True story this - I was there: 1968. My non-bilingual dad with family and caravan, off we go, first time abroad for any of us. We make it first day to a town near Paris. Need cash. Dad has travellers cheques. We all walk into bank, at counter dad is asked "un passport" by solemn looking cashier. Dad says "really?" and marches us all out. Mother asks why we're back out on the street with no cash. Dad says "Mavis, he won't serve me till half past four". Happy New Year to all reds!!