As we all know, the French are renowned worldwide in a number of fields. Fashion immediately comes to mind. What would life be without Coco Chanel and her little black dress? Names like Dior, Givenchy, and Guerlain seem to hold the promise of sophistication in a bottle, while just uttering the word “Cartier” magically conjures up images of diamonds sparkling like the Eiffel Tower by night. Gastronomy is another field where the French excel: baguette, Camembert, foie gras, macarons, crêpes… Even people who have never stepped foot in France could cite a long list of French specialities. In the drinks department, we immediately associate the French with wine and scenes of vineyards in Bordeaux or Burgundy. And don’t forget champagne with its delicate bubbles tickling your tastebuds.

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In this section, read about these and other, lesser-known characteristics of Frenchness as experienced by moi.