France
From skiing in the extensive mountain ranges to enjoying the vast culture and cuisine along the chic coastal resorts, it's not surprising so many visitors become accustomed to the French way of life.
Tropical chic on the French Riviera
The CÔte d'Azur is the embodiment of French sophistication, with world-famous resorts spreading out along this short stretch of Mediterranean coastline. Lively St. Tropez has been a haven for the jet set since the sixties, while Monaco and Cannes retain their Hollywood glamour and exclusivity all year round.
Inland life is slightly quieter and more traditionally French. The scents of lavender, rosemary and jasmine flow through the medieval stone villages, whilst the sound of locals playing petanque resonates through the stone courtyards.The tropical climate, romantic landscape and wonderful light made the CÔte d'Azur a haven for artists such as Monet, Cezanne, Picasso and Matisse. The area continues to attract artists and artisans to this day.
Rural bliss, the ProvenÇal way
Provence is probably France at its most charming. From the salty marshes of the Carmargue with their wild white horses, to the bustling port of Marseille that like so many ProvenÇal towns offer wonderful food, traditional French culture and a warm, dry climate. Provence is steeped in history that can be absorbed across the region in historic Roman towns like Avignon.
Van Gogh and Cezanne were both inspired by their experiences of Provence. Day-to-day ProvenÇal life revolves around the café, where locals take the time to sit, talk and enjoy a small pastise. It's a slower pace of living that visitors will adjust to right away.Celtic culture in the Atlantic
Brittany can feel very different to the rest of France, due to its fiercely protected Breton culture, which has more in common with the Celts than with the French. Battered by the Atlantic on all sides, the unspoilt landscapes are wild and rocky, especially on the beautiful CÔte Sauvage
A great place to start exploring Brittany is Dinard, an elegant resort on the south coast of the peninsula that boasts beautiful Belle Epoque hotels and a casino. The beaches in this part of Brittany are popular and numerous; many are rocky rather than sandy.Traditional Breton culture is evident in the smaller towns like Quimper and St. Malo where many traditional arts and crafts that Brittany is known for are still practiced.
Local Knowledge: Aylesford International have a sister office in Villefranche which is dedicated to the local market. Dominique and her team provide seamless service for the overseas clientele and have their fingers on the pulse of the best properties and pertinent information.Fast Facts
Did you know? Nice's carnival erupts for two weeks during Lent and involves masked balls, endless parades and 'flower battles'. The lavender industry is big business in Provence.
Vintage sardines are a great local delicacy in Brittany. The sardines are aged in barrels like fine wines, for up to ten years.Capital: Paris
Government: Centre-right, led by Prime Minister François Fillon.Religion: 86% Roman Catholic, 8% Muslim
Population: 60.4mLanguage: French
Climate: Predominantly moderate temperate. The south enjoys a Mediterranean climate that is pleasant year-round. While the north is similar to England and other north European countries.Currency: Euro (€)
Healthcare: Excellent provision of private and state healthcare. Enjoys a reciprocal healthcare agreement with EU member states.Education: State schools are more than adequate. Private schools are generally excellent. Some regions have English-speaking international schools for ex-pats.
Electricity: 230 V 50 HzTime zone: GMT +1 hour
Dialling code: +33Airports: Air France is the national carrier, with many budget airlines also serving French destinations. Main international airports include Paris, Nice, Marseille, Bordeaux and Toulouse. Internal flights cover most areas of France.
Getting around: There is a good network of 'A' roads and motorways. The train system is excellent, including international links to other mainland European countries and the UK.