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France is the largest state in the European Union by area and the third largest country in Europe behind Russia and Ukraine. It is estimated that if all of France's other colonial territories were included, it would be the second largest area in Europe behind Russia.
The country is bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain and Andorra with the Mediterranean the south, the Atlantic to the west and the English channel to the north. France has the fifth largest GDP in the world and frequently tops quality of life surveys, especially in the south of the country.
France possesses a wide variety of landscapes, from coastal plains in the north and west to the mountain ranges of the Alps in the south-east. The Massif Central is in the south-central region and the Pyrenees stand in the south-west. At 4,807 metres (15,771 ft) above sea-level, Mont Blanc is the highest level in Europe and is situated in the Alps on the border between France and Italy.
In 2004, a total of 140,033 people emigrated to France. Of this total, 90,250 were from Africa and 13,710 from Europe. It is estimated that by 2008 over 250,000 Brits owned a home or were in the process of buying a second home in France. The southern part of the country is the most popular destination for expats from the UK to retire, especially along the French Riveria.
The largest cities in France are Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Toulouse, Nice, and Nantes. Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The Paris region receives 45 million tourists annually, of which 60% are foreign visitors. Nice is the second largest tourist destination in France due to its situation on the French Riviera meaning that it has great year round weather.
French is the national language and if you plan to live and work in France it is essential to learn the language. Although other languages are widely spoke in the big cities, further out you will have to speak French to get shopping or at work.
We have strategic links with expert expat financial companies should you need any help with your finances when you move abroad, to find out more or to ask any questions, please contact us.
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