French Life

21st Apr 2023

Speed Limit Offences and Penalties

The loss of a point on the driving licence for a minor speeding offence is to be relaxed.

29th Mar 2023

Water Wars in Deux-Sèvres

Large scale protests that have been taking place over the construction of a major reservoir in the Deux-Sèvres department illustrates the growing tension over the use of water in an era of climate change.

6th Jan 2023

French Public Holidays 2023

The 11 public holidays in France for 2023 to put in your diary, as well as school dates.

4th Nov 2022

Lights Go Out in France?

The energy crisis is obliging the government and local authorities to adopt more stringent controls on commercial and public lighting.

31st Oct 2022

New Plan to Fight Wildfires

After an unprecedented summer of wildfires in France the government has set about building a fire and rescue service fit for the future.

25th Oct 2022

Winter Tyres in France

As winter draws near, all vehicles in mountain areas of France must be equipped with snow tyres or carry chains.

10th Oct 2022

Why are the French So Pessimistic?

A new report from the European Union finds the French to be one of the most pessimistic nations in Europe.

3rd Oct 2022

Drought in France

Despite recent rainfall the drought in France is expected to continue, as must water use restrictions.

13th Aug 2022

More Departments Increase Speed Limit to 90kph

Around half the departments in France have decided to lift the maximum 80kph speed limit to 90kph on some or all of their roads.

31st Jul 2022

Vehicle Inspection Tests in France

Last year, 20% of vehicles in France failed their mandatory vehicle inspection (MOT) test.