90 Millions of Visitors in 2018!
France, 67 millions, expects to reach this number by mid December.
2nd: the USA with 50 M.; 3rd: Spain with 44 M.

In honor of the French Military that did so much, so well during the last 40 years in:
Lebanon, Bosnia, Congo, Iraq, Chad, Afghanistan, Ivory Cost, Libya, Mali, Mosul, etc 
Merci! Thank you!
Hell March of the French Military Parade 2017-18
www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1KJHqSVjE4 
French Army plays Music of French Band Daft Punk for Bastille Day
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhQkku7jLfo
French soldiers in Afghanistan 2013
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yj49byt7h8
French soldiers in Mali 2014
www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7X2ETw6Wiw 
French Military Forces 2017
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlZWo_ZM7Eg
French SSBN Submarine Le Terrible: 16 Missiles with 4 Nuclear Heads each
www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CfBKJS9NUM&t=81s
French easily surrender? Check this British video about the 1916 Battle of Verdun.
"Ils ne passeront pas!" - "They (Germans) shall not pass!" 
1.5 million French soldiers, 2.2 million German soldiers died. A massacre!
In honor of my 2 grandfathers who fought on WW1 battlefields during 3 years in a row
 www.youtube.com/watch?v=y79-PJt-YzE

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 Updated on Dec 1st, 2018 - Mis à jour le 1er decembre 2018
10 150 people visited this blog since June 2012. Thank you! Merci!
Audience from: Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Israel, Japan, Latvia,
Morocco, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, Saoudi Arabia, UK, Ukraine, USA, etc.
Please support my work: Advertisers & Sponsors are welcome!
You can also make a donation ...
Contact me at afrenchinusa@gmail.com
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My 9 other blogs about France in English
Details & Access: click http://allmyfrenchblogs.blogspot.com
Visit Paris and its Region; Maps of France, Paris, Regions, Motorways, etc.

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Private & Corporate Lessons / Workshops in NYC or by Skype
Learn basic French, avoid tricky stuff, know the region you want to visit, etc.
Contact me for details and rates: afrenchinusa@gmail.com  
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Interested in studying French in France?
Go to Chapter 16 below or
visit http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com Chapter G, section 9
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- NEWS - ACTU - NEWS - ACTU - NEWS - ACTU - NEWS - ACTU -
> $700 the Round Trip flight NY- Paris - NY! XL Airways French airline: www.xl.com/en
> Taxis: airports Flat rates or "Forfait" > CDG to Paris center 50€ - Orly to Paris 37€ 
> Taxi drivers do not always accept plastic due to many unpaid fares.
> Vertigo? Don't try the new glass floor of the Eiffel Tower 1st floor! Imagine you're 300 feet above the ground without any floor part, just glass...
> Thinking of a tour of the French Gothic Cathedrals? There are 20 of them and the most interesting / beautiful are in: Amiens, Beauvais, Chartres, Paris, Reims, Rouen, Senlis.
> History of the Versailles Palace: superb 3D video  www.versailles3d.com/en/in-video
> 92 million foreign visitors in France in 2017! France (population 66 M.) is the most visited country in the world. USA is 2nd with 70 million visitors and Spain is 3rd with 61 million. Which counties provide the largest number of visitors to France? Germany (17 M), UK (12 M), USA (10 M), Italy (6 M), China (4 M), Japan (2.5 M). Brazilians, Spanish's, Russians and Indians are also part of this huge "tourist wave" still increasing.  
> Loire Valley, the World largest Entertainment Park: the beautiful castles of the Valley are in competition to offer more and more attractions each year from April to September. There is no Roller Coaster (despite it's a French invention) but visitors can enjoy many surprising animations, medieval reconstitutions, games, etc. http://loire-chateaux.org  Avoid the weekends if you can! 
> Plenty of Festivals in France: around 5000 festivals take place in cities and villages all year long. Architecture, Cinema, Food, Horses, Literature, Marine, Military, Music, Medieval, Sports, Wine, etc., anything can be theme for a festival. The most famous are the Cannes Film Festival, Avignon Art Festival, Aix en Provence Opera Festival, Brittany Les Vieilles Charrues, and Le Bourget Aerospace. In Burgundy, a village organizes a festival about Escargots while another in the South west celebrates Truffles! Visit this site (in French but you should be able to understand where and what):  www.touslesfestivals.com/agenda
> Look at France from a Balloon... It's breath taking! Check www.franceballoons.com 
> Waiting for your plane at CDG Airport? Discover Works of Art for free: Terminal 2E has a free art exhibit all day long: http://espacemusees.com/index_en.php
> 3 different sirens for emergency ambulances "SAMU": there was a need to shake up drivers who got used to French sirens  www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1F8_Rulyaw

French vocabulary with audio: www.languageguide.org/french/
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2 videos to introduce France landscapes & monuments
www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2jyCl4I6_s   www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIEkTYUCgDQ 
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France: A 2000-year old modern country

French anthem La Marseillaise 1792 (Fr / Eng)  www.youtube.com/watch?v=4K1q9Ntcr5g  
European anthem Ode to the Joy 1952 (Eng) www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jo_-KoBiBG0
X X X X X X
 52 BC - Gaul Chief Vercingetorix defeated J. Caesar www.youtube.com/watch?v=pniyFbvXMUI
350 - The Franks: "sweet" ancestors of the French www.youtube.com/watch?v=xA_SSpQDpl4
490 - Clovis, 1st King of the Franks www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7HUBW3JgRA 
732 - Martel stopped the Muslims www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECHAMYSUg4w  
    1095 - The 1st crusade by the French www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG3fCeI19IA 
1214 - France defeated England & its Allies www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pK8SrkJUDs
1253 - La Sorbonne University is born  www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSbzxB24GNU
1309 - Popes moved to Avignon www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9k68am9fx8
1430 - Joan of Arc / Jeanne d'Arc defeated English www.youtube.com/watch?v=sa5ZvvraTw0
1453 - France defeated England; End of 100-year War  www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmAhxBHWeTs
1600 - Philosopher René Descartes "I think, therefore I am" www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAjWUrwvxs4
1640 - Philosopher Blaise Pascal: Betting on God existence www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nb4nYqNXyM 
1643 - France defeated Spain; End of 30-year War  www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMEnBHef96c
1660 - Birth of Versailles www.youtube.com/watch?v=X235vpOToVU  
1750 - French Bros First in the air www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjqdgbFGFiE
1771 - 1st Automobile by Cugnot  www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhbuxe-Tkb0
1776 - France supports American Revolution www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OLVBY_FccM
1789 - French Revolution  www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6wjzoEDhqk
1791 - French Pierre Charles L'Enfant designed Washington DC www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1Wy_2wr2hI
1792 - French Troops defeated European Monarchies armies  www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8MJIxf56bk
1805 - Napoléon Bonaparte + La Marseillaise www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKtCVblxDRc
1850 - Victor Hugo  www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJuujnsoYeI
1860 - Pasteur unveils existence of germs www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR_2Zyc--SQ
 1870 - Claude Monet www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8mct7uJyRs
1886 - Statue of Liberty gift www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3utCntXrPo
1889 - Secrets of the Eiffel Tower www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6n0JUT_pG8
1900 - Female sculptor Camille Claudel www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDm8M3oKp3s
1903 - Marie Curie defines Radium Atomic Mass  www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HH_4D1V2rE
1916 - The Battle of Verdun: "The Germans will not pass!" www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6yPhy5x8QM  
1916 - Jules Verne's 20 000 Leagues under the sea  www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CUSNXeJMIo
1936 - Commandant Cousteau www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdSipdXBStA
1941 - De Gaulle "We do NOT surrender" www.youtube.com/watch?v=17mjfbXWW4g
1943 - US Honor Free French Forces www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNHdaRY_wiQ
1950 - Albert Camus (refused the Nobel Price) www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2esQwof8G0
1950 - Simone de Beauvoir Philosopher & Feminist  www.youtube.com/watch?v=efWqbzRB-1k
1954 - Edith Piaf www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzeLynj1GYM 
1960 - French Psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwlirZQLAAg
1960 - French Nuclear Deterrence www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcOT9pLSeUs
1962 - The "France" ocean liner arrival in NY www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEbYiw5GH38
1963 - French German couple for United Europe www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1gPbdKRAL0  Deutch
1969 - Concorde 1st Flight  www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsqPsX8k5FE
1969 - 1st French Female Astronaut www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FbnR8jue7g
1971 - Doctors without Borders / Médecins sans frontier www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXV8lTgETks
1971 - Most Innovative car: Citroen DS21 www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzW_ERSgFRY
1974 - Twin Towers: Frenchmen on a wire www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpQCUXNo5GI
1980 - Arianespace Rocket Launchers French conception  www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvNNUwMJnVg
1993 - Formula 1 Championship Renault + Alain Prost  www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRL0comANQE
1994 - Tank Leclerc AMX 56: the most advanced of all? www.youtube.com/watch?v=rawWnDRtQv8
1998 - Soccer World Cup Final: France beats Brazil www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5dU9D8Ef9o
    2005 - 1st flight Giant Airbus A380  www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6_0d0bJKDU
2005 - Parkour / Freerunning founder David Belle www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9n38Otr1ig&t=118s
2006 - Mylène: Undress me! Deshabillez-moi! www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Lf2RJDZl54   
               2007 - TGV Train World Record 357 MpH at 8:00 www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOdATLzRGHc
2007 - Germans love French cars Peugeot www.youtube.com/watch?v=5txPsFD-Bm4
2008 - Bill Maher about the French  www.youtube.com/watch?v=Odrd6XYc4Nk
2008 - New SSBN Nuclear Submarine Le Terrible www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CfBKJS9NUM
2009 - Michael Moore about French & American taxes  www.youtube.com/watch?v=lueHW9EL7kc
2009 - Automated Tire Equipped Subway www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BVOruJjI2A
  2011 - French Troops in Afghanistan www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQjS0h8nzUA
2011 - Tour de France Farmers' Giant Bike www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCXqyrZcUWQ
2011 - French aircraft carrier & Rafale Jets in Libya  www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYdmzKEqYuE
2013 - Chanel Paris Giant Show  www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqf-Kjy5yLA
2013 - Mont Saint Michel from a drone  www.youtube.com/watch?v=-z_efL-iK24
2013 - Bernard Henri Levy at Charlie Rose www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-gOGz45kOc
2014 - Huge French Military Operation in Mali www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QDnB6dMAb0
2015 - Paris Terrorist Attacks www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HcgmtAylVc
2015 - French Rafale Jets Bombing Isis www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4J0LeJ-D9g
2016 - New Police Car Renault "Intercepteur"  www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIEwp-Q1vgA
2016 - French Motorcycle Cops are acrobats www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKxMjFa_E9M
2016 - The World Largest Cruiser: built in France www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pk_JIHel7To 
2017 - French commandos: find Isis French fighters to "neutralize" them www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kHXLWatZK0  

Table of Contents
Blogspot doesn't allow linking contents to chapters; you have to scroll up and down. Sorry! 
1 - Geography, Maps, Pictures, etc 
2 - France Geography, History and Economy.
3 - Best periods for visiting the "Frank Country" (France)
4 - Worst periods for visiting France
5 - Worst periods for moving around France
6 - Closing days of restaurants, stores, museums, monuments, etc.
7 - Weather: Forecast on line --- How is the weather all year long: Northern France & Southern France
8 - Preparing the trip: visa, dates writing; language; currency; reservations; voltage; what to take; drivers license; guides; etc.
9 - Lodging: Airbnb, B&B; Hotels; Short & Long term rental.
10 - Getting in / around France: airports; trains; taxis; city transportation; tickets & passes; car rental & road rules.
11 - Once in France, all you need to know: addresses & maps; prices, tip, taxes & VAT refund; safety; cafés & restaurants; buying & shopping; emergency, pharmacies & physicians; post offices; etc.
12 - Top 10 most beautiful views in France 
13 - Visiting Paris and its region: geography; transportation; museum passes; stores; what to see / visit; museums, tours; hotels; restaurants; entertainment, etc. The French capital and its region are presented in my blog: knowaboutparis.com (keep reading this current blog for many practical information for any trip to France)
14 - Visiting regions & their main cities    Some work in progress 
Geography, transportation, sites, museums, tours, hotels, restaurants, stores, etc, for:
Normandie - Champagne - Loire Valley - Alsace - Burgundy - Brittany - Lyon & Beaujolais - Lake of Geneva & Savoy - Provence - Riviera - Bordeaux & Aquitaine - Basque Country & Bearn - Toulouse & Midi Pyrénées - Limoges & Massif Central - Corsican Island.
NOTE: I posted links to hotel & restaurant websites; if a link is missing please use Google search typing as follow: "Hotel name / Restaurant name + city name + France"
15 - NEVER do + French spirit & politeness
16 - Studying in France and Au pair
17 - Working in France
18 - Useful websites

1 - Geography, Maps, Pictures, etc
- General Information
France is about the size of Texas and is the largest country of Western Europe: 551 700 km2, not including the Corsican Island and 14 oversea territories. The longest distances from North to South and from West to East are around 995 kms (625 miles). Because of its shape, French nicknamed France "L'Hexagone". It is bordered by 4 seas (Mer du Nord or North Sea; Manche or English Channel; Atlantique; Méditerranée) and 6 countries (Belgique, Luxembourg, Allemagne, Suisse, Italie and Espagne). Alps and Pyrenées mountain chains are the highest in France but there are also the smaller Vosges, Morvan, Jura and an extinguished volcano chain, the Massif Central. There are many Rivers but the largest or longest ones called "Fleuves" are the Loire, Seine, Rhone, Rhin, Saone, Gironde and Garonne. France has a population of 66 millions (Germany 84 millions; Russia 145 millions; USA 330 millions). It is the World 5th Economy equal to UK, and is member founder of the EU and the Euro Zone. Paris is the capital with 11 million inhabitants (Metropolitan area) while the population of Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, Nice and Nantes is around a million. There are 13 administrative regions (as of 2015) and each region is divided in  several "Départements" alike mini states with a nominated governor or "Préfet". The 3 largest cities Paris, Marseille, Lyon have "Arrondissements" or administrative districts that are not the "Quartiers". French History: frenchhist.blogspot.com/ Eng
- Pictures of region monuments and cities are on the right side    > > > > > >
- Maps of France, Paris, Regions, Motorways, etc: click mapvisitfrance.com/
- 5000 Pictures of France: www.france-voyage.com/travel-photos
- Distances between cities: www.viamichelin.com
- About France: general information  www.france.fr/en  Multi language
2 - France: A 1600 Year Old Modern Country
Complete History, Geography, Economy, etc: click frenchhist.blogspot.com/  Eng
3 - Best Periods for Visiting the "Frank Country" 
Spring: May 20 to June 15 - Summer: June 25 to July 15 - Fall: September 15 to October 20 - Winter: Dec. 22 to Jan. 5 
4 - Worst Periods / Days for Visiting France French Holidays www.joursferies.fr
- Spring: There are 2 National Holidays in May: many stores are closed. Also at the end of May, Cannes and Nice on the Riviera are crowded because of the Cannes Film Festival. Same for Arles and Nimes that have 5-day "Ferias" festivities around the end of May.
- Summer: The worst month of the year to visit France is August: many city restaurants and stores are closed for vacation and there is an overflow of foreign tourists; the beaches are crowded the entire week. Aix en Provence has a big festival at the end of June bringing a lot of tourists. Same for Avignon in July because of its famous festival. July 14th is Bastille Day "La Fête Nationale": traffic is interrupted in center cities and many stores are closed.
- Fall: There are 2 National Holidays in November: many stores are closed.
- Winter: Winter is the off season period for hotels and restaurants in the countryside and on the coasts; many of them are closed. Ski resorts are crowded from mid February to mid March because of European school winter vacations. Many stores and restaurants are closed on December 25th and January 1st.
5 - Worst Periods / Time for Moving around France
- By car or bus: Highways around Paris, Lyon, Lille, Marseilles, and Strasbourg are crowded after 5 pm, particularly Friday and Sunday. There is a heavy traffic all over France on May 2; July 14; July 30 to Aug. 2; Aug. 15; Aug 29 to Sept. 3; Dec 30 and Jan. 2.  Be careful if you go to the airport by road during these periods: the trip can be very long. Avoid driving in center cities on New Year Eve and the 14th of July. 
- By plane or train: It's the same mess during the periods mentioned above: train stations and airports are crowded; trips to airports and baggage registration can take a very long time.
- Strikes: A public transportation "minimum service" is mandatory during strikes. Anyway, the day before a trip by plane or by train, visit "France24", the French news channel in English, French and Arabian: www.france24.com click "France" at the top and look for any Strike headline.
6 - Closing Days & Holidays  French Holidays www.joursferies.fr
- Cafés-bars (also called Bistros in France) are often closed on Sunday. Restaurants are closed one day of the week, Saturday or Sunday or Monday.  In Paris and the 6 other large inland cities, many cafés-bars and restaurants are closed up to 4 weeks in August. Number of them are closed on May 1st, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st. On the coasts, they are often closed during Winter.
- Department Stores are generally open 7 days in large cities. Some of them are closed on May 1st, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.
- Stores / supermarkets: They are sometimes closed on Sunday in the countryside and small and medium size cities (not on the coasts in summer, nor in ski-resorts in winter).  Bakeries, butchers,  charcuteries (delicatessen) and "Primeurs" stores (vegetables) are generally open on Sunday until 1 pm; these stores are closed on Monday. Many stores and supermarkets are closed on May 1st, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st. In Paris and several other large inland cities, many stores (not the supermarkets) are closed up to 4 weeks in August.
NOTE: Some grocery stores called "Alimentation Générale" in large cities stay open 7 days from 10 am to 9 pm, including during Holidays and in August. They sell everyday stuff, food and beverages including wines. There are always a couple of them in each quarter of large cities. There are a bit more expensive.
- Hotels in the countryside and on the coasts are closed for 3 or 4 weeks in winter, except on the Riviera and in ski resort areas of course.
- Museums are generally closed on Tuesday, some on Monday. Many are closed on May 1st, July 14th, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st. Small towns museums are also closed during lunch time and during winter.
- Monuments are closed on May 1st, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.
7 - Weather 
Forecast on line: www.accuweather.com/en/fr/france-weather
Celsius into Fahrenheit? Multiply by 1.8 then add 32.
How is the weather all year long in France?
Note: "Southern France" or "Le Midi" begins under a line going from Bordeaux (west coast) to Briançon (eastern side), including the Corsican Island. See the small map at the top right of this blog.
- Spring: The northern France is sunny starting mid April with some rain storms. Temperatures are around 15 (56 F) degrees with chilly evenings, then go up to 20 (70 F) in mid May --- The southern France including Corsica is a bit warmer, although evenings are chilly until end of May. There are few rain storms and/or some high winds.
- Summer: The northern France is sunny, with temperatures around 25 (77 F) in June, up to 30 (85 F) degrees in July & August. There can be some rain storms --- The southern France including Corsica is hot but dry, up to 35 degrees (95 F) with few rain storms or/and some winds.
- Fall: The northern France stays sunny in September with temperature around 19 (65 F) degrees and some rain storms. October becomes a bit colder and has more rain and/or fog. End of November, temperatures fall to around 10 (50 F) degrees with rain in Paris region, Normandy, Champagne. North Pas de Calais & Picardie regions are foggy --- The southern France is a bit warmer, although evenings go from chilly to cold by the end of November. There can be some rain storms or/and wind on the coasts. The southwestern coast (around Biarritz) is quite rainy in October and November.
- Winter: The northern France including Paris goes from cold to very cold with temperature around 0 (25 F) degrees, particularly in eastern and northern regions in January and February. Snow falls sporadically from mid Dec. to mid March; there can be major snow storms in Nord, Normandy, Champagne, Alsace, Burgundy, Loire Valley and Paris region --- The southern France is generally a bit warmer, around 8 / 10 (45/50 F) degrees but nights are cold. They can be light snow storms in January and / or February.
8 - Preparing the Trip: Very Important Info / Check List
- Passport / Visa: Do I need a visa for visiting or a business trip? 
If you stay less than 90 days, visa is NOT required for the citizens from: US, Canada, any of the 21 European member states of the Schengen area (UK, Ireland, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Romania are not members). For any other country, it is recommended to contact the French Embassy or Consulate.
Don't forget to carry a copy of your passport in case it is lost or stolen.
- Dates in Europe are NOT written as in the US: days come first. It's DD/MM/YYYY > 22 Mai 2012 - 22/05/2012. Only the 1st day is ranked as "Premier" or "1er"; all other days have a normal numbering: 2 décembre, 10 mai, 23 juin, 30 juillet, etc.
- Language: a fair number of French under age 40 in large cities speak basic English but people living in small cities or in the countryside, including waiters and hotel clerks, speak very little English or no English at all. Anyway, you need to know basic words and expressions even in Paris. If you want to take some French classes in NYC or by Skype, contact me at  tbidault@fiaf.us. You can learn some vocabulary and expressions using my blog //speakfrenchenough.com/  combined with the audio site www.languageguide.org/french/vocabulary
Note: Learning programs are not efficient enough to help you with "street expressions": you learn how to say Bottle or Car in French but you don't know how to ask for half a bottle or a tow truck. Nothing replaces a native tutor!
- Euro currency: France and 18 Western European countries (except Denmark, UK and Switzerland) use the Euro "€" and do not accept dollars. You need coins at the arrival (for karts, buses, etc). Cabs generally do not accept big bills such as 100 €, some of them do not take plastic.
- Prices in France and most Europe are written a different way than in US: a comma replaces the dot of US prices and the currency comes after: 0,50 € (Cinquante centimes)  0,90 € (Quatre vingt dix centimes)  2,50 € (Deux euros cinquante)  5 € (Cinq euros)  15,20 € (Quinze euros vingt)  140,05 € (Cent quarante euros cinq).
- Taxes and Fees: all prices in France and most Europe are shown taxes included (TVA or VAT = 20% on most items, 10% for restaurants, 5.5% on food). If the VAT is not included, there is a mention "Taxe non comprise" or "H. T."  or "TVA en sus". On the other hand, the mention "Frais en sus" means that fees are not included (Packages, Rental, etc). Be aware that the service / tip is already included in most of the restaurant checks. Just drop a couple of Euros on the table, around 4 or 5%.
- Floor numbering in France (and in most European countries) start from a "neutral" floor or lobby called Rez de Chaussée or RDC in elevators. Therefore, a 1st floor in France is actually a 2nd floor in the US: US 4th floor = 5th floor in France; US 15th floor = 16th in France.
- Credit cards MasterCard & Visa are accepted almost everywhere in France, while Amex is less accepted; look for the stickers on doors. If there is a sign "Nous n'acceptons pas les cartes de crédit", it means plastic is not accepted. Taxi cabs do NOT always take credit cards: ask the driver before the trip "Vous acceptez les cartes de crédits?" In some café-bars and stores, you need to pay in cash for amounts under 10 €. Most European credit cards have a memory microchip (a French invention), therefore ATM's (Guichet electronique) and ticket vending machines do not accept cards without microchip. 
- Reservations: make your reservations in advance for cars, hotels, trains, domestic flights, and top restaurants. If you plan to go on a French coast or in Paris during June or July, make all your reservations at least 4 months in advance; it's the same for all ski resorts during winter.
- Create / carry a little card titled "En cas d'accident" (In case of accident) with: Je m'appelle (+ your name). Je reside (+ your address in France). Mon rhesus sanguin est (+ your blood type, if you are certain). Je suis allergique a (+ medication you're allergic to). Keep this card visible in your wallet. This is mandatory for any kid traveling with you! 
- Take with you any expensive or special medication you could need and spare glasses.
- Electric voltage: in France and most Europe it is 220 Volts, not 110; you need an electric adaptor as well as one for the plugs which have a different design. Some hardware stores have kits.
- Does your credit card include a travel insurance coverage? If not, you can get one from AAA, AmEx, etc, or contact your credit card company.
- Travel Guides & Maps: I recommend the Green Michelin guide for visiting a region and the Red Michelin Guide for hotels and restaurants. Both are available in large US bookstores or at www.amazon.com type: Michelin Guides. Frommer's is a good American guide www.frommers.com. City / subway / bus / tramway maps are called Plan de ville / du métro / des bus / des Tram and are often available in Tourist offices. Road maps - Cartes routières  are sold in some US large bookstores and in French bookstores and large gas stations; the Cartes Michelin are easy to read. For Paris, the pocket guide with maps "Paris Circulation" by Leconte is sold in main newsstands and bookstores (librairies). More information in Section 11.
- Preparing a trip by car: Distance, Time, Cost, Road to take, Sightseeing, Weather, Reservations, etc: www.viamichelin.com
- Foreign cell phones do not always work in Europe / France: contact your provider to find out if you have a coverage over there.
- Have locks on your entire luggage. If your suitcase is brown, red or black put a large yellow sticker / tag to avoid any mistake (from others) at the airport. Attach a tag with your address in France, not in your country: you don't want your luggage back home while you're in France; don't forget to change it as you go back home. Do not leave your bag or luggage unattended even 1 minute: pickpockets are fast and numerous in France!
- Take the address & phone of your embassy or of the closest consulate.
9 - Lodging: B&B, Hotels, and Renting
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
- Moving over there? http://france.angloinfo.com
- Students should also take a look at the section 16 below.
Make your reservation very much in advance if you go in June or July in Paris and on the coasts; same for all ski resorts during winter. Always get a confirmation email (or fax) including days, services and/or description and rates, fee and taxes. Make sure that your room is not side of a highway, a large street, a factory or above a night club. Avoid any suburban areas if possible. In Paris, avoid the Arrondissements (districts) 12, 13 south, 18 west, 19, 20 and any suburban area located in the north and north east. If you stay for at least a week or more in a large city, check "Renting" paragraph below: it could be cheaper.
- Airbnb It works for France but you must be cautious: 2 of my friends had bad surprises: a camping bed; no bathroom, just a sink. Ask for pictures www.airbnb.com
- B & B (Low cost lodging): 
Bed & Breakfast (Chambre d'hote) There is a fair number of them in France, generally clean and comfy, good for a couple of days www.bedandbreakfast.com/france.html. 
For 1 or 2 days in the countryside or in a mountain area, look for a Gite rural: it's a simple room in a house or farm http://en.gites-de-france.com/
- Hotels:   
The French hotel sector has improved since 35 years and bad surprises are rare. Hotel categories in France are similar as in other Western countries: luxurious hotels, good medium size hotels, simple hotels or village Inns (auberges), and hotel chains for 1 night on the go. Make sure your room is not side of a highway, a factory or above a night-club. In large cities like Paris, try to be side of the courtyard or garden, not the street.
The red Michelin Guide ranks hotels with 1, 2,3, or 4 stars (Etoiles). It is fair, data are updated each year, their inspectors are incognito. Most French trust the Michelin guide! 
- Check my Hotel Suggestions: Paris & its region, section 13 - Any other region, section 14. 
- For a night on the road, Ibis and Campanile hotel chains have affordable and clean rooms: www.ibishotel.com -  www.campanile.com
- "Relais & Chateaux" hotel members are mostly castles and mansions. Despite the exclusive category, they have great deals and fair rates: www.relaischateaux.com. 
- The French group Accor, world number 1 hotel & resorts operator, manages several categories such as Adagio, All Seasons, Sofitel, Novotel, Pullman, Motel6 in the US, etc: www.accorhotels.com
- Renting apartment / house for a short / long term:    
Begin your search several months in advance. If you want to rent for a week or so, check "For Short term" at the end of this paragraph. There are basically 3 ways to find the right place: a location recommended by a friend; a connection through your company if you go working over there; through researches and some luck. If you contact an "Agence immobiliere" (Real estate agency) make sure it is member of the "FNAIM" www.fnaim.fr/ or of the "UNIS" www.unis-immo.fr. Directly contacting owners is another option but you need to speak French fluently; for direct contacts look at the ads in local or national newspapers "Immobilier" section, paragraph "Location" (rental) or in "Particulier a Particulier" (individual to individual) weekly. "A louer" signs on building means For rent.
There is a rule number 1 for any renting: Avoid suburban areas of large cities and for Paris, avoid the following areas: Arrondissements (Districts) 12, 13 south, 18 west, 19 north, 20 and any suburban area located in the north or north east. Make sure the location is not along a highway, a factory, or above a night-club.  If you can't go there before signing an agreement, ask a friend / colleague you trust to check the location or ask for recent pictures of each room, of the building entrance and of the street. In any cases, you should get a copy of the leasing agreement a couple of days before signing; contact me if you need a translation. Make sure that any existing damages are mentioned on the contract agreement before signing. In Europe, non furnished apartments rarely have stove (Cuisiniere) and refrigerator (Refrigerateur); you could need to buy them (www.darty.com  www.conforama.fr). Utilities are rarely included in long term rental: for a phone landline, you have to contact the company "Orange"; for the electricity contact "EDF" company; for the gas you can choose between: Antargaz, DirectEnergie, Eni, GDF, etc. If you reside more than 3 months in a building with Concierge (alike a Super), make sure to establish good relations with them: they can help you for many "little things".  If you stay more than 6 months, you could have to pay a yearly local residential tax and also give some cash to the concierge for Christmas (around 100 euros). When you leave for good, make sure to have your security deposit refunded before leaving; do not accept any "I will send it to you".
For Short term (1 to 4 weeks): look for Appartement meublé (furnished) or for a Pavillon or Maison Individuelle (House). Visit those sites to  have some examples about size and rates: www.milleetunparis.com/en/ - http://www.lodgis.com/ - http://athomeinfrance.com - www.airbnb.com/ .  2 great real estate rental agencies were recommended by American friends: Guest Apartment Services (Paris) www.guestapartment.com and House Trip www.housetrip.com
For Long Term (1 year and up): for a long term renting, you pay a security deposit; legally it cannot be more than 2 month rent. In Paris and few other main cities, you could also have to give a "dessous de table" (under the table), some cash "directly" to the landlord to be the one "chosen" out of all candidates. Brokers take a fee up to 20 % of the monthly rent.
More info about moving over there: http://france.angloinfo.com
10 - Getting in / around France: Airport, Cab, Train, Car, etc.
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
- Skipping Paris? You don't always need to pass by the French capital coming from abroad: you can land in one of the airports listed below near the region you want to visit. Once in the region, you can rent a car or take a train / bus (see below by region). Flights are sometimes cheaper than TGV trains for a same trip lenght: compare rates and schedule www.tgv-europe.com/en/train-ticket and www.easyjet.com/ - www.ryanair.com/en
- International Airports "Aéroports internationaux" (not including overseas territories). The sign # indicates that coming from the US you have to transfer through either Paris, London or Brussels. There are also 190 local airports for domestic flights. Signs are in both French and English.
Paris Charles de Gaulle (Paris region) is located in Roissy, 18 miles north to Paris. It is served by RER trains and by express shuttle buses. Cabs (flat rate) and car rental are available. A TGV (High-speed trains) station is located inside CDG airport: they serve several regions / main cities (Lille, Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, etc.) and several neighboring countries. 
Paris Orly Sud (Paris region) is located in Orly, 10 miles south to Paris and served by RER trains and express shuttle buses. Cabs (flat rate) and car rental are available.
Lille Lesquin (North region  # ) is 12 km / 7 miles away from the city: shuttle buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Strasbourg Entzheim (Alsace and Rhine River  # ) is 12 km / 7 miles away from  the city: shuttle buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Rennes Saint-Jacques (Brittany  # ) is 10 km / 6 miles away from the city: buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Nantes Atlantique (Northern Atlantic coasts  # ) is 10 km / 6 miles from the city: shuttle buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Lyon St Exupery (Lyon and Alps  # ) is 25 km / 14 miles away from the city: buses, trams, cabs and car rental are available. 
Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne (Massif Central and southern center  # ) is 6 km / 4 miles from the city; TC2 buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Nice Cote d'Azur (Riviera and Southern Provence) is almost in the city: buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Marseille Provence (Provence and western Riviera  # ) is 25 km / 15 miles away from the city: buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Bordeaux Merignac (Bordeaux, Basque Country and Aquitaine  # ) is 12 km / 8 miles away from the city: Jet'Bus shuttles, cabs and car rental are available. 
Toulouse Blagnac (Southwestern regions  # ) is 8 km / 5 miles from the city: Tisseo shuttle buses, cabs and car rental are available. 
Geneva International Airport in Switzerland (Suisse): - 45 miles away from French Alps, 90 miles away from Lyon, Jura & Burgundy, 120 miles from Franche-Comté & southern Alsace. Car rental available.
- National Railways:
SNCF national railways company www.sncf.com/en_EN/flash/ operates 3 networks:  National regular trains Corail and High-speed trains TGV connecting all large and medium size French cities as well as several European cities; Regional TER trains connecting cities inside each region or 2 regions; Suburban Trains de Banlieue for the 9 French largest city suburbs and Transiliens trains (not the RER) for Paris suburbs. All SNCF trains are operating from train stations called "Gares": Paris has 6 Train stations, all other cities have at least 1 train station. Reservation for TGV is mandatory but you don't need to do it much in advance except during Holidays. Tracks are called "Voie". In some stations, you must stamp your ticket yourself  before getting aboard even for a suburban train: look for a 4-foot pole "Compostez / Validez votre billet" at the entrance of the platform.  NOTE: Some vending machines do NOT accept US credit cards without memory microchip; go to the window "Billets" of the station.
For all rail connections around Europe, check the site www.raileurope.com
- Taxi Cabs   
City cabs must have a sign on the roof; other are crocks! A cab can carry 3 passengers, sometimes 4 (van), 2 light bags in cabin and up to 3 suitcases in the trunk. Have 20 € bills ready. There are Flat rates ("Forfait") from Paris Airports: Roissy to Paris center 50 € - Orly to Paris center 37 €. Caution: some drivers do NOT take plastic anymore because of unpaid fares; ask the driver before the trip "Vous acceptez les cartes de crédits?" Do you accept plastic ("Oui" [wee] is Yes - "Non" is No). The far is indicated on the meter but there can be 1 euro difference when official rates have just changed. The tip is around 17 % of the fare. You pay around 1€ per luggage in the trunk, nothing for light bags in the cabin. To give the address, just say: "Bonjour, je vais (1 passenger) la / Nous allons (2 passengers +) la" and show a paper with the address or Bonjour, je vais / nous allons" + address. In Paris, Lyon, Marseilles, you need to mention the Arrondissement (district - See Section 11 Once in France, chapter Directions & Addresses): "Bonjour, je vais / nous allons dans le ... (arrondissement number: Premier, Deuxieme, Troisieme, etc)" + address. For other large cities, you just mention the area " dans le quartier ..." + address; for small cities, you just give the address. NEVER open a door side of traffic (mopeds and bikes are pernicious). If there is a sign / stand "Taxi" nearby, go there to get a cab. Drivers can refuse to go the opposite way from their home if their service is ending.
- Public Transportation in cities; Tickets or Passes        See also Chapter 11 - "Safety"
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
City Networks:
- Paris, Lyon, Marseilles, Lille, Toulouse, Rennes, and Rouen  have a subway network, tramways and buses. Bordeaux, Nantes, Caen, Strasbourg, Nancy, Grenoble, Nice, and a few other large cities have both tramways and buses. Other cities have buses. Subway generally operate from 5:30 am to Midnight or 1 am, a bit later on Friday and Saturday. Buses and Trams operate from 6 am to 9 or 10 pm; some lines do not operate on Sunday and during Holidays. SNCF Suburban trains operate from 5 am to 2 am. Avoid riding alone in cars after 8 pm and on Sunday.
- For Paris, check knowaboutparis.com section Getting Around - Transportation Systems
Tickets and Passes  for buses, subway, tramways, VAL:
If you just stay 1 or 2 day or will not travel much around the city, you can buy a 10 ticket book - Carnet de Tickets (pronounce: un Karnay dah tickay) in subway / tramway stations and in Bar-Tabacs (dark red lozenge sign outside). These tickets by book can be used for any network inside the city but there is NO transfer. Buses and Trams sell tickets per unite and only accept coins. Be aware that in some cities, ticket per unite are valid only during the day of purchase. If you stay 4 or 5 days in a large city, check for a tourist pass available for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days; there are also weekly passes "Hebdomadaire" and monthly passes "mensuel" (sold only the 1st day of the month). In few large cities, there is a 1-day ticket pass for unlimited use of all transportation networks inside the city limit.  For Paris, check my blog knowaboutparis.com section Getting Around - Transportation Systems.
You have to introduce the ticket or pass coupon in subway turnstiles. Aboard buses and trams, you must show your card with coupon to the driver or you must stamp your ticket unite in a small box generally located near the driver and at mid way in long buses. Caution: long bus trips in some large cities and the RER train in Paris region sometimes require 2 or 3 tickets; check the fare directory at the bus stop / station. Make sure to keep your ticket until you are off the bus / tram / get out of the station: controls are frequent and fines are very heavy! 
- Car Rental, Road rules, Gas prices, Insurance, etc.
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
Europe drives on the right, except UK and Ireland. Avoid driving inside Paris, Lyon, Marseilles, Nice and Strasbourg: you could get lost and parking spaces are rare!
- Preparing a trip by car: For distance, time, cost, roads to take, sightseeing, weather, reservations, etc: www.viamichelin.com
- US & European Drivers licenses (Permis de conduire) are valid in France. If you plan long drives or driving for more than 2 weeks, get an International Driver License (10 days to obtain it; USA: check with AAA). If you become resident, the law requires you get the country license.
- If you rent a car for more than a day, ask for a diesel engine: you cut gas expenses (France: 1 gallon of unleaded gas = $7.50).  Take a "Tous Risques" / full coverage insurance: it avoid huge bills in case of minor accident. Remember to specify you want an automatic: French use stick shift transmission. Make sure to check for the spare tire and that everything works before leaving the rental office! You find great deals at www.europcar.com/; they have many branches all over France and Europe.
- Road networks: "Autoroutes" (Motorways with code names: A1, A6, A13, etc.) have tolls but they are very "comfortable", well equipped and safe; 2 inconveniences: traffic jams can be awfully big, gas and services are expensive. Visit the  site: www.autoroutes.fr/index.htm?lang=en. Besides the Autoroutes, the French network is dense and composed of numerous large "Nationales"  highways crossing the country (N4, N6, N40, etc.) and  "Départementales" highways spread all over each Département districts of France (D20, D201, D780, etc.). All roads are generally in excellent shape and it is a pleasure to drive around the countryside. Road signs are clear and numerous, direction signs are abundant and efficient.
- Road rules are basically the same than in Europe and the US but there is 1 different crucial road rule in France: "Priorité a droite" or give the way to any vehicles coming from the right; this rule applies where there is no stop sign, no traffic light or cop, including on beltways and in parking lots. Also, there is no "All Stop" signs but there are "Stop" and Yield signs similar to ones in all Western Countries. There is no sign "One way" in France: red signs with a horizontal white bar mean "Do not enter" while a plain white round sign with red border means that vehicles are not authorized. Never pass a vehicle by the right on highways, it's not allowed. It is recommended to keep driving on the right lane except to pass; however, if the highway / motorway has 3 lanes or more, stay on the second line from the right to avoid vehicles entering the highway. If you're followed by a big truck, move on the right lane until it passed you. There are speed limits all over France strictly enforced by radars (speed signs are round, red and white with maximum speed in black). The limits are higher than in the US: Motorways with toll 85 mph, highways 65 mph, small road (Départementale) 55 mph, cities 30 mph. You could notice that too many French drivers don't read these numbers! 
- Road safety: make sure to keep your right in curves; check the way at crossroads even when you have right of pass / priority; be particularly cautious at dark when it's raining and on Friday and Saturday evenings; be aware that cattle and farmers vehicles can suddenly get out from a farm, a field or a forest on small countryside roads. In cities, be careful about bikes and Vespa's: they are numerous and they pass between vehicles. Never open a door side of traffic, except the driver. Do not drive / stop in bus lanes. Never stay in your car if you have a break down on a highway: take the ignition key and stay away from the traffic. Call the cops, dialing 112.
- In case of accident without injury: A document called "Constat Amiable" has to be filled on site by both parties. Normally, it is aboard the car and is made of 2 carbon copies, one for you, one for the other driver. The problem is that it is in French; you better ask / call your rental agency for help. Never let the other driver to fill it for you!
- In case of accident with injury: call the cops, dialing 112.
- Make sure to respect all city parking rules or you car will be towed in a second: avoid parking even a minute in bus lanes and delivery spot "Livraison", and in front of any entrance or building access. Also, some main streets in cities are parking / stop free indicated by rounded signals with a red multiplication sign on a dark blue background: police tow trucks are ready to strike! Parking meters work as in the US and other European countries; "Sauf Dimanche" on the meter means you don't have to pay on Sunday. Be aware that some parking lots close at 7 or 8 pm for the night.
- Gas stations in countryside villages are often closed on Sunday afternoon.
11 - Once in France: all you need to know
Addresses, "Arrondissements", Tourist Offices, Maps, Directions, etc.   
- Maps of France, Regions, Paris and Greater Paris: go to mapvisitfrance.com/
- Write down your residence address on a paper for personal use or to show to cab drivers, etc. Also, write down the name of the subway (Métro) station, tram or bus stop near your hotel / residence. In Paris, Marseilles, and Lyon, you need the Arrondissement or "Arrt" number to find or give an address to drivers: they are city districts which number is indicated by the 2 last digits in any zip code: 75002, 13010, 69006, etc. (75 stands for Paris, 13 for Marseilles, 69 for Lyon, etc.); People just mention the ranking number without the word Arrondissement: "dans le premier" (1st), "dans le deuxième" (2th), "dans le sixième" (6th), etc. For numbers in French, visit my blog //speakfrenchenough.com/ and for the pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/. In any large cities, there are also "Quartiers" which are more like cultural areas. When there is no Arrondissement people mention a quartier (kartié) saying: "dans le quartier de Bellevue ", "dans le quartier du Capitole", etc. Mentioning the Quartier is not mandatory for taxis. Downtown is generally called "Centre Ville". "La Banlieue" means the suburban area.
- Tourist Offices can have different names: at airports & train stations = Office du Tourisme or Information Voyageurs; in cities = Office du Tourisme; in towns = Syndicat d'initiative.
- Maps: City, bus, subway and tram maps are called "Plan", while country or region maps are called "Carte". You should be able to get a "Plan de Ville" - city map, even a "Plan du Métro" (subway) or "Plan du Tramway" or "Plan de Bus" at the Tourist Office.
For Paris, I recommend a great pocket guide with maps: "Paris Plan Eclair" by Leconte, sold at newsstands, bookstores "Librairies" or at Amazon.com (delivery in US). It is in French but you should be able to understand everything www.editions-leconte.com  You can also check my Paris & Greater Paris blog http://knowaboutparis.blogspot.com 
For a region, the Green Michelin guide by region is very helpful.
They are area maps at the entrance of most subway stations, on bus or tram shelters and in main street corners on the back of gray 8-foot high advertisement billboards.
On the road, you can buy "une carte routiere" (region map with main roads) in bookstores and gas stations. Michelin publishes convenient and easy to read maps. you can also check my blog mapvisitfrance.com/
- Directions:
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
- To give directions in cities, French do not use "block" (Paté de maisons); they mention short distances in meters (1 mètre = 1.09 yard) or refer to 1, 2 or 3 "feu" or traffic light. For more details, check my blog //speakfrenchenough.com/ .
- If you visit a crowded / large location in group, make sure to decide of an area of meeting in case someone gets lost; that is particularly important for kids and people who don't speak French! 
- Preparing a trip by car: Distance, Time, Cost, Road to take, Sightseeing, Weather, Reservations, etc: www.viamichelin.com
Prices, Fees, Tips, Taxes, VAT refund 
- Again: Prices in France (and most Europe) are written a different way than in US: a comma replaces the dot, the currency comes after: 0,50 € (Cinquante centimes)  2,50 € (Deux euros cinquante)  15,20 € (Quinze euros Vingt)  110,05 € (Cent dix euros cinq).
All prices are taxes included (20% on most items, 10 % for restaurants, transportation, 5.5% on  electricity, food, shows, drinking water). If not, there is a mention: "TVA non comprise" or "H. T."  or "TVA en sus". "Frais en sus" means that fees are not included.
- Tips: Checks in restaurants (L'addition) already include the tip or "service" (around 15%); just leave 5% in euro coins on the table, a bit more in exclusive / top restaurants. You should tip cab drivers around 17% of the fare. Do not tip hotel concierges, except if they are really helpful in finding opera seats, a table in an exclusive restaurant, or good deals for a tour. You can tip 10€ a very helpful housekeepers if you stay more than 4 days in the hotel. If you rent an apartment, go to section 9 Lodging - Renting for tipping the "concierge" (alike a super).
- VAT refund is attached to a specific procedure: you must spend a minimum of 175€ in the same store on the same day where the tax was charged to have these purchases eligible for the detaxe refund. This is what makes the Grands Magasins (Bon Marché, Galeries Lafayette, Printemps) such a great shopping destination. As you pay, don't forget to ask for the form "Bordereau de détaxe": you have to present it with the purchased items at the customs. Check www.parisescapes.com/paris_department_vat_refund.html  There is NO VAT refund for European Union citizens. 
Safety    See also Emergencies below
Some worst cases scenarios occuring during a trip:  www.parisescapes.com/paris_worst_case.html 
- Crime rate (assault, shooting) is very low in Western Europe but there are expert pickpockets and thieves! Close your bags in public places; don't leave your bag or suitcase unattended even 10 seconds; don't leave your wallet on a counter or a table even in front of you (thieves run faster than you); don't show maps and camera or that you carry 30 € or more in your wallet: you become a target; avoid begging Gypsy kids who often are organized pickpockets; always lock your car doors even for 1 minute; don't leave bags (even empty), coats, cameras, or luggage visible in the car: there are "walking thieves" who break in the car only in a second. 
- Never ride alone in subway or train car and don't walk alone in corridors; wait for at least a couple of people (men and women) to be around. Don't stand near the track.  
- As a pedestrian, be careful about the speeding bikes and small cars in bus lanes or between buses or along trucks. Don't trust others people: always check by yourself before crossing a street even when it's your turn. Pedestrians don't always have priority at crossing areas even with the right of pass; many traffic lights have a green arrow allowing drivers to turn on the right while the red is on and they sometimes force the way between pedestrians. Be aware that some bus lanes go against the traffic in cities. Never open a car door side of the traffic, particularly with Taxis: you are 100% responsible in case of accident. 
- Do NOT ride a bicycle in busy city streets: cars have no care about bikers. Avoid the highways and be careful at dark on the countryside roads (make sure to be visible).
- Guns and weapons are forbidden all over France / Europe, except for hunting.
- French authorities never joke with public safety / terrorism and it started years before 9/11. Don't even think to leave a luggage or bag unattended even 1 minute in a public area: that would start a mini war situation. A recent article in the New York Times told the story of an American family that forgot a small suitcase at Paris Montparnasse station. In the next following minutes, the station was evacuated and the luggage perforated with a mini explosive charge. Curiously, only the laptop inside was damaged as it was identified as the threat by X-rays. A Special Force officer later said to the family that it was a "normal way to react" in France since the 80's: " We never take any risk". The penalty was 250 €, beside damages.
Cafés-bar, Bistros and Restaurants 
- Most French people have a regular timing for eating, therefore restaurants and bistros serve from noon to 2 pm and from 7 to 11 pm / 12 pm. Café-Bars at the corner of the streets as well as fast food restaurants serve non stop. Few "real" Brasserie-Restaurants serve all day long. See details below in paragraph "3 types of restaurants". 
- The check in bars & restaurants already includes the tip or "service" 15%. Just leave few euro coins on the table, around 5%. In Café-bars you need to pay in cash for small amount under 10 euros. Otherwise, you can pay with MasterCard or Visa, sometimes Amex; always look for the stickers / notices on the doors or menu: "Nous n'acceptons pas les cartes de crédit" means they don't take plastic.
- Check for the "Plat du Jour" (Daily dish) or the "Menu a Prix Fixe" (Fixed Price Menu): it always cheaper with fresh food.
- Waiters often speak basic English in large cities, rarely elsewhere. Never call them "Garcon", address them as "Madame" or "Monsieur". By the way, don't be surprised: French waiters rarely seem happy to serve you: nothing personal! For ordering, etc., look at "Once at the restaurant" below.
- Organic food? Look for the mention "Bio" - Vegetarian is "Vegetarien". You find vegetable dishes in any brasserie and restaurant, even when they are not specifically vegetarian. 
There are 3 types of restaurants:
Café-Bars or Café-Brasseries or Bistros at the street corners sell beverages, coffee, tea, hot croque-monsieur (alike a panini), sandwiches, salads, tarts, ice creams, and sometimes a "Plat du Jour" (dish of the day) for lunch. You just enter, sit and order. They are open from 6 am / 7 am until 7 pm / 8 pm. Many are closed on Saturday and/or Sunday, for 3 weeks in Summer (in Winter on the coasts), as well as during these holidays:  May 1st, May 25th, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st. NOTE: for French people "Bistros" are not real restaurants: unlike in the US, Bistros are just simple "Café-bar" at the corner of a street.
Restaurants serve during specific hours (see above). They get their grades / rank from guides: for instance, the Red Michelin Guide attributes stars "Etoiles" yearly, ranking from 1 to 4. Most French trust the Michelin guide. It is recommended to reserve if you go between 7:30 and 9 pm. They are sometimes closed on Sunday and for 3 / 4 weeks in summer (in Winter on the coasts), as well as during the following 2015 holidays:  May 1st, May 25th, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st. Make your reservation at least 1 / 2 days in advance (not for bistros), 2 weeks in advance for exclusive top restaurants.
Real Brasseries (not Café-Brasserie) are generally large locations with a big menu and sometimes a seafood stand; they serve 7 days a week from 11:30 am to midnight / 1 pm, all year long. You find around 12 of them in Paris, and 2 to 4 in other large cities. There is no reservation: be ready to wait around 8 pm. 
As for an "emergency", the restaurant chain Hippopotamus has branches in main cities, also open all day long, 7 days a week; check below.
How to find a restaurant?
The Red Michelin Guide is probably the world best guide for French restaurants in France. Created 80 years ago, it is serious about food, incognito inspectors never go to a same place twice. Data are updated every year. Most French trust the Michelin guide!
My suggestions for Paris: section 13; for any other region / main city: section 14.
Also, for a casual meal in large cities, try the chain "Hippopotamus": there are open all day long, 7 days a week, have nice grilled steaks / chicken, great French fries and fine desserts; look for "Liste de restaurants" by city on the right side of the site www.hippopotamus.fr/ .
If it's for a quick / simple meal on the road, try the good and affordable grill restaurant chain www.courtepaille.com or the restaurants of the hotel chain www.campanile.com
On the other hand, Relais & Chateaux organization has great / luxurious restaurants members, often located in castles or mansions; prices are generally fair, sometimes even affordable despite the category: www.relaischateaux.com.
Once in the restaurant:
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
Average restaurants rarely have an hostess for seating. Wait at the entrance: a manager, Maitre d., or waiter will comes to you. If you made a reservation, just say Bonjour / Bonsoir (at dark), j'ai une réservation au nom de (+ name). Or they could ask "Vous avez réservé?" (Do you have a reservation?); just say "Non" (no) or "Oui, au nom de (+ name)". Or they can ask "Combien de personnes" (How many guests); just give the number: Un; Deux; Trois; Quatre. If there is no table available they say: "Désolé, je n'ai pas de table / Nous sommes complets / Je vais devoir vous faire attendre (I will have to make you waiting)". As the table is ready, the host / hostess / waiter says "Suivez-moi" (Follow me) or "Par ici" (This way).
After you get seated, they should bring a menu. To get the menu, ask "La carte, s'il vous plait". The "Menu a prix fixe" (fixed price menu) or the "Plat du jour" (daily dish) are generally cheaper and fresh. To order, say "J'aimerais .." (I would like ...); most French say "Je voudrais ... " but it's more direct. At the beginning, waiters often ask "Désirez-vous boire quelque chose / un apéritif?" (Would you like a drink first?). You can order "une Evian" (bottle of Evian), a Coca, a Whiskey, a Kir Royal, a bottle of wine, etc., or just say "non, merci" (no thanks). For the wine, I recommend any Bordeaux Cabernet or Merlot with name "Chateau ..... " and the mention "Appellation Controlée" on the label; if you are only 2 drinkers ask for "une demi-bouteille" (Half a bottle - not available for all the wines), for at least 3 drinkers ask for "une bouteille" (A bottle). Avoid any wine in "carafe"; the waiter should open the bottle in front of you. In French restaurants, you have to ask for tab water since they don't automatically bring a glass of water: ask for "une carafe d'eau". Bread & tab water are free if you order food. For the brand water, you can ask for half a bottle: une "Demi ... Evian / Vittel / Badoit (lightly sparkling) / Perrier, etc. For a 1 liter-bottle, just ask "Une Evian", "Une Vittel", "Une Badoit", etc.. If you are not used to drink strong Express coffees, ask for a Café américain / allongé (more water in) / au lait. For anything else check //speakfrenchenough.com/  sections B and C. At the end, you have to ask for the check: "L'addition". Remember that the tip / service 15% is already included in the check; just leave around 4 or 5% in coins on the table, 7% in top exclusive restaurants.
Buying food & Shopping: Opening hours, Tax, Bag, Weight, etc.
- When you enter a store, don't forget to say "Bonjour" (hello), even if nobody looks at you.
- Opening hours / days
Stores and Department stores are generally open non stop from 8 or 9 am to 7 or 8 pm. Most of them are closed on Sunday and for these holidays: May 1st, May 25th, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st. Supermarkets are closed during holidays and on Sunday.
Boulangeries (bakeries), Boucheries (butchers), Charcuteries (super delis / trattoria) and Primeurs (vegetables) are often open on Sunday morning and sometimes closed on Monday. 
Grocery stores called "Alimentation Générale" stay open until 9 or 10 pm, on Sunday and during holidays; you can always find a couple of them in medium and large size cities. 
Banks are open from 9am to 4pm and are closed on Sat & Sun as well as during holidays. 
Administration offices are closed Sat & Sun. Post offices stay open Saturday morning.
- All prices are tax included. For a VAT refund, see "Prices, Tips, Taxes, VAT refund" in the paragraph above.
- You can pay in cash or with Master card or Visa, sometimes Amex; look for stickers on the door. Avoid big bills and plastic for amounts under 10 euros: some vendors do not accept them.
- Buying everyday stuff, bread, food, clothing, pastries, etc.
For Paris, look at the section 6 in my blog http://knowaboutparis.blogspot.com/
- For everyday stuff such as food, water, batteries, shampoo, tampons, go to a Superette (local mini supermarket) such as Franprix, 8-a-Huit, G20, Proxi, Spar, etc. Supermarchés and Hypermarchés (large supermarkets) are mostly located at the city limits or in suburban areas: look for Auchan, Carrefour, Champion, Cora, Géant, Leclerc, Mousquetaires, Super U.
- Organic food or products? Look for the mention "Bio" ("Naturel" does not mean organic). 
- Kosher food or products? Kosher is "Cacher" in French www.kosherinfrance.com
- Boulangeries (Bakers) and Patisseries (Pastry shops) sell bread, croissants, quiches, salads, sandwiches, cookies and pastries; the best bakery chain is "Banette" (indicated on the sign). For dishes to take out (A emporter), go to a Charcuterie or a Traiteur that are super delis. In the largest cities, Monoprix stores have sometimes a "traiteur" department; Lenotre is a luxurious traiteur chain www.lenotre.fr in Paris and Cannes; Fauchon luxurious traiteur chain www.fauchon.fr is in almost every large cities ; Hediard, luxurious traiteur chain www.hediard.com is mostly in Paris region. The Bon Marché Department store in Paris has a great traiteur section. There are also markets / farmer markets (Marchés) in many cities on Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm.
- Buying Medications : they are only sold in real pharmacy. See "Emergencies" below.
- For clothing and accessories at fair prices, look for Monoprix www.monoprix.fr/ or Galeries Lafayette www.galerieslafayette.com (click "nos magasins" at the top). Both companies have branches in large cities.
- For hardware stuff, look for a "Quincaillerie" or for Castorama or Monsieur Bricolage chain stores.
- Stores called "Drugstores" (in English) are actually a blend of restaurant, gadget store, pharmacy, and movie theater. There are not real drugstores and prices are generally high. 
- Bags and services
For a bag, ask "un sac". For wrapping, ask "enveloppez s'il vous plait". For a gift wrap, ask for "un paquet cadeau s'il vous plait". The Customer Department is called Service Apres Vente or Service clients. There is NO refund in France except for an evident default of the product (under 4 days; receipt required).
- Weight and sizes
Units for weighting food are Gramme and Kilogramme (1 kg = 1000 grammes). But under 1 kilogramme clients and vendors use La Livre (1 pound or half a kilogramme) for products such as vegetables, fruits, grounded meat, and butter. Example: une livre de carottes (1 pound of carots), une livre de fraise (1 pound of strawberries), une livre de boeuf haché (1 pound of grounded beef), une demi-livre de beurre (half a pound of butter or 250 gr.), etc. Caution: UN livre (Masc.) means a book.
For clothing and shoe size, the calculation is more complicated: look at your dictionary or check this site for equivalence http://goeurope.about.com/cs/shopping/l/bl_clothes_size.htm
Emergencies, Physicians, Pharmacies        911 = 112  you need to speak French!
Vocabulary: //speakfrenchenough.com/ Pronunciation: www.languageguide.org/french/
- This website could help you a bit www.parisescapes.com/paris_medicine.html
- Physicians have a sign "Docteur" or "Medecin" on their door; you can walk in for small emergencies. Physicians often speak basic English in large cities. Ask the US embassy for the address of English speaking doctors: //france.usembassy.gov/
- There are public hospitals in most French cities: Emergencies are called "Urgences". Interns often speak basic English. "Clinique" are private hospitals without Emergency room.
There is an American Hospital located in Neuilly-Sur-Seine, a west suburb of Paris. www.american-hospital.org 
- In Paris and other main cities, there is "SOS Medecin", an organization providing doctor emergency visit at home. Rates are a bit higher but it's so convenient! www.sosmedecins-france.fr (in French).
- Pharmacies are called "Pharmacie"; they only sell medications (no CVS or Duane Reade style) and have a green cross sign; if a pharmacy is closed, the address of the closest open one is posted on the door. In Paris, several pharmacies are open 24/7: 84 Avenue des Champs Elysees (8e Arrt), 6 Place Clichy (17e Arrt), 360 rue Lecourbe (15e Arrt), 125 rue de Charonne (11e Arrt).  Pharmaciens speak very basic English in large cities.
Police    911 = 112    You need to speak French or ask someone to call them!
Police is "Police" in cities, "Gendarmerie" in the countryside. We address them as "Monsieur" or "Madame". Police stations are called Commissariat in cities, Gendarmerie in the countryside and villages. Few officers speak English but in Paris, they have a small country flag corresponding to the spoken language (British flag = English). Police officers in uniform can ask your ID ("vos papiers d'identité") or car documents ("les papiers du vehicule") anytime without any reason. Detectives (no uniform) must show their Police ID first, with picture & number, with Police and a French flag. If you are arrested, ask for calling your embassy; Police cannot deny this right and cannot keep you more than 48 hours at the station without meeting with a judge. You have the right for a free attorney after 48 hours.
Post Office, Stamps, Cell Phones, Calling Home, Internet
- Post Offices & Stamps
Look for the yellow sign La Poste. There is at least 1 post office in any city, 1 or 2 by quarter / arrondissement when the city is larger. Post offices are open weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm and Saturday from 8 am to noon.
You can buy stamps at the post offices and also in any Bars-Tabac (dark red lozenge sign) at post office rates. "Marchands de Journeaux" stores in the countryside sell stamps.
- Calling home - Phone booths
If you don't have an international cell network, you still can call home from any place in France. Just know that according to the location, prices vary and it can be expensive. To call abroad from France, dial 00 + Country code + number. if you don't know your country code, look in Phone booths. To prevent thieves stealing coins, most phone booths required a card ("Carte telephonique" sold in Bar-Tabac) or you can use your credit card.
- Cell phones to buy
Bic company proposes a disposable cell phone called "Bic Phone" for 50€. There is no contract, it's ready to use for 60-minute calls and SMS; you can add minutes with a "mobicarte". It is sold in Bars-Tabac and supermarkets.
- Internet & Minitel
Starting in 1979, France Telecom proposed the "Minitel", a French free Internet system in mini computer used as a phone book, for reservations, online orders and even chats. The "real" Internet that came later in 1985, is available everywhere in France. There are 48 millions of Internautes (internet users) in France, making France the world 3th country in proportion to its population. Internet is found in hotels, cyber cafes, post offices and in every French home! 
12 - The Top 10 most beautiful views in France
- Paris: view from the Eiffel Tower 3rd floor or from Montmartre Sacré Coeur Basilica or Notre Dame Tower
- Mont Saint Michel: view of the Mount from the Normandy coast
- Cap Frehel (Brittany North coast): view of 2 little British islands and of the Mont Saint Michel on the Atlantic Ocean.
- Vezelay (Burgundy): view of the 30-mile plain from the Basilica terrace at the top of the hill
- Annecy (Savoy): View of the Lake of Annecy and of the Alps mountains from the Forclaz mount
- Canyon Gorge du Verdon (Provence): view of the 5 mile canyon from one of the mounts
- Nice (Riviera): night view of the whole coast from the hill above Nice
- Puy de Sancy (Massif Central): view of the volcanoes and valley from the Puy de Sancy mount
- Pic du Midi: (Pyrenées): View of the Campan valley from the 2877-meter mountain, that shelters a space observatory (open to public once a year).
- Bonifacio (Corsica): view of the Sardinia coasts and of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea water from the cliffs near Bonifacio.
13 - Visiting Paris and Ile de France (Paris and its region) 
Go to my Blog Paris & Ile de France: click knowaboutparis.com
14 - Visiting Regions / Cities of "province" (everywhere except Paris)
- For a Map of France and the regions, please click mapvisitfrance.com/
- About the regions of la province:
The term Province (not Provence) defines all regions, except Paris and its region "Ile de France". There are 13 administrative regions in France, each one including 2 to 4 "Départements" (alike mini states). Since these administrative regions do not reflect the cultural reality, I present below a selection according to each regional identity. I skipped some regions that make trips too complicated for foreign visitors: Pas de Calais (North), Ardennes, Picardy, Center, Franche-Comté, Jura and Poitou-Charentes. I apologize to my fellow citizens inhabitants of these areas: their regions are as beautiful and interesting as the others but costs and traveling time are masters for tourism!
- Guided Tours Cityrama and ParisVision
To visit cities or regions with guided tours, check Cityrama  and ParisVision websites: www.pariscityrama.com/ -- http://en.parisvision.com . Both companies propose tours in Paris, in Versailles, Fontainebleau, etc, as well as 1 to 3 day excursions to Giverny, Loire Valley, Mont Saint-Michel, Burgundy, Champagne, Provence, etc. They have a long experience and a fine reputation; their buses or boats are comfortable, secure, with multi language translation.
- Monuments, Museums, etc: Passes & Closing days
I listed main city museums and monuments in the "Region by region" section below. Interesting websites for: Museums www.picturalissime.com/musees_paris_france.htm  Monuments www.monuments-nationaux.fr/en  Cities www.france-voyage.com/travel-photos
Passes: All parks and most gardens are access free. You pay to access most monuments and all museums. If you visit several museums in Paris, it is a good idea to get a pass; see my blog about Paris. For other regions, I don't recommend a "French National Pass": you need to visit a lot of museums. You better check for a pass city by city.
Closing days: Museums are generally closed on Tuesday, some on Monday such as Orsay in Paris. Most of them are closed on May 1st, May 25th, July 14th, Nov. 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st, but you need to check for other holidays in medium and small size cities. Small countryside museums are sometimes closed during lunch time. Most monuments stay opened all week long, however they are closed on May 1st, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.
33
                                            REGION BY REGION  work in progress for the last 3 regions
- Maps of France, Paris, Regions, Motorways, etc: mapvisitfrance.com/ 
- Info by region www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-regions/index.htm    
- Pictures are on the right side --------------------------------------------------- >>
- 5000 Pictures of France www.france-voyage.com/travel-photos
- Pictures of museums by region: www.picturalissime.com/musees_paris_france.htm
- National Monuments website: www.monuments-nationaux.fr/en
w
For Paris and its region, please click knowaboutparis.com
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Reservation mandatory for all locations   
Legend:       *   **  Quality / Services     *   **  Favorite location      CL ...  Closed ...    
F = Formal clothing required      € = Euro     1er, 9e, 18e = Arrondissements (districts of Paris, Lyon, Marseille)
44
Normandy: Giverny, Deauville, Caen, Bayeux, Mont Saint Michel 
Pictures 1 - 2 - 3  >>
Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours, Section 14 above.
You can reach Deauville by train in 2 hours from Paris and rent a car there to drive around Normandy. However, driving from Paris to Honfleur takes only 2 hours by motorway A13 (toll) and makes the whole visit easier: you can also stop by Monet's house in Giverny at mid way to Normandy. Since Normandy is divided in 2 parts by the Seine River, you need to do a short detour by the small northern part, in order to visit Rouen, Fecamp and Etretat. Driving back toward the southern part, you should pass the giant recent "Pont de Normandie" bridge (doubling the smaller Tancarville Bridge) and reach Honfleur on the coast, before heading toward Deauville, Caen and Bayeux. You could end your tour with the Mont Saint Michel located on the western side of Normandy. It is possible to do the whole visit the other way around beginning with the Mont Saint Michel; however, any direct trip by car from Paris to the Mont takes up to 5 hours and the shortest drive is through Normandy anyway, using the A13 + A84. Some of my readers went directly to Caen by train, rented a car, then visited Normandy starting from there.
The best months for visiting are May, June, July 1 to 15, September, and first 2 weeks of Oct. For swimming and for tan, the best period is June 25 to July 15. August is too crowded. Summer weather is generally hot, up to 90 degrees, but spring can be either sunny or chilly, with rain storms: it's a lottery! Deauville organizes an American Film Festival in September. Rouen organizes a 2-day rally of the world largest sailing boats every 4 years in July. 
In 911, French King Charles III gave a territory to the Viking Norman chief Rollon; his purpose was to stop frequent & bloody Norman attacks on his kingdom. The territory was later called "Normandie".  In 1066, Guillaume le Conquérant (William the Conqueror), vassal of the King of France and Duke of Normandy, left his birthplace Caen in Normandy to invade England and became the first Norman King of England. Four hundred years later, Johan of Arc was executed at the stake in Rouen, a main harbour of Normandy which was an English enclave at that time. Charles VII kicked the English out from Normandy in 1453; since then the entire region is part of France. In June 1944, allies begun the invasion of Europe from the coasts of Normandy.
As you enter Normandy, Giverny, located 60 miles away from Paris, is a small village where the house of Monet is kept as it was when the painter was alive. It includes a garden with the famous lilies pound and Japanese bridge. A Musée of Impressionist, that also displays American works, is located 2 blocks away. Avoid Saturdays during spring and summer. http://fondation-monet.com/fr/
About 35 miles passed Giverny, a highway connects to the city harbour of Rouen standing a bit north to the Seine River. Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431 in the center on Place du Vieux Marché; there is nothing remaining from this period.  The 13th century Gothic cathedral and its Tower of Beurre was the subject of 60 paintings by Monet. The Musée des Beaux-Arts (fine arts) displays great collections, including of course works of Impressionist painters.
The 2 charming neighboring cities of Fecamp and Etretat are located on the coast, 35 miles west to Rouen, a bit to the north of Le Havre large harbour city. There are 2 reasons for a detour: Etretat cliffs are probably among the most beautiful of France, including a natural high "arch" that inspired painter Monet. Fecamp shelters a sumptuous 16th century Benedictines Covent designed by a Venitian monk (inspired by Da Vinci?). Besides, this covent produces the famous Benedictine Liquor, appreciated by connoisseurs. 
Built over the Seine River, the surprising Pont de Normandie cable-stayed bridge is the second highest and longest bridge in the world (the first is in Japan) raising at 190 feet above the river, with 2 towers reaching 215 meters (a 60 floor building). It doubles the ancient and smaller cable-stayed Pont de Tancarville that also connects northern and southern Normandy. Le Havre city, on the northern coast, was the destination for Transatlantic cruisers coming from New York; it is now a commercial and tankers harbor.
On the southern coast, the charming small harbor city of Honfleur 1 is made of doll like buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Samuel de Champlain left Honfleur in 1604 and founded Quebec region in Canada few years later. Tourists can stroll in small ancient streets and do some window shopping or just stay at the terraces of cafés near the entrance of the charming bassin. In the center city, the Musée des Impressionistes is devoted to the "Ecole of Honfleur" created by Boudin, Courbet and Monet who initiated the movement. On the hill above the city, the Ferme Saint Simeon Inn was originally a bar where the painters liked to meet; the view is impressive. You can reach the Ferme by foot from the harbour in 15 minutes. 
10 miles to the west from Honfleur, the famous resort city of Deauville, nicknamed "Plage de Paris" (Paris beach) has its population almost doubled during summer. Large beaches expand 3 miles from the resort city of Trouville on the east to the west of Deauville. Dozens of cubicles wearing the names of stars since 1930 are lined along the sandy beach, in front of the large casino, beside a miniature golf, a horse riding rink, movie theaters and thalasso SPA centers. It is perfect for relaxing, swimming and shopping from mid June to end of July but the city is over crowded in August. A dozen of horse races normally organized in Paris are moved to Deauville during summer. There is no real museum in Deauville but several "Galeries d'art" have exhibits that can satisfy painting and sculpture amateurs.
Located 25 miles in land to the south from Deauville, Lisieux with the 20th century Sainte Therese Basilica is still one of the important stages for Catholic pilgrims. It is not worth a detour except if you practice the Catholic religion.
Cabourg, another resort city on the coast near Deauville, is more "modest" but tourists and swimmers can find more affordable lodging there as well as several nice sandy beaches. 
Caen, the inland capital of Lower Normandy, deserves a short visit: William the Conqueror's 11th century fortified castle is still standing in the center of the city. One can notice that many buildings around are new (for France anyway): the area was heavily bombarded for several days during WW2 invasion but curiously, the castle escaped from destruction; 2 tours are organized every day. The neighboring Musée des Beaux-Arts (fine arts) presents Flemish, French and Renaissance collections. In a near suburb, the large Memorial Museum is mostly devoted to the 1944 ally invasion but also has exhibits about the Shoah, the Berlin Wall, the 9/11 attack in NY, etc . www.memorial-caen.fr
Still inland, heading north from Caen, you reach Bayeux: beside the sumptuous 11th century Gothic Cathedral, visitors can admire the Tapestry of Queen Matilda 2 at the Musée de la Tapisserie: the wife of William the Conqueror spent several years to tell the story of her husband on a 70 meter long embroidery. You could also be surprised to see the Haley Comet represented on one of the tapestry panels. www.tapisserie-bayeux.fr
On the coast again, Arromanches and the D-Day invasion beaches display bunkers, tranches, tanks,  canons and even remains of the artificial harbour built in June 1944; the D-Day museum is awesome: www.musee-arromanches.fr. All World War II cemeteries located around, such as in Colleville or Bayeux, are territories given by France to Britain, Canada, Germany, the US, etc. Associations of French locals take care of the tombs, cleaning them and putting flowers all year long.
Last but not least, the marvelous Mont Saint Michel 3 is a "must see" located 60 miles west from Caen: a medieval village and its basilica stand atop a mount raising from the ocean! It is the second most visited French monument after Versailles Palace www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjvjQPdTtRU Tours from Paris are organized by Cityrama and ParisVision; check their links in section 14.
The Normandy cuisine is rich and tasty: Andouille de Vire dry sausage, Tourteau Crabs, Spiny lobster, Clams and Oysters, Trips, Sea scallops in cream and Calvados sauce, Veal in cream, Duck in cider, Sole fish Normand way with creamy sauce, Camembert and Pont Leveque cheeses, Calvados alcohol and Cider. The "Trou Normand" is a small glass of Calvados alcohol drank in the middle of the meal to help with the digestion! The (real) Normandy cider is delightful and perfectly refreshing in summer.
Hotels selections:                        All updated 05/28
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr
Honfleur: **** Ferme Saint Siméon, 20 Route Adolphe Marais - View to the bay, SPA - From 180€  F Eve
Deauville:  ***  L’Augeval, 15 avenue Hocquart de Turtot - Comfy - From 110€
Deauville: ****  Le Normandie, 30 rue Jean Mermoz - On the beach - From 230€ 
Cabourg: ** Hotel de Paris, 39 Avenue de la Mer - On the beach - From 90€ 
Bayeux: ***  Hotel Tardif, 16 rue de Nesmond - In the center; "Guesthouse" - From 100€
Mont Saint Michel: *** La Mere Poulard - Superb area, simple location (Rest. disappointing) - From 150 €
Restaurants selections:
Rouen: ** La Couronne, 31 Place du Vieux Marché - Cuisine ok, nice decor - From 25€  
Honfleur: ** Le Vieux Honfleur, 13 quai Saint Etienne - Good cuisine; terrace - From 28€ 
Honfleur: *** Ferme Saint Siméon, rue Adolphe Marais - Good cuisine; incredible view - From 60€ lunch / from 80€ dinner  F Eve
Deauville: *** La Belle Epoque, 38 rue Jean Mermoz - Good regional cuisine; nice decor - From 50€.
Deauville: * Week-end, 22 rue Olliffe - Simple cuisine and decor; terrace - From 20€.
Caen: ** Initial, 24 rue Saint Manvieu  - Nice cuisine & decor - From 28€.
Bayeux: *** Le Lion d'Or,  71 rue St Jean - Fine Normand cuisine, great decor - From 80€.  
Arromanches: ** Bar de la Marine, Quai du Canada - Good cuisine; great view - From 25€.
Mont Saint Michel: ** Le Pré Salé, near the Mont - Good cuisine; classic decor - From 40€.
Champagne: Reims, Epernay & Troyes
www.ville-reims.fr - www.ot-epernay.fr/ - www.tourisme-troyes.com 
Pictures 4 - 5  >>
Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours, Section 14 above.
You can reach Reims from Paris by TGV (High Speed Train) in 50 minutes and rent a car. However, driving from Paris to Reims takes only 2 hours by motorway A4 (toll) and makes the visit of Epernay and Troyes much easier. The best months for visiting are May, June, July, August, September.  
Champagne! You know that name, right? Pierre Dom Perignon, a French monk, found a way to produce Champagne in series from simple southern sparkling wines in 1668. Real Champagne wines come only from 3 small areas inside the Champagne region; Reims and Epernay are the cities where are located the most famous companies producing the "precieux liquide". 300 million bottles were sold in 2010; there are around 20 000 Champagne producers (yes, 20 000!) but only 100 of them export their production.
Part of the Frank Kingdom as soon as 450, Champagne became independent in 843 then was integrated to the Kingdom of France in 1284.
The 1st king of the Franks, Clovis, was baptized in 496 in Reims, capital of the region. Tourists can visit some of the largest cellars 4 in the city: Clicquot Ponsardin, Mumm www.mumm.com, Taittinger www.taittinger.fr/, etc. Besides, the architecture of the center city is interesting: the small streets around the cathedral are a blending of medieval and renaissance styles.  The 13th century Gothic Cathedral is older than Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and as beautiful; it is where King Charles VII was consecrated in presence of Joan of Arc in 1429; 390 years later, Napoléon Bonaparte was crowned Emperor in the Cathedral. The remains of King Carloman 1st, Louis IV, and of Bishop Remi who baptised Clovis, first king of France, are kept in the 11th century Saint Remi Abbaye; it also shelters the Saint Remi Museum devoted to archeology and history. The Musée des Beaux-Arts (fine arts) located in the same area has one of the most impressive collection of paintings in France. If you like cars, the Musée de l'Automobile displays an incredible collection in a suburb of Reims.
Epernay, located 15 miles south from Reims, is the other city with wine cellars of several "Grandes Maisons" such as Moët www.moet.com, Perrier-Jouët, etc. It is also nice to stroll in small ancient streets of the center city including several Renaissance mansions, as well as a couple of particular churches such as Notre Dame and Saint Jacques. No one can miss the weird tower of the Champagnes de Castellane, besides the Mercier Champagnes house, where you can enjoy some tasting.  
55 miles farther to the south, Troyes  5 is a medieval city with ramparts that shelters 8 amazing ancient churches; the Grand Order of the Templar Knights was constituted in the suburb of the city in 1128. In the medieval streets, the Musée Saint Loup presents Ancient Art and Archeology collections, while the Musée of Modern Art is surprising by the size of its collection. There are no real cellars in Troyes but its fine restaurants serve samples of the great regional cuisine: Crayfish in Champagne, Poularde (young hen) in Champagne, Veal sweetbreads in cream, Trips, Chaource & Cendré cheeses, Champagne sorbet. The Kir Royal is actually the Champagne version of the original Kir of Dijon in Burgundy made of white wine and black current syrup.
Hotels selections:                        All updated 05/30
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Reims: **** Chateau les Crayères, 64 Boulevard Henry Vasnier - Exceptional - From 350€
Reims: **** Grand Hotel des Templiers, 22 rue des Templiers - Classy - From 195€ 
Troyes: *** Le Royal, 22 rue Carnot  - Simple but comfy, in the center - From 105€
Restaurants selections: 
Reims: **** Chateau les Crayères, 64 Boulevard Henry Vasnier - Top cuisine & decor - From 55€  F Eve
Reims: **  Table des Moulins, 58 rue des Moulins - Good cuisine, simple decor - From 26€
Epernay: *** La Cave a Champagne, 16 rue Leon Gambetta - Lot of Champagne sauces, nice decor - From 26€
Troyes: ** Damier, 10 rue de la Madeleine - Regional & new cuisine; simple decor - From 25€
Troyes: *** Le Royal, 22 boulevard Carnot - Great regional cuisine, nice decor - From 30€
Troyes: ** Table de Francois, 18 rue Juvenal de Ursins - Nice cuisine, simple decor - From  25€
Loire Valley: Blois, Amboise, Chambord, Chenonceau, Tours, Saumur 
The world largest Entertainment Park: each of the 12 most important castles propose various attractions.
http://loire-chateaux.org    www.ot-saumur.fr/Chateaux-de-la-Loire_r21.html
Pictures 6 - 7 - 8 and regional map   > >  >  >                       
Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours, Section 14 above.
You can reach Tours, largest city of the Loire Valley, by TGV (High-speed Train) from Paris in 90 minutes then rent a car there. Driving from Paris to Blois located in the north of the region, takes 2 hours by motorway A10 (toll); it prevents several back and forth drives from/to Tours. Note: Blois is NOT served by TGV trains.
The best months for visiting are May, June, July, September. In June and July, waiting lines can be long. Visitors should remember that, beside basic guided tours, several castles propose interesting and/or entertaining shows on their own. You pay to access all castles.
The Loire Valley has the world biggest concentration of castles on an area not larger than 70 square miles.  From the 15th to the 17th century, the Loire Valley was the residential area for rich aristocrats, ministers, and monarchs. It seems that all those men and women challenged each other for the most beautiful residence and furniture. One king did a lot for the valley, starting  around 1516: Francois the 1st was a warrior but also a lover of Renaissance art and artists supporter. After he conquered northern Italy, he invited several artists to reside in the region. Among them, Leonardo Da Vinci spent the last 5 years of his life in Amboise; his famous painting Mona Lisa (La Joconde) is now displayed at the Louvre Museum.
You can plan your trip using the website http://loire-chateaux.org but I recommend the following locations from north to south: Blois, Chambord, Cheverny, Amboise, Chenonceau, Tours, Villandry, Langeais, Azay le Rideau, Ussé and Saumur.
Blois, the most northern city of the Valley, borders the Loire River. It is a sample of what several cities of the valley offer to visitors: a sumptuous 13th century renaissance Chateau Royal favorite to several kings of France, a charming renaissance center city, a 18th century bridge, etc. It is a pleasure strolling on the bank of the Loire River, enjoying the architecture of the city. In the center, the small ancient streets such as Rue Saint Lubin allow the visitors to discover several remarkable monuments:  the Gothic Saint Louis Cathedral built in 1697, the Gardens of the Evêché with a large view of the city, and the Saint Saturnin Cloister, originally built during the 10th century, destroyed and rebuilt 4 times until the 15th century. www.chateaudeblois.fr/  Since a decade, Blois went crazy about chocolate: dozens of "chocolatiers" propose marvels; Try the Duc de Guise store.
Located 14 miles to the east from Blois, the Renaissance castle of Chambord 6 is impressive and sumptuous. Ordered by Francois the 1st in 1519, it is the largest castle of the valley with 426 rooms. Among other parts, Da Vinci designed an astonishing double-helix staircase. Louis the 14th added several apartments in 1684. Guided tours of the castle are organized all year long www.chambord.org
Driving south, you meet with Cheverny, built in 1624. The magnificent interior decor, the abundant furniture, the numerous tapestries and paintings are exceptional. Tours are available and worth the time and fee. www.chateau-cheverny.fr/
The 16th century Beauregard castle and its park deserves also a detour. It was a hunting lodge for King Francois the 1st. Inside the castle, the gallery of 300 portraits of famous people is intriguing and playful. 
The magnificent city of Amboise 7 standing along the Loire River shelters several treasures: the superb 15th century castle of Amboise and its chapel Saint Hubert are built on a terrace protected by a rampart. www.chateau-amboise.com/en/  A walk on the bank below gives an impressive point of view of the ensemble. Few blocks away from the castle, the "Clos Lucé" mansion, former house of Leonardo Da Vinci, includes a great museum devoted to the artist inventor. You could enjoy very much strolling in the old center city, particularly Rue Nationale (street), including several renaissance mansions and the 15th century Tour de l'Horloge or Clockwork Tower, as well as the 11th century Saint Florentin church. In the same area, German sculptor Max Ernst designed a contemporary art fountain.
Located in a southern suburb of Amboise, the small 18th century Chateau de Chanteloup is surrounded by large gardens including a surprising Pagoda style tower built along a private lake.
The chateau de Chenonceau 8, located 15 miles south west from Amboise, is the most visited castle in France after Versailles. Built over the Loire River, this superb castle bridge received the nickname of "Chateau des Dames" or Castle of the Ladies: it was designed by Dame (Lady) Catherine Briçonnet in 1513. Twenty years later, King Henry II offered the castle to his mistress Diane de Poitiers who devoted her time to decorate the large rooms. When Henry accidentally died, his wife Catherine de Medicis kicked out the mistress and entirely redecorated the castle and the park. When the French revolutionary people destroyed some of the aristocrats properties, it is again a woman, Louise Dupin, who prevented its destruction. In 1894, it became the property of a rich widow, Marguerite Pelouze. During an official visit in France in 1988, Princess Diana insisted to visit the castle. Another great Dame! You will certainly enjoy the tour including the gardens and the maze: www.chenonceau.com/   www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUt1Y63K560&NR=1 .
There are several sites to discover in the medieval city of Tours, the region capital, standing along the Loire River. The 18th century bridge Pont Wilson permits a great view of the whole city and of the charming bank. The castle is actually modest (for the region) except for the 11th century dunjeon; unfortunately, tourists cannot visit this site. On the other hand, visitors can enjoy discovering the old quarter "Chateauneuf" made of small medieval and renaissance streets. Some superb mansions such as the 15th century renaissance Hotel Grouin add to the architectural beauty. In the same area, the marvelous Place Plumereau with Tudor style houses is a "must see".  Spread around the center, the 12th century Saint Gathien Cathedral, the 14th century Saint Martin Chapel, and the remarkable Museum of Beaux-Arts (fine arts) are essential parts of the visit. Also near the center city, the Roman ruins of Caesarodorum (Roman name of Tours) deserve some time: the ancient wall, the remains of the arena and few other Roman ruins show how the town was during the 3th century. Tours is large enough to offer quality entertainment, shopping and diners. Buses serve the city from 5 am to 9 pm.
Villandry, few miles south from Tours, is another beautiful castle built in 1536. But it is its incredible gardens "a la francaise" that stay in the memory of most visitors; it is better to see them from mid May to mid September. Guided tours of the castle and gardens are available.
The marvelous Chateau de Langeais, originally a 10th century fortress, was rebuilt in 1461. Its design remembers of a medieval style, with towers, boasts, a wall walk, and a drawbridge. Langeais is also the most fully furnished castle of the Valley. I recommend you prepare your visit to find out about all interesting parts: www.chateau-de-langeais.com
The amazing castle of Azay le Rideau was built on an island of the Indre river around 1520. The renaissance exterior staircase is one of the first in its style. Visitors can take a tour to discover the sumptuous apartments. http://azay-le-rideau.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/
The Chateau d'Ussé is one of the most surprising castles of the region: it inspired Charles Perrault in writing the fairy tale "The Sleeping Beauty". Started during the 15th century, the construction is a superb blending of Gothic, medieval and renaissance styles. It includes several towers with crenels, a chapel and an orangerie house, as well as a park "a la francaise" made of parterre terraces. There are guided tours of the privately owned property and a show reminder of the Sleeping Beauty: www.chateaudusse.fr/
Saumur, 35 miles away to the west, is not only interesting for its marvelous 16th century fortified castle, the renaissance center city and the ancient Cessart bridge but it is also the cradle of the famous horse riding military school "Cadre Noir": the visit of stables, the horse training, and other exhibits  are exceptional! You need to reserve since there is no regular guided tour www.cadrenoir.fr/visites-groupes 
The Tourraine cuisine is good, although not very diversified: Chouée (Cabbage in white wine), Andouillettes (tripe sausages), Leak tart, Kidneys in cream, Saint Maure goat cheese and Nantais cake. All that comes with the nice Chinon or Sancerre wines.
Hotel selections:                   All updated 05/31
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Blois: *** Hotel Mercure, 28 Quai Saint Jean. On the River, top services - From 140€
Amboise: *** Le Choiseul, Quai Charles Guinot. View on the River - From 240€
Cheverny: ***  Chateau du Breuil. Beautiful and romantic - From 140€
Tours *** Hotel du Manoir, 2 rue Traversiere. Romantic, cute and comfy - From 90 €
Tours: **** Domaine de Beauvois, Pont Clouet, at Luynes (9 miles from Tours) - From 190€ 
Chargé (near Amboise): **** Castle Chateau de Pray - Castle: superb decor - From 185€ 
Restaurants selections: 
Blois: *** Orangerie du Chateau, 1 Ave Jean Laigret - Top cuisine, superb decor - From 40€
Bois: ** Duc de Guise, 13 Place Louis XII - Fine for lunch; Ice creams are wow! - From 30€
Tours: ** La Deuvalière, 18 rue de la Monnaie - Creative cuisine but simple - From 27€
Cheverny: *** Castle Chateau du Breuil (by Road D52) - Sumptuous decor, fine cuisine - From 37€  F Eve
Chargé (near Amboise): **** Castle Chateau de Pray - Fine cuisine, superb decor - From 65€   F Eve
Marcay (Near Chinon): *** Castle Chateau de Marcay - Good cuisine, great decor - From 55€
Alsace: Strasbourg, Route du Vin, Colmar, Cruises on the Rhine River 
www.tourisme-alsace.com/
Pictures 9 - 10 >> 
You can fly to Strasbourg from Paris and abroad or reach the city by TGV (High Speed Train) from Paris in 3 hours. The drive from Paris by motorway A4 (toll) takes 6 long hours. The best months for visiting are May, June, July, September.
Spreading along the Rhine River, Lorraine and Alsace regions moved back and forth in French and German hands during the 20th century. Both regions were highly industrialized because of coal mines until the 60's. After World War I, they returned to France and stayed part of the Republic even during the World War II German occupation. By the way, don't say to Alsatians  their accent is German: they consider themselves more French than the French!
Because of the presence of the European Parliament since 1978, Strasbourg (City of Streets, in Alsatian), capital of Alsace, is expanding and passed from the rank of 12th largest French city to 8th in only 25 years. But the city has kept its charms and a particular Alsatian style: the "Petite France" 9 is a very romantic quarter with water canals and wooden houses on bridges. Notre Dame Cathedral is a Gothic marvel which building started in 1015. Some museums in Strasbourg could be compared to Paris ones by their size and quality: the large Palais Rohan museum presents 3 different themes: Archeology, Art Deco, and Classic Art. The Oeuvre Notre Dame museum is devoted to Medieval and Renaissance art. The Musée d'Alsace is devoted to a rich and intriguing Alsatian history. By the way, Gutenberg invented the printing process in Alsace and is celebrated all over the city. The Jardin des 2 rives (Garden of 2 Banks) is a European dream come true: visitors pass from one bank to another, from France to Germany, just strolling in a superb garden without any sign of frontier. The European Parliament welcomes visitors, except during a session; it is located in the northern part of the city near the magnificent Parc de L'Europe.
A cruise 10 on the Rhine River starting from Strasbourg is an amazing experience: passengers can admire castles, banks and valleys while enjoying classy meals: www.croisieurope.com .
Wine amateurs can enjoy visiting several wine cellars of the "Route du Vin" or Wine Road on the way to Colmar located in the southern part of Alsace. Guided tours are available from Strasbourg www.alsace-route-des-vins.com/.
Colmar, located 50 miles south from Strasbourg, is considered as the capital of the Alsace Wines. The magnificent and charming center city, blending of middle-age, renaissance and Alsatian style, is nicknamed "The Little Venice" because of colorful wooden houses bordering small canals. Some splendid 2 or 3-floor Alsatian style houses have specific regional architecture and are called "Maison": the 15th century Maison Adolphe, the 16th century Maison Pfister and Maison Jund, the 17th century Maison des Tetes which displays about 100 decorative heads on the facade, etc. I recommend strolling in the Rue des Marchands and Grande Rue (streets): visitors enjoy window shopping and/or having a break sitting at the terraces of little bars. Still in the center, the 13th century Saint Martin Collegiale church as well as the famous and remarkable Musee Unterlenden that shelters a large collection of modern art really deserve a visit. There are several other sites to discover such as the old Guards house, the ancient custom center, etc. Colmar is the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi who designed the Statue of Liberty: a replica of the Statue stands at the northern entrance of the city and a museum celebrates the creator; by the way, another statue is located in Paris on the Seine River, near the Eiffel Tower.
Alsatian cuisine is excellent and Strasbourg has several chefs famous all over France. Among other dishes, there are the Beer soup, the Backoefe 3 meats, the Choucroute, Paté de Foie gras, Frog legs, Grumbeerekiechle Potato Galettes, various Pork Sausages, Munster cheese, Apple strudel & Clafoutis cakes, etc. For the wines: Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Riesling, Sylvaner, and Cremant d'Alsace.
Hotel selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Strasbourg: *** Régent Petite France, 5 rue des Moulins - Superb area; comfy - From 160€
Strasbourg: ** Hannong, 15 rue du 22 novembre - In the center; comfy - From 95€
Colmar: ** Hotel Turenne, 10 route de Bale - Center city; comfy - From 110€
Restaurants selections: 
Strasbourg: **** Le Crocodile, 10 rue de l’Outre France (near cathedral) - Incredible Alsatian and traditional French cuisine; fine service - From 70€  F Eve
Strasbourg: *** Maison Kammerzell, Place de la Cathédrale -  Great Alsatian cuisine; nice decor - From 45€
Strasbourg: *** Pont Saint Martin, Rue des moulins; Petite France - On a bridge with view! From 35€
Strasbourg: ** Maison des Tanners, 42 rue du Bain aux Plantes - Good Alsatian cuisine, simple decor - From 30€  
Strasbourg: ** Le Tire Bouchon, 5 rue des Tailleurs de Pierre - Good Alsatian cuisine, weird decor - From 28€
Colmar: ** Maison Rouge, 9 rue des Ecoles - Good Alsatian cuisine, nice decor & service - From 26€
Colmar: *** Maison des Têtes, 19 rue des Têtes - Great Alsatian cuisine, great decor - From 29€ 
33
Addresses & Pictures of main museums by region:  www.picturalissime.com/musees_paris_france.htm
5000 Pictures of France www.france-voyage.com/travel-photos
Maps of France, Paris, Regions, Motorways, etc: mapvisitfrance.com/
Legend:   *   **  Quality / Services     *   **  Favorite location      CL ...  Closed ...    
F = Formal clothing      € = Euro     1er, 9e, 18e = Arrondissements (districts of Paris, Lyon, Marseille)w

Burgundy (Bourgogne): Vezelay, Dijon, Beaune, Route des Grands Crus, Citeaux
www.bourgogne-tourisme.com 
Pictures 11 - 12 - 13  >> 
Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours, Section 14 above.
From Paris, you can reach Dijon by TGV train in 1 hour 45 minutes, then rent a car there. However, driving from Paris  to Avallon (northern Burgundy) takes only 2 hours by the motorway A6 (toll) and makes the visit easier; it also prevent several back and forth trips (Beaune and Dijon are located in southern Burgundy). 
The best months for visiting are May, June, July, August, September, and October (Sept & Oct are harvest months). Summer can be pretty hot but is dry. 
La Bourgogne begins 50 miles south east from Paris. It is a beautiful green and rich region with many castles, fortified farms and medieval villages. In 50 BC, J. Caesar and the Gaelic Arvern chief Vercingetorix fought in Alesia (today Alice Sainte Reine). During the "Pax Romana" period, Augustodunum (today Autun) was the cultural capital of "Gallia" (today France). Around 280, the Germanic tribe Burgondes (Burgundians) invaded the large eastern area of the Roman Gallia, expanding from Lutetia (Paris) to the Lake of Geneva. They never gave up their territory! In 1145, Abbot of Clairvaux, envoy of the Pope, called for a second crusade from Vezelay. During the 15th century, the Burgundy province became a powerful entity, managed by the Valois Dukes of Burgundy, expanding from the Lake of Geneva to Belgium and rival to the Kingdom of France. The Bourguignons (Burgundians) arrested and judged Joan of Arc as an heretical before to "offer" her to their English allies. Bourgogne became part of the Kingdom of France in 1477 as the last Duke Charles died at the battle of Nancy before having a son.
Visiting Burgundy is a very "calming" and interesting experience, because of many ancient sites, beautiful forests, hills and valleys, charming inns and hotels, with one of the best regional cuisines in France and the world best wines, all that without dealing with  too many tourists. 
Barge apartments are available for rent in summer, for a cruise on the magnificent Canal de Bourgogne: you can stop and visit a castle or a medieval village or have a picnic or a meal in a inn www.burgundy-canal.com/. 
Burgundy also shelters the Buddhist Temple Paldenshangpa La Boulaye near Le Creusot. It is possible to reside in the center for a session of Tseu www.paldenshangpa-la-boulaye.com
If you take the TGV from Paris to Dijon, scroll down this section to Dijon; you can rent a car there, visit the city and have some wine tasting around Beaune. Then head north (scroll up this section from Dijon) to visit other great sites, such as Alesia, Fontenay abbey, Tanlay catsle, Vezelay, etc. 
Coming by car from Paris using the motorway A6 (tolls), you should exit at Avallon in northern Burgundy: the city medieval quarter includes a superb 11th century church, a 15th century clock tower and 15th century ramparts (Note from the author: Avallon is my birthplace). I recommend to make the short drive to the charming little Vallée du Cousin, just 1 mile from Avallon through its ramparts, passing under the Tour de l'Horloge - Clock tower: you can have a pick-nick along the Cousin river in the small quiet valley or enjoy a lunch at the Moulin des Ruats hotel, a former mill hidden in the forest along the river (see address below). www.moulindesruats.com/en/
About 10 miles away from Avallon, Vezelay 11 is a middle age village with a 11th century basilica on top of a hill; the 2nd and 3rd crusades were launched from there. The ramparts date from the 12th century, while the 5 towers of guard are from the 14th century. The 8th century crypt below the trancept of the basilica is the remaining part from the original Carolingian abbaye. The view from the gardens is sumptuous: the plain of the Serein is expanding on 30 miles. 
Heading back toward the east for about 20 miles, you reach an area "crowned" by 3 castles: the superb 16th century renaissance castle Ancy le Franc designed by the Italian architect Serlio, another guest of King Francois the 1st (see Loire Valley); the marvelous 17th century castle of Tanlay surrounded by a moat; few miles south, the sumptuous 12th century Bussy Rabutin castle shelters a remarkable gallery of portraits. All 3 castles welcome visitors from April to October. There are several other beautiful private owned castles in the area but they do not accept visitors .. unfortunately!
Going south, tourists meet with several ancient villages such as Tonnerre with a large and deep water abyss in the center, the 13th century fortified Thizy on a hill, Pancy with a 13th century dungeon (a former property of my family), the 11th century Montreal village 12, and Epoisses home of a 12th century castle open to visitors (the city produces a great smelly cheese!). 
In the same area, the 12th century Fontenay Abbey is famous worldwide for its architecture. Few miles away, Alesia site (near the village of Alice-Saint Reine) includes astonishing ruins of a Roman Gaelic village and a small Paleontology museum. Under a giant statue of the Avern Gaelic chief Vercingetorix riding a horse, there is a panoramic view of the 50 BC battle fields: Julius Caesar has hard time against the troops of the "Barbarian" chief but finally won after a 6-month siege. 
Only 10 miles away south, you can rent a pedal boat or swim in the clean waters of Lac de Pont (Lake) or simply enjoy a picnic in its large forest. The area is crowded during summer weekends. 
Heading south, you pass along the superb Morvan mounts and valleys and reach Dijon, former capital of the Valois Dukes of Burgundy, rivals to several kings of France. This is the perfect place to buy various Dijon Mustard samples! You should also be satisfied by the old city center and its superb renaissance architecture, with dozen of old wooden houses and several interesting sites. The large Palais des Ducs - Palace of the Dukes with high tower and chapel 13, built in 1365 and altered several times by the Dukes, shelters one of the largest museums of France, the remarkable Musee des Beaux Arts (fine arts); it includes collections of paintings and sculptures from the 13th to the 19th century. Few blocks away, visitors can discover some Classic Art at the Musee Magnin. Notre Dame de Dijon, a 13th century Cathedral, is a marvel of Gothic work and has intriguing series of Gargoyles; Its Jacquemart has an animated clock work every hour. There are several other beautiful churches in Dijon center such as Saint Michel and Saint Begnine with typical Burgundy style multicolor roof. For the fun of window shopping while admiring ancient wooden houses or for a beverage, I recommended Rue de la Verrerie, Place des Ducs, and Place Francois Rude. Close to this Place, the city market glass roof was designed by Gustave Eiffel who was born in the outskirts. If you prefer Botany, Sciences and Astronomy, you should visit the surprising Jardin des Sciences Museum, avenue Albert 1er.
Nearby Dijon, the Clos de Vougeot Castle is the headquarter of the Confrerie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, a 350 year old brotherhood that celebrates and select the best wines of Burgundy, which means the best wines in the world! It is surrounded by large vineyards.
15 miles south, Beaune, the world capital of wines, shelters the sumptuous 15th century "Hospices", a former free hospital managed by nuns until 1950; a world famous wine auction is held in the great hall each year in November since 1851. The roof is made of multicolor tiles, in a typical Burgundy style and its museum includes 900 art works. www.beaune-tourism.com/discover/the-hospices-de-beaune
Several tours of the Route des Grands Crus (Top Wines) start from Beaune: you can taste Aloxe Corton, Chambertin, Chambolle, Romanee, etc. www.route-des-grands-crus-de-bourgogne.com 
The remarkable 12th century Citeaux Abbey is not far away to the south (and its cheese is famous). Few miles away from Citeaux, Augustodunum or Autun was the Roman cultural center of "Gallia" from 30 to 15 BC. The center city had several amazing ancient buildings: the fortified door Saint Andre that allowed access to the Roman town, a temple devoted to the God Janus, the tomb pyramid of a grand Celt druid, and the large ruins of an amphitheater. More recent, the 12th century Gothic Cathedral deserves also a visit.
The city of Macon, along the Saone River, is the most southern point of Burgundy and another area for tasting Burgundy wines (less impressive than the Route des Grands Crus though). The particular architecture of the 19th century Saint Vincent Cathedral shows that the south is not so far, while the center city shelters some beautiful medieval houses. 
La cuisine bourguignonne (from Burgundy) is one of the best and richest in France: Escargots, Saupiquet (vegetable and ham stew in Chablis wine and cream), Foie Gras in brioches, Jambon a la Lie des Grands Vins (Entire ham cooked in top wines sediments with truffles sauce), Beef Bourguignon (cooked in red wine), Chicken Bourguignon, Rapis aux truffes (Truffles into Potato galettes), Gougeres (light cheese soufflee biscuit), Epoisses & Citeaux Cheeses ... and the real mustard!
Burgundy also proposes the best wines in the world: Chablis, Chambolle, Chambertin, Corton Charlemagne, Batard Montrachet, etc, etc. The famous (real) Kir is made of Burgundy white wine and a large spoon of Cassis (Blackcurrant) syrup of Dijon.
Hotels selections
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Avallon: *** Moulin des Ruats, Vallée du Cousin (2 miles from city) - So charming! - From 160€
Avallon: *** Relais Fleury, Route Nationale 6 (3 miles, near A6) - Pool in summer - From 120€
Vezelay: **** L’Espérance, Saint Pierre de Vézelay - Luxurious; superb area - From 300€
Beaune: *** Hostellerie de Levernois, Beaune-Levernois - Absolutely charming - From 185€
Dijon: *** Hostellerie Chapeau Rouge, 5 rue Michelet - Nice & well located - From 170€
Restaurants selections: 
L'Isle-sur-Serein (my hometown, 10 miles from Avallon): ***  Le Pot d'Etain, main street - All my American friends said: wow! From 30€   Make sure they are open before to go.
Avallon: ** Moulin des Ruats, Vallée du Cousin - Good regional cuisine, charming location (Mill on river) - From 30€ 
Vezelay: *** L’Espérance, St Pierre de Vézelay - Exceptional regional cuisine; fine service & decor - From 90€  F Eve
Dijon: *** Stéphane Derbord, 10 place Wilson - Great regional cuisine, nice decor & service - From 55€   F Eve
Dijon: *** Le Pré aux Clercs, 13 place de la Liberation - Fine regional cuisine, nice décor & superb view of the Ducal Palace, great service - From 50€ (lunch) / 65€ (dinner)  F Eve
Dijon: ** L'Escargot, 43 rue Jean Jacques Rousseau - Typical cuisine, simple décor & service - From 32€
Beaune: ** Aux Vignes Rouges, 4 Bd Jules Ferry - Good creative cuisine, small portions, great room - From 40€
Chagny (Near Beaune): *** Lamenoise - Great regional cuisine, friendly ambiance & service - From 45€   F Eve
Brittany or Bretagne: St Malo, Cap Fréhel, Rennes, & Carnac Stone Edges  
www.brittanytourism.com/
Pictures 14 - 15  >>
Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours, Section 14 above. 
You can reach Saint Malo or Rennes in 3 hours from Paris by TGV (High Speed Train) then rent a car. I recommend you rent a car in Saint Malo and start your visit from this city (make sure you can drop the car in Rennes at the end). Driving from Paris to Saint Malo or Rennes takes up to 6 hours. The best months for visiting are May, June, July, August, September. For a tan and / or diving and swimming on the coasts, the best period of June 25 to July 15.
Bretagne is the nose of France, a big nose! The region is Celt since around 1000 BC and never forgot its origin: this is the "Breihz" country as the locals call it or Celt country. Children still learn Breihz in school and the Celt Bignou music instrument is direct cousin to the Irish and Scottish pipes. Each year in the superb city of Roscoff, Celts from around the world meet to celebrate their commun origin. Standing Stones are numerous in the southern part. Brittany is also the birthplace of Jules Verne, of famous pirates such as Surcouf or Jean Lafitte who helped US General A. Jackson fighting the British Navy. Several famous contemporain sailors were born there, such as Eric Tabarly who won twice the single-handed transatlantic race and established 2 world records crossing the Atlantic. 2 Navy military schools, a large Navy base and a nuclear submarine base are located in Brittany. 
Tourists enjoy very much the whole region: the coasts of Bretagne are gorgeous, ancient harbors and fine beaches are numerous, while the inland is wild, with centuries old villages and churches here and there.  www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fT50PRH_KA&NR=1
Begin the trip with the ancient fortified city of Saint Malo 14 located on the northern coast, not far from Normandy and Mont Saint Michel. This is where from Jacques Cartier left in 1530 to discover a new territory he named Canada. The "Ville des Corsaires" (City of Pirates) includes a large and active commercial harbor, with a medieval center city perfect for strolling and shopping.  Several superb sites deserve a visit: the 12th century Cathedral Saint Vincent, the 15th century Castle of the Dukes and  Grand Donjon (Dungeon), as well as  the long 17th century ramparts built by Vauban, famous military engineer of Louis the XIV. 
If you want to experience a short cruise, several ferries do the daily trip from Saint Malo to the charming British Islands of Jersey and Guernesey, located 30 miles north off the coast.
On the same northern coast, 18 miles farther to the west, the superb Cap Frehel in the Armor area appears to visitors after they passed the city of Dinard: the Cap is made of rocky cliffs and sandy beaches perfect for either diving or swimming in June and July. The view to the northern Atlantic and Jersey Island is breath taking when the weather is fair. 
Located 35 miles farther to the west in the Finistere area, after the city of Saint Brieuc, the Baie de Morlaix is considered as one of the most beautiful baies of France. This amazing large "opening" facing the city habor of Morlaix includes several small islands. One of them is crowned by the Chateau du Taureau (Bull castle), a 16th century fortress that was protecting the harbor. Tours are organized but not on regular basis: check the site www.finisteretouring.com/en/index.html. This area is also known for its excellent oysters, crabs and spiny lobsters! As I mentioned above, the nearby city of Roscoff organizes important Celt festivities once a year. 
Heading to the center part of Brittany, 20 miles before reaching Rennes, the Forest of Paimpont (or Broceliande) is home of the tomb of (real) Merlin the Wizard, who was actually a Grand Celt druid. Unfortunately, the tomb is difficult to find because of a lack of signs.
Rennes, capital of Brittany, is a potpourri of architecture from Middle age to today: the 12th century Rue Saint Yves and its chapel, the 14th century Saint Pierre Cathedral, the 15th century Saint George Palace, the 18th University Palace, the 19th century Palace of Commerce, the 16th century Parliament of Brittany (that partly burned in 1994), the 18th century Opera house, etc. Of course, there are several interesting museums, such as the Musée des Beaux Arts (Fine arts) located on Quai Emile Zola, or the Musée of Bretagne at the "Champs Libres", an area devoted to art and creation. If you want to relax on the grass, go to the quiet Parc de Maurepas or enter the sumptuous Parc du Thabor with a lake. 
Rennes suburbs have their treasures too: for instance, the medieval city and 13th century castle of Chateaugiron is one of them. By the way, the area around Rennes is called "Maine" and this name is 1000 years old; guess who copied it for a state name? 
On the southern coast of Brittany near Vannes, the site of Carnac 15 is absolutely amazing: hundreds of Menhirs (standing stones) are aligned in perfect parallel lines expanding on 2 square mile. These 2 to 4 tons stones are dated from around 3300 BC. At each end, large dolmens and stone edges are geometricaly placed to achieve an impressive design. How all these stones were cut, carried, then perfectly aligned in 3300 BC without any cranes and tools? Some say that aliens helped humans for this incredible task (History Channel - "Ancient Aliens")
Few miles to the west of Vannes, the beautiful island Belle-Île, "Enez Ar Gerveur" in Celt, stands 9 miles off the coast. Ferries do the trip several times a day from the city of Quiberon. On this small island, the time seems never getting a grip: stone edges appear here and there all over the island. The monastic Bangor village and its ancient farms on Ile de Bangor (another neighboring island) are  marvels. 
The cuisine bretonne is not heavy and is very enjoyable: mostly based on seafood and shellfishes, it includes several specialties such as the "Homard a l'Armoricaine" (Lobster in crayfish tails, tomato and cream sauce). The tasty artichokes of Brittany are exported all over Europe. Since you are in Bretagne, you cannot skip the delicious oat Crepes and hot Galettes with many savoury or sweet variations, the kouign amann cake, and the good Cider of Bretagne. The cookies "Galettes de Bretagne" are perfect for the sweet tooth. 
Hotels selections: 
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Saint Malo: *** Le Beaufort, 25 chaussée du Sillon - View on the sea; comfy - From 110€
Rennes: ** Anne de Bretagne, 12 rue Tronjolly - In the center; comfy - From 110€
Rennes: *** Anne de Bretagne, 12 rue Tronjoly - In the center; comfy - From 100€
Restaurants selections:
Saint Malo: *** Le Chalut, 8 Rue Corne de Cerf - Good seafood & cuisine - From 28€
Saint Malo: *** La Duchesse Anne, 5 Pl. Guy La Chambre - Great cuisine & decor - From 35€  F Eve
Saint Brieuc *** Quatres saisons, chemin des courses at Cesson - Great & Fresh! - From 40€
Rennes ** les Carmes, 2 rue des Carmes - Good cuisine, simple decor - From 25€
Rennes *** Les Tourelles, Château d'Apigné at Le Rheu - Exceptional - From 45€
Vannes ** Péché Mignon, 6 Pl. du Gl de Gaulle - Nice cuisine, simple & "cute" - From 22€
Vannes *** Le Roscanvec, 17 rue des Halles - Great regional cuisine - From 28€
Lyon, Perouges, and Beaujolais  
www.lyon.fr - www.perouges.org/ - www.destination-beaujolais.com/
Pictures 16 - 17 >>
You can reach Lyon by TGV trains in 1 hour 50 or by plane from abroad to one of the 2 airports. Driving from Paris to Lyon takes around 5 hours by A6. You need a car to visit Perouges and the Beaujolais; rental cars are available in Lyon. The best months for visiting are May, June, July, September, October. 
Avoid driving in Lyon center, you easily get lost! There are 5 subway lines, 7 tramway lines and about 90 bus lines. You can buy a Carnet de tickets (Tickets book) or a ticket unit aboard bus and tram (cash only) or buy a pass if you stay more than 2 days. check their site www.tcl.fr/ . You also find a map of Lyon with subway here mapvisitfrance.com/
Lyon 16 is the 3rd city of France by its population (metropolitan area: 1.2 million), built by the Romans at the junction of the 2 large Rhone and Saone Rivers. The "Sud" (south) of France begins here. Alike Paris, the city is divided in "Arrondissements" (districts); there are 9 of them identified by the 2 last digits of the zip code such as 69001, 69002, etc, or 1er, 2e, 3e, etc., on signs with the street name. A visitor can spend 5 or 6 days just to discover some of the most interesting sites. Public transportation systems are developed but you should be ready to walk, particularly in the center city: strolling in small ancient streets is part of the fun! The main Tourist Office is located Place Bellecour in the 2e arrondissement, accessible by the metro lines A and D.
The Romans made of "Lugdunum" (Lyon) the capital of Gallia in 10 BC. In 480, the Burgondians become masters of the city. Around 1450, as a part of the Kingdom of France, it was the center of commercial relations between Geneva, Milan, Florence, and Paris. During the 19th century, Lyon became the second richest city of France located at the crossroad of Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. It was also the world center of the textile industry as the birthplace of Joseph Jaquard, inventor of the Jaquard Loom, ancestor of the computer programs for textile. It was also in Lyon where the Lumiere Brothers invented the movie projector. During the Nazi occupation, Lyon was an important center for the resistance and the repression by the occupants was fierce. Since 2000, Lyon moved down to the third place after Marseille, among the largest cities of France. Lyon is still considered as the world gastronomic capital with several great chefs and a rich cuisine not made for diet: Quenelle de Brochet (Pike sausage), Tete de Veau (Veal head), Pork Sausages, etc. By the way, in Lyon, "Bouchon" replaced the name "Bistro" for small restaurants.
The cradle of the city, originally called Lugdunum, is located at the top of Colline de Fourviere (Hill) in the 5e arrondissement; visitors can reach the top by funicular. There are several interesting Roman ruins such as an impressive 1st century amphitheater. A fine Roman Gaelic museum has been deliberatly hidden near the theater, along a 19th century basilica home of a religious museum and a short Eiffel Tower replica. From the hill,  you can enjoy an impressive view of the large valley, the city and the 2 rivers; it allows nonresidents to find out about the twisted geography of Lyon. 
Down to the river level,  the 5th arrondissement is actually the second oldest area of Lyon with the 14th century Saint Jean Cathedral. If you cross the Saone River, you reach the Place des Terreaux (1e), probably the most beautiful plaza of Lyon, home of a superb Hotel de Ville and a fountain designed by Bartholdi (who designed the Statue of Liberty - See Colmar in Alsace), with also a remarkable Musée des Beaux Arts / Fine Arts. To the south, the Quartier des Cordeliers (2e), which name comes from a convent, is located on the Presqu'ile or Peninsula stuck between the 2 rivers. The central part is made of small streets originally devoted to ancient professions, with a superb 19th century stock market. Its large Place Bellecour (2e) expands around a garden and 2 statues: Louis the XIV and Le Petit Prince with his famous creator Saint Exupery. Restaurants, cafés and stores of the plaza attract many Lyonnais (Lyon people) day and night.  
Lyon has a particular design, the Traboules: they are very small medieval streets ornamented or with exceptional architecture. These streets are found all over the center of Lyon. Here is a map (French text) to find out which areas have Traboules www.lyontraboules.net/parcours.php 
In the northern part of Lyon on Rhone River bank, the beautiful Parc de la Tete d'Or (6e) is home of the Musée des Arts Contemporains and the Musée of Natural History. Lyon also shelters Interpol and International League Against Cancer world headquarters.
If you pass by Lyon around the 8th or 9th of December, don't miss the Fête des Lumieres, an incredible 4-day festival of lights all over the center city.
Romantic and gastronomic cruises are departing from Lyon, going down on the Rhone River to Avignon: http://eurorivercruises.com/Destinations/rhone.htm. 
25 miles north east of Lyon, Perouges 17 is a medieval city with ramparts: cars are not allowed in the city because the 15th century street pavement and houses have been kept as they were. The "Tree of Liberty" on the small main plaza was planted during the revolution (a 18th century painting of the tree is shown at the Musee Carnavalet in Paris). This is  an amazing experience as you go back in time.
You can taste wines in the region of Beaujolais: located 35 miles north of Lyon, along the Nationale 6 motorway; villages give their name to wines. Forget the (horrible) "Beaujolais Nouveau" but discover good wines such as Brouilly, Fleurie, Morgon, Moulin a Vent, etc.
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Lyon: *** Grand Hotel des Terreaux,16 rue Lanterne - In the Center - From 110€
Lyon: ** Hotel des Celestins, 4 rue des Archers, 2e - In the Center - From 90€
Perouges: *** Hostellerie de Perouges, Pl. des Tilleuls - Classy, sumptuous decor - From 120€   
Restaurants selections:  
Lyon: *** Léon de Lyon, 1 rue Pleney 1er - Impressive! - From 50€  F Eve
Lyon: *** Pierre Orsi, 3 Place Kleber 6e - Exceptional cuisine and service - From 50€  F Eve
Lyon: *** Nicolas Le Bec, 14 rue Grolée 2e - Top cuisine, fine decor, too expensive - From 55€
Lyon: *** La Mère Jean - Country cuisine (not for diet!), simple decor - From 30€
Lyon: ** Le Garet - 7 rue Garet 1er - Nice "bouchon", good cuisine, simple decor - From 25€
Perouges: *** Hostellerie de Perouges- good cuisine, sumptuous decor - From 38€  F Eve
Fleurie (Beaujolais): *** Le Cep - Heavy country cuisine (Patés, Snails, Frog legs, Pork sausages, etc), simple service - From 28€
Julienas (Beaujolais): ** Chez la Rose - Great country cuisine, nice location - From 29€
Lake of Geneva, Evian, Thonon, Annecy & Lake, Savoy & the Alps
www.ville-evian.fr/ - www.savoie-mont-blanc.com   
Pictures 18 - 19 >>                         work in progress for some hotels and restaurants
You can reach Geneva by TGV from Paris or by plane from abroad. Geneva, Evian, as well as Annecy and Chambery (access to ski resorts by buses or cabs) are served by TGV trains. I don't recommend you drive from Paris: it takes 6 hours, more in winter. If possible, avoid ski resorts from January 5 to March 5: sloops are crowded because of winter school vacations. In summer, the region can satisfy any visitors: swimming near Evian or Thonon resorts, or take a cruise on the lake, or visit Lausanne and Montreux in Switzerland or go skiing in the high mountains of Savoy.
The large Lake of Geneva 18 or Lac Léman in French is surrounded by the sumptuous Alps mountains on the east. The north part of the lake is in Switzerland, as well as Geneva that was part of France from 1798 to 1813; Swiss people of the area speak French, and often German and English. The southern part of the lake is in France, bordered by the Alps and the Savoy region. The Savoy region, originally a  powerful Principality, was progressively cut into 3 parts after 1792: a small part came to Switzerland, a second large part to France and the third part attached to the Italian Piemont. The surroundings of the lake are relaxing and superb. They attract tourists who like water ski, swimming, water sports, etc.
Geneva in Switzerland is home of the International Red Cross and shelters the headquarters of several international organizations. It is not the capital of Switzerland but is the 2nd largest city. One of the most known landmarks of the city is the high water fountain in the harbour. The Saint Pierre Cathedral was built in 1160, but the 16th century Reformation altered its decor, removing the Gothic style ornaments; visitors should not miss the incredible view from the north tower. Place de la Madeleine in the old city has a blending of 15th to 17th century building, beside the 15th century church. Nearby, the English Garden shelter a superb flower clock, a symbol of the Swiss clock industry. Cruises on the lake leave from Geneva: it's a remarkable experience and a way to see what the Lake offers.     www.geneva-tourism.ch
Also in Switzerland near Montreux, the impressive 10th century Fortress of Chillon is built on a rock above the lake. www.chillon.ch
The French city of Thonon-les-bains, on the lake, is a small resort but it offers several nautical activities: diving, sailing, rafting, etc. The limited number of tourist makes the experience very enjoyable. The funicular is a short but charming trip through the city. 
Evian-les-bains in France, is known worldwide for its water. It became a location for spa in 1809 because of the curative characteristics of the spring water Evian Cachat. The city acquired a world reputation during the 19th century and several luxurious hotels, a large theater and a casino were built. Then, famous people such as King George V, the Aga Khan, and a couple of French Presidents came to spend their vacation or to enjoy curative holidays. Today, Evian is still a holiday resort and SPA town but guests are less famous. Tourism is not very developed therefore visitors can enjoy a quiet stay, charming cruises on the lake, and make short trip to other locations of France and Switzerland, as well as to the Alps mountains.  
20 miles south of Evian, the Gorges du Pont du Diable (Canyon) 19 is an impressive site. It is on the way to the Alps mountains and Savoy.
Lake of Annecy or Blue lake and Annecy (French city): this superb deep blue color lake, a bit smaller than the Lake of Geneva, is located 30 miles south to Geneva, along Annecy, one of the largest cities of the area. The view of the lake from one of the surrounding mounts is breath taking. Visitors can enjoy swimming in summer, skiing in winter in the nearby eastern Savoy or simply strolling around the lake and visiting Annecy in spring and fall. Annecy is called the "Venice of the Alps" because of the water canals passing through the charming center city. The 15th century Chateau d'Annecy includes a nice museum. On each first Saturday of August, the lake is celebrated with the largest firework of Europe
The Savoie region offers beautiful and quiet hiking trails in summer, as well as other activities; you can even ski in July in the high mountains of the Alps. In Winter, it becomes a vast ski area with many resorts such as Alpe d'Huez, Chamonix, La Plagne, Megève, Val d'Isère, Valloire, Val Thorenz, etc. All are well equipped, with various category of hotels and restaurants, attracting Alpine ski amateurs from beginners to connoisseurs. There have great packages for renting ski and shoes, ski lifts and insurance: 22 - 25€ a day; Ski classes are available in all resorts. If you prefer a small resort village style, check for Megève, Valloire or Vars.
For a breath taking view of the mountains, make a trip aboard the Chamonix cable car, one of the highest cable in the whole Alps (not for weak hearts or vertigo!).
The regional cuisine is influenced by 2 styles: the Swiss one and the French Savoy one: the Raclette and Fondue Savoyarde have a common ingredient, the cheese. There are other nice dishes such as the Pike Quenelles, the Almond Trout, the Gratin Dauphinois, etc. In this area, we mostly drink white wines.
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr
Evian: ***  Le Littoral, 5 Quai Besson - On the lake - From 100€
Chamonix: ** Vallée Blanche, 36 rue du Lyret - View on the mountains - From 110€
Megève: *** Au Vieux Moulin, 188 rue Ambroise Martin - View on the mountains - From 130€
Annecy:
Restaurants selections: 
Megève (Alps) ** Les Enfants Terribles - Nice decor (Cocteau painting), good cuisine - From 30€
Evian:
Chamonix:
Annecy:
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Addresses & Pictures of main museums by region: www.picturalissime.com/musees_paris_france.htm
Maps of France, Paris, Regions, Motorways, etc: click mapvisitfrance.com/
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Provence & Camargue, Arles, Baux, Nimes, Pont  du Gard, Avignon, Verdon, Gordes
www.provenceweb.fr/   www.avignon-et-provence.com/museums.htm
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Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours above.
You can reach Avignon by TGV from Paris in 2 and half hours or land in Marseilles International Airport coming from abroad. A car is required to visit Nimes, Baux de Provence, the Pont du Gard, Saintes Maries de la Mer, and the Luberon area. Driving from Paris takes 7 to 8 hours. The best months for visiting are April, May, June, July, September, October. Around mid May, the "Ferias" bull fights begin and both Arles and Nimes are crowded with amateurs. Aix en Provence organizes an important festival at the end of June and Avignon has a huge festival in July: both bring visitors from all over Europe.
The Provence region (Not Province) was discovered by the Greek Phoceans in 600 BC who founded Massilia - Marseilles. Around 50 BC, it was the first area to be entirely "managed" by the Romans, giving it the name of Provincia Romana. Then Provence entered the Kingdom of the Franks (France today) as soon as 530. It returned as an independent entity for 5 centuries, before to be integrated to the Burgundy Territory. It was again detached as an independent County for several centuries.  In 1481, it was finally annexed to France. Admiral De Grasse who stopped the British fleet in the Chesapeake Bay in 1781 was born in Provence. Since 1800, Marseilles, on the southern coast, is the capital of Provence and is today France largest harbor with the largest North African community. It is not a very attractive city but you can land there coming from abroad, rent a car and drive up around the region. Both Cezanne and Van Gogh adored Provence because of its dramatic relief and sumptuous colors. There are 20 days of rain a year in Provence and temperatures rarely go under 50 degrees during the day; however winter nights can be cold and there are some snow storms in January and February. Fires are forbidden all over the region during spring and summer.
Starting from Marseilles, let's begin with the western side, expanding a bit outside of the Provence region: Camargue 20 is a sumptuous large area along the Mediterranean Sea; it is a protected wild area, only made of dunes and  natural ponds, making it perfect for horse riding and observing the Faune; horse rental is available on site. On the coast, the mystic Gypsies city Saintes Marie de la Mer, birthplace of the Gypsies Kings band, celebrates every year in August a black Virgin Mary: the legend says that the 3 Maries, mother, sister and girl friend of Jesus, landed there few months after the death of the Christ.
Located to the north east of Camargue, in Provence, the superb city of Arles 21 has dozen of treasures for tourists www.arlestourisme.com/: Visitors need at least 2 days to discover all the sites and museums in Arles. The Roman amphitheater and arena are in great shape, as well as a full circuit of Roman walls. The Medieval period is also represented by a dozen of churches, chapels and monuments. I recommend 2 museums: the Musée de l'Arles Antique and the Musée Reattu displaying 17th to 19th century art.
Few miles away north from Arles, Baux de Provence village www.lesbauxdeprovence.com/ is one of the most beautiful site of Provence: an ancient village with small medieval streets and the ruin of a castle are standing atop a mount. The view from the village is sumptuous!
Located to the west, again at the limit of Provence, Nimes is interesting because of its Roman amphitheater, Roman Baths and other ancient ruins. The Musée des Beaux Arts and the Musée Archéologique deserve a visit. By the way, it was in this city that the Denim fabric for Jeans (De Nimes - From Nimes) was invented during the 18th century.
Nearby Nimes, one should not miss the stunning Pont du Gard 22, a large roman aqueduct built during the 1st century AD, still standing as it was at the time of the Romans. 
Not far away to the east of the bridge, the fortified city of Avignon 23, former residence of 4 Popes, is one of the largest and most interesting cities of Provence www.avignon.fr/en/  The impressive fortified "Cité des Papes" with its Palace built and enlarged by several French Popes includes remarkable museums; visitors need an entire day just to discover the Cité des Papes. There are not less than 13 museums in Avignon: check this site www.avignon.fr/fr/culture/musees/  On the west part, the Pont Saint Bénezet (bridge) over the Rhone River, was built by the Romans then extended in 1177. A part was cut during a siege in 1226 and never rebuilt. French know this bridge because of an old kid song: "Sur le Pont d'Avignon, on y danse ... " (On the Avignon bridge, we dance ...)
The marvelous Luberon region begins only few miles south west of Avignon: this area is made of hundred mounts that initiated the reputation of the region: among the blending of many colorful fields and canyons, ancient villages and castles raise at the top of hills. The village of Gordes on the eastern side of Luberon, is a superb example of what the area is made of: a medieval village atop a hill, looking at valleys and mounts covered with lavenders. 
On the north east of the Luberon, the canyon Gorges du Verdon 24 is one of the most impressive sites in Europe www.gorges-du-verdon.net/.
Aix en Provence is located in the southern part of Provence, not far from the western Riviera. Founded by the Roman in 125 AD, it was one of the favorite residences of Cardinal Mazarin, Prime Councilor of France, during the 17th century. During the 19th century, the town expanded to become the 3rd city of Provence: the magnificent surroundings attracted several famous artists such as Cezannes, Picasso, Hemingway, as well as Van Gogh who spent several days there looking for inspiration. Today, the city is mostly known by the French as the "University City", but Aix has several treasures to offer to the tourists. Note that the area is crowded at the end of June during a famous Music festival. The nickname "City of 1000 fountains" is well deserved: there are many fountains all over the Medieval style center city. Nearby some ruins of Roman baths, the 17th century gothic Cathedral and its 12th century cloister deserves a visit in the beautiful Quartier Mazarin, made of 17th century houses. On the Cours Mirabeau, a superb plaza surrounded by 17th and 18th century houses, the Brasserie "Les 2 garcons" is still standing: Cezanne, Hemingway, and Van Gogh loved to have an Absynth drink at the terrace. Visitors should not miss the Atelier Cezanne, a museum devoted to the painter, and the Musee Granet that displays a large collection of 18th to 20th century paintings.
A chilly glass of Rosé wine is perfectly refreshing after a day strolling under the sun. For a delicious meal, Provence has great regional dishes: Tapenade, Salad Provencale, Fish soup with "Rouille", Bouillabaisse, Rouget fish grilled on Herbes de Provence, Provencal Tomatoes, and the famous Melon de Cavaillon (Cindy Crawford loves applying its juice on her skin).
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Avignon: *** Cloître Saint Louis Avignon, 20 rue du Portail Boquier  - Former cloister - From 110€   F Eve
Nimes: ** Kyriad, 10 rue Roussy - In the center - From 90€
Arles: *** Hotel Nord-Pinus, 14 place du Forum - In the center - From 120€
Restaurants selections:   
Avignon: *** Christian Etienne, 10 rue du Mons - One of the top chefs of Provence - From 49€  F Eve
Avignon: ** Le Cochon Bleu, 9 rue d'Annanelle - Simple but good - From 15€
Aix: ** L'Alcove, 19 rue Constantin - Nice regional food - From 25€ 
Nimes: ** Maison Cave St Germain, 3 rue de la Republique - Simple; try the bull rib - From 18€
Arles: *** Le Cilantro, 31 rue Porte de Laure - Different but great - From 35€
Riviera (Côte d'Azur): Saint Tropez, Porquerolles, Antibes, Juan les Pins Nice, Monaco
www.cote.azur.fr
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You can reach Marseilles from Paris by TGV (3 hours) or by plane from abroad, then take local trains or rent a car and drive to the east along the coast. You can also directly fly to Nice from abroad and rent a car. In both cases, you have to go back and forth to the west then to the east to see all locations. The best months for visiting are April, June, September, October. For swimming and tan, the best period is June 20th to July 10th. The coast is crowded in August. Cannes and Nice are invaded by movie professionals and amateurs in May because of the International Film Festival, then waves of Northern Europeans storm the beaches mid July and in August; hotels and restaurants are booked very much in advance during these months.
For those who have no idea what it is, the Côte d'Azur (Deep Blue Coast) bought to Genoa in 1758, is a French blending of Beverly Hills and Hawaii, with a Provence twist. The beauty of the Mediterranean Sea, Brigitte Bardot and the Cannes Film Festival are important contributors to its worldwide reputation. This reputation comes with a price: it's really crowded from mid July to the end of August! 
On the most western part of the Riviera, near the city of Hyeres, boats do the 30-minute trip from Tour Fondue (on Presqu'ile de Giens) to the small marvelous island of Porquerolles 25, a Provencale paradise. It is part of National natural park composed of 3 islands, including Port-Cros and Ile du Levant. Porquerolles is 7 miles long and 2 miles wide and counts only 200 inhabitants and 90 houses regrouped in 1 charming village. Surrounded by pine trees, dozens of sandy beaches give access to the blue water. This is the place for swimming and for diving; diving amateurs can rent equipment on site. Camping and fires are absolutely forbidden! Fortified walls and guard towers were built under Napoleon Bonaparte at each corner of the island. A botanic museum stands near the village and the Saint Agathe Fortress ruins shelter a regional museum; the wind mill above the village offers a view of the whole island  www.porquerolles.com/ - Here is a video of the island: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q49BA_9BjZA 
Further to the east, Saint Tropez 26 is so famous and the yachts so big that you would never imagine how small is this village with harbor. The 60's French actress Brigitte Bardot (the French Marylin Monroe) and 70's comedy movies about a "Gendarme" gave its fame to the town. Visitors can enjoy a Pastis aperitif at one of the cafe terraces facing the harbor, just observing what the international jet set society does during vacation or they can stroll in the small streets. Exclusive boutiques are numerous and most of their designers clothing are not seen elsewhere on earth: they come from "Saint Trop"! Beach lovers have to drive a couple of miles out of the city, to the west or to the east, to find sand and some space to swim. Of course, this area is crowded in July and August. 
Still following the coast toward the east, the drive is a bit tortuous but really enchanting, except in July and August. The next city, Cannes, is famous worldwide and crowded in May because of its International Film Festival. During the festival, the population and the prices double: a room at a beach hotel can reach 1000 € the night. About the beaches? There are plenty of them along the "Croisette" but if you actually want to swim, you better head to the east by the Boulevard du Midi to La Bocca area has some nice sandy beaches.
Antibes is next: the small city mixes history, beauty, luxurious stores, and small beaches. Visitors can enjoy strolling on the ramparts for the view or in the main street where luxurious stores are lined up. Its sister city, Juan Les Pins, is almost stuck to it and quite a copy, offering exclusive promenades and nice small beaches. 
Nice 27, the 5th largest city of France has almost 1 million inhabitants, going up to 1.3 million in summer. There are several buses and tramway lines; during week days until 7 pm, it is better to leave the car in a parking and use the public transportation systems: traffic is intense and parking spots are rare. During the 5th century BC, Greek founders called their little harbor "Nikki". A dozen of centuries later, the Principality of Genoa sold Nice County to France. The recent nickname "Baie des Anges" or Angels Bay is well deserved. The 3 mile long "Promenade of the English" was built in 1832 by a British Association managed by a bishop; it begins at the Negresco Hotel on the west side, passes along the Rhul Casino Theater, and after a park, finishes near the harbor on the east. From the harbour, the streets head to the Mont Boron: from the mount, the view is superb particularly at night. During daylight, it should satisfy your sightseing appetite for the big blue and yachts. Among other artists, the painter Matisse was a great lover of the area. If you want to swim or get a tan there, you better come around mid June: later, the Baie des Anges becomes the Bay of the Hords! Nice is not just a city with beaches, fine hotels and luxurious stores: there are about 12 museums such as the Musée Matisse, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the Musée d'Art Moderne, the Musée des Arts Asiatiques, etc. Nice is a large city, not just a resort, and you can go shopping like if you were in Paris: besides the numerous boutiques and fashion stores, the Department stores Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Monoprix, and FNAC welcome all shopping amateurs.   
20 miles away east from Nice, the Principality of Monaco 28 is a French Hong-Kong but without industry, living from its banks, its casino and some rich famous residents. The Oceanographic museum co founded by Commandant J Y Cousteau and the Palace are the main touristic sites. Besides Grace Kelly's story, I don't understand why tourists are interested by Monaco: it's not a beautiful city, there are no real museums and nobody can swim in its bay invaded by boats! However, once a year, the Grand Prix de Monaco is the Formula One car race to see: how the heck pilots can reach 160 miles per hour in such small narrow streets without an accident?
Alike the Provence region, the Riviera has delicious regional dishes: Tapenade (Black olives puree with, garlic  and olive oil), Nicoise Salad, Fish soup, Bouillabaisse, Bouride (Fish stew), Rouget au Fenouil (red snapper grilled with herbs), Socca, Caviar d'aubergine (Eggplant puree), Tarte Tropezienne (Sweet brioche with custard), Giant stuffed Olives, Melon, Lavender ice cream, and the Provence rosé wine.
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Saint Tropez: **** Hotel des Lices, Avenue Grangeon - Swimming pool, etc - From 200€
Antibes: *** Le Collier, 19 Blvd du General Vautrin - 2 blocks from the harbour - From 75€
Juan Les Pins: **** Belles Rives,  33 Blvd Edouard Baudoin - On the beach - From 190€ 
Cannes: ***  Le Cavendish, 11 Ave Carnot - 5 blocks from the beach - From 160€
Nice: *** Hotel Suisse, 15 Quai Raubà Capéù - View on the sea - From 130€
Nice: ** Nouvel Hotel, 19 boulevard Victor Hugo - 5 blocks from the beach  - From 95€  
Restaurants selections: 
Saint Tropez: *** Brasserie des Arts, Place des Lices - Nice decor; various styles cuisine - From 40€  
Antibes: *** Vieux Murs, 25 Prom. Amiral de Grasse - On the ramparts: view; great cuisine - From 30€  
Cannes: *** Gaston & Gastounette, Quai St Pierre (old harbour) - Great bouillabaisse, charming location - From 30€ 
Nice: *** Don Camillo Creations, 6 rue des Ponchettes - Great regional cuisine - From 35€ 
Nice: *** Les 2 Canailles, 6 rue Chauvin - Fine marriage of French Jap. cuisine - From 50€
Nice: ** L’Ane Rouge, 7 Quai des deux emmanuels - Good cuisine, simple service - From 35€   
Nice: ** Bistrot du Port, 28 Quai Lunel - Great seafood cuisine; simple service - From 30€ 
Monte Carlo:  ***  L'Argentin, 12 Ave des Spelugues - Good cuisine; great view - From 45€
Aquitaine: Bordeaux, Les Landes, Saint Emilion  
www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr  www.bordeaux.com  
Pictures 29 - 30 >>
You can reach Bordeaux from Paris by TGV in 3 hours. Driving from Paris takes 6 to 7 hours. Flights from Paris, London, and few other European cities land in Bordeaux Merignac Airport. To visit the region, you need to rent a car.
The best period for a visit is from May to October. July 1 to July 20 is perfect for swimming on the Atlantic coast or in Arcachon lake. August can be pretty hot and beaches are crowded. 
Wall paintings dating from 15 000 BC were found near Bordeaux. In 58 BC, Julius Caesar mentioned Auquitania in his War of the Gauls. In 507, the Frank King Clovis already made Aquitaine a province of his Kingdom. 645 years later, Eleanor Duchess of Aquitaine divorced from French King Louis VII and gave Aquitaine to her new husband, the English King Henry II. In 1453, the victory of French troops over English armies brought back the region to France. Today Aquitaine, the largest region of France, is still favorite to the English people: more than 20 000 English families reside around Bordeaux; former British PM Tony Blair owns a house in Aquitaine and speaks French fluently. Even though administration cuts include the Basque Country in Aquitaine region, I present the Pays Basque in the next section.
Located to the north of Bordeaux, the Pont de Aquitaine Bridge is an incredible architectural achievement, however it is smaller than the Bridge of Normandy (the second highest cable stayed bridge in the world - see above Normandy section). Its span is 394 meters over the Garonne River.
Bordeaux (meaning Bordering waters), capital of Aquitaine, is a beautiful city located inland on the Garonne River that merges 15 miles below the city with another river, the Dordogne River. The rivers together form one of the biggest estuary in Europe, the Gironde Estuary that flows into the Atlantic 25 miles away east from Bordeaux. The 9th city of France was an important harbor until the 18th century.  Today it is mostly known for the wine but visitors can enjoy historic sites and museums as well. I recommend you use the buses to visit the city.
You should begin your visit with the 243 steps of the tower of Saint-Michel, and enjoy the panoramic view of Bordeaux; you will find out how the city is set. Les Quais (the Banks) are charming for a nice walk on the shores of the Garonne, for enjoying a ride on a ferry boat, or for viewing a stunning landscape over the bridges of Bordeaux. The rich districts of Place Gambetta starts on the northern part of the city; it is nicknamed "Little Paris". The Place des Quinconces Square includes a fountain monument to the "Girondins", a group of moderate deputies at the National Assembly during the French Revolution. The musee d'Art Contemporain rue Ferrère is worth a visit if you are interested in Modern Art. The Richard Long slate line-up on the roof is a permanent feature. Exhibits are often changing and the museum is an inspiring place for installations. The musee d'Aquitaine, cours Pasteur, is home of superb Gallo-Roman artifacts and statues, as well as impressive relics dating back 25 000 years. The Jardin Botanique, Bordeaux's Botanical Garden is the perfect place to take a walk around its many paths, or just sit and relax.
A tour of Bordeaux vineyards should be part of your trip. There are plenty of companies organizing guided tours, starting from the city of Bordeaux  or from Paris. Just make sure you can taste wines and you don't have to drive! Here are some sites that could help:  www.pheeric.com/nosejours.php - www.bordeaux-wine-tourism.com - www.rendezvousauchateau.com/ - www.oenotourisme-saintemilion.com
The Landes region, with its Bassin d'Arcachon (a lake open on the Atlantic), located 30 miles south west from Bordeaux, is a superb and natural area for those who want to tan on the beaches and/or swim in the Atlantic in July. www.guide-des-landes.com On the very eastern part, amateur can enjoy the famous Armagnac brandy (much better than the Cognac .. oups, sorry Cognac people!); you have to go more south to find the best quality: the Bas Armagnac.
One of the most impressive sites of the region is the Lascaux Caves. Located 40 miles east to Bordeaux, in the Dordogne Departement, the caves countain series of paleolithic painting (15,000 before Christ) found by 2 kids in 1940. Unfortunately, visits and pollution were damaging the paintings therefore the French Government closed the site and a perfect replica of the caves was created few yards away. It's still very impressive and the Musée de la Préhistoire (Prehistoric Museum) is interesting! www.lascaux.culture.fr/#/fr/00.xml While you are in this area, you could enjoy visiting the castles of Losse, of Commarque located few miles away or the Castle of Hautefort, 15 miles north  
Not far from Lascaux, 50 miles away from Bordeaux, the village of Duras shelters one of the most appreciated meditation, Tai chi and yoga center at La Perroterie. You can have a 3 or 4 day quiet and "rebuilding" retreat in this superb location www.theretreatinfrance.com
Saint Emilion is another wine area located on the eastern side of Aquitaine. Since about 20 years, the wines of Saint Emilion went on their own "evolution" and gain a reputation of excellent wines. Many do not consider them as part of the "Bordeaux wines" anymore.
The cuisine of Aquitaine is "generous", not made for a diet: Duck Confit, Duck Magrets (breasts) in Armagnac and cream sauce, Foie Gras and truffles of Perigord, Lamb of Pauillac, Oysters of Arcachon, Sweetbreads with morilles in Armagnac and cream sauce, Asperagus cream sauce of Adour, Beef and white beans of Chalossé, Poilée de Cepes Mushrooms in garlic, Prune Tart flambee with Armagnac, etc, and of course the wines of Bordeaux and Saint Emilion, and the Armagnac. Originated in the south, the drink "Pousse Rapiere" (push the sword) is dating from the Mousquetaires (Musketeers): in a flute glass, blend 1/3 of Armagnac, 1/3 of sparkling wine (No Champagne or Alsace), 1/3 of Triple Sec. Drink it and you will be ready to pull the sword against anyone .. if you can stand up!
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Bordeaux: *** Majestic, 2 rue de Condé - Perhaps not the most luxurious of all but certainly classy and quiet, located in the center city. From 120€
Bordeaux: ** La Maison du Lierre, 57 rue Huguerie - Located in the center city, it's family like, simple but comfy - From 95€
Biscarosse (Landes): * Les Vagues, 99 rue des Iris - It's a small beach hotel: you can jump in the water from your bedroom. Simple but clean and comfy - From 50€
Lascaux: ** Le Lascaux, at Montignac (Dordogne) - Simple but comfy, located 1.5 mile away from the Caves - From 92€ 
Saint Emilion: *** Hotel de la Plaisance, Place du Clocher - One of the top hotels of the region, member of "Relais et Chateaux", known for its classy & luxurious comfort. You would probably prefer a room with view on the vineyards - From 380€  
Restaurants selections: 
Bordeaux ** L’Oiseau Bleu, 65 cours de Verdun - Great creative / local cuisine - From 28€
Bordeaux *** Chapon fin, 5 rue Montesquieu - Great cuisine & Bordeaux wines - From 35€ 
Biscarosse (Landes): Parcours Gourmand, Haut d'Ispe - good cuisine, simple but comfy environment - From 20€ 
Saint Emilion: *** Restaurant of the Hotel de la Plaisance, Place du Clocher - One of the top restaurants of the region, member of "Relais et Chateaux" and "Best artisan of France" - Menu fixed prices from 100€  
Basque Country, Biarritz & the Bearn Region   work in progress for Bearn region
Pictures 31 - 32 >>
- Pays Basque or Basque Country
You can reach Bayonne by train from Paris in 5 and half hours; the TGV is not high speed after Bordeaux. You can land at the Biarritz-Bayonne Airport, coming from Paris, London, Lyon, Lille, Strasbourg, Dublin and Stockholm. Driving from Paris takes around 8 hours. To visit the region, you can rent a car in Bayonne or Biarritz. 
The best months for visiting are April, May, June, July, September, October. To swim in the Atlantic, the best period is June 20 to July 20. In August, Biarritz and the coasts are crowded. You can also decide to go there in winter for skiing in the nearby Pyrénées mountains.
Le Pays Basque or Euskal Herria is one of the oldest region / country of Europe. Divided in two parts, one large in Spain, one small in France, Euskal Herria keeps its identity, its language and culture since centuries. Curiously, while the Spanish part or Heogalde is regularly shaken by Independentist violent actions, the French part or Iparralde is much more quiet. The Pays Basque in France expands along the Atlantic Ocean, delimited in the north by the Aquitaine region, the Pyrénées mountains in the south, and bordered by the Bearn on the east. Besides the beauty of the coast, of some typical villages, and of the inland landscape, the Basque population is also very welcoming. You could enjoy attending one of the Basque Pelota games, wrongly called Hand Ball by some, where teams "throw" a ball against a wall using a long basket or Chistera. Players wear a colorful uniform made of a large belt and a Beret; the team orchestras create a real show during the game. Bayonne was also the first French city to celebrate the Spanish Corrida or Bull fight; Corridas still take place on regular basis (unfortunately). The Baionet (from Bayonette), a sharp "sword" added to Musket guns, was invented during the 17th century in Bayonne.
The Basque cuisine is generous and varied. The Basquaise style cooking includes tomatoes and sweet or hot red peppers, served as a stew with chicken or lamb. Meats and fish are also grilled over hot coals. There are other excellent dishes such as the Piperade omelette, the fine Bayonne Ham (alike a Parma ham), the rich Tolosa sausage and bean dishes, the Pintxos (Basque tapas), and the tasty Idiazabal sheep cheese that you can eat with a glass of Txakoli sparkling wine or Basque Cider. Bayonne was the first French city to discover Chocolate introduced during the 16th century by Portuguese Jewish people.
Bayonne is the regional capital, born from a Roman camp, and located in land in the northern part of the region. Bordering the large river Adour and the smaller river Nive, the city is divided in 3 quartiers: Saint Esprit with a small 12th century Spanish style church and the Citadelle on a hill, a fort built during the 17th century by famous military engineer Vauban (also at Saint Malo, Avallon, Lille); the Grand Bayonne quartier expanded from a Roman camp. Its Place de la Liberte plaza, includes a superb pavment reproducing the 3 Coats of Arms of the region. The Rue du Pont Neuf street kept its original 17th century structure, with houses on piles and archs, all built along what was originally a canal. The embankment of river Nive is crossed by a beautiful bridge and is ending with 2 ancient roman towers. The Petit Bayonne is the most active area of the city, including 3 museums, a cathedral and the superb 17th century Chateau Neuf fort.  Located on the coast, 10 miles away from Bayonne, the smaller beautiful city of Biarritz was originally a port for whale hunters but as soon as 1800 it became one of the most famous Ocean resorts in France. The tide is high, the waves powerful, the climate often changing but the wide sandy beaches attract lot of swimmers and surfers.  Biarritz is also known for its superb promenade along the Ocean, enhanced by fine residence buildings and hotels, and ending with the Rocher de la Vierge where from visitors can have a breath taking view of the coast. The Chateau Boulard, 3 museums, and the casino can entertain those who don't swim. 20 miles south from Biarritz, located on the Spanish border, Saint Jean de Luz is a small replica of Biarritz, with long sandy beaches and a fisher harbor. The impressive Maison Haraneder was the residence of Anne of Austria while the superb Hotel de Ville was a temporary residence for Louis XIV in 1660. Only 6 miles away from St Jean de Luz, near Sare village, the little Train de la Rhune runs along the Col de Saint-Ignace in the Rhune mountain, offering to tourists a very impressive 35 minute ride and a breath taking view of the canyons www.rhune.com
- Le Bearn or Bearn region 
www.tourisme-bearn-gaves.com  www.bearn-basquecountry.com
www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1CAI0JbVNI&feature=related
Cradle of the famous Béarnaise sauce, the Bearn was originally a state and became a French province in 1620. Located 85 miles away from Bayonne, the very southern region is bordered by the Pyrénées mountains to the south, 8 miles away from Spain. The region capital Pau  is connected to Bordeaux, Toulouse and Bayonne by several highways, to Paris by TGV trains and by flights through the domestic airport Pau-Pyrénées. 
Not only it is a beautiful and peaceful region but it is also a place for good cuisine: Foie Gras, Duck Magret and Confit, Garbure Béarnaise (cabbage, beans, potatoes & duck stew), Pork sausage, Beef steak with Béarnaise sauce, Jurancon sweet and Madiran wines.
The Bearn region is perfect for having a relaxing time during spring and summer, including  biking or driving around ancient villages, mansions and manors, or hiking in the mountains, all this without too many tourists. You could like very much exploring the cities of Orthez, Oloron Sainte Marie
Pau that shelter several treasures of architecture such as castles and church.
Bearn also has several festivals all along the year: check the sites above for more information.
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr 
Biarritz: *** Château du Clair de Lune, 48 ave Alan Seeger - Very nice - From 110€
Restaurants selections: 
Biarritz ** Le Crabe Tambour,  49 rue d’Espagne - Great Basque French cuisine, simple decor  25€
Southwest: Pyrenees Mountains, Lourde, Toulouse, Carcassonne   work in progress
Pictures 33 - 34 - 35 >>
Cityrama and ParisVision organize bus tours from Paris; check Guided Tours above.   
Pic du Midi observatory and Ski resorts in the Pyrenees
Lourdes the religious city
Toulouse, the "pink city" - Growing center of Airspace and Technology - Place du capitole 
Albi Cathedral 
Carcassonne fortified city www.youtube.com/watch?v=jt8f0Zz1bQM
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr
Carcassonne: *** Hotel de la Cité - Pl. Auguste Pierre Pont, in the medieval city - From 180€
Restaurants selections: 
Toulouse ** Bistro Toulousain, 3 bis bd de Strasbourg - Good regional cuisine, simple location  20€
Toulouse:
Carcassonne:
Lourdes:
Massif Central &  Le Limousin   work in progress
www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzFtJMr-IC4&NR=1
The name "Limousine" comes from the Limousin region
Pictures 36 - 37 >>
Puy de Domes
Puy de Sancy
Vichy
Limoges
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr
Restaurants selections:
Corsican Island: Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Porto Vecchio  work in progress
La Corse, Ile de Beauté - "Island of beauty"  www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RMFXNyzt2M
Pictures 38 - 39 >>
- Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Sanguinaires Islands. Capo di fen beach. La Punta castle.
- Corte inland: if you prefer mountains and small villages
- Bonifacio cliffs and deep blue sea; view / ferry to Sardinia Island
- Porto Vecchio bay and surrounding beaches
Hotels selections:
Reminder  > for a night on the road: www.ibishotel.com - www.campanile.fr
Restaurants selections: 

15 - French spirit, Politeness and "Never do's" in France 
- In a 2006 international internet survey, France was ranked as one of the "nicest country in the world". In the same kind of survey in 2009, French were elected as the "worst tourists in the world"; it is true that complaining about everything is a French national sport!
On another hand, the American cliché "French hate Americans" is totally false. Except for US stores selling guns and US cars too big despite the global warming, French rarely criticize or mock Americans (Unfortunately, it is not true the other way around!). One thing French really did not like was Bush's Iraq War, considering it as an arbitrary decision, a waste of time and money, and more importantly as a dangerous action unbalancing the "fragile" Middle East (They were so right!). Despite you find Mac Donald, Pampers, Coca-Cola, and American movies in France, French people are very attached to their "cultural exception" and consider their culture as another option to the mighty American culture. As the Americans, they think they invented everything (which is almost true during the 16th and 17th centuries) and deserve the right to be the world lighthouse (which is not realistic at the time of China, India, and of the European Union that they initiated). Anyway, don't be shy to be a foreigner or an American in France; just make the effort to know some French words and you will be welcome everywhere, often with a smile. You will also find out that more and more French people speak English.
- Politeness is almost the same than in the rest of Europe and the USA. However, there are a few differences: to introduce themselves or other, French do NOT use the first name: they say Monsieur or Madame + the last name. Monsieur or Madame is used to address anyone, even a cop "policier" or a waiter (never say "Garcon"). French like to wear nice clothes for a dinner or to go out, but they also wear jeans (fabric invented in the French city of Nimes; De Nimes or from Nimes became Denim). You will also notice that: waiters are not as courteous as in the US; French don't give much space to one withdrawing money from ATM (DAB); they don't stay on the right in the subway escalators; French are really not patient when they drive; Frenchmen openly court women; smoking ban in all public places and offices doesn't seem to stop some French smokers! The rate for violent crime is extremely low but pickpockets are NUMEROUS!
For more information about Etiquette and politeness in France, please check the section E of my site http://speakfrenchenough.blogspot.com/ 
You should NEVER:
- Leave a bag / luggage unattended even few seconds.
- Leave a wallet on the table at terraces even in front of you.
- Let a group of begging (gipsy) kids coming close to you; they are organized pickpockets!
- Take any so-called taxi without any fixed sign “taxi” on the roof.
- Ride alone in empty subway / RER / suburban train or walking alone in empty corridors.
- Leave any item, parcels, bags, clothes, etc, visible in a car: thieves break in to check them.
- Stroll in Paris northeast quarters or suburbs at dark.
- Stroll after 6 pm in main city “forest-parks" such as the Bois de Boulogne in Paris.
- To resist to an aggressive robber (throw a couple of bills in the air and run)
- Ride a bike in busy streets of Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Lille.
- Trust drivers / pedestrians who make gestures “go ahead” or "you have free way".
- Buy perishable food such as sandwiches with mayonnaise, fish, etc, from street vendors.
- Go to a nightclub or dance ball by your own / without a French who knows the location.
- Forget to check that the credit card you get back is yours ("mistakes" are frequent)
- Drive a car without making sure it is insured; a valid tag must be on the windshield.
- Let your ignition key on if you got bumped; gangs use this trick to steal cars.
- Let a door unlocked even 10 seconds whatever it’s a car or an apartment.
- Enter any location or area with sign “Propriété privée” or “Entrée interdite”.
- Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs or driving using a cell phone: it is illegal.
- Ask for the “Salle de bain” if you need to go to the restrooms (it’s “les toilettes”).
- Think you can get a refund of an item or product just because you don’t like it.
- Introduce yourself to someone you don't know by your first name.
16 - Students and/or Au pair
Here are the basic steps to be able to study in France:
- You should first work on the "administrative" part: it takes several weeks to obtain a student visa. Contact the closest French Embassy or Consulate; you can check also these websites www.frenchculture.org - www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/studying-in-france/  -  www.campusfrance.org/en
- You need to find the right "school". There are schools to study French in France, such as in Paris, the Alliance Française www.alliancefr.org/ or La Sorbonne University Paris II Institut de linguistique www.english.paris-sorbonne.fr/, or outside Paris, the Institut de français in Villefrance (Riviera) www.institutdefrancais.com or the Ecole France Langue in Nice www.france-langue.fr  Check also these sites for more information  www.fiaf.org/frenchclasses/study-abroad.shtml -- http://my.aup.edu/  --  http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com
- Find a room: if you cannot reside on campus, it can take a long time to find a place! An incredibly great option for young students is www.leparisolidaire.fr : you get a confortable room at a very low price in a senior citizen's habitation, in exchange for a few little tasks and your companionship; you need to speak French level intermediate. Inconveniences: There is an inquiry about your background, the location is often in a suburb and the waiting list is long.  Otherwise, I suggest you visit these sites to  find out about monthly rates and corresponding size: www.locaflat.com/hostel.html -  www.aijparis.com/   
Also, Bed & Breakfast (Chambre d'hote) are not favorite to the French but there is a fair number of them in France, generally clean and comfy www.bedandbreakfast.com/france.html. Check the Section 9 above for more information about renting and for all basic steps avoiding bad surprises. 
- Au Pair: Young ladies should consider the Au Pair option: you get paid, you get a room and you still have free time to study. Be sure to be with a family or a single mother. Avoid any suburban area  and check that there is a transportation system near by.  You should not pay any big fees since organizations charge the family. Check this site www.frenchamericancenter.com/english/aupair.asp or contact the US embassy in Paris to get  suggestions //france.usembassy.gov/.  
For a few days at very affordable rates, in the countryside or in a mountain area, look for a Gite rural: it's a simple room in a house or farm http://en.gites-de-france.com/
- Get more information about life in France: http://france.angloinfo.com
17 - Working in France
- I will be direct: there are few jobs for Americans, Japanese, etc, in France, except for those who are sent by their company or already have serious offers. Not that France don't like them or it is in such a bad economic shape. But they are many French-speaking candidates from European Union states and former colonies of France having "priority".
- If you want to find a job in France, you first need to address the French Work Permit issue as a priority; it takes long time and lot of "papers". Contact the French Embassy or Consulate and be very patient .. it is complicated and they seem unhelpful!
- As for lodging once you found a job, if it is not provided by your employer, you should first rent a temporary location for 1 month. This way, you will be on site while searching your residence, checking by yourself the area, location, etc. Go to Section 9 above for more information about long or short-term renting and for all basic steps, to avoid bad surprises. 
- Moving over there? Check this website http://france.angloinfo.com
18- Useful Websites
- http://france.angloinfo.com  Moving to France
- www.bonjourlafrance.com Great site to discover France
- www.france.fr  About France: culture, events, food, museums, regions, weather, etc.
- www.france-voyage.com/travel-photos  Pictures of everything including hotel rooms
- www.languageguide.org/french/vocabulary/  Site with audio for French pronunciation
- http://speakfrenchenough.blogspot.com/  Useful vocabulary & expressions for a trip
- knowaboutparis.com  Know about Paris and its region
- //france.usembassy.gov/  US Embassy in Paris
- www.viamichelin.com Distance, Trip length, Cost, Sightseeing, Weather, Reservations, etc
- www.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/  Museums and Monuments of France, including castles.
- http://en.parisinfo.com/  Info about Paris, with a fine list of hotels and restaurants. 
- http://chateauhard.skyrock.com/ Nice blog about French Castles (in French)
- www.pariscityrama.com/ Guided tours of various regions in Buses
- www.relaischateaux.com  Exclusive Hotels & Restaurants in France and elsewhere
- www.ibishotel.com -- www.campanile.fr Affordable rooms & restaurants on the road
- www.courtepaille.com  affordable, simple and quick meals on the road (in French)
- www.hippopotamus.fr Steak houses in France (Click "Trouvez un restaurant" then type the city)
- www.sncf.com  French national railways SNCF company
- www.american-hospital.org/en.html  American Hospital in Paris
- www.info-france-usa.org/  Embassy of France in United States
- www.europcar.fr/  Rent a European car in Europe: smart!
- www.faccnyc.org/  French American Chamber of Commerce in NYC

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