GPE 18 FAQs

France is part of the Euro zone. The currency is the Euro as in most other countries in Western Europe. Nearly every business accepts credit/debit cards for purchases above a few Euros.

Cash is increasingly rare to use, especially for transactions of 50 Euros or more, but we recommend having some on hand for small purchases (bakery items, drinks at a café, farmer’s market purchases, etc.). Cash withdrawals in Euros can be made at any ATM using a Visa/Masterdard compatible debit/credit card.

There is also a small currency exchange bureau located near the train station, but the hours are limited and the commission is larger than that obtained through a simple ATM withdrawal.

Central France has a temperate oceanic climate (Tours is located only 2-3 hours’ drive from the Atlantic coast). The weather is historically mild in the month of May, with average daily low and high temperatures of 10-20 degrees C (50-70 degrees F). Expect some warm afternoons but possible chilly mornings. Precipitation is unpredictable in the late spring, so expect some rainy/overcast days.

We will be moving between conference sites and activities on foot or using public transportation, so we recommend packing clothing that can be layered to accommodate variable weather conditions, for example:

• Short-sleeved or warm-weather shirts
• Light sweaters
• A light weather-proofed jacket
• A small umbrella

France’s electricity is 220-240 volts and plugs are Type C (ungrounded) or Type E (grounded).

Most electronic devices (phone and computer chargers) will work fine with a simple plug adapter to 2-pin Type C format, however certain equipment involving heating elements (hairdryers, etc.) not work properly or even get damaged.

It is best to consult your mobile carrier regarding their international plans. While there will be Wi-Fi available at the conference venue and hotel, off-campus sites may not have internet access. The city of Tours offers free Wi-Fi in the city center.

Greetings and interactions

• It is polite to greet every member of a group individually, with a handshake for strangers or in formal circumstances, or with a no-lips “air kiss” on both cheeks (called “la bise”) for informal circumstances, and with friends or family members.
• Begin every interaction with a stranger with “Bonjour!” and conclude it with an “Au revoir!”. To omit these even for the most brief of interactions is considered rude… and may well get you rude treatment in return!

Prices and Purchases

• Tipping is not customary, since a gratuity is automatically added to the bill.
• Sales tax is included in the posted prices.
• There is a subtle taboo on passing cash directly from hand to hand. In shops and cafés/restaurants, there is a small tray on the table or counter for laying down cash and receiving change.

Meal etiquette

• Forks in the left hand, knives in the right.
• Cut off each bite seperately. You can lay down the knife to transfer the fork to your dominant hand for each bite.
• It is considered rude to serve yourself food or drink without offering to serve others first. If there is none left for you… its time to order more.
• It is considered rude to begin eating or drinking unless everyone has been served.
• When having drinks, it is customary toast before taking the first drink. At the very least this means raising your glass and making eye contact with everyone individually. Often in small groups you touch glasses also… with every individual! This is accompanied with the word “(à votre) santé!” (“(to your) health!”).

Transportation

• It is considered polite to let disembarking passengers leave the vehicle before other passengers board. In crowded public transportation, some gentle pushing is common to allow everyone to board
• Again, saying “Bonjour” and “Au revoir” is polite with every interaction, including bus drivers, neighbouring passengers, etc.

City Behavior

• Clean, free public restrooms are nearly non-existent in France, though this is slowly changing. Plan ahead by using the restrooms on Campus or in restaurants/cafés where you are a paying customer.
• Generally observe traffic rules when walking (stay on the right except to pass!)
• …

Most retail/restaurant staff speak some English, but are very self-conscious about it. Younger adults are more likely to speak English. In general, however, it is greatly appreciated to attempt to speak some French in shops and restaurants, and remember… always say “Bonjour!” before attempting any other communication!