Paris - the world's favourite city

Art, literature, fashion, philosophy, cuisine - which other country can claim such a rich heritage of the finer things in life?

From tortured intellectuals to virtuoso chefs, deep thinkers to heroic drinkers, the French are masters of many arts, and their reputation is a proud creature which feeds upon itself - and thrives.

Beyond the glittering lights of Paris, handsome, lively cities and pretty little villages punctuate the land's lush rolling landscapes, from the rugged Atlantic coastline to the sun-drenched shores of the Med.

In every corner, the country's fierce protection of its cultural and culinary traditions makes for a deliciously authentic experience for the visitor.

No matter how hard you fall for it, no-one loves France more than the French - mind you, you can't really fault them on their good taste.

Survival guide

It's hardly a struggle to survive in this most civilized of countries, but your time here will be all the more pleasant if you make an effort to adapt a little.

You don't have to be fluent, but a well-intentioned attempt at just a few words of French will get you a lot further than presuming everyone will understand English (even if they do, they may well feign otherwise).

The French also place great value on a long lunch-break, like many Europeans - so don't huff at the closed shops, just tuck in and do likewise!

Take advantage of the high-speed TGV train to go long-distance or hire a car to explore the countryside - just be aware that July and August sees virtually the entire population decamp south (or beach-ward at least) for the holidays, pushing prices up and availability down at the resorts, and clogging up the roads en route. Shops and businesses in towns and cities may also be closed for the duration.

The currency in France is the Euro.

France has rail services to every European country. The high-speed Eurostar train links Paris to London is under three hours. Ferries also link France to Ireland, the Channel Islands and Britain. France has international airports in Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and Orly in Paris, and in Bordeaux, Marseille, Lyon, Nice, Toulouse and Strasbourg.