Grenoble Travel Forum

Hi!
I'm studying abroad in Grenoble for the upcoming semestre and am wondering what to pack for the weather? Or any customs that I should be aware of for my homestay? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!

Sincerely,
Kate

Hi Kate. If you will be there in the winter months, be aware you are in the Alps and it can get quite cold . . . sort of like Des Moines, Iowa. Bring a warm coat and some sweaters and plan for layers. They have trams in Grenoble but you will also be doing a lot of walking so bring comfortable shoes.

If you haven't been in France before, be aware that the French are seriously into polite pleasantries such as Please and Thank You. When you enter stores, you are expected to greet the shop person with a bon jour and when you leave, be sure to say au revoir. This may seem silly but that's what they do. Often in a restaurant or shop, people say hello and good bye to everyone in the place. I think it's a lovely custom.

If you have a problem of some sort, be sure you phrase it as "your" problem and don't sound like you are accusing them (even if it's their fault). If they feel accused, you will get no help and may meet downright rudeness. If you let them feel it is a big problem for you and you don't know how to solve it, they will try anything to help you. The French love to solve problems.

If you've studied French, you know there is a familiar and a formal way of address (tu vs. vous). When speaking to anyone older than yourself or a teacher or someone in any form of authority, be super sure you use the formal vous. Fellow students are okay for tu unless they are grad assistants or have some faculty status. In that case start with vous and if you are invited to use tu, it's okay then. When in doubt, use vous. (Small children and pets are the exception to this.)

If you have a pet, bring photos. It's a great starting point for conversation. Family member photos are great too, especially if you have younger siblings. The French love children and animals.

While you are in Grenoble, make sure you visit the Art Museum. Grenoble has one of the nicest Beaux Arts outside Paris. We just love it.

For lots of useful information, type Grenoble into the VY search window above and see what VT members have written about Grenoble. The setting is gorgeous! Spring in the Alps is unbelievable. You should have a great trip.

Hi Kate,
I'm living near Grenoble and it's rather cold for now (around -5 Celcius degrees). If you need more information (customs, safety,...) you can email me.
Regards
Fred