The gleaming city lights of Paris, the French Riviera and the magnificent châteaux of the countryside have been enthralling visitors from around the world for centuries.  Located in western Europe, the country borders Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain.  The country’s rich past resonates within its borders and is still visible today, from the Roman Empire to the grandeur of Louis XIV to the troubled times of World War I and World War II.

French culture has a lot to offer, and unlike some stereotypical impressions, it’s actually quite polite. The national language is French, and although in the major cities many citizens (especially restaurant and tourist site workers) can speak at least some English, it’s polite to at least make a valiant attempt at basic phrases and questions in French. 

The country of France offers a new and different experience around every turn.  Paris, of course, attracts the most tourists, but the Loire River Valley holds some of the most spectacular structures in Europe, with beautiful castles and chateux along the rolling, vineyard- filled countryside.  The French Riviera holds spectacular beaches, frequented by many celebrities and affluent Europeans.  In all, France is worth exploring for at least a week, and one could easily spend an entire year exploring the beauties of this country.

Map courtesy of: http://www.appliedlanguage.com/country_guides/France.shtml