<p>AND be sure to always address someone with their formal title as in bonjour Madame, never just Bonjour or merci Monsieur …never just merci. Our idea of politeness is imbued with familiarity. To the French familiarity is construed as being rude. Formality is appreciated and signifies respect. Familiarity, not so much. But you have been there before and probably understand this.
This will be the first year in some time that I have not gone to Paris.
SIGH…</p>