Having a successful trip to Paris is all about attitude!  We've all heard the usual whine of past or would-be travelers who complain adamantly that "Parisians are rude," that "the French are impossible," or that "I'll never go back to that terrible place."  How unfortunate!

Our experience (Bernie's and mine) is just the opposite.  After eleven years of journeying to Paris, we find the French and Parisians specifically to be wonderful.  They are helpful, kind, funny, albeit sometimes a little odd.  How does this personality stamp become understood by Americans?

The opening few articles in this column will focus on trying to answer that question.  It's not a chance thing to have the "P" in Paris, and I want to play off that a bit.  We'll look at five other "P" words to dig into our answers about the Parisian experience.  

The first and primary (ah, another "P" word!) is the absolute key to breaking the code while in the City of Light.  That magic word is politeness.  

If you want Parisians to melt before your eyes, offer up your biggest dose of politeness.  It's important to greet EVERYONE with a Bonjour during the day and a Bonsoir in the evening.  Whether it's a street cleaner, the mayor, the waiter at your cafe, the grocery checker or the cabbie, always greet!  Never argue with Parisians.  Instead, ask for their help which they will willingly give.  Smile, be coy, use your hands and eyes to communicate if you don't speak French.  Use si'l vous plait (please) a lot and apologize profusely if you misunderstand something.  It sounds silly perhaps to us, but it works like a charm.  

It's just the good ole Golden Rule at work.  Treat Parisians the way you would like to be treated, and they will warm to you immediately.  It doesn't cost you a thing and will open the door to a marvelous experience.  I have watched Americans scream, demand, beat their fists on counters, or stomp out of restaurants trying to have Paris be just like America.  How awful!  Paris is Paris.  Embrace the differences; indulge in the wonderful uniqueness and put on your most polite face.