The Basics
Country: France
Where is it: France is located in Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain, southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain.
Why do people go here: One of Europe’s most visited countries and the “home away from home” to thousands of Francophiles, France is a country not to be missed. World-famous vineyards, the rich and the beautiful French Rivera and glorious alpine skiing can all be found here. Numerous monuments of historical and cultural significance are located throughout France and appreciated by tourists of all ages.
What are the main entry points: France’s most popular tourist destination, Paris is home to 6 train stations, 2 international airports, a large international bus terminal and a Eurostar terminal (chunnel) that allows for direct underground trains from London. Marseilles, Lyon and Bordeaux are also popular destinations and can be easily accessed by train and bus from Spain, Italy and Switzerland.
Currency used: Euro
Country Code for Phones: 33
Religion: Roman Catholic 83%-88%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim 5%-10%, unaffiliated 4%
Population: 65 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Celtic and Latin with Teutonic, Slavic, North African, Indochinese, Basque minorities
Government: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Languages: French 100%, rapidly declining regional dialects and languages (Provencal, Breton, Alsatian, Corsican, Catalan, Basque, Flemish).
Travel Information
Major Cities: Paris, Marseilles, Leon, Nice
Attractions: Paris, the beaches at Nice, vineyards in Bordeaux
Accommodation: France Hostels, France Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Maison de la France 8, avenue de I’Opera Paris, France +33-1-42-96-10-23;
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Montpellier, Epernay, Cheneau
Health Issues: There are no vaccines required to enter France.
Tips for Visiting
When to go: During the summer, Paris is hot, crowded and uncomfortable. March and October are generally very nice months, free from the heat and the crowds that overwhelm the large cities.
Common Phrases: Yes = Oui, No = Non, Please = S’il vous plait , Thank you = Merci, Do you speak English? = Parlez-vous l’anglais?
Specific Events/Holidays: Bastille Day, 14 July (1789)
Getting Around: France has an extensive rail system with super fast TGV trains. However, TGV workers often go on strike. Don’t be surprised if you are stuck for a day or two. Eurail is valid in France.
Good to know: France is the most well travelled country in the whole world.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into France is the Charles de Gaulle International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the France travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
