Exchange in france?

I am going on an exchange program to france in a couple weeks. What are some do's and dont's in france. What things offend the french. How can i become friends and enjoy my stay with the host family. Has anyone ever done this before??

i am american and i hate cheese lol, thanks for reasurring me cris

Hi! you should tell where you're from? do's and dont's are the same in France as in all european countries. I'm French and when I stayed in an English family I found everything was exactly the same (except that they had dinner a little earlier). Things that offend the French are the same that offend the English or Spanish or Greek...host families expect you to be discreet and clean, that's all!
(And I add that I don't expect tourists to speak French, I sometimes drink coca cola during lunch as many people and I rarely eat cheese)

Hi,
French people are very nice, but you have to get to know them.
I am sure you will enjoy your self during your stay.
Good Luck to you

You have to remember that eating is very important in France.
We spend minimum 1/2 hour for lunch and the same for dinner.
Generally, french people don't drink coca cola at lunch or dinner, they like cheese. You'll be kind if you taste what your family offer you to eat.

Except that, if you try to speak french, even if it is only a few words, I'm sure you'll be appreciated in France.

they are warm,nice people.be yourself and enjoy your stay and if you show a bit of effort speaking french,you will be appreciated even more

Does your exchange have an orientation program? Pay attention during any classes they give.

You might bring gifts for your host family. Things that represent America. Maybe something handmade, or typical of your area. When I went on a homestay to Mexico, I brought some pressed wilflowers, the state flower in glass for the housemom.

thanks heaps for asking this , im going on an exchange to france at the end of the year and i was wondering the same stuff :)