Description

Ever wondered about the social and cultural differences you might encounter in France?
This book encompasses more than 20 years of Life experiences and things I wish I had known before coming to live here.You will find answers to questions you didn't even know you had!It has been immense fun to write and has taken me back over the last two decades and reminded me of some of the funny and wonderful experiences I have had during my time in France. It is a practical guide with a few touches of humor thrown in. It is an ideal guide for Holiday makers as well as people who are thinking about coming to live in France, or those who have recently moved here.
The first steps to getting established
This first section takes you through all the need to know, practical information when you are looking to set up home in France. It covers all the formalities for utilities, information on taxes, bank accounts and likely expenses. This section gives you an overview rather than a how to guide.
Government bodies - an overview
L'assurance Maladie, impôts, national and local government and elected bodies - The function of each is explained in clear and precise terms.
The French systems
This section describes how the systems work in France - Health, inheritance, justice, importation, planning and building, and much more. You also will find practical information concerning your home such as the rules and regulations and advice for employing skilled tradesman, boundaries, compliance regulations, countryside dangers and much more.
Quirks of the culture
Learn all about opening hours, holidays, strikes, schools, sports, disability adaptations, shopping, bringing your pet to France, and a host of other cultural differences.
Observing the cultural differences
This section is my personal favorite, filled with anecdotes and advice on the best ways to observe the unspoken rules of french etiquette and culture.
Recent developments
From where and how to inform the authorities of a bad customer experience to ecological developments, here you will find all the latest changes to law, goverment assistance and new rules that are being implemented.
Essential Driving Information
Learn what you need to have in your vehicle, how the air pollution scheme works, and what the potential driving offences are.
Who to call in an Emergency
This is your essential reference if the worst happens. All the emergency service numbers explained and a list of the information you will need to give
Final word
A sum-up of the book, again with personal anecdotes from our time in France and an insight into the other publications avalible. Some client references and contact links.This book tries to give you an overview of many facets of French life that have been learnt the hard way! I hope it will save you many hours of wondering what to do, or who to turn to when you are not sure of the procedure or the law.