From Paris to Provence: 35 Key Things to know before going to France

From Paris to Provence: 35 Key Things to know Before Going to France

France is a country located in Western Europe. The capital city of France is Paris and Provence is a region located in Southeastern France. France is one of the most visited countries in the world attracting millions of tourists each year to its famous landmarks such as Museums. It is known for its high-quality education system which includes famous universities and institutions such as the Sorbonne and Ecole Normale Superiure.z

It has one of the largest economies in the world and is a member of the G7 group of leading industrialized countries. It is a member of the United Nations Security Council and plays a very big role. In this article, I am going to discuss what you should know before going to France.

1. Geography of France and Provence

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Most of the French landscape is made up of relatively low-lying plains, plateaus, and older mountain blocks of massifs. Provence which is an area in Southern France extends from the Rhone River on the west to the Italian border on the East.

 It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on the south. The geography of Provence consists of the Mediterranean coastline of Southeastern France and it is bound by the Alps and Italy to the east and the Rhone River to the west.

2. Climate in France

The territory of France is large and so the climate is not uniform. The weather varies depending on the region and time of the year. In France, summers are warm with some thunderstorms while winters are cold. 

In the south (Provence), the climate is Mediterranean where summers are hot and winters mild and dry. It is recorded that the autumn comes along with thunderstorms and heavy rain that leads to flooding. 

3. Language Spoken in France

The main language spoken in France is French which its official language is also. It is documented that the language originated in the region of ile-de-france around Paris and it later spread over the centuries throughout the country. According to statistics, the language is spoken by over 80 million people in France hence making it the country’s national language.

Although French is the official language, some regional languages and dialects are used such as Breton, Occitan, Alsatian, Basque, and Catalan among many others. The regional language used in Provence is Occitan.

4. Currency Used in France

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The currency used in France is Euro just like many other European countries. The euro came into existence on 1st January 1999. The currency was formed virtually in 1999 but began to circulate coins and notes in 2002 thus replacing the French Franc. The exchange rate was fixed as 1 euro = 6.55957 French Francs.

If you are planning to visit French you should have fewer worries about exchanging any currency beforehand. Euros are widely accepted throughout the country. However, you should consider carrying some cash in your pocket for things such as public transportation or small purchases.

5. Transportation Used in France

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France offers a well-established and diverse transportation system thus offering various options for getting around either as a resident or a tourist. Some of this type of transport includes Rail, roads, or even Air Travel. They have different types of trains such as the Train a Grande Vitesse (TGV) which is a France high-speed rail network which is known for its speed and efficiency.

It covers a long distance so if you want to travel from Paris to Provence you should consider this train. They also have Intercity and Transport Express Regional (TER) which serves smaller towns and villages thus providing good connectivity with certain regions.  On the road, you can use cars, buses, or even ridesharing.

For public transport, there are Trams, Metro and buses. They also have major airports if you are considering traveling by air. Other modes of transport which are in France include Ferries, cycling, Canals and waterways.

6. Driving Rules in France

Just like any other country, France also has rules and regulations that govern driving to avoid accidents. For you to be a driver in France you should be 18 years and above and must attend a driving school to attain the skills. You must have a valid driver’s license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Seat belts are a must for all occupants in the vehicle either at the front or at the back. In France, they drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.

 Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and at any point found drunk and driving, you will get arrested for violating this law and all others. On speed limits, if you are on a main road you should drive at 80 km/h, dual carriageways at 110km/h, and on motorways, you should drive at 130km/h.

7. Train a Grande Vitesse (TGV)

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TGV is France’s high-speed rail network which is known for its speed, efficiency, and comfort. It was launched in 1981 and has since revolutionized travel within the country. It is one of the most used modes of transport in France as it connects to over 200 of your favorite destinations in France.

This is the most efficient mode of transport you can use to travel from Paris to Provence. It can reach speeds of up to 320km/h making them some of the fastest trains in the world. This kind of speed allows for short travel times compared to other type of transport.

Another advantage is that they are modern and well- equipped hence offering a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Also they produce lower emissions making them a more sustainable choice for travelers who consider environmental impacts.

8. Cultural Differences in France

Just like any other community, there are cultural differences in France which range from many things. If you are preparing to travel to France you should be prepared for regional variations in customs and traditions. For instance in France, their way of greeting is normally a kiss on the cheek among friends and acquaintances while handshakes are used in formal settings. Their communication is received as more direct and assertive than in some cultures.

Working hours are strictly adhered to and overtime is less common compared to other countries. Their fashion styles are known to be stylish and chic appearance. They also have unique foods which you find when you get there but some restaurants consider cooking variety of worldwide foods because of the tourists.

9. Cuisine in France

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French cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and the art of balancing flavors. Cheese and wine are a major part of the cuisine.  Some of the famous dishes in France include Quiche Lorraine, Ratatouille, steak-frites, souffle, Croissants, and pastries among many others. Each region offers unique specialties and flavors.

Provence is known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes dishes like tapenade, bouillabaisse, and ratatouille. Their cuisine is more than food, they see it as a way of life.

10. Availability of Markets in Paris

Markets in France are not just places to buy groceries but they are social hubs woven into the fabric of daily life. These places offer an amazing sensory experience, they are filled with fresh produce, good artisans, and a unique glimpse into French culture.

An example of these markets includes; Marches Alimentaries which entirely deals with food produce such as cheeses, meats, vegetables, seafood, and spices. Marches aux Fleurs market deals with Flowers of all types. Markets in Provence include Marche Forville Cannes, Cours Saleya and Marche du Cours Julien, and Aix-en-Provence among many others.

some factors to consider to enjoy the markets in France include going early, exploring different villages, embracing seasons as each season brings its unique offerings to the market, and also bargaining is acceptable.

11. Wine in Paris

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France is a home and source of many grape varieties that are planted throughout the world. Other than planting they also make wine and styles of wine that have been adopted in other producing countries. Types of grapes they produce include Cabernet, Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc among many others.  They are given names associated with a certain region.

It is documented that French wine originated in the 6th century BCE after the colonization of Southern Gaul by Greek settlers.  They have made wine-making part of their civilization and have considered the making of wine as art for over two thousand years.

12. Lavender Fields in Provence

Provence located in Southeastern France is known for its Lavender Fields, especially in the Luberon and Valensole areas. These fields start blooming from mid-June until the end of August releasing an intoxicating aroma that fills the air and lingers in your memory long after visiting the place.

 If you want to experience this fields and the sweat aroma, it is recommendable to visit from mid- June to mid- July. These Lavender fields are beautiful and are known for their cuisine that incorporates lavender into its oils, honey, and delicious Sorbets.

13. Historical Sites in France

France has a rich and diverse history, centuries and leaving behind a wealth of fascinating historical sites to explore. Some of the historical things include ancient Roman ruins, medieval castles, and palaces.

Some of the most notable historical sites in France include; Lascaux Cave which is known for having prehistoric paintings that dates back over 17,000 years. We also have Pont du Gard, Carcassonne, and Palace of the Popes, palace of Versailles, and Chateau de Chambord among many others. Most of them are UNESCO world heritage sites.

14. Dress Code in France

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Dressing is a very important component as it reflects who you are. France has a more formal and polished image compared to some other countries which is reflected in their dress code. However, France is big and so there are regional differences.

 In formal setting especially work places, men prefer suit and ties or a blazer and an official pant. Shoes are well polished and a watch is essential. For women they prefer official dresses or a good skirt and a blouse.

On casual days you will find a man wearing just a pant with a shirt. Blazers that time are an option and shoes you will find them rocking on either sneakers, loafers, or nice sandals. For women too, they know how to dress casually and still look good. Clothes in France are of high quality and if they are tailored, they ensure they fit well.

15. Greetings in France

When visiting a place, even though you don’t understand the language it is important to learn greetings. Greetings are a show of etiquette and when you are polite in case you get stranded and you don’t know something, you will be able to ask politely and get assistance. Some of the formal greetings include Bonjour which simply refers to (Hello).

This greetings are used on anyone regardless of age. Bonsoir means Good evening, Enchante (e), Madame/Monsieur (Sir). It is important if you are a new person to initiate the greetings and maintain eye contact while shaking hands.

16. Smoking is Prohibited in Public Spaces

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Just like many other countries, France has implemented a comprehensive smoking ban in many public spaces. The ban aims to reduce smoking as it is not healthy in the body of human beings.

Some of the places where ban has been sensitized includes Public parks and gardens, offices, schools, hospitals, beaches, public forests, public transportation stops, cafes, restaurants, and railways stations among many others.

 Local authorities are responsible for the enforcement of the bans and if found breaking the rules fines are imposed. To avoid such things it is important to follow the rules strictly.

17. Ensure Cultural Sensitivity

Every community has its own cultural beliefs and way of doing things and even if they differ from yours or in what you believe in you should not go arguing with them but simply comply with them.

In such places, you should be mindful of cultural differences and avoid sensitive topics such as politics or even religion unless you are well-informed.

18. Emergency Numbers to Use in France

When traveling to a place you have never been before, it is important to know the emergency numbers just in case of unexpected situations. For medical emergencies requiring either medical assistance of an ambulance call 15: SAMU (Service d’Aide Medicale d’Urgence, for police emergencies in case of threats, crime, or accidents call 17: Police Nationale or Gendarmerie Nationale, for fire emergencies and any other situation that require fire department assistance call 18: Pompiers (Fire service). 112: European emergency number works throughout France and can be used for any emergency and they then connect you to the appropriate service.

19. Healthcare Services in France

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France has excellent healthcare facilities so you should not be afraid to visit a health center. They have public hospitals which are fully funded by the government and so you are not asked to pay for treatment. They have healthcare that covers all legal residents of the country regardless of nationality or employment status.

 In France, everyone has access to healthcare regardless of their financial situation. Their health services rank high in international healthcare quality rankings. However, you should be aware that at sometimes they work with appointments of queuing if the case is not emergency and so you should comply with the rule.

20. A little Pay for Entries in Museums

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There is always a small fee charged when entering government institutions such as Museums in almost all countries. This fee is used for the growth and development of the country and also for helping maintain the museum and paying the workers.

The fee varies depending on the museum. They all have agreed on the amount to charge per person and you should comply with them. However, they don’t overcharge it is just a little money to help in ensuring maintenance of things work accordingly.

21. Bakeries in France

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French bakeries are also known as boulangeries. They don’t only offer bread but also delicious pastries. There are different types of bakeries in France which include Boulangerie which specializes in bread, sandwiches, and pastries like croissants and pain au chocolat, they also have Patisserie which focuses on cakes, desserts, and sweet pastries, and Salon de he which combines a bakery with a café and they also offer seats where you can relax and enjoy the meal.

22. Market Days in France

Market days are an important part of French life as they offer fresh produce and artisanal goods. Markets generally occur weekly most of them are either on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays. Some towns have multiple markets with different focuses throughout the week.

On those days, it is important to go early for the best selections and fresh produce. Also, know some formal greetings and words like “Combien?” which means (How Much) and “Merci” meaning (Thank You). Bargaining is acceptable and free to express your wants.

23. Restaurants in France

Restaurants in France are known worldwide as they offer good experiences that go beyond food. Reservations are allowed especially for popular restaurants. Some of the most famous restaurants in France you should check in include Paris Restaurants, Lyon Restaurants, Corsica Restaurant, Marseille Restaurants, Nice Restaurants, Toulouse Restaurants, Montpellier Restaurants, and Strasbourg restaurants among many others.

All types of meals are available so you should not be afraid of thinking you will not get what you want.

24. Sales Tax Refund in France

Non-EU residents have the mandate to claim a refund of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on purchases made in France. This is only possible if they meet some conditions such as holding a passport from a country outside the European Union, having stayed in France for less than 6 months, should be at least 16 years old and above. What can be refunded is mostly goods purchased in France but excludes services such as food and drinks.

On this, you should expect approximately 12 of the VAT amount as there are administrative fees deducted. The refund is done on stores that offer a “Tax-Free Shopping” service. They provide you with a tax-free form that you fill out and stamped by customs at the airport or port before departure from the EU.

25. Cathedrals and Churches in France

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The major religions practiced in France include Christianity which covers 50% of the population then other religions include Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism among many others. Almost all cathedrals in France are Roman Catholic.

Most of the cathedrals and churches have their services on Sundays but in between the week, they open them for people who wish to go and pray or meet with the priest and pastors. They are friendly and their teachings are universal.

Examples of these cathedrals include Cathedrale Saint-Samson, Evry Cathedral, Elne Cathedral, Evreux Cathedral, and Chalons Cathedral among many others.

There are many churches and cathedrals and what you need if you want to attend is to check online when their masses and services start.

26. WIFI Availability

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Network connectivity should not be your worry in France. If you are working online and you need a strong connectivity of WIFI you should worry not. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free WIFI. City squares and parks have designated WIFI hotspots but coverage is limited. However those places are not reliable, you should consider a local SIM card or a roaming package if you need reliable internet access everywhere.

27. Wildlife in Paris

France boasts a rich and diverse array of wildlife which is influenced by its landscapes and climates. Wildlife of France can be divided into that of Metropolitan France and that of the French Overseas territories.

They have large mammals which include Wild Boar, Roe Deer, Red Deer, Wolf, and Fox among others. Semi-wild horses include the Camargue Horse and Ardennes Horse. Small mammals and insects include Hare, Ragondin, and Red Squirrel among others. You should visit France and experience the variety of wildlife.

28. Beach in France and Etiquette

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France is filled with beautiful scenarios as it boasts a stunning 3,427 km (2,129 miles) of coastline and thus offers a range of beaches for every type of traveler. Examples of beaches in France include Collioure, Erquy, Biarritz, Saint-Malo, La Rochelle, Arcachon, Marseille, and Nice among many others. On those beaches there are etiquette you should follow. Follow local customs and regulations when visiting beaches in Provence.

29. Respectful Photography

In France there are rules you should consider like photography should not be taken anywhere. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in more intimate settings. Avoid taking photos through windows or in private spaces. Always remember to ask permission before photographing people especially children and those engaged in private activities.

 Some churches and museums might have restrictions on photography so it is important to check signage or ask beforehand. Some rules should be to avoid using intrusive flash photography, especially in crowded areas, and also don’t copy or share photos protected by copyright without permission

30. Opening Hours for Shops and Businesses

Opening hours for shops and businesses vary depending on several factors. Supermarkets and large stores open for long hours from early morning to 8 PM 0e even 10 PM depending on the location and sometimes on Sundays in tourist areas.

Most restaurants are open 24/7 for people to access and this favors tourists. Bakeries and cafes are open for people to access what they want anytime and they offer quality products. Big cities have longer opening hours compared to smaller towns and villages.  Shops and restaurants stay open longer time to cater to tourists.

31. Check If You Need a Visa to be in France

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Citizens of most European countries as well as the United States Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not have a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Did you know that you can freely enter and stay in France for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa as long as you hold a valid passport?

The type of visa you need depends on the reason why you are visiting France. Some need to visit include Tourism, business, long-stay visa for studies, family reunification, or even work.

32. Bring Your Passport When Visiting France

When visiting a new country you should carry a passport so that you are allowed to freely enter anywhere. Your passport is an internationally recognized document that verifies your identity and nationality. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from France.

 Worldwide, many airlines and transportation companies require you to present your passport when you either board or check in. Consequences of not carrying a passport could be a denial of entry to France and being sent back to the country, fines, or even difficulties accessing services.

33. Pack For All Types of Weather

The climate in France keeps on varying and it is important to be packed in all clothes. Northern France experiences cooler temperatures and more rainfall while the south enjoys a warmer Mediterranean climate.

In the coastal areas, you should expect higher humidity and wind near the coasts. On the mountain ranges, the Alps and Pyrenees bring significantly cooler temperatures snow, and unpredictable weather changes so it is important to pack for all weather services.

34. Accommodations in France

France has many accommodations to host tourists and also local people who are not able to reach their homes. It offers an array of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.

Some of the hotels that offer accommodations include Luxury hotels, Boutique hotels, and chain hotels among others. You need to make bookings before to avoid disappointments or inconveniences.

35. Check on Local Events in French

On your visit to France, it is advisable to check on local event calendars for festivals, markets, and cultural events happening during your visit.

There are so many things that happen in daily life and you should keep up with them so that you can enjoy your stay in France and the surroundings.

France is a big country filled with vibrant activities that you can enjoy. If you are thinking of a destination you can go for your vacation with friends or family, I recommend France. Talk of wildlife, museums, and restaurants, different types of wine, coastal beaches all of them are available.