A French tourist has sparked a wave of recognition from Australians after sharing a detailed list of the cultural differences that most surprised her during a trip Down Under. Her observations, posted on Reddit, have resonated deeply with locals who say she has perfectly captured the essence of everyday life in Australia.
From Reserved to Radically Open: The Social Shift
The visitor explained that the most immediate difference she felt was in everyday social interactions compared to her home in France. She was struck by how often Australians smile at strangers and initiate casual conversations without hesitation. "In France, I'm used to strangers avoiding eye contact," she wrote, highlighting a contrast many Australians immediately acknowledged.
In the comments, locals confirmed this national habit of striking up chats with complete strangers, whether it's about the weather, a long queue, or a shared inconvenience. One Australian exemplified this, saying, "If we're in a long line we'll just turn to the person next to us and say, 'Bit of a line, ay?'"
Alongside this openness, the tourist noted a profound sense of safety. She explained that she didn't feel the need to constantly check her bag or surroundings—a habit she described as second nature in parts of France, particularly Paris. Australians who had travelled overseas agreed the contrast was stark, with one recounting a story where a Parisian waitress warned them not to leave their phone on an outdoor café table.
The Unforgivable Divide: Dinner Time and Dress Code
Perhaps the most impassioned point of discussion centred on meal times. The French tourist revealed that Australians tend to eat dinner "quite early, around 6 or 7pm," whereas in France, dinner typically starts around 9pm, sometimes even 10pm. Australians were unapologetic in their responses.
"10pm? We'd be less kind if we waited until then for dinner," one person replied. Others explained that early dinners are integral to a lifestyle that often begins at dawn, with early mornings for the beach or gym. "There's no point eating at 9pm if you're going to bed at 10," one commenter reasoned.
Fashion norms also provided a significant culture shock. The tourist observed that Australian women dress very freely, with very short shorts and low-cut tops feeling normal and widely accepted—a style she felt would attract more judgement in France. She was equally surprised by the ubiquitous casual activewear, seen everywhere from supermarkets to restaurants, which she later understood as part of the country's relaxed ethos.
Sunshine, Patience, and a Lack of Ancient History
The tourist praised Australia's natural environment, describing its beaches as "clean, wide and peaceful." However, she noted what the country lacks compared to Europe: a visible depth of history and art. "Australia is a young country, while in France almost every street has history and culture," she wrote.
The climate, though intense, was a trade-off she welcomed. "The heat is no joke," she admitted, but added that the beautiful sunshine was a welcome change from often gloomy French weather. Another positive surprise was the patience Australians showed towards her accent. She found people spoke more slowly and tried to help, a contrast to her experience in France where people can be protective of linguistic correctness.
At the end of her post, the tourist asked if her impressions were accurate or merely a tourist's view. Locals overwhelmingly reassured her. "As an Australian who's been to France," one wrote, "the majority of this is spot on." They affirmed that early dinners, casual clothes, and a chatty nature are all part of a lifestyle built around sunshine, outdoor living, and a relaxed approach to daily life. And on two points, Australians stood firm: dinner will never be at 10pm, and activewear is absolutely acceptable anywhere.
