Step 7

Cost of living

The cost of living in France is fairly similar to neighbouring countries, though some things (like supermarket food) may be more expensive. Staying in Paris can be expensive – as can staying on the Riviera, particularly during the peak tourist periods. On the other hand, fruit, wine, travel, hotels and restaurants tend to be cheaper particularly in rural areas, and there are plenty of ways of avoiding tourist traps.

Tipping

Good news ! No obligation to tip at restaurants or bars in France. Nothing prevents you from tipping if you think that the service was exceptional, or if you simply want to get rid of some change. It may be a real cultural shock for you, but don’t feel too bad. It is really OK not to tip !

Phoning 

• To call a French number from an International phone: 

Dial: 0033 (or + 33 from a mobile phone) + the number after removing the first zero 

For example, to call the Reims Campus: 03 26 77 47 47 becomes 0033 3 26 77 47 47 or +33 3 26 77 47 47 

• To call a French number from a French phone: 

Dial the 10-digit numbers, including the first zero. 

• To call an international number from France: 

Dial: 00 + Country Calling Code + number 

Electricity 

The voltage in France is 220 Volts and the plugs are identified by two round pins spaced 19mm apart, with a hole for the socket’s male grounding pin.

If the electricity system is different from what you have in your country, we recommend you to bring plug adapters and/or voltage converters with you or buying them once in France.

Mealtimes

Mealtimes in France are very important. It is a moment of meeting and sharing with friends or family, sometimes between colleagues.

French mealtimes are strict. Restaurants are generally open from 12 pm to 2 pm for lunch, and from 7 pm to 11 pm for dinner.

Family

French people are respectful of privacy and are quite reluctant to talk about themselves and their personal concerns.

The family remains an important landmark for them. It is perceived as a space of security and relaxation, well separated from professional life.

Religion

There is no state religion, but France has a strong Catholic tradition. Islam is the second religion, followed by Protestantism, Judaism and Buddhism.