Brittany, France
Always say "Bonjour" (or "Bonsoir") when entering a shop or restaurant.
Use "Madame" or "Monsieur" when addressing adults.
Say "Au revoir" when leaving any establishment.
Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Look for signs.
France is generally progressive; LGBTQ+ individuals are widely accepted.
Casual attire is common. For religious sites, modest dress (shoulders/knees covered) is respectful.
Service charge is included in bills; tipping is for exceptional service, not required.
Avoid discussing politics, religion, or personal finances with strangers.
Maintain quiet, especially during services. Avoid touching artifacts unless allowed.
Meals often involve leisure; rushing through them is not typical.
Intra-Muros has cobbled streets, narrow sidewalks, and ramparts with stairs, posing challenges for wheelchairs or limited mobility. Some main streets are smoother.
Newer buses in the Keolis fleet feature ramps. The Grand Aquarium Saint-Malo is generally accessible. Some modern hotels offer accessible rooms; confirm directly.
Compared to major capitals, Saint-Malo has limited specialized services for visual or hearing impairments. Assistance dogs are generally accepted.
Travel insurance, such as from World Nomads, covers medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and lost luggage.
It provides financial protection against unforeseen events that could disrupt or cancel your trip.
Many policies offer round-the-clock assistance for various travel-related issues.
Always prioritize your safety. Heed local warnings and tide information diligently.
Support local museums, heritage sites, and cultural events.
Always greet locals with "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" when entering places.
Patience is valued; an attempt at French is often appreciated.
Be mindful of privacy; ask permission before close-up photos of individuals.
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) in churches and cathedrals.
Remain quiet in religious sites, especially during services.
Patronize independent cafes, creperies, brasseries, and seafood restaurants that use local ingredients.
Buy local cider, salted butter caramels, Breton cakes, and regional crafts from small, independent shops. Choose local tour guides.
Look for locally made or fair trade products. Inquire about souvenir origin. Support artisan workshops and local markets.
By adopting sustainable travel practices, you contribute positively to Saint-Malo's enduring character.
