As Adeline told us, “The biggest difference (between the US and France) is that in France we dont have this casual dating period before any serious relationship, where its basically ok to date several people at the same time—and to keep your options open while you try things out with one or several people.”

How is dating in France different?

The French have traditional dating “roles” In other words, one woman in a relationship might be quite flirty and pursue a man, while another might be much more passive. In France, its much more traditional. Men are regarded as being far more active as they pursue women, while women tend to be a little shyer.

Is French guy romantic?

“The French are more receptive to emotions, and to me, they seem more romantic,” she says. For some, this immediate intimacy is refreshing—but for others, its a bit off-putting. Tamara shares her perspective: “It feels awkward to gaze deeply into a strangers eyes.