| Population: | 66.03 Million 2013 Census |
| Language: | French |
| Capital: | Paris |
| Founded: | October 4, 1958 |
| Currency: | Euro Dollar |
| Cash Crop: | Sugar, wheat, wine, and beef |
| Iconic Landmark: | Eiffel Tower |
| Fun Fact: | The Eiffel Tower sparkles at night |
Money Matters U.S. dollars are not accepted in most establishments, though some hotels, shops, and restaurants may accept U.S. dollars at an agreed upon exchange rate. Euro (€): The French currency Bills: 500/200/100/50/20/10/5 Coins: 2€/1€/50 cents/20c/10c/5c/2c/1c The Euro is divided into 100 cents, or centimes.
Tipping in France Almost all restaurants include tax and a 15% service charge (service compris) in their prices. If a meal or service has been particularly good, leaving another 2-3% is customary, as is leaving the waiter the small change from your bill if you pay in cash. If service is not included (service non compris) a 15% tip is appropriate. In hotels, tip porters approximately 1.50€ for each bag and chambermaids 1.50€ a day. Taxi drivers should be given 10-15% of the metered fare. Tip hairdressers 10%, assistant 5%. Small tips of around 1€ are reasonable for cloakroom and washroom attendants, ushers and museum tour guides. It is standard practice to tip tour guides and bus drivers after an excursion, generally 1.50-3.00€, depending on your level of the satisfaction. Read more...
The mountains are a majestic setting, home to fairytales inspired by prairies and peaks. Villages cast charming spells, and panoramic views of the landscape can take your breath away. Embark on one of the most exhilarating tour packages of Europe with romance at its heart. Gilded rooms pay homage to gentle knights inside lavish castles. Ice statues decorate palaces carved into the mountains. Whether traversing the slopes in winter or discovering the hiking trails in summer, you and your partner will find devotion in the mountaintops, set in alluring waterfalls and enchanting horse drawn carriages. Take a look...