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Gites in France

Gite in France
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French Affair presents an extensive choice of Gites in France. Our Gites in France are situated in the most beautiful areas of France: the Lot Valley, Dordogne, Provence, Languedoc and Atlantic Coast. These areas are rich in history and architecture; they have splendid food and wine, and have an almost perfect climate throughout spring, summer and autumn. Originally owners of Gites were able to get local financial assistance to renovate their properties. This was to encourage tourism into those areas of rural France where commercial activity was dying and to encourage locals to remain in the countryside to maintain their way of life. It was so successful that the generic name Gite has become associated with all homes that are rented by French people to overseas clients. Of course nowadays an owner will no longer get the cheap loans that used to be available, but if he works with French Affair he will be sure to get a good return on his money as well as enjoying meeting many of our satisfied clients.

However, visiting another country as close as it might be can reveal a few surprises and we would like to give you a few tips when you rent your Gite in France.

Firstly, regarding Bank holidays in France you will need to know that all banks and most shops are closed. Most restaurants remain open, as do a few museums. So you are of course advised to plan in advance and organise your food shopping according to these dates. However, most attractions and touristy sites remain open. Also please note that the voltage in all Gites in France is 220-240v and is compatible with appliances used in the UK, but you will need a plug adaptor capable of use with round two or three pin plugs. They are widely available in high street shops and sometimes on ferries.

When you rent a Gite in France it is also important to have an idea about local currency. The Euro is the currency in France. Avoid taking large denomination notes because they may not be easily changed; for example supermarkets will not accept 500 Euro notes for purchases below a total of 200 Euros. Banking hours vary throughout France. Most banks are open weekdays from 0900 to 1700, often with a lunch break, which can be as long as 12-1400hours; banks are also open on Saturday mornings, but are normally closed on Mondays. Automatic cash dispensers are usually available only in large towns, but make a charge for international cash withdrawals. Users are allowed only two attempts at entering their correct pin numbers before the card is retained by the machine and can only be retrieved from the bank.