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Post by pharmjen on Jun 18, 2007 18:36:58 GMT -5
Hey everyone - I'm new to the board and I'm traveling to Paris for the first time next week. I'm so excited but as it gets closer, I'm starting to get nervous! I was wondering if you must see a hostess first for outdoor seating or if you seat yourself. I will be traveling solo and don't know much French, adding to my anxiety! I plan on doing a lot of eating on the run or sitting at a cafe - I have lots to see and do in only 4 days!!
Thanks! Jen
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Post by Ray(aka) tripnebraska on Jun 18, 2007 18:50:09 GMT -5
You have come to the right place. Don't be nervous, you will have a great time. I'm not one of the experts here, but when we were in Paris last month, in some places you just sat down, and in some they seated you. There will probably be enough people around, you will be able to tell by what others are doing. Ask all the questions that are making you anxious. The people here will be helpful.
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Post by cybee on Jun 18, 2007 19:06:00 GMT -5
Yes, I am not one of the experts either, but when I was in Paris and wanted to eat outside at a bustling place...what I did was try to catch the eye of a waiter /hostess and then hold up the number of fingers that would indicate how many are in your party and say (or mouth) ..in your case, a questioning "un", (or whatever the number it is in your party again). Oft it is so busy that they can't really hear you well...but can see by your fingers and understand and nod and will come to find you a spot when able or indicate to you to just sit down there or what not! I may be corrected on this one, but this is what worked for us...(if less crowded, then maybe just wait for them to come to you) (one can rather judge it).
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Post by pharmjen on Jun 18, 2007 19:12:00 GMT -5
Thanks guys! I know I'm going to have a great time but it's definitely crunch time! I'm trying to be educated about all things Paris but I don't want to over plan so I can just explore the city as it comes. I plan on doing a lot of observing to see what others do but thank you very much for the suggestions!!
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Post by Truffaut on Jun 18, 2007 19:15:47 GMT -5
If the tables are set up (i.e., they have silverware, condiments, napkins, etc.), you must ask before taking a seat. If the tables are plain, it's okay to just have a seat. Parisian waiters, despite their reputation, are extremely observant, and if you're not sure, it's often easy to catch their eye and motion subtly toward a table with questioning look.
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Post by susanb on Jun 28, 2007 23:22:30 GMT -5
I asked that same question about a year ago on my first trip! Its been so much fun hearing the exitement in everyones voices before they make THEIR first trips. And its just like Truffaut says.
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