France is an extremely popular destination among British holidaymakers, famed for its exciting cities, beautiful rural landscapes, delicious cuisine and world-class wine.
GB News spoke exclusively to Janine Marsh, a London-born expat who relocated to Pas-de-Calais about how to get the most out of a holiday in France. Sharing her top travel tips, she gave her expert advice on public holidays, driving in France and entry requirements to be aware of.
The expat said: “I travel year round in France as part of my job as an author and editor of The Good Life France magazine and website, and I’ve learned that there are a few things that many visitors miss out on that really make your holiday special and add an authentic element to your visit.
“These are recommendations that you won’t find in guidebooks, though you may stumble upon them with luck – and they will take you to the heart of your destination whether that’s in the north, south, east or west of France or in a city or village, coast, countryside or mountain top.”
If you’re visiting during peak times – like July and August for the sunshine – check out the traffic reports in advance so you can avoid the hotspots
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Giving her top travel tips for a well-informed holiday in France, Janine advised holidaymakers to do some research into the specific dates they are looking to visit.
She said: “Be aware of national holidays in France as this often means shops – and some tourist attractions – are closed. France enjoys 11 national holidays a year.”
Janine continued: “If you’re going in peak visitor time – July and August for the sunshine areas or January and February for the skiing – check out the traffic reports in advance so you can avoid the hotspots.
“There are several apps that help – type ‘Traffic report France’ into your search bar for info.”
Offering specific travel advice for drivers, Janine said: “If you’re driving, make sure you check the legal requirements like having a hi-vis jacket in your car – and several other things.
“Also, check whether you need a Crit’Air sticker. Several major cities require you to display these in your car; they’re an indication of your car’s pollution level. You’ll need to get your car logbook out to complete the online form to order a sticker. You have to answer questions such as the registration date of the car, CO2 emissions etc. Failure to display one in a regulated zone can result in a hefty fine.
“And make sure you have a ‘UK’ sticker for your car rather than a ‘GB’ sticker, as this is no longer valid.”
As for visa rules to be aware of, Janine said: “Since the UK left the European Union, UK passport holders are now seen as ‘third-country nationals’ by EU and Schengen countries.
“This means the entry rules have changed – and many UK holidaymakers are still being caught out by them.
“Your British passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned return date.”
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Before taking a trip to France, ensure you check the entry requirements
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“And make sure that you get your passport stamped on entry and exit because border guards will look at passport stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area. You can apply for a visa to stay longer but leave yourself plenty of time for it to be issued.”
She continued: “Also check to see if you’re eligible for a free (UK Government issued) UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) which covers you for ‘medically necessary’ healthcare in France and EU countries at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. It doesn’t replace travel insurance but it can be useful in case of an emergency.”
If you’re taking a trip to France, it’s always advisable to consult the FCDO’s latest guidance for a well-informed trip. The FCDO states that your passport must have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. If you renewed your passport before October 1, 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago.
Janine Marsh is the author of several best-selling books about France and editor of The Good Life France Magazine and website thegoodlifefrance.com.
She previously spoke to GB News about how to dine like a local in France, including the “great cultural experience” you cannot miss.
