Historically and culturally, France is one of the most important countries not only of Europe but the world as a whole. It is not surprising that France is also the world's most popular tourist destination. Visitors can choose from a variety of attractions...the museums and culture of Paris, the landscapes that inspired the Impressionists in Provence, cathedrals that took decades to build, and the chateaux of the Loire valley. Different regions of the country are quite distinct from one another, so one visit is often not enough to see all that this country has to offer. Tourism facilities are extremely well developed.
To contact Auto Europe from France, dial 00-800-223-5555-5.

Entry Requirements
U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter France for visits of less than three months. Pets are allowed to enter the country as long as they have valid rabies vaccination certificates, issued in French by a nationally licensed veterinarian of the departure country. Pets must be vaccinated at least 30 days but less than one year prior to the date of entry.

Local Time
France is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time in the United States and Canada.

Language
French is the official language, but English is widely understood in major cities. English is studied for a minimum of four years in French schools.

Electricity
220 V, 50Hz. The Continental two-round-pin plug is standard.

Local Tourist Information
Office de Tourisme de Paris
127 ave. Champs-Elysees
75008 Paris
Phone (+33) 01-49-52-53-54
Fax (+33) 01-49-52-53-00
This agency operates branch offices at the train stations and the Eiffel Tower. The central office is connected by telex to similar centers in other French cities.

Customs
Travelers are not required to pay duty on an appropriate amount of items for their personal use during their visit. In addition, the following duty-free allowances apply: no more than 1 liter of liquor and 2 liters of wine; and 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.

Currency Exchange
Banks are generally open on weekdays (sometimes on Saturdays) from about 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and most close for an hour or two between noon and 2. Some banks charge a commission for money exchanges or cashing travelers checks.

Tipping
Tipping in France is nearly as complicated as it is in the US. The following is a guideline, it should help you in most situations. Hotels may add up to 30% in service charges, depending on the hotel. Many restaurants automatically add a 15 percent gratuity and diners are expected to add 5 to 7 percent more for the waiter in higher end establishments. In less formal dining arenas an additional few additional Euro are acceptable, and where the service fee is not included 15% will suffice. Suggested tips for cloakroom and washroom attendants are €.50-€1 and for wine stewards €2-€3. Museum and tour guides appreciate a tip of €1.50, and for gas station attendants tipping is not necessary for petrol fill ups or oil checks. €1.50 is appropriate for checking the tires though. Taxi drivers typically expect 10% of the final fare.

General Business Hours
Museums: Typical museum hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m., with lunchtime closings from noon to 2 p.m. common. Many museums are closed Tuesdays and Sunday mornings. Restaurants: Lunchtime is 12:30 or 1 p.m. Dinner is generally around 8 p.m. Shopping: Normal business hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m., often with a break between noon and 2 p.m. Large stores in big towns typically do not close for lunch. Small stores may open before 9:30 a.m. and close later than 6.

Value Added Tax
19.6%

United States Embassy in France
2 ave. Gabriel
75008 Paris, France
Phone (+33) 01-43-12-22-22
Fax (+33) 01-42-66-97-83

United States Consulate
2 rue St. Florentin
75382 Paris Cedex 08
Phone 1 43 12 22 22
Fax 1 42 66 97 83

United States Consulate General
Place Varian Fry
13006 Marseille
Phone 04-91-54-92-00
Fax 04-91-55-09-47

United States Consulate General
15 ave. d'Alsace
67082 Strasbourg Cedex
Phone 03-88-35-31-04
Fax 03-88-24-06-95