We and our distant American neighbor have many things in common and some differences. And that’s the beauty of the world: our uniqueness and differences. Check out the 8 things you can do in France and not in the US.
The French have a reputation for loving their dogs. So no wonder then that France is a popular destination for people travelling with their dogs. France, most restaurants and cafes allow dogs to join diners, both inside and out on the terrace. If you would like to dine inside with your dog, it is polite to ask first (unless you see other dogs dining inside). And if the weather is sunny or your dog doesn’t have the best manners, it is more polite to sit outside on the typically large terraces. If you need some practical tips to travel with your dog, do not hesitate to read our previous article on tips to travel with your dog in France.
One of the joys of visiting France is being able to drink reasonable quality affordable wine, often at half the price or less of the same wine back home. Indeed, it is possible to get a bottle that is really pleasant for less than 6, 5, 4 or maybe even below 3 euros. I am talking about something that doesn’t make you feel worse the next morning (quality-wise, not quantity!), something that you would recommend and reliably enjoy drinking again and again!
If you were to become sick in France, here are some useful information to know. Going to the doctor is relatively cheap in France: you can see any general doctor for a cost of about 25 Euros. You may get reimbursed by your health insurance if they cover international travels. Pharmacists are highly trained medical specialists (+6 years of higher medical studies) who are entitled to give medical advice. Do not hesitate to ask them for their help before you go see a doctor. Most French doctors will offer extended hours, and will make house calls for an extra fee. SOS Medecin will send a doctor to your house in less that one hour (Paris – tel: 01 47 07 77 77 around 70 Euros).
If it is not an emergency, you can easily take an appointment with English speaking doctors using the app Doctolib. Depending on your location, you will be able to find an available doctor as quickly as possible.
The TGV is a high-speed train that operates all over France and beyond. Travel from romantic Paris to the shores of the Mediterranean or the vineyards of the Loire Valley. Visit cities such as Bordeaux, Lyon and Marseille or catch a movie in world-famous Cannes. SNCF is the equivalent of Amtrak in France. It’s a state-owned rail company that operates domestic and international trains within and around France.
One other thing one can do in France that one can only rarely do in the U.S: Enjoy your morning coffee and croissant and your afternoon glass of wine on the same pleasant outdoor terrace. In most small towns, the cafe is both the coffee shop and the bar. Which I find pleasant and refreshing.
One of the great freedoms we have in France is to be able to use the public space to enjoy a good glass of wine or beer. Nothing better than an aperitif on the beach with friends, watching a sunset.
Update: New restrictive measures concerning the limitation of alcohol consumption in public spaces have been voted to prevent regroupings and the spread of the coronavirus.
Unlike the USA, you can drive up to 80 mph (130 kmh) on highways in France. Still, remember France doesn’t have the Autobahn (German highway without speed limitation). Adhering to the limitation in France will help you to stay safe on the road…!
The difference between the USA and France is visible at first glance. When you visit France, you find yourself surrounded by its rich history. The architecture, museums and historic buildings are a bold yet beautiful reminder of the battles the country fought and won. We can definitely say that the French consider their past iconic.
