Club 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

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.

5 more points are open to Club members

The in-depth part of every preparation file is included in Club membership. Membership is annual and covers the files for all cities.

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.

5 more points are open to Club membersSee Club

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.

5 more points are open to Club membersSee Club

Money and practical notes

All of France

The currency is the euro and cards work almost everywhere. Sockets are the same type as in Türkiye. Tap water is drinkable. Pharmacies carry a green cross.

6 more points are open to Club membersSee Club

In an emergency

This section is open to everyone and needs no membership.

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

12 more points are open to Club membersSee Club

Phrases worth knowing

8 more points are open to Club membersSee Club