Like many major cities, French city culture thrives on a balance between leisure and pace, allowing for the successful coexistence of casual tourists and busy locals. Nowhere is this more evident than on public transportation, where new arrivals try to figure out where to go while a rushing river of passengers passes by. In this hectic situation, nothing will catch your eye faster than not staying on the right side if you’re standing on an escalator.
Parisian public transport company RATP explains that the rule was imposed for the first time before London’s underground transport system In 1911, it then spread to other major cities. RATP issues reminders about this point of etiquette throughout your travels via loudspeaker announcements, signs, and even with a touch of humor on… Tik Tokin an effort to keep the 12 million daily passengers flowing smoothly. If you are standing, stay on the right side of the escalator to allow those who wish to pass you to walk on the left.
While locals may be more tolerant elsewhere, the rule applies in the same way across France, on any escalator, in department stores, offices, or public buildings. Based on the same principle, never stop suddenly at the end of the elevator. If you’re not sure which way to take, get off the escalator completely and slide to the side so you can stop to check directions without getting in the way. Nothing is more annoying than a sudden stop at the end of an elevator. The same applies to flat “trottoirs roulants” (moving walkways). If you hear the word “excuse me” behind you, try leaning slightly to the right – it’s a polite way to indicate that you are breaking the law.
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Other transportation etiquette tips will save you the annoying look
People riding an escalator in the tunnel. -Henry St. John/Shutterstock
Many other small gestures that may seem small, taken together, will show you care Social etiquette rules in Franceand keep your travel experience smooth. For starters, have your ticket or tickets ready before you get to the turnstiles. Fumbling at the last minute while the line builds up behind you is stressful, and it’s something A tourist should never do this while visiting. Redditor u/ParisTravelGuide She recommends standing by the doors before boarding the metro, tram or bus, allowing passengers to exit first before trying to get inside. Trying to make your way in while people are still getting off is a guaranteed way to annoy the locals.
The Redditor also recommends raising the foldable jump seats on trains during rush hour. These temporary seats are convenient when there is enough room for everyone, but when the train becomes overcrowded, standing passengers expect to be moved away so that more people can sit comfortably. If you don’t, it will be seen as reckless and may raise some eyebrows among the French. Likewise, keeping your phone quiet is appreciated, as the French generally lower their voices on public transport. Talking loudly on your phone — or worse, using speaker mode — instantly stands out and can attract stares from your fellow passengers.
Keep in mind that you are sharing space with people with disabilities. On the same subReddit, sh/alexana527 He adds, “[if] If you see a double set of raised lines, it’s not an invitation to put your bag, stroller, or yourself between them!” These lines help visually impaired travelers, so make sure you don’t block them. Finally, keep an eye on your bags, especially backpacks. Swing them in front of you on crowded trains. This not only avoids bumping into someone accidentally, but also helps protect against pickpockets.
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