Almost halfway through my semester in Aix-en-Provence, France, if there is one thing that has stood out to me the most, it is how different the coffee culture is compared to the United States. Back home, coffee is fast, convenient, and often drank while multitasking. In France, coffee is something entirely different. It isn't just a drink, it is a social experience. For a college student who is used to the fast-paced cafés and mobile orders, here are some of the biggest differences between these two coffee cultures and how I've adapted to them.
"Un café à emporter"
In the U.S., grabbing a coffee to go is part of my everyday routine. Whether it's an iced coffee from Dunkin', a latte from Starbucks, or a cup brewed at home in my travel mug, coffee in the U.S. is all about convenience. It is meant to fit into my busy student schedule, from grabbing a cup before a morning lecture, drinking it in between classes, or even as a quick midday pick-me-up before studying for hours in Gelman.
In Aix, however, the concept of coffee to go is almost non-existent. Most cafes do not even offer the option of "un café a emporter," or a coffee to-go. And if they do, it is considered a bit unusual. Coffee here in not something you drink or take on the go. It is meant to be enjoyed at a table on the terrace with friends and family, no matter the time of day. This shift was a challenge at first, as I am used to grabbing a coffee before or in between classes.
Working in Cafés
In the United States, cafés are my go-to study spot. Whether it’s for doing my readings, writing a paper, or study session, cafés are the ideal place to get things done. They’re often filled with people on laptops, headphones in, typing away while sipping on their lattes. Many places even cater to this by providing free Wi-Fi, large tables, and plenty of outlets.
In France, though, the vibe is completely different. French cafés are social spaces, not workspaces. It’s rare to see people working on laptops in a café, and some places even have policies that explicitly discourage it, especially on the weekends. Instead, cafés are where people come to meet, chat, and unwind. This was a big adjustment for me, as I often relied on cafés to study. But now, I’m learning to use these spaces as a way to disconnect from my screen and reconnect with the people around me.
Coffee Orders
Another big difference between coffee culture in the U.S. and France is the variety of coffee options. In the United States, coffee menus are often extensive and customized to each person’s taste. You can choose from a long list of options— lattes, cold brew, iced coffee, chai tea latte, matcha - and don’t forget all the seasonal flavors and milk alternatives.
In France, coffee is much simpler. The classic order is an "espresso" (known as a "café"), served in a small cup. Other popular choices include the "café au lait" (coffee with steamed milk) and a cappuccino (without sugar of course). Iced lattes (without any flavor or sugar) have become my usual order, although iced drinks are not common here. Even the prices are very different. In the United States, it is not unusual to pay $7 for an iced latte with an alternative milk or a pump of flavor. In Aix, an iced latte is anywhere between 3,50€ and 4,50€ (roughly $4.00 -$5.00 USD) for the same size and arguably better taste.
The Social Aspect
Perhaps the most significant difference between American and French coffee culture is the social aspect. In the U.S., coffee is often a solo activity, a way to get through the day’s tasks. While there are times when people meet at cafés to catch up, much of the coffee-drinking experience is about staying productive and on the go.
In France, drinking coffee is a social event. It’s not just about the coffee itself; it’s about taking time to sit down and engage in conversation. Whether it's catching up with friends, discussing the news, gossiping, or even people-watching on the main street, coffee is a reason to pause and enjoy life. You can sit at the same table for hours with just one cup of espresso and the servers will never pressure you to order more or leave.
A Change of Perspective
While I sometimes miss the convenience and variety of American coffee shops, I’ve grown to love the simplicity and the social aspect of French coffee culture. It’s a reminder to slow down, to appreciate life’s small moments, and to value the time spent with the people who matter. Therefore, if you ever find yourself studying abroad in France, I encourage you to put away your to-go cup and laptop, sit down at a café, order a cappuccino, and enjoy the world and the people around you.
Emma Bussan
Fall 2024
IAU - Aix-en-Provence, France
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs Major