France
“How can you govern a country which has 246 varieties of cheese?” ― Charles de Gaulle
Explore
Paris
Getting In
- France is a member of the Eurozone and a member of the Schengen pact. All members of the EU may traverse freely, while members of most other nations may enter Visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Numerous international airports service cities throughout the nation. When entering Paris, be aware that there are set taxi prices from the airport(s) depending on which side of the Seine you are traveling to.
- Land border crossings exist between Spain, Britain, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, and Belgium.
Money
- France is an expensive country to travel in. Paris is arguably the most expensive city.
- A member of the EU, the Euro is the accepted currency throughout the nation.
- ATMs can be found frequently in city centers, and credit cards are widely accepted.
€1 Euro = $1.17 USD
Inexpensive restaurant meal = €14
A mid-range restaurant meal for two = €50
1 bed apartment in city center = €1,000
Climate
- Mainland France is primarily an Oceanic climate throughout, with a general gradation of temperature, steadily becoming colder as one travels north.
- There is no distinct wet or dry season. Rain is spread out throughout the year, so it is a good idea to bring an umbrella.
- France has an extensive river system through which one can travel such as the Seine.
- Overseas, tropical climates are found in French Guiana, while Corsica experiences Mediterranean climate.
History
Human settlement within France goes back at least to 10,000 BCE during which time, Neolithic tribes began settling down. The region would be dominated by various Celtic, Frankish, and Gallic tribes up until the spread of the Roman Empire.
The nation of France emerged out of the fragmentation of the Carolingian empire in 987. France fought numerous wars with the English, Spanish, Hapsburgs and others, slowly consolidating more land over the following centuries.
The French royalty fell in 1789 with the French Revolution. The revolution led to the emergence of the Napoleonic Empire, which shortly reverted back to a weakened monarchy. in 1959, following two German occupations, Charles de Gaulle helped establish the modern French government – the French Fifth Republic.
Need to Know
- While food can be expensive in general, savvy travelers can save money and get filling meals by visiting bakeries and falafel shops.
- You should speak French while in France – duh. While many citizens can speak English and other languages as well, they generally do not like to, and it is appreciated if you try to speak their language.
Warnings
- Pickpockets and petty thievery abound on the Paris metro, be mindful of your surroundings to avoid losing your valuables.
We recommend reviewing safety guidelines by various state departments: – we make no guarantees to your safety!
US State Department – Moderate to High bias, with moderate levels of broad information. We advise checking against other sources to confirm the veracity of statements.
British State Department – Low bias, and very thorough information. We recommend checking with the FCO for tourist warnings.
Canadian State Department – Low bias, with thorough information. We advise using as an additional resource for tourist warnings.