France Holidays

Overview Tab

France boasts many historical figures synonymous with glory, power and success. This is the land that produced Charlemagne, Joan of Arc, Louis XIV the Sun King and of course Napoleon; each figure cementing their place in history and helping to shape France as they sort best, leaving a legacy that remains in place for contemporary generations. The Romans conquered across Gaul, the Vikings threatened, the English crossed the channel several times and more recently the Germans expanded west. Today France is one of the great European nations, a champion of the European Union and the epitome of sumptuous European living.

France enjoys three types of climates. The west experiences mild summers and cool winters, while eastern and central France has warmer summers. For the coastal region along the Mediterranean, the summers are much warmer with an average temperature of 23 degrees in July. In Paris the mercury rises on average to six degrees in January and 23 degrees in August.

The French celebrate many festivals and events throughout the year. Notable occasions include Bastille Day on July 14. The Cannes Film Festival, the French Tennis Open and the Nice Jazz Festival are all international events attracting significant interest each year.

Air

When flying from New Zealand to France most airlines fly via a third city with a total travel time averaging around 24 hours. Airlines that fly from New Zealand to Paris include:

Luxury Hotels

Luxury abounds throughout France from glorious elegant options in the nation’s capital through to restored chateaux in the French countryside. The French do style and sophistication very well and will ensure your accommodation is suitably comfortable.

Honeymoons

Paris is widely considered one of the most romantic cities and offers the perfect backdrop for honeymooners desiring a special shared experience to commence their life together. From international chains through to imitate luxury options, there are many elegant accommodation choices in the countries capital. View Honeymoon options

To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Sights to See

The nation’s capital, Paris, is one the world’s great destinations, delivering Parisian style, sophistication and redefining cosmopolitan chic. The attractions are iconic including the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral and Sacré Coeur. Delve into the world-class museums such as the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay and the Centre Georges Pompido. Opera Garnier, Père-Lachaise Cemetery and the Pantheon are other must see attractions. Just outside Paris, explore French royal opulence at Château de Versailles and its famous Hall of Mirrors.

The Loire Valley, centred around the city of Tours, features a significant concentration of stunningly-beautiful chateaux including Azay Le Rideau, Chenonceau, Blois and Chambord. The Côte d'Azur or Gold Coast really does shimmer in the reflection of the Mediterranean Sea. Nice is the largest city, but Antibes is a beautiful distraction before venturing into Cannes, noted for its famous film festival.

Also consider exploring canals of Strasbourg, wandering through the medieval streets of Carcassonne and revelling in the first moment you see the spire of Mont Saint Michel. Sample a fine drop in Bordeaux, pay your respects on the Normandy beaches or ski at Chamonix.

Don't leave home without...

If you happen to forget your favourite moisturiser it can generally be replaced relatively easily throughout France, especially in the larger cities.

Local Customs

Most French appreciate visitors knowing a little of their language. However it’s important to be aware when to use the formal and informal structures. When addressing a stranger, someone older than yourself and someone in a position of authority always use the formal, vous. For informal situations, amongst friends, tu is acceptable.

Things to be careful of…

Politics

Discussing politics is a highly emotive talking point for the French. It’s best to steer clear asserting views on the current political situation.

Drugs

Having illicit drugs in your possession can result in prosecution. France does not enjoy the same degree of liberalisation as their northern neighbour, The Netherlands.