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Were he alive today, deGaulle would need to revise that famous rhetorical question - while France now boasts nearly 400 different varieties of cheese, this statistic only hints at the individualism and variety of cultures to which the General alluded. France is a country of sharp contrasts and proud, often defiant, heritage. Much of France's originality springs from the fact that in its 220,000 square miles of territory are to be found all the major natural regions of the continent, each with its own personality. Both its diversity of landscapes and a tumultuous history of political rule have sculpted the customs, languages, and attitudes of its people. No fewer than 25 different languages and dialects can still be heard within its borders (two Judeo-French languages became extinct as recently as 1977). Regional celebrations, folklore and traditional garb can be traced to a history of settlement and invasion -- sometimes subtle, often violent -- by Druids, Celts, Normans, Huns, Greeks, Romans, and numerous other civilizations. Evidence of human population within ancient Gaul can be traced back nearly 30,000 years! So you want to get a taste of France, drink in its beauty, and sample its famous joie de vivre ? Often regarded as the world's most civilized nation, France has for centuries exerted a powerful influence on travelers. Today, as ever, it is a most alluring and delightful country to visit -- as over 67 million foreign tourists a year will attest! Whatever your inclination, from a study of her arts and architecture to a gustation of her vintage wines, you're likely to find your stay in France an intoxicating and forever enriching experience. No doubt of France's many charms, including her colorful
history, the origins of her language, as well as her limitless cultural
venues and sightseeing attractions. We hope you'll find your visit a fruitful
and enjoyable one, and that you will be inspired to make France a destination
in your travels! |
