The Nord-Pas de Calais Region is the most northeasterly of France.together make for only a small corner of France, but will forever be associated with the First World War. General Charles de Gaulle, the father of modern France who was born in Lille called the area 'fatal avenue' because it has been used as an invasion route throughout history. Nord-Pas de Calais has a strong Dutch or Flemish influence. Dutch is spoken widely and many place names are in both languages. Despite being one of the most urbanised, industrialised and war ravaged areas of France it still has its pleasant countryside, charming towns and lively cities. More information on Australians at the Western FrontBuy Michelin Green Guide to Flanders, Picardie and the Paris Region | | 
Nord-Pas de Calais Quick Facts Population: 4,048,000 Departments: Nord (59) and Pas de Calais (62) Major Centres: Lille, Calais, Valenciennes, Lens, Dunkerque, Douai, Cambrai What to see and do: Anzac war memorials in the Somme and Nord La Coupole History and Remembrance Centre Lille Flea Market - annual event and one of Europe's largest Dunkerque Carnival What to eat: What to drink: Local beer (more than 50 varieties), Genever Gin Airport: Lille, Paris Official tourism site for Nord-Pas de Calais Wikipedia on Nord-Pas de Calais |
