Britannia Turnbull’s International Guide: France

Living in France

France needs no introduction. The heritage and culture of France is respected worldwide to the extent that French cuisine and gastronomy was declared a “world intangible heritage” by UNESCO in 2010. But with one the largest economy’s in the European Union and the world, France is a place for a big business as well as diversity. And the diversity continues with its varied landscapes. From the bustling city of Paris to the calm southern vineyards and from the glamourous coats of the French Riviera to the epic French Alps, there is little wonder with France is such a pull for tourists and expats alike.

Facts about France

With around 83 million visitors arriving each year, France is the world’s most popular tourist destination. In 2030, tourism to France is expected to reach 100 million. The Louvre in Paris was the most visited museum in the world in 2014 and the Eiffel Tower is the most visited monument in the world that you have to pay to visit.

Thanks to its overseas territories which are spaced out across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, France actually spans twelve different time zones – more than any other country in the world.

France was the first country to introduce public transport. In the 1660s, horse-drawn carriages circulated various neighbourhoods in Paris at fixed times.

France was the first country in the world to ban supermarkets from throwing away unsold food. Since 2016, the food has to be donated to food banks or charities.

France has more roundabouts in than any other country in the world. With 30,000 – it boasts over half of the roundabouts in the world.

Largest Urban Areas in France (2012 Estimate)

Paris, Ile-de-France – 11,688,000

Lyon, Auvergne-Rhones-Alpes – 1,935,000

Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur – 1,732,000

Lille, Hauts-de-France – 1,357,000

Toulouse, Occitania – 1,255,000

Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine – 1,152,000

Nice, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur

Strasbourg, Grand Est – 767,000

Rouen, Normandy – 696,000

Rennes, Brittany – 691,000

France Immigration Information

Despite the changing climate in Europe and the European Union, Brexit hasn’t changed much for British citizens looking to migrate to France. But this could change depending on the deal that is agreed between the UK and the EU and as France tightens its borders. A British passport currently allows for stays up to three months, for anything beyond this, the French Embassy should be contacted for information on requirements.

Preparing for France

As mentioned previously, French culture is unique and something that can be difficult to adjust to. Like any move to a non-English speaking country, learning the language is key for integration and also best equips you to get used to the quirks of life in France. Open yourself out to things such as cycling which is promoted in France. France also has an excellent healthcare system, but you are legally obliged to have health insurance to gain access to it.

Moving to France

There are multiple methods of moving to France and each of these has an impact of the estimated time of delivery. Britannia Turnbull’s have the experience required to see you through the removal whichever route you take and your Move Coordinator will be on hand to provide advice whenever you need it. Call 0113 262 4111 today about your international removal to France.

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