French Culture

By Putu Indra Narendra Wahana

A Double-Degree Experience in Rennes: Exploring French

Culture Through Daily Life
Introduction

As a student pursuing a double degree at Rennes School of Business, I’ve had the privilege of immersing
myself in the daily life and culture of Rennes, a lively student city in Brittany, France. Coming from
Indonesia, I expected some cultural differences, but the subtle nuances of French customs—ranging from
language challenges to social norms—have made my experience both enlightening and enriching.
Compared to Indonesia, where warmth and hospitality are deeply ingrained in social interactions, the
structured and independent nature of French society offers an entirely different perspective. Here are
some key cultural differences I’ve encountered that have made my journey in Rennes unforgettable.

Tap Water in French Culture

One of the first differences I noticed was how common it is for people in France to drink tap water. In
Rennes, tap water is widely trusted, and when dining out, requesting une carafe d’eau is standard
practice—and it’s usually free. This habit, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly,
contrasts sharply with Indonesia, where tap water is generally not safe for drinking, and most people rely
on bottled or boiled water. The convenience of being able to drink straight from the tap is something I’ve
come to appreciate.

The Language Barrier: A Challenge and a Growth Opportunity

Despite Rennes being home to many international students, English is not as widely spoken as one might
assume. Many locals prefer to converse in French, even in public settings. While this language barrier can
be challenging, it also presents a unique opportunity for international students like me to engage more
deeply with the French language. In Indonesia, English is not a primary language either, but many
people—especially in major cities—are accustomed to mixing it with Bahasa Indonesia in conversations.
In contrast, the French tend to uphold their language more strictly, making it essential to learn at least
basic French to navigate daily life smoothly.

Adjusting to the Four Seasons

Coming from Indonesia, where the climate is tropical with only dry and rainy seasons, experiencing four
distinct seasons in Rennes has been a major adjustment. Each season—whether it’s the warmth of
summer, the crisp air of autumn, the cold of winter, or the blossoming of spring—affects both daily
activities and the city’s overall energy. In Indonesia, clothing choices remain fairly consistent throughout
the year, whereas in France, I had to learn how to dress according to the changing weather. The way
people adapt their lifestyles to these seasonal changes—such as enjoying outdoor terraces in summer and
bundling up for winter—was fascinating to observe.

Sundays and the French Work-Life Balance

One of the more unexpected cultural norms in Rennes is that most businesses close on Sundays. The city
observes Sunday as a true day of rest, reinforcing France’s strong emphasis on work-life balance. This is
quite different from Indonesia, where malls, restaurants, and shops are often busiest on weekends, with
Sunday being a prime day for families to go out. The slower pace of Sundays in France took some getting
used to, but I have come to appreciate the focus on relaxation and spending quality time with loved ones.

Punctuality in Public Transport

Rennes’ public transportation system is highly punctual, with buses and trams arriving precisely on
schedule. This efficiency makes commuting easy and reliable, eliminating the unpredictability often
associated with public transport in other cities. In contrast, public transportation in Indonesia, especially
in major cities like Jakarta, can be quite unpredictable due to traffic congestion and inconsistent bus
schedules. The structured and reliable nature of French public transit has made navigating the city much
easier.

Social Etiquette and Warm Greetings

French social etiquette places great importance on polite greetings and expressions of gratitude. Saying
bonjour, bonsoir, and merci is not just a courtesy—it’s a fundamental part of social interaction. Another
common custom in Rennes, as in much of France, is faire la bise—a greeting involving cheek kisses. This
was unfamiliar to me at first, as in Indonesia, greetings are often limited to handshakes or a respectful
nod, especially in formal settings. Over time, I have grown accustomed to this warm and friendly gesture,
appreciating how it helps strengthen social connections.

Lifestyle Habits and Leisure Activities

One noticeable aspect of daily life in Rennes is the prevalence of smoking, whether cigarettes or,
occasionally, marijuana. Unlike Indonesia, where strict regulations and designated smoking areas are
common in public places, smoking is much more widespread and socially accepted in France.
Additionally, wine is incredibly affordable—sometimes costing as little as bottled water—emphasizing its
cultural significance in social settings and meals. In Indonesia, alcoholic beverages are more expensive
and less commonly consumed in everyday life, making this another stark contrast in lifestyle habits.

Unusual Store Hours and Frequent Protests

Another surprising aspect of Rennes is the irregular operating hours of shops. Many stores close
unexpectedly during midday breaks, and Sundays are often non-operational. This reflects the French
value of personal time, whereas in Indonesia, businesses, particularly retail stores and markets, operate for
much longer hours to accommodate customers’ needs. Additionally, protests and demonstrations are a
regular part of life in France. Whether advocating for workers' rights, environmental causes, or social
justice, public demonstrations are an integral part of civic engagement. In Indonesia, while protests also
occur, they are generally less frequent and not as embedded in daily life as they are in France.

French Cuisine and Student Discounts

As an Indonesian student, adapting to French cuisine has been both an adventure and a challenge. French
food generally has milder flavors compared to the rich, spicy dishes I’m accustomed to. In Indonesia,
food is heavily spiced, with ingredients like chili, garlic, and turmeric being staples. However, trying new
dishes in France has broadened my palate, and I’ve enjoyed discovering unique flavors. One advantage of
being a student in Rennes is the availability of discounts at local restaurants, making it easier and more
affordable to explore the city’s culinary scene. In Indonesia, student discounts are not as widely available,
making this a welcomed perk of studying in France.

Conclusion

Studying and living in Rennes as a double-degree student has been a profound cultural experience. Every
day presents new lessons, whether it’s mastering French social customs, adjusting to the rhythm of a
country with four seasons, or embracing a slower-paced lifestyle on Sundays. Compared to Indonesia,
where daily life is often more fast-paced and communal, the structured and independent nature of French
society has provided a new perspective. These differences have not only enriched my time here but have
also deepened my appreciation for French culture—leaving me with memories that will last long after I
leave.