France+Facts


 * Home

Interesting Facts ** **Religion-** Roman Catholicism is the primary religion **Social Customs-** Hand shaking/Cheek kissing. Being invited to dinner by a French person is a sign you’ve been accepted in the community (bring a small gift). **Family Structure-** Family variables were related to substance use. Children from non-intact families were more likely to be heavy substance users than other students. **Political Structure-** President functions as the head of the state and is elected for 7 years. President controls foreign policy and defense, and appoints a prime minister with the approval of the parliament. **Currency-** Euro. $1.41 is approximately 1 euro. **Imports-** France imports about $24.2 billion. They import items such as: coal, animal feed, non-metallic minerals, dairy products and eggs, organic chemicals, computer accessories, measuring/testing control instruments. **Exports-** France exports about $37.1 billon. They export items such as: cane/beet sugar, diamonds, oil field platforms and equipment, collectibles (artwork), petroleum products. **Physical Geography-** France is 211,208 sq miles. The terrain is varied from plains to mountains and forests to farmland. **Communication-** The primary language is French. Everyone is expected to know this language. **Government laws/regulation-** Minimum drinking age is 16. **Workday/Hours/Holidays-** Typical workday is from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. They celebrate several holidays each year such as: New Years, Labor Day, Mardi gras, Easter, etc. In August France shuts down so try to conduct business in other months. **Climate/Weather-** In France there are 3 different types of climates. The southern climate is Mediterranean (warm, moist winters and hot, dry summers). The North is temperate and prone to rain. The west is also rainy and is influenced by the Atlantic, which moderates winter temps. The central, east, and upland areas have a continental climate, with fluctuating temps. In the mountains, thunderstorms are prevalent in summer. **Accepted Business Practices-** Arriving for business appointments 10-15 minutes after the scheduled time is not uncommon. Deadlines are open to negotiation in the French culture. Business organizations are highly organized and well structured. Lunch is one of the best places to forge business relationships. **Education-** Schooling is free and compulsory from ages 6-16. Nearly 20% of all children attend Catholic Schools. **Flag/Colors-** Blue, white, red. **Native Foods-** The French have always been proud of their sophisticated way of cooking. Fertile soil provides fresh frits, vegetables, herbs, grains, and meat, nearly year-round. **Business Attire-** Men do not loosen their ties or take off their jacket in the office. The French are very aware of dress, be conservative.