When in Paris...

◖Greetings, and etiquette generally, are key in French culture. A light handshake is usual between business associates; the cheek kiss is for close colleagues and friends. Say

“bonjour” when you walk into a shop or approach someone for information

(“excusez-moi” is too direct). ◖You can hail a taxi from the street but it’s smarter to find a taxi rank (look for the blue signs at intersections and stations); drivers can’t pick you up within 50 metres of a taxi stand or in restricted areas such as bus lanes. Alternatives include the Métro subway, Uber and a private VTC car (voiture de transport avec chauffeur) that is reserved in advance at a fixed fare. ◖Easy-to-pack souvenirs include Fragonard’s soaps and fragrances with Paris-inspired motifs (fragonard. com); French breakfast tea from Mariage Frères (mariagefreres. com); jewellery by hip designer Aurélie Bidermann (aureliebidermann. com); or a silk tie or pocket square from Hermès (hermes.fr). ◖When scheduling business travel, it’s best to avoid August, when many Parisians take holidays and the city empties of locals. Check public holidays and be aware that some businesses faire

le pont (make the bridge), closing on a Monday or Friday if a public holiday lands on Tuesday or Thursday to make a four-day weekend.