When travelling within French cities, the most convenient method may be by using the French subway system. In France, it’s very common to refer to the nearest subway when giving directions. The system is far more well managed than, for instance, the London underground, and as a way of immersing yourself in French culture after or while purchasing property in France, is second to none.
There are actually two subway lines within Paris; the Metro, or Metropolitan, which serves downtown Paris, and the RER or Reseaux Express Reginale, which serves the suburbs. French subway tickets can be bought singularly, or in packets of ten for a slight discount. To buy a single ticket you need to ask for “un billet”, pronounced like “uhn bee-yay”. If you wish to buy more than one, replace “un” with the appropriate number – un, deux, trios, and so on. To buy a set of ten tickets, ask for “un carnet”, or “un carnet pour” and add the name of the location you wish to visit, wherever your property is located. There are also a number of subway passes available, similar to those available in England, which may work out cheaper depending on your travel needs.
Travelling by taxi within French cities is also an option. French taxi’s have a sign on their roof, which will light up when they are available. Fares are subject to change based on a number of factors, such as the time of day, area, any luggage or pets you may be carrying, or from train stations or airports. Because of this, you may wish to discuss the price before travelling.
When travelling between French cities, trains are, again, an option. French trains are well organized, and, thanks to the relatively recent addition of TGV trains to the network, are a fast and efficient way to visit your property and travel to various French cities.
You can also choose to rent a car, and to do you’ll need a driver’s license in the Roman alphabet, and some form of photo ID. Modern British licences already come with photo cards, although if your license wasn’t issued recently, you will also need your passport or some other form of ID. Bear in mind that some car hire companies have strict policies on their customer’s ages, and you may incur a fee if you are above or below the designated age. Always discuss this in advance, and, while doing so, take the opportunity to ask about local driving laws and practices. In general, children must always wear seatbelts, and children under ten cannot ride in the front of a car. The maximum speed limit in France is 130km/h or 75mph.