Several centuries ago, France was called only a small area, is located on the lower reaches of the river Rhine. A little later it was joined by the other lands, but to see the province of Normandy, Provence and Brittany for a long time retain their autonomy. Because of this, today, in modern France, in almost every village its own special traditions, customs and even the views of faith.
Let's start with the fact that France - a country in which is dominated by symbols. For example, the national flag colors have the following meaning: White - symbolizes the monarchy, red - a republic, blue - the early rulers of the country. Also known Marseillaise, the country's unofficial logo - Gallic rooster and a graceful female figure is a national heroine - Marianne. At the same time, there is a coat of arms, flag and anthem in each French province. And (as it may sound paradoxical) his small home French love more than the country as a whole.
Another feature of the French - a paradoxical attitude towards the family. They love family, which are the children, but to create their own did not seek. Currently, in France, the age of young people who decided to formal marriage - 28 years, and this figure is growing every year. However, if the family is still created, it becomes strong and it usually born two children. But even here there is a paradox: the French prefer a third child start... in a civil marriage.
Actually, France - entirely a country of paradoxes. For example, French bride should in no way to show the joy of the upcoming event. On the contrary, it is counted in every way to show almost complete despair about their new status. And on the day of the wedding, she simply must try to escape from the wedding.
By the way, in spite of the declared constant is "equality and fraternity," the woman had no right to vote up until 1945, and until 1964 could not open its own bank account, or start a business without a permit husband. Equality in marriage recognized in France only in 1985.
As a French family usually both parents work, the country's well-developed system of pre-school and educational institutions, which is well funded by the state. In general, the issue of financing of various training systems, insurance, maternity support in specific relation to France ranks third after Sweden and Finland. But in absolute terms - the first! For example, maternity leave, which are payable for six weeks before the birth and continues for four months after birth, is considered one of the longest in the EU. French is also provided mandatory paid annual leave of five weeks.
Despite the strange attitude to the creation of families, the French are very attached to their children, and no matter how busy work, prefer to spend the weekend with the adorable children of. The leading role in the French family - his father. Then, in order of seniority - his mother and then her husband. The French are raising children in a strict reverence for the older generation and family values, pride in their homeland, they try to develop a child's personality and his talent. French children, in turn, is very serious and respectful to parents, as adults, they will never allow themselves to take anything without the permission of a parent.
Unlike the Germans French love guests and are often found with his friends. Gatherings usually take place in a cozy cafe, which is so famous in France. Upon meeting the man necessarily shake hands, and sometimes can hug and kiss on the cheek. Women are more open to the manifestation of emotions. In France, they do not like and do not take communion on high tones. Chatting friends proceeds peacefully and gradually, but the representatives of the smaller provinces are quite emotionally telling something, gesticulating frantically. Sometimes body language is easier to understand the idea of the Frenchman, than what he says the words.
The French are quite open people. They naturally welcome on the streets absolutely strangers. If you want to ask a Frenchman advice or ask him for help - you can safely do so, you will not be refused. But the French themselves are extremely delicate, they will not even open the door without knocking.
The final paradox of today. France - a global trendsetter and style, but the French prefer to dress flashy, choosing modest pastel colors for everyday life. The only condition that must be met - clean and orderly. Bright jewelry from the French are also considered bad manners. But interesting accessories and colorful details - at a premium.
