Helpful Tips When Visiting France

Clothing

Excursions require comfortable sports clothing. Given the powerful sun in this part of the world, we strongly recommend that you carry all necessary items for protection against sunburn, sunglasses, sun block, and lip protection.

Dress Code

None of the Restaurants/ Excursions required formal clothes, tie, jackets, etc. Informal wear during the day and smart casual for evenings.

A few things to remember

Cross Cultural Tips

The famous expression “When in Rome, do as the Romans,” is an excellent bit of advice. Remember that you are travelling to a foreign country where you are the visitor, and need to adapt to the culture and customs of the local people, not vice-versa. It is common for events to arise that place your own cultural beliefs in contrast with those of your hosts. On a short trip, you probably will not learn all, or even most, of the cultural differences. It is possible, however, to learn enough to better understand these differences, and to attune your behaviour to that of the people around you. A lot of the comforts you are accustomed to may not be available to you, and time flows at a different pace. Patience and respect are the crucial ingredients for a successful trip and an enriching experience.

CLIMATE

Temperature

France, due to its position in the central region, has a Mediterranean climate with well-defined seasons. Spring, between September and November is mild, which contributes to the flourishing green color of the plants and trees. Summer, between December and February, is dry and hot with temperatures that can reach over 30°C (87º F) and cooling down at night and on the coast this temperature drop can be much more extreme.  On the coast and in the mountains the difference in temperature is much more extreme. Autumn falls between March and May, and temperatures decrease gradually. In winter, mornings are cold, some as low as -2º C (28º F) and although the temperature rises at midday it rarely exceeds 15°C (60ºF).

GRATUITIES

Restaurants

There is no tipping, however, if you are happy with the service you could leave a tip.

Taxis

There is no tipping, but if you are happy with the driver you could give him a tip.

Guides and driver

It is customary to tip your local guides if you feel they have gone the extra mile to accommodate you.