others time.
In the escalator stay on the right side so the people in a hurry can walk fast on the left side. People, especially in the cities are working, so if you respect them, they will also respect the tourists.
3) Rainy days
They are part of the charm of Paris and North Europe in general.
These days are often synonymous with congested sidewalks, because many streets in old cities are narrow. Do not forget that this is what makes them historic and charming.
Umbert pays attention not to jostle someone by walking too fast, and not to disturb everyone with his umbrella.
He always lowers his umbrella to let a woman pass.
A woman, meanwhile, will lower her umbrella to let an older woman pass.
Don’t forget that many work and are often in a hurry. They should therefore be given priority.
On the opposite, if you are in a hurry, do not “stick” the person in front.
When Umbert inadvertently hustles someone, even if he tries to never do, he immediately apologizes.
4) The priorities, especially with women
Umbert is a gallant man, when he sees a woman walking on the same sidewalk, he leaves her the side along the wall, proof that he takes care of her safety.
He always leave room for a woman on public transportation.
A man does not turn around and look at a woman. It’s a proof of respect.
If he meets a married person with another man, he pretends not to have seen them. He lets the woman come to him, if she wishes.
If a person arrives with a stroller, he moves to let her pass.
If he meets an elderly person, he takes a step aside to let her pass.
5) With your group of friends
Umbert knows a lot of people in Paris, and he often meets friends in his favorite neighborhoods.
When discussing, they let the passage free, they don’t want to plug the sidewalk, even if the conversation is very lively.
The group also pay attention not to talk or laugh too loud, they don’t want to disturb people who live next door, especially at night.
6) The cleanliness
An effort must be made by everyone to respect the environment.
Residents who love their city try to keep it clean, but it’s not always easy.
Umbert, in an ecological approach, recalls that we should not throw anything randomly and on the sidewalks, there is always a trash nearby.
He also tries to buy natural and organic products, when possible, to preserve the all planet. This is very important for the humanity future.
Living in society is sometimes difficult ! It is necessary to know how to make efforts even if the others do not.
This is How to behave in the street, especially when travelling !
It is very important that we all respect the people, their culture and the environment to have a great life and future.
What you should remember : these rules contribute to the savoir-vivre with others, and to the well-being of all, wherever you are.
