It was Ligne 8, around noon, fairly crowded—standing room, elbows ballet, backpacks with their own passports. I got on at Rotonde Bonaparte and aimed for République (the one by Intermarché). Somewhere between the door chime and my best “I’m fine, everything’s fine” posture, a kind twenty-something caught my eye, popped up, and said:
« Monsieur, vous voulez vous asseoir ? »
Reader, in that moment I realized how hard it hit because I had just turned 61 earlier in the week and how tired I felt. My shoulders slumped (apparently my face filed the paperwork too), and I graciously accepted—« Merci »—with a smile. I sat. My feet applauded. My pride rolled its eyes, but quietly.
Tiny scene, big feeling: being offered a seat is both a compliment to your visible humanity and a nudge from Father Time. On Ligne 8, between Rotonde and République, I aged a smidge and also felt completely seen. Ten out of ten, would accept again.
Mini French you can use on a crowded bus
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Accepting kindly: « Merci beaucoup, c’est très gentil. »
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Refusing (if you’re fine): « Merci, ça va, je descends bientôt. »
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Offering your seat: « Je vous laisse ma place. »
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Asking politely: « Excusez-moi, je peux m’asseoir ici ? »
Nuts & bolts (for fellow Aix bus nerds)
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Line & maps: Check Aix en Bus for Ligne 8 plans and timetables. (aixenbus.fr)
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Stops mentioned: Rotonde Bonaparte is a major hub; République is the stop by Intermarché Super. (Moovit)
Your turn 👇
When did you first get offered a seat—here or anywhere? Did it sting, sparkle, or both? Drop your story (and your favorite polite French line). Bienveillance obligatoire. 💛
Quick tips by level
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A1: Learn two answers: « Oui, merci. » (take it) / « Non merci, ça va. » (leave it).
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A2: Add context: « Merci, je descends à République. »
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B1: Offer first: « Je vous laisse ma place. » + smile.
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B2: Nuance it: « C’est très aimable, merci. Je suis bien debout, mais merci quand même. »
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Advanced: Self-deprecating flair: « Mon ego hésite, mon dos dit oui—merci ! »