Preparation file

Preparing for Toulouse

In France the forms of politeness govern how daily life works, and meal times are firm. The rail network is fast and far-reaching. What follows applies across the whole country.

Last updated: 2026-08

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Meal times

All of France

Restaurant kitchens open for set periods at lunch and dinner and close in between. A visitor arriving at the hour they are used to meets a closed kitchen.

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Greetings and etiquette

All of France

Saying "bonjour" as you enter a shop, a bus or a lift is treated as obligatory. A conversation that starts without it is considered rude and the response comes back cold — this is the trap visitors fall into most.

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Getting around the country

All of France

The high-speed rail network shortens the distances between cities; tickets are markedly cheaper bought in advance. Within a city the metro and bus share one ticket system.

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Money and practical notes

All of France

The currency is the euro and cards work almost everywhere. Sockets are type C/E at 230 V. Tap water is drinkable. Pharmacies carry a green cross.

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In an emergency

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Emergency call: 112One number for police, ambulance and fire. It is the same across Europe, so there is nothing to look up on arrival.
Non-emergency police: 17For reporting theft; in an emergency call 112.
Pharmacy: Green crossThe out-of-hours rota is listed on the notice at the door.
Lost passport: Your country's missionReport the loss to the police first, then apply to your mission. On a group tour, tell your tour leader immediately.

Checklists

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Phrases worth knowing

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