Essential info for France

Time: Local time in France is GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the end of March to the end of October).
 

Electricity: 220 volts, 50Hz. Standard plugs used in France are European two-pins.
 

Language: The official language is French, but English is widely spoken and understood.
 

Safety Information: France is generally a very safe country although expats are advised to take precautions against petty theft and to ensure their personal safety. There are thieves and pickpockets on the metro and around airports, and car theft is also common.
 

Local Customs: French culture is of particular importance to the local people and they flaunt this proudly. Expats should make an effort to at least speak a few words of French. While the food is excellent, expats may find the service in many restaurants to be of a low standard; waiters can appear rude and take their time. The national sports are soccer, rugby and cycling, and traditional games such as pétanque (similar bowling) are popular in village squares. Smoking in public places is prohibited.
 

Business: Business etiquette is important in France. A smart and fashionable personal appearance is essential, while punctuality is less vital and people are sometimes 'fashionably late'. Meetings are usually held over lunch, and the French love their food. As in most western countries, a handshake is the norm when meeting someone, and the French like to use formal tiles i.e. Monsieur (Mr), Madame (Mrs) and Mademoiselle (Ms). Business hours are generally 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
 

Communications: The international access code for France is +33, and the Paris area code is (0)1. International calls are made by dialling the network code (e.g. 00 for France Telecom) and then the relevant country code (e.g. 44 for the United Kingdom). Phone cards can be used on most public phones and purchased at local newsagents, probably the cheapest way for expats to call home. French mobile phone operators use GSM networks and most have roaming agreements with international mobile companies. There are Internet cafés in cities and towns throughout France.
 

Emergencies: 112 is the emergency number used in France.

Climate: France is a large country and the climate varies regionally. The south of France has a warm Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Strong winds, known as 'le Mistral', blow through the Cote d'Azur, Provence and the Rhone valley during winter and spring. Northern France, including Paris, has a temperate climate with warm summers, cold winters and rainfall throughout the year. On the west coast, from the Loire valley to the Pyrenees, the weather is milder but summers can be very hot.