France

History

The name France originates from the Franks, a Germanic tribe that occupied the region after the fall of the Roman Empire.
The monarchy reached its height during the 17th century and the reign of Louis XIV. At this time France had a tremendous influence over the European politics, economy and culture as well as possessing the largest population in Europe. France's ultimate victory in World War I and World War II after initially being invaded and partly occupied by German forces did not prevent the loss of the empire. The Fourth Republic was established after World War II, to be replaced in 1958 by the current semi-presidential Fifth Republic established under General Charles de Gaulle.

Currency

Introduction of the Euro (€ ) in 1999.

means of payment: EC– and Creditcards. Traveller cheques

Current

The voltage is 220 V.

French in France

Vive la France! Enjoy a stay in this beautiful country with its charming people and its wide variety of landscape. France is one of the biggest countries in Europe with a relatively low density of population, which does however not count for Paris where more than 9 of the 56 mio. inhabitants of France live. The region around Paris is also called «Ile–de–France».
France, officially the French Republic, is a country in Western Europe and extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and North Sea, and from the Rhine River to the Atlantic Ocean. France is bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra, and Spain.

Recreational activities

French love celebrating life and country. Therefore there are many events all year round. Wine, delicious food, music and dance are always a part of it. Sports are also omnipresent. The big cycling event «Tour de France», and the tennis tournament «Roland Garos» are among the most spectacular ones.
For your own sport activities there are no limits: Hiking, cycling, fishing, tennis, golf or various water sports and even special sports such as bungee–jumping, river–rafting, paragliding and many more.

Cars

Theft in France is very common and cars should be parked in secured parking lots especially at nights. Do not leave luggage and valuables in your car during any time.