France
France attracts tourists from all over the world with its azure beaches, ski resorts in the French Alps. It is the birthplace of love and the center of European fashion and culture. It is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, and the English Channel. The official language is French. The official currency is the euro. It’s better to exchange money in Ukraine, as banks here charge a commission for exchange.
Seasonality of recreation:
The beach season runs from mid-July to mid-September. During this period, the waters of the ocean and the French Riviera warm up to +26 degrees Celsius. The skiing season in the Alps runs from mid-December to the end of March. The sales season takes place twice a year. In the summer, from the end of July, and in the winter, during the period of Catholic Christmas. On average, their duration is about 5 weeks.
Visa regime:
Visa-free regime has been in effect since June 11, 2017. You can stay in EU countries for 90 days within 6 months. Documents required: passport (must be biometric, if regular, a visa needs to be obtained from the embassy in advance, valid for at least 3 months after the date of departure); return ticket; documents confirming financial solvency (bank statement, traveler’s checks); insurance (coverage of risks up to 30,000 euros).
Etiquette and Country Specifics:
It is customary to address people as “Monsieur / Madame,” and in restaurants as “Mademoiselle / Garçon.” In French cuisine, it is minimal to use a knife. While in France, it is not customary for women to touch up their makeup, and for men to comb their hair in public places.
National Cuisine:
Traditional cuisine in France includes frog legs, which taste like chicken, and snails served in garlic sauce. Coq au vin – chicken or rooster cooked in red wine. Fish and seafood are very popular here – oysters, shrimp, lobsters, sea urchins – all served with unusually tasty sauce.
Interesting Places to Visit:
The most visited places in France are the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The most famous amusement park is Disneyland, with attractions for every taste. The Champs-Élysées – you will see the beautiful and prestigious street in the world, fashionable boutiques, and restaurants. You can also visit the Arc de Triomphe here. One of the most beautiful historical places in France is the palace-park ensemble of Versailles.
What to Bring:
Wine, and if stronger, then cognac. Good wine has a green label on the cork and a deep bottom. Be sure to choose cheese to your taste, the selection here is huge. In duty-free shops in France, you can buy perfumes and cosmetics, which will be slightly cheaper than in malls. Brand items at huge discounts during sales periods.
