France

France is the most popular tourist destination in the world and cannot disappoint a visitor. If you wish for an action-packed holiday, you can head to the French Alps. In case you are a history lover, there are numerous museums, cathedrals and chateaux.

The capital

Paris

France is located at

France, officially the French Republic, is a country located primarily in Western Europe.

The official language

French

French, the official language, is the first language of 88% of the population. Most of those who speak minority languages also speak French, as the minority languages are given no legal recognition. 3% of the population speak German dialects, predominantly in the eastern provinces of Alsace-Lorraine and Moselle.

The official religion

Catholicism

Catholicism as a state religion Catholicism is the largest religion in France. During the pre-1789 Ancien Régime, France was traditionally considered the Church's eldest daughter, and the King of France always maintained close links to the Pope.

The climate

The climate in mainland France is temperate, with quite significant regional differences. Temperatures are relatively mild and rainfall occurs throughout the year. Regional variations occur due to latitude and differences in distance to the sea or mountainous areas. Temperature variations are less pronounced on the French coast than in the rest of the country, but rainfall is higher.

The clothes

The dress is also generally recognized by its use of bright colors and bold patterns. Each region has its own specific colors and patterns that reflect the local culture and history. For example, the Breton dress of Brittany is known for its use of white and blue, as well as dark navy colors, which are the traditional colors of the region. On the other hand, the Provencal dress is known for its use of bright and cheerful colors, with a bohemian and relaxed style.

Brittany

The Breton dress, also known as the “bigouden” is a traditional costume worn by women in the Brittany region. I white blouse and full agron are its most common characteristics, as well as the dark colors paired with white lace. The skirt is typically made of cotton or linen and is decorated with white or gilded embroidery or lace. The blouse is also decorated with similar embellishments and features a high collar and puffed sleeves. A headscarf, known as a “coiffe” is often worn with the dress, and is also decorated with embroidery or lace. The dress is usually completed with a pair of black shoes and stockings, Brittany, located in the northwest of France, is a region known for its rugged coastline and beautiful beaches. It has a distinct Celtic culture and its own language, Breton. Historically, Brittany was a powerful independent duchy and was also known for being the place where a lot of emigrants came from in the 19th and 20th century.

The Breton dress is distinct

from other traditional French dresses in its use of strong colors and bold patterns. It is also different in that it does not feature a fitted bodice, unlike other regional costumes such as the Alsatian and Normand costumes. Historically, the Breton dress was worn by women in rural areas of Brittany and was a symbol of their Breton identity. It was worn for special occasions such as weddings and festivals, and has become an important cultural symbol for the region

Alsace

The Alsatian costume is a traditional dress worn by women in the Alsace region. The dress features a long, full skirt with a fitted bodice, apron, and a headscarf. The bodice is typically made of velvet or silk and is decorated with intricate embroidery and/or lace. The skirt is made of heavy cotton or wool, and is also decorated with a similar style. The headscarf is often made of dark linen or cotton. The dress is usually completed with a pair of black shoes and stockings which stand out under the strong red or black skirt.

Normandy

The Normand costume, is a traditional dress worn by women in the Normandy region. The dress features a long, full skirt with a fitted bodice, apron, and a headscarf. The bodice like the Alsace costume is made of velvet or silk and is decorated with embroidery or lace.

Provence

The Provencal costume, is a traditional dress worn by women in the Provence region. The dress features a long, full skirt with a fitted bodice, apron, and a headscarf. The bodice is typically made of linen or cotton. The skirt is made of light and flowy fabrics such as silk or muslin, and is decorated with detail an dcolor. The headscarf is often made of light fabric and is less prominent.

Basque

The Basque dress, also known as the “Euskara” is a traditional costume worn by women in the Basque region. It is characterized by a full skirt and a fitted bodice, with a shawl or headscarf. The skirt is typically made of wool or cotton and is decorated with intricate embroidery and pleats. The bodice is also decorated with similar embellishments and features a high collar and short sleeves. A shawl, known as a “txapela” is often worn with the dress, and is also decorated with embroidery or lace. The dress is usually completed with a pair of black shoes and stockings.

Corsica

The Corsican dress, is a traditional dress worn by women in the Corsica Island. The dress features a long, full skirt with a fitted bodice, apron, and a headscarf. The bodice is typically made of linen or cotton and is decorated with intricate embroidery or lace. Dark colors and gold embroidery feature heavily.

France famous’ Landmarks

1. The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic monument in Paris and France. Designed by the engineer Gustave Eiffel for the World’s Fair held in France in 1889, the most famous of the French landmarks receives more than 6 million visitors every year.

With an original height of 312 meters (currently 324 meters with the antennas), the Eiffel Tower was for 40 years the world’s tallest monument. Today, it hosts an exhibition about the Tower, different restaurants and shops, and a belvedere on the summit with amazing views of Paris.

Thanks to its monumental size, it is possible to get great Eiffel Tower views from almost anywhere in Paris but if you are visiting the city for the first time you may want to climb up to the Eiffel Tower too: it is a once in a lifetime experience!

2. Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles, home to the French Kings Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI and their courts, is one of the most beautiful castles in France to visit and a jewel of French Baroque architecture. The Palace contains 2,300 rooms of all kids spread over 63,154 m2. Among all these rooms out stands the Hall of Mirrors with its painted roof and its huge chandeliers: is a feast for the eyes, the Palace is surrounded by beautiful French-style gardens designed by the famous landscape designer André Le Notre. These gardens are decorated with classic sculptures, fountains, and other water features.

3. Besançon Citadel

Besançon, the capital of Franche-Comté, is a charming city near the Swiss border, rich with culture, history and character. Its historic centre consists of old facades, quaint townhouses, cobbled streets and winding lanes, showcasing centuries of character and charm.

The star of the city, though, is the Citadel. A magnificent 17th-century fortress, it demonstrates a remarkable feat of architectural engineering and is often considered one of the most beautiful fortresses in France.

4. Cité de Carcassonne

The Cité de Carcassonne, or the medieval city of Carcassonne, is a historic citadel located in the southern city of Carcassonne in the Occitanie region. This is the oldest part of the city, and with its towers and cobblestone streets, it’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale!

La Cité dates back to the 12th-century, and following successful restoration work in the 19th-century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.

5. Millau Viaduct

One of the most famous places in France is the Millau Viaduct. This stunning structure designed by the French structural engineer Michel Virlogeux and English architect Norman Foster is in La Méridienne on the A75 motorway, which links Clermont-Ferrand with Béziers and Narbonne,

6. Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis

All the Grandes Cathédrales would deserve a spot on this list of man-made landmarks in France but we have chosen the Basilica of Saint-Denis because it represents the birth of Gothic architecture in France.

7. Château de Chenonceau

The Loire castle of Chenonceau is one of the best Loire Castles to visit in France. If you go castle hunting in the Loire Valley, make sure to put this impressive French landmark on your list.

8. Abbey of Fontenay

Founded in 1118, Fontenay Abbey in the region of Burgundy is an iconic destination for those interested in history, religion, and culture in that it is the oldest preserved Cistercian abbey in the world. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site lies just over an hour from Dijon and three hours from Lyon or Paris and is well worth a visit if you’re planning a trip to Burgundy or taking a tour of some of the famous landmarks in France.

The well-kept abbey is nestled in an area of outstanding beauty, with pristinely manicured gardens and a picturesque surrounding valley. The convent buildings have been preserved in such a way that it feels as though you’re stepping back in time when you enter, allowing you to clearly envisage what monastic life here would have been like.

9. Hospices de Beaune

Hotel Dieu, also known as Hospices de Beaune, is a French landmark with a very interesting history. The building, now operating as a museum, was founded in 1443 by the chancellor to the Dukes of Burgundy, as a hospital for the poor folk in the area.

With the most impressive Gothic architecture and an intricate colored tile roof indicative of the style of the era, the Hospices de Beaune opens a window into what life for the poor would have been like in Beaune in the Middle Ages through a full reconstruction of the main hospital ward, chapel, and apothecary.

Upcoming Holidays and Festivals in France

5 French festivals

• Fête nationale du 14 juillet – July.

• Festival de Cannes – May.

• Fête de la musique – June.

• Fête des lumières – December.

• Carnaval de Nice – February.

• Live and study in France with Go! Go! France.

DOs in France

1. Do say hello (“Bonjour”) upon entering an establishment (ie. store, restaurant, etc) before you begin browsing or asking questions. Say good-bye (“Au revoir”) upon leaving.

2. Do learn some French phrases. It will show you are making the effort to speak the language and shows respect. Some phrases:

• Hello (“Bonjour”)

• Thank you (“Merci”)

• Excuse me (“Excusez-moi”)

• Please (“S’il vous plaît”)

• I am lost (“Je suis perdu”)

• Where are the bathrooms? (“Ou sont les toilettes?”)

• I don’t speak French. In English please (“Je ne parle pas Francais. En Anglais, s’il vous plaît”)

3. Do realize that to use the washroom in places such as a train station or department store, you will have to pay a nominal fee (ie. 0.35 Euros)

4. Do take the metro (subway) and hang onto your ticket until you leave your station. You could be checked by the police and fined if you don’t have your ticket stub.

5. Do remember to validate your ticket before you board a train. Validating machines are located at the entrance to the “quai” or platform.

6. Do dress appropriately. Jeans are OK, but shorts, flip flops, and running shoes are not. They are for the beach and exercising.

7. Do shake hands with acquaintances or “air kiss” those who are close to you when you are greeting the person. Air kissing involves bringing your cheek close to the other’s cheek as if you are going to kiss the cheek. It is a ritual, called “Faire la bise” and indicates friendship. The number of kisses depends on the region. In most of France, one kisses each cheek once; however, in other areas, it could range from 3-5. What side to start on? I have read one starts on the right; however, opinions differ.

8. Do consider a “Prix Fixe” menu, which will include a starter, main course, and dessert at a fixed price. Some restaurants have prix fixe menus with many choices for each course. Some offer menus which include some wine.

9. Do consider ordering a “pichet” of wine. Technically, it is a “jug” of wine, but really it is a carafe of wine and comes in different sizes: 25 cl or 50 cl. (250 ml or 500ml). It is the restaurant’s house wine and is very often very good and a good deal.

10. Do expect to find the sale of wine and liquor in grocery stores and the store, Monoprix.

Don’t Do In France

1. Do not use “Tu” (you) to address another person unless that person is quite familiar to you. Use “Vous”, as it is more formal.

2. Do not take out coffee and drink it while walking down the street. Drink it at a cafe, either standing at a bar or sitting at a table.

3. Do not touch the produce at an outdoor market. Simply indicate to the seller what you want

Cafe Au Lait. France. Photo: J. Chung

4. Do not order a cafe au lait to end your meal. This drink is taken at breakfast.

5. Do not rush your meal. The French enjoy their time to relax over a coffee or meal. You should too and take at least 2 hours to savor the flavors.

6. Do not assume all stores will be open between 12-2 pm as this is when most people have lunch.

7. Do not assume everyone speaks and understands English.

8. Do not (have to) tip as the 15% service charge is included in the bill most of the time. The bill will say, “Service Compris”. However, it is a custom to leave an additional few Euros at dinner if the service was exceptional.

9. Do not expect to get ice in your drink. It is just rare to find drinks with ice in France as compared to North America.

Aperatif in Luxembourg Gardens, Paris France. Photo: J. Chung

10. Do not have dinner before 8:00 pm. It is more acceptable to have a pre-dinner drink (cocktail hour or “apero”) such as wine, beer, a kir or pastis between 7:00 and 8:00 pm. It can be served with nuts or crackers.

Be sure to check out these other posts about etiquette and customs in France:

The Architecture

1- The Foundation Louis Vuitton

situated in the Bois de Boulogne, a stone's throw from the Jardin d’Acclimatation, opened its doors on 27 October 2014. The Foundation's exceptional contemporary art collections (permanent and temporary) are exhibited in an architectural gem designed by the American Frank Gehry. This visionary architect has revolutionized the use of glass and created previously unimagined shapes to produce a unique, innovative, light and airy building. In addition to the artistic and architectural richness of the Fondation Louis Vuitton, the visitor is also afforded wonderful panoramic views from the various terraces of the building.

2- PARIS – COVERED PASSAGES

This architecture tour in Paris will take us away from the car circulation and protected from the sun and rain; this walk-through covered passage takes us back to the 19th Century, when Paris was world capital and capital of the entertainment world. commercial needs motivated the construction of the covered passages: their purpose was to both link business places and provide a peaceful environment for shopping and window shopping.

3- THE CHAMPS-ÉLYSÉES

The Champs-Élysées, the world-famous Paris avenue has been the horizontal axis of the city since the 17th Century. Seventy meters wide, it starts at Place de la Concorde and ends at Arc de Triomphe. It is both a sumptuous monumental space and a good example of historical Paris urban planning.

4- Paris La Défense

The district of La Défense, the largest economic center in Europe, covers three communes: Courbevoie, Puteaux and Nanterre. This business district, mainly surrounded by towers, headquarters and offices, is home to the tallest and most emblematic towers in France: Coeur Défense, EDF, Granite.

5- PARIS – ART DECO

The Art Deco movement of architecture and design appeared in Paris in about 1910–12, and continued until the beginning of World War II in 1939. It took its name from the International Exposition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts held in Paris in 1925. It was characterized by bold geometric forms, bright colors, and highly stylized decoration, and it symbolized modernity and luxury. Art Deco architecture, sculpture, and decoration reached its peak at 1939 Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne, and in movie theaters, department stores, other public buildings. It also featured in the work of Paris jewelers, graphic artists, furniture craftsmen, and jewelers, and glass and metal design. Many Art Deco landmarks, including the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées and the Palais de Chaillot, can be seen today in Paris

---

The Security situation in France

---

First

As the Paris Olympics approach

Under clear blue skies, extra French police have been making a show of force around Paris today, on foot patrol at railway stations and near stadiums, seeking to reassure the public amid new warnings that the Islamic State group might be planning to attack European football events. The heightened security in the French capital marks a moment of growing concern across Europe, as governments seek to assess, and react to, threats made on a pro-IS media channel.

It also comes at a complicated moment for France itself

as it prepares to host the Olympic Games in July following growing concerns that the Kremlin is deliberately trying to spread doubts and fears about the French government's ability to keep its citizens safe. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said he had "considerably strengthened security" around Wednesday night's Champions League quarter-final match at the Parc des Princes in southwest Paris. the move follows an online threat to European sporting events that Mr Darmanin said had been "publicly expressed" by IS. The pro-IS media channel had reached out to supporters in France and elsewhere, who may feel emboldened after seeing the recent IS-claimed attack on a concert hall in Moscow.

Second

Security Alert: France Elevates Its Security Alert System (25 MAR 2024)

Following the March 22 terrorist attack in Moscow, Russia, the French government elevated its Vigipirate national security alert system to the highest level, As a result, residents and visitors throughout France may see heightened security in public areas, including airports; public transport; places of worship; tourist sites; schools; major sports venues; and large commercial centers, visitors to congested and popular tourist areas should be particularly attentive to their surroundings.

France is famous for

Gourmet Food

A list of what France is famous for would be inadequate if one does not mention its gourmet food. Every region in France has some special dish or the other. Their speciality lies in converting ordinary things into extraordinary. From crème brulee, pain au chocolat, quiche and macarons, France is a foodie’s delight.

French Wine

A list of the famous things in France will remain incomplete if one does not mention French wine. France has earned the reputation of being a world leader in fine wine. Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne are some of the prominent wine regions in France. For centuries, winemakers have painstakingly cultivated the art of winemaking. So, if you are in France, do not forget to have a glass of fine wine.

Fashion

France is also famous for its fashion. It is one of the four major fashion capitals of the world. In fact, Paris is home to important couturiers. Every renowned designer like Chanel, Givenchy, and Christian Louboutin have contributed significantly to the French economy.

Baguettes and Croissants

Bread is one of the most common things France is known for, and great care is taken to make it. The French baguette is ubiquitous and a staple in French meals.

The country is also famous for its mouth-water croissants and pastries. Nearly every bakery here has a wide assortment of freshly-baked croissants for you to dunk in coffee. The best part is- these are quite cheap.

Cannes Film Festival

Founded in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most famous events in the film industry. This event is attended by renowned celebrities from all over the world. Awards given at this festival are one of the most prestigious ones.

This film festival is held every year in May and is a spectacular event with its red carpet, world-famous celebrities and extensive media coverage.

French cheese

Foodies often enjoy different types of cheese, which is a traditional element of French culture. You can find huit familles de fromages, or eight families of cheese here, including fresh cheeses, soft cheeses with a washed rind, pressed cheeses, etc. Moreover, you will find cheese dishes like cheese fondue, aligot, and tartiflette in France.

Macarons

If you are a dessert-lover, France can satiate your taste with world-class macarons. These are crunchy, sweet-tasting dessert items found in different parts of France. You will find these in multiple flavours like mango, strawberry, chocolate, etc. These are classic French pastries, a must-try in France.

Perfume and Cosmetics

France is also famous for its perfume and makeup items besides fashion. You will find some of the most popular perfume brands like Miss Dior, Chanel n°5, Shalimar by Guerlain, and Opium by Yves Saint Laurent. Moreover, France is the home to some of the most popular makeup brands like Lancôme, Guerlain, L'Oréal, NUXE, etc.

French Literature and Painting

France is the home to poets, authors and scholars like Voltaire, Molière, Charles Baudelaire, Victor Hugo, Honoré de Balzac, and Marcel Proust. It ranks first when it comes to the number of Nobel Prizes in the field of literature. Moreover, France is the home to some of the most influential painters like Leonardo Da Vinci, Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Michelangelo and Claude Monet. It was the first to start the Impressionist art movement in the 19th century.

The Tour de France

This is a popular festival, which attracts tourists to France every year. It was organized for the first time in 1903, and is known for being the most renowned bike riding competition in the world. cyclists come together for this festival and compete for the Tour de trophy. The competition stretches for about 23 days, divided across 21 categories.

---

A simple video

---

---