La Toussaint: Flowers and faux pas

Errors in cultural etiquette can embarrassing. The most important one to note if you're new to France, particularly at this time of year, is chrysanthemums. You’ll see them popping up around supermarket entrances and stalls on market days and overflowing the local florist -- and it’s not just because they’re in season.

The 1st of November is All Saints Day, or La Toussaint, and here it is a public holiday where the French go out in numbers and place flowers on the graves of their departed loved ones in preparation for the following day -- Commemoration of the Dead (not a public holiday). The flower of choice for this is the chrysanthemum - a symbol of grief and one that is also chosen for funerals.

This is exclusive -- do not give these flowers to a French person as a way of thanks or any other gesture, it will not be met well!

Thankfully I have been pre-warned about this particular faux pas, but I am certain to stumble across another.