France practical info  

Practical information for Australians and New Zealanders travelling to France such as visa situation, weather, currency, travelling with kids, safety and security etc. 

Before you leave: Useful tips on preparing for your trip   French language: Learning enough French to get by is not as hard as you may think. Safety & security in France: Useful travel tips on how to stay out of trouble when visiting France.

Useful travel tips for France: Read this section before you leave. Money matters in France: As in most of Europe France uses the Euro. Travelling in Europe has been made considerably easier since the introduction of the Euro.     Visa & passport issues relating to France for Aussies and Kiwis as well as embassy contacts.

Communications in France: Will my mobile phone work in France? Can I use the internet there? What is the cheapest way of calling Australia from France? Travelling with kids in France is achievable. France is actually a very family friendly destination. Theme Parks, Holiday Villages, safe beaches, white Christmas and many more great family holiday ideas.

Weather & seasons of France: France is a temperate country with four distinct seasons. Summer, autumn, winter and spring but occur in the opposite time of the year to Australia.  Bringing goods back home:  Need to know about what not to bring home, excess baggage costs and solutions and getting VAT refunds on purchases. Living in France: What is involved for Aussies and Kiwis who want to live in France. News from France: Find out what's going on in France with French media translated and from some good expat blogs. All things French in Australia

Australian Government Top Travel Tips

1. Check the latest travel advice and subscribe to receive free e-mail notification each time the advice for your destination is updated.
2. Take out appropriate travel insurance to cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities, like adventure sports, in which you plan to participate.
3. Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online so you can be contacted in an emergency.
4. Obey the law. Consular assistance cannot override local laws, even where local laws appear harsh or unjust by Australian standards.
5. Check to see if you require visas for the country or countries you are visiting or transiting.
6. Be aware that a visa does not guarantee entry. Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers' cheques, visas and credit card numbers.
7. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone at home.
8. Check with health professionals for information on recommended vaccinations or other precautions and find out about overseas laws on travelling with medicines.
9. Make sure your passport has a minimum six months validity.
10. Carry additional copies of your passport photos in case you need a replacement while overseas.
11. Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home and keep in regular contact with friends or relatives while overseas.
12. Before departing Australia check whether you're regarded as a national of the country you intend to visit.
13. Research whether holding dual nationality has any implications for your travel.