FRANCE

Geography of France France is the largest country in Western Europe. It neighbors are Belgium, Luxemburg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monacco and Spain. About half of the borders of France are costal, along the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea.

The population of France is just over 65 million (about double the population of Canada). The capital of France is Paris, which is also its largest city. France’s largest cities are Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Toulouse, Nice and Nantes. I spent most of my visit to France in the cities of Paris, Nice and a smaller town called Poitiers.

Religion Historically, France played a large role in the development and spread of Christianity. More recently, Catholicism was dominant. France is now a secular state, as freedom of religion is a constitutional right. Most people (80%) still refer to themselves as Catholics.

Churches

The Baptistère Saint-Jean - Construction began around 360.

Notre-Dame la Grande

Cathedrale Saint-Pierre

Money The Euro is the currency used in 16 European countries, including France. 1 EUR = 1.58 CAD

France, in particular Paris, is know for being among the fashion capitals of the world. On any corner you can find a Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, Hermès, Gucci, Versace, Dior, or Chanel. Printemps is the largest department store in the world.

Education Schools in France are similar to our own. Children attend elementary school and then high school. In some regions schools are closed on Wednesdays and children attend on Saturday mornings instead. The school year starts in September, and ends in early – mid July. University fees are mostly paid for by the government. It is a common requirement of University programs throughout France and Europe that students complete work study programs/ internships before graduating.

Work and Economy Agriculture Wheat (bread) Grapes (wine) Milk product (cheese) Fish Nuclear Energy

Tourism France is the #1 tourist destination in the world. France features cities of high cultural interest (Paris being the foremost), beaches and seaside resorts, ski resorts, and rural regions that many enjoy for their beauty and tranquility. Aside of casual tourism France attracts a lot of religious pilgrims. Popular tourist sites include: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Musée d'Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, Centre Pompidou, Château de Chambord, Sainte- Chapelle, Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, Musée Picasso, Carcassonne.

Palais de Versailles – Outside Paris

Sports In France people like to watch and play soccer (football), tennis and rugby. People there also love to ski. The Tour de France is a very popular road bicycle race held annually.

Art: –Monet –Renoir –Van Gogh

Music – the same types of music as in North America, but the lyrics are in French! The French hit list is a mix of French and English artists, such as William Balde, David Tavare, Enrique Iglesias & Nadiya, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Marc Antoine, and Lady Gaga.

French Food Purchased several times a week so ingredients are fresh. Breakfast consists of croissants and yogurt. Lunch is often a simple a baguette sandwich Diner is the most important meal of the day: it usually includes an entrée (appetizer), main dish, cheese and dessert. Cooking is considered an art. The French make their meals last as long as possible.

French Customs, Tradition and Celebrations

Politeness French people address each other with formality, calling each other Madame, Mademoiselle or Monsieur in a way which may seem formulaic to outsiders, but signifies a respect for the individual which is embedded into the French way of life. Similarly, it is expected that social interaction should be preceded by a bonjour or bonsoir (or more familiar) greeting, even in shops and other services. Failing to abide by those rules is considered rude.

Familiar greetings One of the first things some people note in France is the kissing on both cheeks (not always involving making contact with the lips) between two people. Family members generally kiss each other this way. In young and familiar settings, males generally kiss females in the same way. Similar kissing between males is common in the southeast, but uncommon in other regions.

Holidays The French celebrate most of the Christian holidays celebrated in Canada. The national holiday is Bastille Day, which is celebrated on July 14 th.

Recent French Culture in North America The Cannes Film Festival The Hunchback of Notre Dame Marie Antoinette Expressions: bon appétit, bon voyage, déjà vu French manicures French kissing