France has long been the crossroads of trade, travel, and invasion. “La belle France” has a remarkably diverse landscape, ranging from the broad plain that covers most of northern and western France to the snow clad mountains — the Pyrénées in the south, the Massif Central in the southeast, and the Alps in the east — and then to its network of rivers — the Rhône in the south, the Loire and Garonne in the west, and the Seine in the north. The hills of France sprout world-famous vineyards, her forests blanket one‑fifth of her land, and her valleys bloom with flowers that produce her equally famous perfumes. Each region of the country boasts a distinctive cuisine contributing to a gastronomic mosaic of legendary repute.

France’s climate is as varied as the land, allowing for ski resorts in the French Alps and fashionable resorts along the beaches of Biarritz and Deauville. Cool winters and mild summers are to be found in the west and north and a Mediterranean climate in the south.

France was one of the earliest countries to progress from feudalism into the era of the nation‑state. The French Revolution established republican and egalitarian principles of government that would later be adopted throughout most of Europe.

France’s achievements in literature and in the arts and sciences have influenced Western culture and set world standards. French painting is synonymous with greatness. David, artist of the revolution, and Monet and Renoir, explorers of light on canvas, are but a few. In music, Berlioz in the Romantic period was followed by Debussy, who was inspired by the Impressionist movement, and Bizet, composer of “Carmen.” French literature encompasses the 18th century rationalist philosophers Voltaire and Rousseau and the 20th century novelists Colette, Proust, Sartre, and Camus. France has also played a leading role in science. Lavoisier laid the foundations of modern chemistry and physics; the Curies jointly discovered radium; and Pasteur developed theories of germs and vaccination.

France has highly developed and diversified industries — electric power, gas, aerospace, and capital goods. A favorable climate, large tracts of fertile land, and the application of modern technology make France the leading agricultural producer in Western Europe. Each region has its own geographical charm, rich crops, and customs, and they all combine to make France a fascinating experience.

Special Note — American Presence Posts

American Presence Posts (APPs) in France are regional, one‑officer, restricted‑focus Foreign Service posts in five key cities around the country — Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Rennes, and Toulouse. They have the diplomatic status of a Consulate and are treated as such in this Post Report. The purpose of these posts is to provide a continuous, on-the-ground official American presence in support of American businesses, citizens, and public diplomacy goals. Advances in communications technology and an entrepreneurial approach to doing business enables the APPs to effectively pursue evolving U.S. interests with limited staff, infrastructure, and budget.

The Host Country

Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 1/16/2004 2:29 PM

France covers 220,668 square miles, and is about four‑fifths the size of Texas. The landscape is varied; about two‑thirds flat plains or gently rolling hills, and the rest mountainous. A broad plain covers most of northern and western France from the Belgian border in the northeast to Bayonne in the southwest, and it rises to uplands in Normandy, Brittany, and the east. This large plain is bounded on the south by the steeply rising ridges of the Pyrénées, on the southeast by the mountainous plateau of the Massif Central, and on the east by the rugged Alps, the low ridges of the Jura, and the rounded summits of the densely forested Vosges. The principal rivers are the Rhône in the south, the Loire and the Garonne in the west, the Seine in the north, and the Rhine, which forms part of France’s eastern border with Germany.

France is bordered on the north by Belgium and the Duchy of Luxembourg, on the east by Germany, on the southeast by Switzerland, Italy, and Monaco, and on the south by Spain and Andorra.

The west and north of France experience cool winters and mild summers, while southern France and Corsica have a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Precipitation is frequent all year. The average yearly rainfall in Paris for the last 30 years is 26 inches.

Population Last Updated: 1/16/2004 2:30 PM

France’s population of 58.7 million (2000 est.) consists of large elements of three basic European stocks — Celtic, Latin, and Teutonic — but over the centuries, these groups have blended so that today they may be referred to only in the historical sense.

Between 1946 and 1996, France’s population has increased from 40 to 58 million inhabitants. Since then, it has still grown, but less quickly from 1975. The “baby‑boom” has lasted until the mid‑’60s. The growth in the population comes from the natural excess for three‑quarters, and for one‑quarter, from immigration, which was mainly very important between 1955 and 1973.

France’s birthrate was among the highest in Europe from 1945 until the late 1960s, when it began to fall. Since 1976 the rate has been approximately 3 births per 1,000 people, the lowest since 1945.

Traditionally, France has had a high level of immigration. About 4,310 million people in 1999 (=7.4% of the population) entered the country between the two World Wars. After the establishment of an independent Algerian state in 1962, about 1 million French citizens returned to France. By early 1982 France’s population of immigrant workers and their families was estimated at 3.5 million or almost 7% of the population. The number of immigrants born in Europe has decreased; the number coming from Maghreb has slightly increased.

As of 2000, about 85% of the population is Roman Catholic, less than 2% is Protestant, and about 1.5% is Jewish. Immigration since the early 1960s from North Africa, especially Algeria, accounts for about 9% Muslims.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 1/16/2004 2:31 PM

The Constitution for the Fifth Republic was approved by public referendum in 1958. Under its provisions, as amended in 1962 and 2000, the President of the Republic is elected directly for a 5‑year term. The President names the Prime Minister, presides over the Council of Ministers, commands the Armed Forces, and concludes treaties. The President may submit questions (with the government’s approval) to a national referendum, may dissolve the National Assembly, and, in certain defined emergency situations, may assume full power.

The Constitution provides for a bicameral Parliament consisting of a National Assembly and a Senate. The Assembly’s 577 deputies are elected directly for 5-year terms. All seats are voted on in each election. The Senate, chosen by an electoral college, has 321 members elected for 9‑year terms. One-third of the Senate is renewed every 3 years.

The French political spectrum includes six distinctive political groups. From right to left, these are the extreme right, the neo‑Gaullists, the traditional center‑right, the Socialists, the ecologists and non-Communist far‑left, and the Communists. Numerous smaller parties have variable national political impact. A center‑right president was elected in 1995. Since legislative elections in 1997 gave the left a majority in the National Assembly, a Socialist prime minister has presided over a leftist coalition government, creating a situation the French call “cohabitation” in which the president and prime minister represent different political tendencies. Separate presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled to occur in the first half of 2002.

Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:16 PM

France has had a greater influence on Western Culture than almost any other country. The Gothic Cathedrals of Northern France and the chateaux of the French nobility, the French philosophers and playwrights of the Enlightenment, the novelists and painters of the 19th century, and the French film directors of the “New Wave” have been admired and imitated around the world. France continues as a mecca for performing artists, painters, writers, and intellectuals from every continent who are drawn by its rich museums, its knowledgeable and appreciative audiences, and the prestige given to creative people in all fields.

From the time of Thomas Jefferson, French culture has had an enormous impact on American art, architecture, cuisine, fashion, science, and education. More recently, French culture has borrowed from American popular music, movies, television programs, and the culture of the Internet.

The process of globalization, the growing worldwide use of the English‑language and the immense success of American popular culture have caused considerable alarm and resentment among many French intellectuals. To protect French culture, the French Government has adopted a number of policies, including quotas against non‑French language music on the radio and subsidies for French films. On the other hand, the French have welcomed works by American performers, filmmakers and architects, and has taken pride in honoring many American artists who are not widely known in the United States.

The French have a curious love‑hate relationship with American culture — they admire and imitate much of what they find in the cultural diversity of the United States, but fear that their own culture is threatened by what they see as the excessive commercialization, uniformity, and the marketing power of U.S. culture, particularly Hollywood.

French science and technology are world‑class and also highly successful commercially. The high‑speed TGV trains, French nuclear power plants, and the European Airbus, assembled in Toulouse, are used around the world. French researchers were the first to discover the AIDS virus, and France has an active space program. In recent years, however, French scientists have complained that funding for research has gradually fallen behind that in the United States.

The French education system is highly centralized, with important decisions made by the Ministry of Education in Paris. The French teacher corps is the second‑largest group of civil servants in the world (next to the Chinese Army), and wields great political power, particularly when it feels threatened by outside reformers.

From the maternelle, or preschool, through graduate school, public education in France is free. French primary and secondary schools are first‑rate, particularly in mathematics, science, history, and literature. Students work long hours and have little time for extracurricular activities. At the top of the French educational system are the highly selective Grands Ecoles, which have traditionally produced the leaders of the French Government and industry. The most prestigious are the Ecole Polytechnique (industry), the Ecole Normale Superiure (Humanities and Social Sciences), the Ecole National d’Administration Publique (Government) and the Hautes Etudes Commerciales (Business). French state universities have seen their reputation diminish somewhat, as they struggle with low entrance standards, enormous classes, and insufficient funding.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:17 PM

Since World War II, France has been transformed from a largely agrarian economy with modest mineral resources and small, fragmented industrial sectors into a diversified, integrated, and sophisticated industrial power. Still a large agricultural producer, France also has become a major industrial producer and exporter as well. France is the ninth‑largest trading partner of the United States worldwide in terms of two‑way trade, and the third largest in Europe (after the United Kingdom and Germany). The United States and France share many trade similarities, in particular their status as the world’s top 2 exporting countries in 3 key sectors: defense products, agricultural goods, and services. Franco‑American trade is also remarkable for its symmetry, as the majority of the top 15 export products are the same each way. Nonetheless, France’s major partners are within the European Union.

France has the world’s fourth largest industrial economy, with an annual GDP about one‑fifth that of the United States. The disposable income of France’s 60 million population averages around $20,000 per capita, and memberships in the G‑7, European Union, World Trade Organization, and OECD confirm the status of France as a leading economic player in the world. In 2000, French GDP grew by 3.2% in real terms, an encouraging improvement over 2.0% real growth in 1997.

France’s Socialist government is concentrating on implementing a domestic agenda focused on economic growth and bringing down high unemployment, which stood at 9.2% by the end of 2000. Efforts to implement a reduction of hours worked from 39 to 35 hours per week, as a spur to create jobs, are ongoing. The economic impact of the transition to the 35-hour work week is uncertain.

Government efforts to sell off shares of French enterprises continue, but the government still controls 54% of GDP. In addition, the French concept of a “golden share” gives the government a virtual veto in strategic moves in key firms in the economy. Progress has been made in privatization and the reduction of budget deficits, but taxes remain the highest in the G‑7 industrial countries, regulation of goods and labor markets is pervasive, and structural changes are likely to be spurred by world competitive pressures or by the European Union.

Transportation

Automobiles Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:20 PM

France has an excellent system of highways providing easy access to Belgium (3 hours), Germany (5 hours), and the Riviera (8–10 hours from Paris). Tolls are high on major roads. Heavy traffic on weekends and during holidays can cause considerable inconvenience. Secondary, two‑lane roads, passing through the centers of small towns, are often more picturesque and interesting. The roads are well marked and detailed maps are readily available. The American driver may have initial difficulty adjusting to the aggressive driving habits of some French motorists. Bicyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians also encumber the roads both in towns and in the country.

Personnel may import cars (tax and duty free), or purchase them locally. A registration and insurance certificate are needed, but a temporary customs registration and insurance certificate can be obtained at the port of entry. The Embassy or Consulate will assist you in obtaining French registration papers and plates. Technical and administrative staffs receive “K” plates and personnel on the diplomatic list receive “CD” plates. In addition, everyone is issued regular French plates to be used as a security measure to make American ownership of the car less conspicuous. To sell a car locally, duty must be paid, except when sold to another diplomat or to Mission personnel. Married persons on the diplomatic list may register two cars tax-free provided the spouse is at post. Personnel not on the diplomatic list may register one car duty free.

Third‑party liability insurance is compulsory and must be obtained from a French insurance company. Lists of insurance companies are supplied by the Embassy. Rates are higher than in the U.S.

Personnel need to consider the tax consequences of vehicle loss, through theft or destruction, when arranging vehicle insurance. Vehicles, official and private, are imported into France tax and duty free. French laws and procedures mandate that vehicles be exported (or transferred to someone else with tax/customs exemptions). In the event a vehicle is stolen or destroyed in an accident, tax (19.6%) and customs duties must be paid (no exemption for diplomatic staff). French insurance policies cover these possibilities. As American companies are not as familiar with the procedure, arriving staff may want to consult with the American company about this aspect of coverage beforehand.

Automobile repairs are costly. Parts, tires, and accessories for U.S. cars are scarce and expensive. The Military Post Exchanges (PXs) in Germany and Belgium stock common auto parts and can order larger parts, but this takes about 6 weeks.

These service and repair difficulties, narrow streets, parking problems, and high insurance rates make it practical to own a European car. The post has an exception to the rule against U.S. Government shipping of foreign‑bought, foreign-made cars. Such cars can be shipped from Paris to the U.S. at Government expense, but must meet U.S. pollution and safety standards. Cars often may be purchased from departing employees at a reasonable cost.

Garage space or street parking close to residences is limited and usually too small for large American cars. A few Government‑leased apartment buildings provide parking facilities, but most apartment blocks do not include parking garages. Indoor parking space can be leased, usually within the vicinity of your apartment, and is reimbursable to a certain limit. The Boulogne compound has a small on‑complex parking lot with one space per unit. The Neuilly compound has on‑street parking only.

Because of parking problems and heavy traffic in Paris, most people use public transportation during the week and drive only on weekends and vacations.

The employees’ association sells coupons for both leaded and unleaded gas for use throughout France. Unleaded gas is widely available.

Driving is on the right as in the U.S. A U.S. drivers license is valid for your first year. During this time, you are expected to obtain a French drivers license through the Embassy.

Transportation

Local Transportation Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:20 PM

Public transportation in Paris is excellent and inexpensive and is preferred by most employees to the frustrations of rush hour driving. The metro (subway), although crowded during rush hour, is fast and trains are frequent. Trains and stations are well maintained and routes are clearly marked. Buses also are frequent and provide excellent service. A monthly pass for the metro and bus system, taking you anywhere within Paris, costs €43.45. Student rates are available.

Taxis are plentiful, though difficult to find during rush hour, holidays, and bad weather. Limited to three passengers, they are metered, with surcharges for late rides, long rides, luggage, and use of radio‑taxi. Fares from the Embassy to midtown (plus tip) cost about Euro €.11.43, to Boulogne or Neuilly about €22.87, and to Charles de Gaulle Airport about €38.11.

Transportation

Regional Transportation Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:21 PM

France offers excellent rail and air transportation to all parts of the country and other European destinations. The French railway system is among the best in the world. Train travel is fast, efficient, and relatively inexpensive. Substantial fare reductions for use of public transportation are offered to children, students, and individuals over 60.

Frequent direct air service is available to many U.S. cities. The two airports serving Paris, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, are about a 30‑minute ride from the Embassy and both are served by excellent bus and rail service to air terminals in the city. Private airport shuttle services offer door‑to‑door airport transportation for a reasonable fee by reservation.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:21 PM

Telephone and telegraph services to and from Paris compare favorably with those in any large U.S. city. A direct‑dial telephone system links France to the U.S. and most of the world. Current charges for direct‑dial calls to the U.S. are about €0.09 a minute plus €0.18 during peak times and as low as €0.09 plus €0.16 for low rate hours. Phones can be purchased or rented. American‑made phones can be used when fitted with the proper plug that is available locally. A basic telephone rental will cost monthly €3.16 with an additional charge for each local call. Calls to the U.S. may be charged to international telephone cards such as AT&T, MCI, and Sprint.

Mission employees request telephone service through the Information Management Office (IMO). Once the request is made, employees go to their neighborhood telephone office to choose the type of service desired and to pick up their instruments. The process usually takes about 2 weeks. Installation fees of about €32.01 or €56.41 (1 or 2 plugs) are paid by the employee and reimbursed by the Embassy.

Communications

Internet Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:22 PM

Internet in France blossomed slowly due to the monopoly that France Telecom has held on all telecommunications and the large amounts of revenue gained by the practice of charging for all local phone calls on a toll basis. There has been a resistance to change, as France Telecom is a large monopoly with a strong financial interest in controlling Internet access types. In addition, France was the proponent of a French‑developed Internet alternative — the Minitel system. An early precursor for information access that was included as part of most telephone installations, it allowed customers to access information pages using DOS‑based terminal emulation. Again, there was a toll charge assessed for usage.

Free Internet access is springing up in France. Several ISPs offer no monthly charges but access methods (dial‑up, ISDN, ADSL, or cable) may be limited. Finally, personnel should be aware that many ISPs in France do not accept credit cards for Internet accounts. A French checking account will provide more flexibility when choosing an ISP.

Communications

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:23 PM

Mail and parcel post services to and from the U.S. are relatively good. Airmail from New York to Paris takes 2–3 days via international mail and 4–5 days via the Army Post Office (APO).

Official personnel and eligible family members are entitled to use the APO, which has an office in the Embassy. Services include airmail, prepaid parcel post, money orders, registered and insured mail, SAM (Space Available Mail), and PAL (Parcel Airlift) mail. Parcels sent via SAM must conform to weight and size limitations of 100 inches length and girth combined and 70 lbs. maximum weight. Use APO whenever possible for importing small items from the U.S. Packages sent through international mail must go through customs, and prior to customs approval a list of items must be processed by the Embassy General Services Office.

Use the following forms of address:

APO‑Embassy Full Name PSC 116 (+ room #) APO AE 09777

APO-OECD Full Name PSC 116 (+ office + room number) Paris Embassy OECD Unit 21551 APO AE 09777

International Full Name 2, avenue Gabriel 75382 Paris Cedex 08 France

Pouch Full Name American Embassy Department of State 9200 Paris Pl. Washington, D.C. 20521–9200

Communications

Radio and TV Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:24 PM

French TV can only be received on a television set with French SECAM‑L. Not all multistandard PAL/SECAM/NTSC television sets will receive French stations; be sure to check the specifications of any set you plan to use for watching French TV. To watch American videos, bring an American (NTSC Standard) TV, VHS video player, and/or DVD player. All will operate with transformers, which are available at the PXs and locally. The Embassy Employee Association maintains a well-stocked VHS (NTSC) and DVD, video library that adds new titles on a regular basis. Decoders for viewing the Armed Forces Network can be procured from the Post Exchange in most military bases in Europe.

French broadcast TV offers three government-run stations, France 2 and France 3, and La 5. In addition there are two private channels, TF1 and M6 and a French/German Arts channel, ARTE. All channels carry a fair amount of popular American programs dubbed into French. American films dubbed into French or French‑made films, game shows, and variety shows also predominate. The nightly news is at 8:00 p.m. Children’s shows, mostly cartoons, are shown, but for considerably fewer hours of airtime than in the United States. All parts of Paris are able to subscribe to cable, which carries CNN and several BBC stations. At this writing, NOOSTV is the sole cable provider for all of Paris. Visit www.noos.com for a listing of currently available channels. An additional channel, Canal Plus, which can be accessed by renting a decoder box for your French TV set, carries movies in English and several other thematic channels.

The two government‑owned compounds of Neuilly and Boulogne each have an internal cable TV system with direct broadcast satellite (DBS) programs. There are four channels — news, sports, music, and general entertainment. Recently, another satellite system was added for the Armed Forces Network (AFN) with domestic U.S. programming. Since the DBS programs are in the PAL system and AFN uses NTSC, a multistandard TV receiver is recommended. Since these systems are user supported and not maintained by either the employees’ association or the government, compound residents are expected to provide monetary support to keep the equipment maintained. However, there are no annual or monthly fees.

Radio reception is good. What you receive depends upon where you are in Paris. BBC International radio service can be picked up on AM radio. There is no VOA Europe broadcast in the Paris area. It is illegal to ship or hand‑carry a two‑way CB radio transceiver to post. It is possible, however, to join local amateur radio operator clubs. Reciprocal amateur licenses are available and cost €45.73 per year.

Communications

Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:25 PM

French newspapers and periodicals, which cost a bit more than their U.S. equivalents, are readily available at newsstands around the city. French newspapers follow a particular ideological or political bent. Editorial comment and factual reporting are not always kept separate as they are in U.S. newspapers. The American political scene and French‑U.S. relations are widely covered.

English-language newspapers, including the International Herald Tribune, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and British daily papers, are available throughout the city. The European editions of Time, Newsweek, and U.S. News and World Report are available. U.S. fashion and special interest magazines can also be purchased. U.S. magazine subscriptions sent via APO only require payment of the domestic subscription rate. Subscriptions sent by international mail will be more expensive. All major publications maintain sites accessible via the Internet.

Galignani and W.H. Smith bookstores specialize in American and British books. Shakespeare and Company and other small independent sellers offer rich English-language hunting ground, with Shakespeare featuring reduced‑price used volumes. Tea and Tattered Pages stocks only used English books (mainly American paperbacks) and also has a small tea room. For the at‑home shopper, the Internet combined with APO privileges offers an economical and convenient way to purchase books.

The American Library in Paris at 10, rue du General Camou in the 7th arrondissement, has a large collection of books, including a good selection of American and English literature. The library facilities are open to everyone for a nominal membership fee. The Public Affairs Section’s Information Resource Center (IRC), located in the Talleyrand Building, serves as a documentation/reference center for a variety of American topics. In addition, the Community Liaison Office (CLO) lending library of used paperbacks donated by community members is located in the Embassy.

Health and Medicine

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:26 PM

The Embassy’s Occupational Health Unit is directed by a local registered nurse available for consultations, minor examinations, and referral for necessary medical care. A State Department regional medical officer, resident in London, visits Paris and the consulates general periodically. A regional psychiatrist is also resident in London.

Most medications used in the U.S. are available in France. A French physician must write a prescription for medications purchased at local pharmacies. If taking a prescription medicine, bring a supply to post with you, preferably in your carry‑on luggage. You are responsible for obtaining and reordering any necessary long‑term medications. Prescriptions from U.S. pharmacies can be arranged through the Occupational Health Unit.

Paris has good medical facilities and well-trained physicians. A good resource list of English‑speaking physicians is available, many of whom have done training in the U.S. Outpatient medical and dental care is generally less expensive than in the U.S.

The American Hospital of Paris in Neuilly (a Paris suburb) is a well‑equipped, 180-bed, American‑style hospital with several American physicians on its French staff. The emergency room is staffed 24 hours a day with an English-speaking physician. Although it has an outpatient pediatric clinic, it has no separate pediatric unit. The large French public hospitals are well equipped and have specialists in most medical fields, and some speak English.

The medevac point for Paris is London. The nearest military facility is SHAPE Hospital in Belgium, a 3‑hour drive. Military facilities and services are limited. Travel expenses and per diem are not authorized for many military medical facilities.

Health and Medicine

Community Health Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:26 PM

The general level of community sanitation is good. Water in large cities is safe, but not fluoridated. The Occupational Health Unit provides fluoride tablets for children. Many people purchase bottled water or use a water filtering pitcher (available locally or from the PX) to filter out the sediments and chemical deposits. Good pasteurized milk is available.

Most personnel encounter no unusual health problems during their tour. Upper respiratory infections and allergies resulting from dust, pollen, and pollution are the most common complaints.

Health and Medicine

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:27 PM

Although immunizations are not necessary for France, all Foreign Service personnel should have current immunizations against diphtheria‑tetanus and polio. School‑age children are required to have the same immunizations as in the U.S. The Occupational Health Unit gives a yearly TB skin test, and a BCG exemption is done to meet school requirements.

If traveling to areas outside of Western Europe, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Meningitis A&C and typhoid immunizations, plus malaria prophylaxis can be provided at the Embassy medical unit. Yellow fever vaccine can be obtained and certified at the Air France Immunization Clinic.

Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:27 PM

The U.S. Missions in France make a concerted effort to employ eligible family members of U.S. Government employees assigned to France (spouses, adult children from age 18 through 21, or other eligible family members included in the employee’s travel authorization). Part‑time, full‑time, short‑term, and long‑term opportunities are available frequently in the clerical/administration office. Nonclerical positions are scarce, but do become available occasionally. When funds are available, the Missions sponsor a summer employment program for young adults ages 16–21.

A bilateral agreement between the U.S. and French Governments permits adult eligible family members of U.S. Government employees assigned to France to work on the local economy. Eligible family members must obtain a job offer in writing from a local concern before the Embassy can file the necessary papers to obtain a work permit. The complete process may take up to 10 weeks. Eligible family members planning to work on the French economy should first contact the HR Office. Dependents seeking local employment should also be aware that such positions are frequently arranged in the U.S. before coming to post; a high level of French is required for most jobs. Many positions needing a native English speaker are frequently filled by British applicants who, as members of the European Community (EC), do not need working papers.

American Embassy - Paris

Post City Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:28 PM

Paris lies in north central France in the Seine River Valley. Climatic conditions in Paris are moderate. Winters are damp but not severe. Snowfall is light, sunshine is rare in winter and gray, foggy days are frequent. Summer temperatures are rarely oppressive, but rain is heavy at times. Hot weather may come as early as May and stay as late as October. Conversely, June and July can be cool or rainy. Winds are not excessive. The famous “April in Paris” is traditionally cold, wet, and windy, while autumn can be ideal.

The Paris region has a population of almost 11 million and Paris itself has about 2.2 million inhabitants. About 375 Americans, including civilian and military, work directly or indirectly with the Missions. The American colony around Paris is near 18,000. About 4,000 to 6,000 American students are enrolled in university-level education in Paris and the provinces. Paris receives about 1.8 million American tourists each year.

The Paris Embassy has the distinction of being the first American diplomatic mission overseas. Benjamin Franklin was appointed the first diplomatic agent in 1778, followed by Thomas Jefferson.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 2/11/2005 4:30 AM

The post consists of three missions: the Embassy, the U.S. Mission to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the U.S. Mission to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (USUNESCO). Forty-eight U.S. Government agencies are attached to these missions.

The Embassy Chancery is housed in a government-owned building at 2 avenue Gabriel on the northwest corner of the historic Place de la Concorde. Although a building was originally erected there in 1768, it was eventually torn down and construction on the Embassy’s main building began in 1931. In accordance with 18th-century French law, the building’s facade was designed to conform to those of other buildings on the Place de la Concorde.

The Consular Section, Public Diplomacy Section, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Department of Defense’s Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) are located on the northeast corner of the Place de la Concorde at 2 rue St. Florentin in the government-owned Talleyrand Building. The 18th-century Hôtel de Talleyrand, where Talleyrand died, was declared an historic monument by the French Government in 1980.

The U.S. Mission to the OECD and the U.S. Mission to the UNESCO are located at 12 avenue Raphaël, ARS at 12-14 boulevard Haussmann.

Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Mission is closed on American and most French holidays. The telephone number of the Embassy Switchboard is 01.43.12.22.22 and of the USOECD switchboard is 01.45.24.74.11. and of the USUNESCO switchboard is 01.45.24.74.56. The three of them handle Mission phone calls and are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Embassy and USOECD / USUNESCO have duty officers and office managers on call. Marine Security Guards, on duty 24 hours a day, are located at the Embassy.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:30 PM

Although the post makes every effort to have quarters ready for move-in on the employee’s arrival, this is not always possible. Employees should be prepared to spend at least 1 month in transit quarters before their permanent quarters are ready. The Embassy will arrange for transit quarters for arriving employees as needed. In rare instances, neither permanent quarters nor transits may be available, resulting in hotel assignments (paid by employing agency).

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:31 PM

Post policy is to assign permanent housing (an apartment) prior to initial arrival. Assignments are made by the Interagency Housing Board based on the employee’s arrival date, position rank, family size, and, if possible, preferences, apartment availability, and 6 FAM 700 regulations (interagency housing policy and standards).

The U.S. Government-owned residence for the Ambassador to France is located near the Embassy and the Elysée Palace, the residence of the President of France. The residence for the U.S. Ambassador to OECD is located near Porte Maillot on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne.

Employees are assigned to unfurnished government-owned or -leased apartments in Paris and the western suburbs of Neuilly and Boulogne. Eligible employees may also be assigned to a limited number of government-owned apartments at two compounds in Neuilly and Boulogne. Personnel assigned to these apartments generally have a choice of furnished or unfurnished housing.

The major advantages offered by living on either of the compounds include: government-provided furniture; access to the Armed Forces Network (AFN) TV stations via satellite; barbecue on balcony; American appliances; close vicinity to both American schools; close proximity to the largest park in Paris (Bois de Boulogne); guard service 24 hours a day; and a live-in building manager. As government-owned property, these apartments are maintained by the Embassy, and problems can be solved more expeditiously than at leased apartments where the landlord is often responsible for repairs. Some balcony furniture is available.

Most leased apartments are in the 16th arrondissement (district) and a few are leased in the 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 17th. Rooms in general, and especially bedrooms and kitchens, tend to be smaller than those found in the U.S. Bulky items that cannot be disassembled, such as king size beds, triple dressers, wall units, and full-size pianos, should not be shipped. Most apartments have enough space to hold modest-sized sets of both living and dining room furniture. No storage is available at post, so household shipments should be planned accordingly.

Many, but not all, apartments have a “cave,” a small basement storage room assigned to each apartment. These can range from dry to very wet. Caves are provided on an “as is” basis. Very few apartments also come with a small attic room intended for use by a maid or nanny. These are very small and lacking amenities, such as a toilet or shower. Post does not maintain these rooms. Most apartments do not include a parking space. Most personnel rent a space at a parking garage and reimbursement is made per post policy. Leased apartments tend to be in old buildings with small elevators.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:32 PM

All government quarters have stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, sheers, and bedroom drapes. Counselor rank employees are also issued freezers and dishwashers.

Privately owned washers and dryers cannot be installed due to resource and technical problems. Privately owned dishwashers may be installed at the owner’s expense and risk. Personnel wishing furnished apartments should confirm the availability at the time of their assignment to Paris so that appropriate household shipment decisions can be made.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:32 PM

Plumbing and electrical wiring are adequate, but need frequent repair in older buildings. The most frequent problem with apartments is breakdowns attributable to age.

Electricity in the apartments is 230v, 50-cycle. Transformers are available at the PXs in Germany and Belgium as well as locally.

Most small appliances, including vacuum cleaners, work effectively with a transformer. Electric clocks and other devices with electrical timers will not operate correctly unless made for 50-cycles. It is not practical to have them converted. American-made lamps can be used by switching to 230v bulbs and using adapter plugs, available both locally and at the convenience store. CD players, in most cases, can be adjusted to operate properly by replacing the drive wheel or using an adapter. Have this done before shipping.

Food Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:34 PM

The convenience store located in the Embassy stocks basic American food products, small supplies of dairy products, frozen meats, drugstore items, hard liquor, wines, and tobacco. Payment is in dollars or francs. A delivery service is available once a week for a small fee. Many people drive to the nearest military PX and commissary in Belgium (a drive of 2 to 3 hours) for periodic shopping expeditions. The PX has clothing, books, toys, electronic equipment, kitchenware, linens, limited sewing and craft supplies, stationery items, and auto parts. Embassy personnel also are entitled to use the larger PXs and commissaries in Germany, about 5 hours away.

Each neighborhood in Paris has an open-air market several days a week where fresh produce, cheese, meat, and fish are sold at reasonable prices. The French tend to do their food shopping daily and, therefore, need to have an array of shops close to home. Therefore, each neighborhood also has a variety of specialty stores and small grocery stores, some of which are part of a larger chain.

Throughout the city are larger chain supermarkets, some with underground parking. These tend to be a little cheaper for most things than the neighborhood shops, but in general, items are bulk packaged. On the outskirts of the city are even larger supermarkets with slightly lower prices and goods packaged in larger quantities.

Many people do their regular shopping on foot in their own neighborhood using their neighborhood butcher, cheese store, and bakery with occasional forays to the big stores. However, shopping for milk at one store, bread in another, and meat in still another can be quite time-consuming.

Scattered throughout Paris are several small specialty shops such as The General Store and Thanksgiving, which stock only American, imported goods at higher than stateside prices.

Prepared food is available from charcuteries, or delicatessens where a hot meal can be purchased on a carryout basis at midday, or fine pâté, cheeses, cold meats, and salads can be purchased for a quick cold meal. Stores specializing in frozen food, ready for the microwave or oven, abound. American-style carry-outs have sprung up all over the city, with pizza, hamburgers, and french-fries readily available.

Clothing Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:34 PM

Although French summers are cooler and winters slightly milder than those in D.C., a full range of seasonal clothing is needed. A raincoat and umbrella are necessities, as are comfortable walking shoes, sturdy enough to withstand wet streets. Most Americans do more walking in Paris than in the U.S. Even use of public transport often involves walking substantial distances and negotiating a flight of stairs. Comfortable shoes suitable for sightseeing are essential. Local shoe stores carry excellent quality shoes, but at high prices.

Although Paris has a reputation as a mecca for shopping, prices for almost everything are higher than in the U.S. There are some discount and outlet stores, and the major January and July sales offer some bargains. Many people stock up on clothing needs before arriving at post and replenish needs from the PX or mail-order catalogs. There are a few second-hand or consignment shops, but most clothing is designer labeled and expensive even at half price.

Clothing

Men Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:34 PM

Business suits are worn to most social functions. Men seldom need tuxedos, except for the annual Marine Ball.

Clothing

Women Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:35 PM

Clothing needs in Paris are similar to those of any big city in the U.S. French women tend to wear dresses, suits, and shirts rather than slacks to events. Formal dress is seldom required, with the exception of the annual Marine Ball. Sweaters, shawls, and blazers of all weights are useful. A raincoat and a winter coat are basic.

Clothing

Children Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:35 PM

Prices are almost 50% higher than U.S. prices for similar quality goods. Low-priced outlets exist, but shopping at the PXs or through catalogs is more economical, especially for shoes and toys.

Supplies and Services

Supplies Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:35 PM

There are few supplies and services found in the U.S. that cannot be found in Paris, either at the Embassy Association Service for Employees (EASE) convenience store or locally, but prices are generally higher.

Supplies and Services

Basic Services Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:36 PM

Repair service and parts for American electrical equipment are difficult to obtain.

The employees’ association operates a gift shop, available to authorized purchasers, that imports and sells duty-free items for personal use. Items include perfumes, ties, luxury scarves, Paris souvenirs, crystal, china, leather goods, and fine jewelry.

Men and women’s haircuts cost slightly more than in the U.S.

Laundry, dry-cleaning, and shoe repair are available, but at prices higher than in the U.S. The Embassy maintains a laundry room in the basement, which is available on a sign-up basis and is used mainly by personnel in temporary living quarters.

Development of film and printing of photos is expensive locally and not always of the best quality. Most employees send their film to the U.S. for processing.

Supplies and Services

Domestic Help Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:37 PM

Satisfactory household help is available mainly from an immigrant workforce. Many people employ a cleaning woman for 1 or 2 days a week at the current rate of E9.15 an hour. Senior officers with heavy representational responsibilities and working couples with young children may wish to employ full-time household help. Full-time domestic employees usually are hired on a monthly live-in basis and receive lodging and meals as well as salary. Paid vacations and French social security contributions are additional. Lodging (usually a small room in the attic) for an au pair is included with some housing assignments. Employees planning to bring domestic help with them to France should check with the HR Office before making arrangements. French immigration laws are strict and procedures differ for employees on the diplomatic list and for those on the administrative and technical list.

Students are available for babysitting at about $7 per hour. CLO maintains a confidential file of Embassy dependents who babysit. CLO also keeps a list of names offering other household services such as catering, cleaning, etc.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:38 PM

Practically every faith has a church in Paris. The American Cathedral (Episcopalian) and the American Church in Paris (interdenominational) have American pastors and a predominantly American congregation. St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church offers services in English for the English-speaking community. Some Catholic parishes, where English-speaking foreigners ordinarily reside, have an English-speaking French priest. All churches have affiliated social and religious organizations such as Sunday school, choir, women’s groups, etc. Several Jewish synagogues in the Paris area hold services in French and Hebrew.

Education

Dependent Education Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:41 PM

Schools. A number of schools in the Paris area offer American curriculum instruction from kindergarten through high school. Several private French schools offer a bilingual French-curriculum program. The post does not recommend particular schools. However, the CLO coordinator at post is knowledgeable about programs offered by schools attended by Mission dependents, and can advise parents, including those who have children with special needs. The majority of dependents attend the American-curriculum schools. The French public school system offers a high standard of education, but classes are crowded and no provision is made for non-French speakers. In addition, French schools are zoned, making application difficult in advance of arrival at post.

The following schools are those attended most frequently by Mission dependents. Detailed information may be obtained by writing directly to each school.

The American School of Paris 41, rue Pasteur 92210 Saint-Cloud France Tel: 33.1.41.12.82.82 Fax: 33.1.41.12.82.70 Email: admissions@asparis.org

The American School of Paris, an independent, coeducational day school, offers an American educational program from prekindergarten through grade 12, including a strong college preparatory and the International Baccalaureate curriculum. Although the Upper School has an honors program, the Middle School does not. A variety of sports, theater, and music programs are offered to about some 680 students, 54% being American. Located in the suburb of St. Cloud, the school has a bus service to most parts of Paris and to the nearby suburbs.

Marymount International School 72, blvd. de la Saussaye 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine France Tel: 33.1.46.24.10.51 Fax: 33.1.46.37.07.50 Email: school@ecole-marymount.fr

Marymount School of Paris is an independent, coeducational day school run by the religious order of the Sacred Heart of Mary. It offers an American educational program from prekindergarten through grade 8 to about 330 students. Fifty-one percent are American. Located in the suburb of Neuilly, the school offers a bus service to most parts of Paris and the suburbs.

International School of Paris Elementary School: 96 bis, rue du Ranelagh 75016 Paris Tel: 33.1.42.24.43.40 France

Middle School: 7, rue Chardin 75016 Paris

High School: 6, rue Beethoven 75016 Paris Tel: 33.1.42.24.09.54 Fax: 33.1.45.27.15.93 Email: info@isparis.edu

The International School of Paris is an independent, coeducational day school that offers an Anglo-American program to students of all nationalities from prekindergarten through grade 12. ISP has 340 students. Seventeen percent are American.

Nursery Schools. Various options exist for prekindergarten children. Children not attending preschool at the American School of Paris or the Marymount School of Paris usually go to either one of the two Montessori schools, the United Nations nursery school or the English playgroup. The Government does not fund tuition for prekindergarten and below. Parents are responsible for the payment, and tuition is expensive. Detailed information on these schools may be obtained by writing to them directly:

United Nations Nursery School Ages: 2–6 40, rue Pierre-Guerin 75016 Paris France Tel: 33.1. 45.27.20.24

The Bilingual Montessori School of Paris Ages: 2–6 65, quai d’Orsay 75007 Paris France Tel: 33.1.45.55.13.27

The English Playgroup Ages: 3–5 3bis, rue Emile Duclaux 75015 Paris France Tel: 33.1.42.19.02.14

Both state-run and private nursery schools have large classes averaging 25–30 children and teaching is more formal than in American nursery schools. French children aged 3–6 attend neighborhood ecoles maternelles. The state-run maternelles are free, but one needs to apply in May or June for the following academic year to secure a place. Summer arrivals can apply for remaining openings by visiting the Mairie in their particular arrondissement. Schools are zoned within each neighborhood.

Education

Special Needs Education Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:41 PM

Special needs programs are available in grades 1 to 8, but acceptance is not guaranteed. No special needs programs exist at the high school level.

Education

Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:42 PM

The Embassy conducts a French-language program for employees and eligible family members in the Missions. Classes are offered at varying levels of proficiency using the FSI method and materials. Eligible family members are eligible for enrollment in the program as funding allows. The Sorbonne, the Alliance Francaise, the Institute Catholique, and the British Institute also offer excellent French-language programs. Private tutors charge around €15.24 per hour.

Courses for college credit can be taken at the American University in Paris and through New York University. The American University is an independent college of arts and sciences, which offers the Bachelor of Arts degree and is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

Other special educational opportunities include the art appreciation courses offered to the public on a nonexamination basis at the Louvre, cooking classes at the Cordon Bleu and Ritz-Escoffier cooking schools, and a wine appreciation course. Short courses are offered through various organizations on such subjects as French antiques, art, and history, the architecture of Paris, etc. Those with a good knowledge of French can attend evening courses offered by arrondissement civic centers.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:43 PM

A small gym, run by the employees’ association (EASE), is set up in the Embassy basement and is open to all personnel and their eligible family members for a minimal fee.

Facilities for a variety of sports are available in Paris, but participation often requires membership in a private club with high costs. The many public swimming pools in Paris offer excellent facilities at reasonable cost. Hotels occasionally offer group memberships in their facilities (pool, sauna, exercise equipment, etc.) to U.S. Mission employees. Facilities for bowling, ice skating, and roller-skating are numerous.

Public and private golf courses exist within a short drive from Paris. The Embassy Golf Association has made arrangements with local golf clubs for members to use their facilities at reduced rates.

Tennis is popular with the French, but the number of courts available does not match demand. It is virtually impossible to find a free court on short notice, and those who choose to wait may spend up to 2 hours in line. To play regularly, book court time on a long-term basis for a high fee.

Horseback riding is a major national sport. Riding is available for all levels throughout France. Opportunities exist for riding vacations, even promenades of several days. For spectators, riding shows, dressage and jumping competitions, races, and even horse auctions abound.

Other recreational activities within the Paris area include jogging, biking, inline skating, hikes, and picnics in the surrounding parks. The numerous city parks offer many activities for children, often with excellent playground equipment. Carrousels, pony rides, model boat sailing, and puppet shows are found in the major parks for a reasonable cost.

Hunting and fishing are popular in France. Most areas require permits.

Many of Europe’s most renowned ski slopes are within easy reach of Paris. Group arrangements make weeklong or weekend skiing fairly inexpensive. The schools, and some churches, organize a ski week in February for their students at reasonable rates.

Recreation and Social Life

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:43 PM

Paris provides a wealth of activities ranging from traditional museum visiting to picnicking in the parks. Besides the well-known tourist spots, the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, etc., there are day and half-day barge cruises on local canals, tours through Paris’ sewers and catacombs, flea markets to explore, antique shopping, and caf‚ sitting. Possibilities for day trips and overnight excursions are endless. Within an hour of Paris are many famous chateaux and cathedrals including Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Chartres. The Loire Valley with its chateaux to the southwest, the sandy beaches and quaint towns of Normandy to the north, and the Champagne region to the east can all be reached within 3 hours. EuroDisney is only an hour away from Paris and can be reached by suburban train.

Recreation and Social Life

Entertainment Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:44 PM

Paris has a wide variety of every imaginable type of entertainment, both French and imported. All events are well publicized in newspapers, street and metro ads, and in two weekly publications that list not only theater, opera, and dance, but also museums, exhibitions, and films.

Paris produces grand operas, exciting ballets, and plays. During the season there is a constant stream of visiting talent—singers, orchestras, dance groups, theater, etc. Ticket prices for top events are high and sell out quickly for popular shows. There are several locations for buying half price tickets the day of the event, if any remain. Subscriptions are available for ballet, opera, and theater.

Movies are very popular, and there is a wide selection of both French and foreign, old and new, dubbed in French, or in the movie’s original language with French subtitles. Prices are slightly higher than in the U.S., but there are discounts on Monday, student reductions, and reduced prices for holders of movie cards available through the major movie houses.

Recreation and Social Life

Social Activities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:45 PM

Social life for Mission personnel depends heavily on their own desires and efforts. Most socializing is outside official circles. The French entertain mainly with business luncheons and dinners at restaurants rather than at home, but enjoy being entertained in American homes. A wide variety of clubs and organizations are available to Mission personnel and these groups organize tours, lectures, and social events.

Official Functions

Nature of Functions Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:45 PM

Official activity required for Mission personnel depends on their official responsibilities. Officers below First Secretary are not normally invited to French Government functions, nor do they have major representational responsibilities.

Official Functions

Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:45 PM

The arrival of a new Ambassador, Minister-Counselor, or Counselor is announced to the diplomatic community in a third-person note that is sent to all embassies by the Ambassador’s office. Calling cards are no longer exchanged as a means of announcing new arrivals. However, cards are widely used for business and personal use. Print services are readily available in Paris. Service is quick, but expensive by U.S. standards. Bring cards to post or order them from the U.S. after arrival.

Special Information Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:47 PM

Assignments to France—Dual Citizenship. The assignment of personnel to France with dual American/French citizenship continues to pose problems for post and the employees involved. When a request is sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requesting accreditation, a citizenship check is made. When it is determined that, according to French law, the U.S. Government employee has French citizenship, the request for accreditation is denied. This means, of course, that the employee has no privileges and immunities. The employee and his/her family members, regardless of their citizenship, must pay all French taxes, cannot import a car duty free, and must obtain a French drivers license through normal channels.

The Protocol Office in the Department of State has informed post that this is consistent with the way foreign diplomats with a claim to U.S. citizenship and their family members are treated in the U.S.

In certain cases, American personnel who are dual citizens arriving at post are surprised to find that they are French citizens in the eyes of the French. See “French regulations for determining citizenship.”

French regulations for determining citizenship

French citizens who became naturalized U.S. citizens before 1973:

Women: If a woman married an American citizen and obtained American citizenship after the marriage, she has lost her French citizenship, as long as the first official residence after the marriage was located outside France.

Men: Unless an American/French citizen requested the French Government’s authorization to renounce his French citizenship and was granted such authorization, he keeps both nationalities and thus, remains French.

Naturalization after 1973: For both men and women, if they have not completed the official process of renouncing their French nationality, they remain dual citizens, and thus, when in France, are considered by law as French citizens and cannot be granted any privileges or immunities.

Note: These are summaries of complex regulations. Anyone who may have a claim to French citizenship should contact the nearest French Embassy for an official determination.

U.S. Government employees assigned to France who have dual citizenship may renounce their French citizenship; however, the process must be initiated in the employee’s usual country of residence and can take up to a year to complete. If the renunciation action has not been totally completed prior to arrival at post, the employee will be treated as a French citizen and will not be accredited.

Post Orientation Program

Orientation programs are presented periodically. All new personnel and adult dependents are invited to attend these programs. Although individual programs vary, the Ambassador and the DCM normally welcome and address new arrivals, with section chiefs giving a brief description of the activities of their section.

Consulate General - Marseille

Post City Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:51 PM

Marseille, the first and oldest port in France, is a busy industrial and shipping center. It has a population slightly under 1 million and is one of the largest cities in France. Founded in 600 B.C. by Greek traders from Asia Minor, Marseille became the first Christian metropolis in France. It is a contrast of old and new. Modern buildings and conveniences exist alongside narrow, winding streets and centuries-old structures. The city is colorful with its picturesque harbor, cliff drive along the sea, and tree-lined boulevards, a typical Mediterranean port city, full of life and vitality, dependent largely on maritime traffic.

Located in the Department of the Bouches du Rhône, Marseille is 20 miles east of the mouth of the Rhône River. The old city surrounds a small natural harbor that for 25 centuries handled all of Marseille’s maritime traffic, but today is little more than a picturesque marina for fishing boats and yachts at the foot of the Canebiere, the city’s main street. In 1854, new docks were built outside the Old Port, which today extend north of the city. As France’s largest port (the third largest in Europe), it accommodates U.S. aircraft carriers and handles more cargo than any other Mediterranean port. Together with the deep-water port in nearby Fos, Marseille constitutes the largest petroleum port and refinery center in France.

About 7,000 Americans, mostly retirees and students, reside in the Marseille consular district, which covers the 13 departments of Aude, Bouches-du- Rhône, Gard, Hérault, Lozère, Pyrénées-Orientales, Var, Vaucluse, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes, Haute-Corse, and Corse-du-Sud, as well as the Principality of Monaco. Few Americans live in Marseille proper. Thousands of American tourists transit Marseille each year, but the numbers of tourists are not as high as on the Côte d’Azur. This is expected to change, however, as the number of cruise ship passengers increases. English-speaking residents of all nationalities, other than French, number between 2,000 and 3,000.

The hills around Marseille rise to 1,000 feet over the rocky coastline. The city recently completed a municipal beachfront development that provides ample space for swimming and windsurfing.

The local climate resembles that of Los Angeles, but with little or no smog. The prevailing northerly wind, the Mistral, sometimes blows at gale strength, making winters seem much colder, but also alleviates summer heat and problems of pollution.

Consuls general assigned to Marseille are accredited also to the Principality of Monaco, an area of 447 acres, roughly the size of New York City’s Central Park, with 35,000 inhabitants. France handles some of the principality’s governmental functions, including the issuance of currency, defense, and customs and immigration controls. A French citizen serves as Monaco’s Minister of State (head of government). Relations between France and Monaco are based on an 1861 treaty signed by Napoleon III and the Prince of Monaco, and was last renegotiated on July 17, 1981. The present sovereign is Prince Rainier III of the Grimaldi family, the oldest reigning dynasty in Europe.

Marseille has several worthwhile museums and art galleries. Several trade fairs are held during the year. Local hobby clubs include photography, aviation, ping-pong, and bridge.

During the summer, Sunday bullfights are held in the ancient Roman amphitheaters in Arles and Nîmes. Except in winter, horseraces are held at tracks in Marseille and Aix-en-Provence. There are several golf courses near Marseille.

The nearby Riviera receives millions of tourists each year and has ample entertainment facilities.

Carnivals, flower shows, film festivals, music and opera festivals, auto shows, and open-air theaters are operated in various municipalities and by private groups. Many movie theaters show American films with French sound tracks. Art exhibits and concerts are frequent. Large casinos in Aix-en-Provence, Nice, Cannes, Monte-Carlo, and Juan-les-Pins sponsor dances, concerts, and theatrical attractions, in addition to gambling.

Marseille is convenient to many large cities: Paris (500 miles), Rome (600 miles), and Barcelona (325 miles). The consular district boasts varied scenery and points of interest.

Marseille is linked to Lyon, Paris, and the north by an excellent motorway and by the high-speed (TGV) train. The Mediterranean headquarters of the French Navy, located in Toulon, is visited regularly by ships of the U.S. Sixth Fleet. The university cities of Montpellier and Perpignan, near the Spanish border, are located to the west.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:51 PM

A variety of hotels are available. Better hotels include the Hotel Concorde-Palm Beach, the Hotel Sofitel, and the Novotel. The Holiday Inn and Hotel Mercure Beauveau are considered moderately priced hotels. Finally, the Climat de France Hotel is an adequate but modest hotel near the Consulate General. The new Hotel Bompard has seven units with minimal live-in cooking facilities. It is farther away from the downtown area, but can be reached by bus.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:53 PM

The consul general’s U.S.-owned home is located on an attractive hillside lot at 301 Corniche President Kennedy, a scenic road that follows the Mediterranean shoreline and one of Marseille’s oldest and best-known residential areas. A steep driveway leads from the Corniche to a parking area in front of the house with stairs to the front door.

The property includes a two-story villa, a caretaker’s house (now used as guest apartments), garden pavilion on the lowest of three landscaped terraces, and a three-car garage at street level. The villa’s main floor has a cloakroom with guest bathroom, vestibule, hallway, living room, dining room, and pantry. The second floor has three bedrooms and three baths. The two dressing rooms have large closets, one big enough for a child’s cot or crib. The basement houses a laundry room and a one-bedroom guest apartment with kitchen and bathroom. The caretaker’s house is divided into two small, three-room apartments with separate entrances that have been renovated and furnished to allow TDY visitors, interns, and personal houseguests to stay for short periods in comfort with conveniences such as refrigerators and cooking equipment.

The home is equipped with chinaware, glassware, silverware, a supply of table linens and cooking utensils, a four-burner gas stove with oven, two refrigerators, a freezer, a washer and dryer, and a dishwasher. The kitchen is wired with outlets for both 220v and 110v appliances, which will allow occupants to use American-made cooking equipment such as blenders, teapots, crock pots, etc. Occupants should bring their own pictures, lamps, vases, ashtrays, and other decorative items as well as extra table linens and favored kitchen utensils.

The dining room seats 12 at a rectangular table 125” x 45” fully extended (80” long when closed).

Other personnel are housed in short-term, government-leased housing. Suitable houses are hard to find, but many apartments, especially unfurnished ones, are available through newspaper ads, rental agencies, and direct offers, which occasionally are received by the Consulate General.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:53 PM

State Department personnel occupy furnished quarters. The Embassy supplies major appliances such as stoves, refrigerators, washers, and dryers.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:54 PM

Local current is 220v, 50-cycle. Most American appliances, especially stereos, can be adapted to 50-cycle operation, which should be done in the U.S. Step-down transformers will be necessary for standard American 110v appliances.

Irons, toasters, vacuum cleaners, and most other 220v appliances are readily available locally. It is difficult to find parts for American appliances, and 110v major appliances are not available. A limited selection of U.S. food products, appliances and other items may be purchased in the small commissary at the U.S. section of the airbase in Istres.

In many houses and apartments, available wattage is limited because of inadequate wiring, and sometimes only two major appliances can be used at once. Electricity failures only occur a few times a year, but power surges in the main electric system are frequent. Protect expensive appliances and computers accordingly.

Generally, heating is unnecessary between mid-April and the first of November. Newer apartment buildings and villas have central heating (often with oil or gas) and some have air-conditioning. Water heaters are usually electric. Bathroom fittings are similar to those in the U.S.

Radio and TV repair is satisfactory, but shops may not carry parts for U.S. appliances. American-system TV sets will not work in France.

Accounts are available in accredited local banks. A French bank account is useful as French checks and/or the countrywide Carte Bleue (debit card for a checking account) are widely accepted for paying bills and in supermarkets and restaurants.

Food Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:54 PM

Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant and of good quality. Employees enjoy commissary privileges at the Embassy in Paris. The Embassy sales store fills mail orders for a variety of goods. Shipping charges are reasonable.

Buy or eat fish and shellfish only at reputable establishments. Carefully wash all raw vegetables and fruits.

Clothing Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:55 PM

Gabardine, tropical-worsted, or wash-and-wear suits and light summer dresses are recommended for summer. Clothing for a Washington, D.C. winter is fine for Marseille’s cold weather. A medium-weight coat will suffice on the coldest days.

At least a 1-year supply of clothing should be brought to post. Local shops and department stores can be relied on for small items such as scarves, gloves, socks, and underwear. Women’s clothing in larger sizes is difficult to find in Marseille.

A dark suit is indispensable and male consuls general should bring a tuxedo. Women’s fashions are less formal than in Paris, but bring several long dresses or ensembles that can be worn most of the year, along with summer cocktail dresses. Children’s shoes and clothing are much more expensive than in the U.S.

Supplies and Services

Basic Services Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:55 PM

Good dressmakers can be found, but prices are high. Shoe repair, drycleaning, and laundry facilities are adequate but expensive. Prices at many beauty shops are somewhat less than in the U.S.

Auto repairs for American made cars are expensive, and parts are hard to get. Repair service for European cars is adequate and reasonable.

Supplies and Services

Domestic Help Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:56 PM

Reliable domestic help is hard to find, and applicants should be thoroughly screened. Employers must provide food and social security contributions in addition to wages.

Arrangements can be made for part-time help such as an all-purpose maid (bonne à tout faire) who does cleaning and laundry several times a week. Waitresses, bartenders, and babysitters can be hired by the hour. Wages are higher than in the U.S.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:56 PM

The city has many Roman Catholic churches, three French Protestant churches, a Greek Orthodox church, an Armenian Gregorian church, several synagogues, and several foreign churches, including the Swiss Protestant church. The Anglican church, located near the Consulate General, holds services in English.

Education

Dependent Education Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:57 PM

Although there are no international schools in Marseille, there are several English-language schools in the area, including the American International School in Nice, the Anglo-American School in Mougins, and two bilingual English-French schools near Aix-en-Provence.

Many other schools, public and private, from kindergarten through high school are available. Instruction is in French. In general, teachers are good and academic standards high. Most schools have no playground equipment or sports facilities. The school day is much longer than in the U.S. Classes are held on Saturday morning (in primary schools), but not on Wednesday in most schools.

Public schools accept U.S. children without tuition fees, but students pay for books and supplies. Tuition at Catholic schools varies according to the grades.

An English-language school using the U.S. system, the International School of Nice, has classes from grades 1 through 12. Inquiries about the school and boarding arrangements should be addressed to the school at 15, rue Claude Debussy, 06200 Nice; tel. 33–493–21-04–00, fax: 33-493–21–69–11.

Education

Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:58 PM

The undergraduate school, the faculty of letters, and faculty of law of the University of Aix-Marseille are nearby in Aix-en-Provence. The faculties of science and medicine of the University are in Marseille. The schools of architecture, fine arts, and business administration are east of Marseille in Luminy.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:58 PM

Public sports facilities in and near Marseille are good. A large public sports center has two indoor swimming pools. Several private clubs, open to Consulate General personnel, have pools. Rowing, sailing, yachting, and tennis clubs also exist. A golf club is located near Aix-en-Provence, about a 30-minute drive from the city. Hunting, fishing, skin-diving, windsurfing, and spear fishing are available, and horseback riding, rugby, soccer, volleyball, and basketball are other popular sports.

American football and baseball are becoming increasingly popular.

French sporting equipment can be expensive, so bring your own. However, French skin-diving and fishing gear (masks, spears, etc.) is readily available in Marseille and other seaside cities and is less expensive than U.S. brands. Camping equipment is of excellent quality and reasonably priced, but sports clothing tends to be expensive.

Hunting weapons or the use of animals in hunting is not restricted. Hunters must buy annual licenses. Each community maintaining a hunting preserve charges a yearly fee for its use.

Recreation and Social Life

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:59 PM

The region near Marseille offers excellent opportunities for touring, sightseeing, hiking, and picnicking. Also available in the district are skiing and mountain climbing in the Alps, as well as fine seaside amusement and recreation on the Côte d’Azur. The historic cities of Arles, Avignon, Nîmes, and Orange are easily reached by train, bus, or car, and the old university town of Aix-en-Provence is only 30 minutes away.

Recreation and Social Life

Social Activities

Among Americans Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:59 PM Social activities include dinner parties, lunches, and receptions. Most entertaining is informal and buffet dinners are common. Although outdoor barbecues are popular, barbecuing is generally not allowed on apartment balconies.

Recreation and Social Life

Social Activities

International Contacts Last Updated: 2/2/2004 2:59 PM The Marseillais are friendly and easy to get to know, but can be reserved about inviting others to their homes. The consular corps, representing over 60 countries, provides an opportunity to make personal social contacts. The corps holds a few luncheons, receptions, and dinners.

Official Functions

Nature of Functions Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:00 PM

The consul general is invited to many official and semi-official functions including receptions, dinners, wreath layings, weddings, theatrical and motion picture presentations, and university meetings. Formal wear (black tie for men and long dresses for women) are occasionally used, particularly at the annual National Day festivities in Monaco. Formal wear can be rented in Marseille. In general, other officers are invited or delegated to attend such functions as part of their representational responsibilities.

Official Functions

Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:00 PM

As a rule, only the consul general makes protocol calls within the consular corps and on local officials. All officers should bring at least 100 calling cards. More can be ordered by mail or made locally.

Special Information Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:00 PM

A few Marseille bookstores have small selections of English books, mostly classics. Aix-en-Provence, Nice, and Antibes have English bookshops.

Consulate General - Strasbourg

Post City Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:07 PM

A proud and historic city, Strasbourg is located at the confluence of the Ill and Rhine Rivers on the Franco-German border. The surrounding countryside is picturesque and abounds with recreational opportunities. Like other cities in the Rhine Valley, Strasbourg enjoys a moderate climate, although temperature changes can be sudden. For most Americans, sunny days are too few.

Although Strasbourg has been an important Rhine River port and European crossroads for over 2,000 years and is now a dynamic metropolitan area of 451,223 people, the city has retained a pleasing provincial character without the hectic atmosphere of a large capital. Yet, as the seat of the 43-nation Council of Europe and host for monthly sessions of the European Union (EU) directly elected European Parliament, and the European Court of Human Rights, Strasbourg has a cosmopolitan dimension often lacking in much larger cities. Strasbourg has the second-largest diplomatic community in France. This is due to the Council of Europe with its Ambassador-rank Permanent Representatives and Permanent Observers (including the U.S.), the quarterly meetings of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), the monthly sessions of the European Parliament, the 20 professional Consulates, and the 16 honorary consuls. The frequent meetings of the European Parliament and the PACE bring parliamentarians, ministers, and heads of state and government to Strasbourg from all over Europe, as well as from non-European countries.

However, the city is not only a capital for European political institutions. Cultural opportunities include the outstanding Opera du Rhin, an excellent orchestra, and the only French national theater outside Paris. The University of Strasbourg, with 41,000 students from all over the world, is a recognized leader in the fields of medicine and biotechnology, law, and economics. Eight American universities have junior-year programs here. For the tourist or resident, the historic sections of Strasbourg offer charming walks and almost unlimited gastronomic opportunities. Most newcomers find Strasbourg’s attractions a unique blend of French and Germanic traditions, and proximity to several other European countries more than compensates for its weather.

The Strasbourg District covers a large portion of northeastern France and borders three other countries — Switzerland, Germany, and Luxembourg. It includes the regions of Alsace, Lorraine, and Franche-Comté, encompassing 10 departments. In addition to Strasbourg, the consular district contains several important cities — Nancy, Metz, and Verdun in Lorraine; Colmar and Mulhouse in Alsace; and Besancon and Belfort in Franche-Comté.

Alsace, Lorraine and Franche-Comté regions have a diversified export-oriented economy. Their unemployment rates remain among the lowest in France. Major sectors include automobile, mechanics, pharmaceutical, textile, chemicals, agriculture, and financial services. The arrival of numerous high-technology industries, including micro-techniques, telecommunications, lasers, electronics, and biotechnology has compensated for the decline of traditional industries (i.e., coal-steel in Lorraine and watch-clock making in Franche-Comté). More than 100 U.S.-controlled facilities operate in the district, of which the largest are General Motors, Lilly France (SA), Timken, Rohm and Hass, Mars, Wrigley, and Trane. Lorraine and Alsace are leading French regions for foreign investment. Web sites for Strasbourg include http://www.strasbourg.com/, http://www.sdv.fr/strasbourg/ ,and http://www.astro.ustrasbg.fr/.

Strasbourg is considered one of the best medical centers in France. Excellent doctors and surgeons are available. Hospital care is excellent. All the latest drugs are known and used, and the Hospital Civil and some of the clinics are equipped with diagnostic laboratories. Oculists and dentists are plentiful. Several good veterinarians also practice in Strasbourg.

Three of the largest American military cemeteries in France are within the district.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:10 PM

The first U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg opened in 1866, reputedly in the building where the French national anthem, the Marseillaise, was written. In 1871, after the Franco-Prussian war, the Consulate moved across the Rhine to Kehl. In 1921, the Consulate reopened in Strasbourg, only to close again with the outbreak of war in 1939. Reopened in 1946, it was raised to Consulate General status in 1966.

An American Consul General staffs the post along with six French national employees, including one employed by the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service. The post offers American Citizen Services, excluding visas and passport functions, which the U.S. Embassy in Paris now handles. In the Consulate General’s current configuration, the emphasis is on support for American citizens, reporting, support for U.S. business, public diplomacy and representation. The consul general serves as the U.S. Deputy Permanent Observer to the Council of Europe as well as the consul general for the Strasbourg District. The Ambassador is the U.S. Permanent Observer to the Council of Europe.

The current building was designed and constructed in 1950 specifically to be a U.S. Consulate General. It is located at 15 avenue d’Alsace on main traffic arteries near the center of the city. Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on French and American holidays. Tel: 333–88–35–31–04, fax: 333–88–24–06–95. The mailing addresses are:

APO Full Name CONGEN/STRAS PSC 116 APO AE 09777–5000

Pouch Full Name American Consulate General Strasbourg Department of State 5620 Strasbourg Place Washington, D.C. 20521–5620

International Mail American Consulate General 15, avenue d’Alsace 67082 Strasbourg CEDEX, France

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:13 PM

A wide range of hotels and motels are available in Strasbourg. New arrivals and temporary duty personnel are provided a furnished apartment on the second floor of the Consulate General.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:14 PM

The principal officer’s home is a comfortable, government-owned and -furnished house, and is only a 5-minute drive from the Consulate General. Acquired in 1949, the house is located in a quiet residential neighborhood near the Orangerie Park and the Council of Europe Headquarters. It has large walled grounds, which are ideal for outdoor entertaining in warm weather, with lawns, trees, flowers, and shrubs.

The ground floor has an entry hall, two living rooms, a study, and a dining room, which seats 16 persons. Adjoining the dining room is a pantry with a dumbwaiter. In addition to the kitchen, the basement contains a laundry room, ironing room, furnace room, and two large storage rooms.

The second floor has three bedrooms, two baths, and a small dressing room. The master bedroom has an outdoor balcony overlooking the grounds. The renovated third floor adds additional bedrooms and living space (three bedrooms, two baths, living room, study, and kitchen) suitable for family or houseguests.

At the rear of the house is a separate two-story garage building containing two bedrooms, kitchen, and a bath on the second floor.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:14 PM

The home is provided with all basic furnishings, including china, silver, glassware, flatware, and appliances.

An incoming principal officer should bring linens, bedding, pictures (the wall space is extensive), books (there are bookshelves in the entry hall), art objects (the formal living room has two set-in, glassed, illuminated display wall cabinets), and other personal furnishings. Although the house is furnished, it is large enough to accommodate some personal furniture. Additional lamps will prove useful, as would desks for school-aged children.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:14 PM

Electric current is 220v, 50-cycle. U.S. appliances need transformers, and synchronous motor items such as phonographs must be converted to 50 cycles, preferably before shipment.

Food Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:15 PM

All kinds of foods are available in Strasbourg, with seasonal limitations. Fresh vegetables in winter are sometimes scarce, but frozen foods can be obtained in the larger markets. Frozen foods, meats, poultry, and ice cream are more expensive than in the U.S. Assigned personnel have U.S. military commissary/ PX privileges and can drive to Heidelberg, Germany, about 1½ hours from Strasbourg, to do grocery shopping at the commissary, where food prices for major items such as meats are lower than local French prices.

Clothing Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:20 PM

A four-season wardrobe is needed in Strasbourg. Tailors, dressmakers, and quality ready-to-wear clothing are all available, but prices tend to be higher than in the U.S. Footwear is attractive and competitively priced, but many Americans find French sizes a problem. Representational duties are extensive, and formal dinners are frequent. A tuxedo is a must for men, as are both long and cocktail dresses for women. Remember to bring raingear.

Supplies and Services Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:21 PM

All items normally required for housekeeping and household repairs are found here, but ample supplies of children’s toys, books, records, etc., should be brought, as local items are expensive. Drycleaning is about double U.S. prices. Laundries and shoe repair shops are plentiful, and prices are reasonable. The many good beauty shops are cheaper than in the U.S. Radio, TV, and appliance repair is available, but parts for U.S. equipment are scarce. European-made TV’s are available, but expensive. Photographic supplies and services are available but expensive. Kodak and Agfa agencies are here.

Several bookstores carry a limited number of books in English. Membership to the American Library in Paris is inexpensive and books can be mailed to members. The International Herald Tribune is available in Strasbourg on the day of publication. Local newsstands also carry Time, Newsweek, and McCall’s. Les Dernieres Nouvelle d’Alsace, Strasbourg’s principal newspaper, is published in French and German, and a number of other French papers are available.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:22 PM

The population of Strasbourg is 45% Catholic, 35% Protestant, 10% Jewish, and 10% Muslim and other faiths. People of all four major faiths attend services regularly. Catholic and Protestant services are held in French and German. An Anglican-Episcopal service in English is held every Sunday. Protestant interdenominational services in English are held twice a month at the Temple Neuf Chapel. Jewish services are held at the Strasbourg Synagogue. Construction of a Strasbourg Mosque is planned.

Education Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:23 PM

Although Strasbourg has many excellent French schools of all types, no English-language elementary or secondary school now exists. The French Government, in recognition of Strasbourg’s position as host city to a number of European institutions, has established a special “international” school (currently, with separate primary and secondary school facilities) designed to accommodate children of the foreign community. However, basic instruction is in French.

Strasbourg has three universities that prepare students for degrees in letters, law, political science, business, economics, medicine, and theology. The universities have special courses for foreigners in French language and civilization.

Students may be enrolled under certain conditions at the Conservatory of Music and the School of Decorative Arts. Private instruction in music and art is available.

The Consulate General can arrange private tutoring in spoken French, using FSI-language materials, for officers and spouses at a cost of about $20–$35 an hour.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 2/2/2004 3:24 PM

The city’s three tennis clubs have good clay courts and one club has covered courts. Strasbourg has four golf clubs: Illkirch (27 holes), Plobsheim (27 holes), Wantzenau (22 holes), and Soufflenheim (27 holes). Indoor swimming is possible at the Schiltigheim municipal pool and at the older Strasbourg municipal bath. Beautiful outdoor swimming pools are available in Strasbourg, in nearby Kehl across the river, and at Obernai, an attractive town in the Vosges Mountain’s foothills about 30 minutes away. Skiing is available in season in the Vosges and in the Black Forest (Germany) within 50 miles of Strasbourg. The season generally lasts from December through March. Strasbourg has a fencing club, and a bowling alley is not far from the Consulate General.

Some trout fishing is possible in the small streams of the Vosges and the Black Forest. For hunters, Alsace has a great deal of excellent game. Quail, partridge, pheasant, and hare are abundant, and deer and wild boar are in the mountains. Opportunities for horseback riding and lessons are plentiful in Strasbourg, and the surrounding areas of Alsace have numerous clubs offering both ring and trail riding. Sailing is possible at Plobsheim. The Vosges Mountains offer the serious hiker and camper invigorating air and scenic vistas. L’Orangerie, near the residence, and the Contades, near the Consulate General, are two favorite parks for afternoon walks.

There are athletic competitions of all kinds, including soccer, basketball, tennis, water polo, swimming, boxing, and wrestling.

Recreation and Social Life

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 2/9/2004 1:04 PM

The mountains and foothills of Alsace are dotted with small, picturesque villages. In spite of wartime destruction and intensive rebuilding, many houses remain from the 15th and 16th centuries, and the distinctive Alsacian architecture is attractive and interesting. Many fine examples of Romanesque and Gothic religious architecture, as well as 18th century civil architecture, can be found all over Alsace. On the foothills and lower slopes of the Vosges are the vineyards of Alsace, which are the sources of some fine white wines and an unusual rosé. Higher up on rocky promontories, the ruins of medieval castles look out over the Rhine Plain to the Black Forest in the distance.

The Alsatians are French citizens with a Germanic cultural background. Both French and Alsatian, a German dialect, are spoken by nearly everyone. In the countryside, Alsatian predominates and many older peasants do not understand more than a few words of French. German is widely understood and spoken.

Several Western European countries are easily accessible from Strasbourg. In Switzerland, Basel is about 80 miles away, Bern 170, and Geneva 219. Paris is 300 miles away. The distance to Heidelberg is 85 miles, to Munich 170, to Frankfurt 138, to Bonn 214, to Luxembourg 130, and to Innsbruck, Austria 260. Opportunities to visit interesting places are innumerable, and exceptionally good guidebooks are available here. Baden-Baden, 45 minutes away, has a golf course and a famous casino with a fine restaurant and dancing.

Trains are fast, relatively inexpensive, and reliable. Across the Rhine in Germany, the excellent toll-free Autobahn (expressway) system connects Strasbourg with Basel, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich. A newly completed French AutoRoute (expressway) makes Paris an easy 4- to 5-hour drive from Strasbourg, but tolls are high. Traffic on French secondary roads is intense, particularly at certain times of the day and in the summer. Gasoline prices are the highest in Europe, although diplomatic coupons for use in France are available. Unleaded gasoline is available in Strasbourg and nearby Germany.

Recreation and Social Life

Entertainment Last Updated: 2/9/2004 1:04 PM

Two municipal theaters provide a full program of plays, concerts, ballets, operas, and operettas. The city’s radio-TV station gives