During my time in the south of France, I noticed many cultural differences, but one that stood out to me revolves around mealtime customs and social interactions. French culture places a significant emphasis on the enjoyment of food and the social aspects of meals. I observed a slower pace during meals, with people savoring each bite and engaging in lengthy conversations around the table. This contrasts with American culture where meals tend to be quicker and more focused on efficiency. The going out or “nightlife” scene in Aix also revolved around sitting down at a restaurant and getting drinks for a while instead of typical clubs. I found myself enjoying the unrushed pace, engaging in lengthy conversations, and forming deeper connections with people over the dinner table. The cultural shift also prompted a reevaluation of my own priorities, pushing me to recognize the value of quality time spent with others. This experience also fostered a newfound appreciation for the role of food in building and strengthening social bonds. In the South of France, I learned that meals are not just about sustenance but are intertwined with the fabric of social relationships. It made me reflect on the communal approach to dining. I feel that my time abroad will forever influence the way I approach meals and relationships, as I carry the lessons of the French dining philosophy back to my American roots. I feel that someone from my host country would likely appreciate my observation and recognition of the cultural difference in dining experiences. While individual perspectives may vary, many French individuals take pride in their culinary traditions and the social significance attached to meals. I think that my acknowledgement of the unique aspects of French dining culture, such as the emphasis on leisurely meals and meaningful social interactions, demonstrated cultural awareness and an openness to understanding and appreciating their way of life. In general, people tend to respond positively when they perceive that others are making an effort to understand and respect their cultural practices. Sharing my reflections on the importance of meals and social interactions in France definitely fostered many meaningful conversations and connections. In a way, it shows an openness to cultural exchange and a genuine interest in learning from and engaging with the local community. One thing to note is how imperative it is to approach these discussions with a spirit of curiosity and willingness to learn, avoiding generalizations or stereotypes. I found that people appreciate when others show a genuine interest in their cultural practices and are open to mutual understanding. Sharing my observations as part of a broader cultural exchange overall contributed to building positive relationships and enhancing my complete experience in France. This exercise prompted me to become more aware of cultural nuances, values, and behaviors. While these were all things I saw and experienced in France, it took reflecting on specific cultural experiences after the fact to truly take it all in. This heightens awareness allows me to recognize and appreciate the diversity that exists in the world.