Population: 60 million Major Airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport – Paris (CDG)
Currency: Euro - EUR ($1 US = $0.83 EUR)
Language: The national language is French.
Documents: Valid passport and return ticket, a visa is not required when visiting for less than three months. Valid U.S. driver’s license is needed for driving in France, minimum age to rent a car is typically 24 years old, and the rental car company will also provide a “Carte Grise” and insurance required for driving in France. If you want to make sure you have all the appropriate documents you should check in with the closest French Embassy or Consulate.
When to Go: Overall France has a temperate climate. The winters are cold, summers are hot and little rain. There are better chances of warm and comfortable weather from June through September.
Getting There: There are over 30 major US cities that have direct flights to Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport, making it convenient and affordable deals can be found.
Getting Around: The French train system is by far the fastest and most practical method of transportation. The SNCF is one of the most efficient systems and their super fast TGV (high-speed trains). Most of the towns in France can be traveled around via metro, tram systems or bus. If you prefer to rent a car, remember that the French drive on the right hand side of the road and because of the highway tolls and high gasoline costs, it is expensive especially if you are not traveling in a large group to be able to split the costs. However, you can always get a better deal when you plan in advance as they are several Fly and Drive special packages.
