During my time abroad one of the aspects of French culture I found myself having to adapt to was how long meal times were and how relaxed the service was in restaurants. Compared to the US, it definitely seems like meals are significantly shorter and almost more rushed than they are in France. Furthermore, in restaurants table turnarounds in the US are prioritized whereas in France I have noticed many times that there were no turnarounds and only one set of tables was serviced as the diners stayed there the whole time. At my homestay, meals would last a few hours sometimes and I came to understand how important conversation was during meal times. In France, I think the conversation at meal times is prioritized and considered an essential part of the dining experience. Additionally, the wait time between courses is longer than compared in the US where it tends to feel more rushed. At first, this did take some conscious effort on my behalf to adapt to this change. However, as time progressed I definitely started to appreciate the manner in which meal times are cherished and almost considered sacred. I have learned how to slow down and appreciate the little things instead of constantly being in a rush or in a go-go-go mentality.
I think someone from my host culture might seem confused by cultural adaptation with the relaxed mealtime and general etiquette. I think this might be because overall in France there is definitely a more live-in-the-present attitude and that you work to live not live to work. While in the United States, it can definitely be seen due to the embedded prevalence of capitalism within society that there is more of an attitude of living to work and that one’s work is their life. I think that this often translated into the need to constantly be doing something instead of appreciating the little moments life has to offer, even as simple as enjoying a longer meal. Since this general attitude is not present in France and since it is quite the opposite, there is a greater ability to enjoy and relax as compared to the United States.
This experience and everything I have learned from studying abroad have equipped me with knowledge and skills I would need in the future when interacting with new and/or different cultures. I have learned the importance of patience, empathy, and understanding when in situations like these. In terms of cultural awareness, we take so many things for granted when we never encounter others with different expectations or assumptions. Returning from my study abroad experience in France, I have learned more about myself in a way I did not know was possible, and I also learned more about my own cultural values and beliefs. I have developed a greater ability to exercise cultural sensitivity and how navigate change and acclimation. From this whole experience, I have found that it is easier to see one’s own culture in relation to another.