Full Description
If you are going to live and work in France, this book is for you. Aiming to welcome you like a friend, it helps you prepare for your move before your departure and gives you all the information you need to settle in smoothly. Whether you arrive in France for work or for pleasure, Genevieve Brame gives you the keys to unlock the mysteries of the country she knows best - her own. She introduces you to your new surroundings and helps you find your way through the labyrinth of the working world. Sections on travel, the workplace, health, finding a new home, schools for your children and the French way of life will all give clear answers to your questions. More than a guidebook, and with endorsements from well-known personalities, the book provides practical information, as well as the little details that reveal the diversity of the French experience. It aims to take you beyond the hackneyed cliches and to be a friendly guide, but will not do the work for you. So browse at your leisure then come and be chez vous en France.
Contents
About the author Acknowledgements Introduction 1. The French Way Who are the French? Social contacts and relationships Courtesy and conformity The art of living...and living well - art de vivre...et bon vivant Mode et couture 2. France Overview French institutions Diplomatic relations The French population in numbers French but also European An economic point of view 22 metropolitan regions 100 departments: 96 in the Hexagon City folk and country folk A detour in the Ile-de-France 3. Living and Working in France - resider et travailler en France Changing places: an old story French law International organisations in France The legal structure of French companies Organization and hierarchy Employee representation Company representation Foreign representatives An outline of social legislation Social security Taxation - fiscalite The rhythm of life Professional ways and customs - us et coutumes professionnels 4. A few words about the French language A French conversation The French language The keys to communication Learning French Deciphering codes The French media 5. Home comforts - accueil tout conforts Where? Searching for a home Rental/lease contract - contrat de location/bail House and personal insurance - assurances du logement et des personnes Moving in and out - demenager et emmenager DIY Communications Dogs and cats French weather 6. Buyer beware - consommateur averti! The bank: money and currency Shopping Useful hints Legal advice - conseils juridiques Cars and traffic Security and the police Travelling 7. For the young - enfants et juniors The French family ABC for the little ones French school Nursery school - l'ecole maternelle Primary school: from maternelle to the ecole elementaire Secondary school: from 6th to terminale College and lycee International studies Studying in France Higher Education Private schools European programmes Things to know 8. Let's talk about health The French and their health Choosing a doctor Hospital or clinic - public or private? Some medical and paramedical specialities Nursing care The chemist's shop - pharmacie Emergency - 24 hours a day Healthy children 'Prevention is better than cure' Mineral water: do the French put water in their wine? 9. What to do when you are not working - loisirs et temps libre Free time Throughout the year Pastimes and passions Entertainment Weekends Holiday time Once a year Bistros and cafe terraces 10. Comme chez vous...en France At home...in France An enriching experience? Four phases of adaptation The spontaneity of children Homesickness and nostalgia Friendly places Useful information Key dates in the history of France Conversion table Index
