Settling in

Cost of living

The cost of living in France is fairly similar to neighbouring countries, though some things (like supermarket food) may be more expensive. Staying in Paris can be expensive – as can staying on the Riviera, particularly during the peak tourist periods. On the other hand, fruit, wine, travel, hotels and restaurants tend to be cheaper particularly in rural areas, and there are plenty of ways of avoiding tourist traps.

Tipping

In France, service is always included in the price, so you only leave a tip when you are extremely satisfied with the service (about 5 to 10% of the total amount).

Phoning

• To call a French number from an International phone:

Dial: 0033 (or + 33 from a mobile phone) + the number after removing the first zero

For example, to call the Reims Campus: 03 26 77 47 47 becomes 0033 3 26 77 47 47 or +33 3 26 77 47 47

• To call a French number from a French phone:

Dial the 10-digit numbers, including the first zero.

• To call an international number from France:

Dial: 00 + Country Calling Code + number

Electricity

The voltage in France is 220 Volts and the plugs are identified by two round pins spaced 19mm apart, with a hole for the socket’s male grounding pin.

If the electricity system is different from what you have in your country, we recommend you to bring plug adapters and/or voltage converters with you or buying them once in France.

Religion

There is no state religion, but France has a strong Catholic tradition. Islam is the second religion, followed by Protestantism, Judaism and Buddhism.