Expectations vs. Reality
We expected British people to be very reserved — but in which situation do they suddenly become VERY passionate?
Football (or weather)
In the UK, what happens if you accidentally skip a queue?
People won’t shout — but they will judge you silently (and be very annoyed)
These people can sit in complete silence together and still feel totally comfortable — no small talk, no problem
Finnish
When communicating in the UK, is it more important to focus on words or tone?
Tone
You expected a seamless greeting transition but were shocked to find that this French greeting often requires two or three "kisses," whereas back home, one is usually plenty.
La Bise
In Australia, what does it actually mean if someone says: “Yeah, nah”?
No (and “nah, yeah” usually means yes)
Nationality that shortens every word like arvo (afternoon) and barbie (barbecue)
Australian
You realised you’ve truly adapted to French life when you stopped viewing this pre-dinner drinks-and-snacks ritual as a quick "happy hour" and started seeing it as a social event.
Apéro
Australians love the beach and relaxing around. What habit is most suprising about their day to day?
Early mornings / very active lifestyle
Why would Matt have almost been hit by a car?
In the UK they drive on the Left.
Which nationality is famous for apologizing constantly, even for things that aren’t their fault?
British
You stop getting to the point and first say "Bonjour" and maybe exchange a few polite words, what is this?
Adapting from German directness to French politeness
France is a calm, stable, European academic hub. Reality: This specific political activity happens so often that it’s actually a normal reason for buses to be cancelled.
The demonstrations
You truly "lived like a local" when you stopped grabbing quick sandwiches and started dedicating at least an hour to this midday social ritual.
Le Déjeuner
This nationality is known for having “no personality” because they adapt to everyone else's style to avoid conflict
Swede
What is the most important thing to consider when communicating with people from different cultures?
That communication styles depend on culture, not personality
I thought being polite in France means saying “excusez-moi” and asking my question directly. Why was this expectation wrong?
Because in France, you must say “bonjour” first.
After finishing a meal, the students sat for 30 minutes waiting for the server to bring the check, not realizing that in France, you must explicitly ask for it.
a clash between 'waiting your turn' and French 'assertive' communication
You immediately outed your origin to your French friends when you insisted that these must be fried twice and served with a giant glob of mayonnaise rather than ketchup.
Belgian
We were late to this class and finished the assignment two minutes before starting, what is this?
We have adapted to French culture