To be sure you can enjoy all that France has to offer with less worry about unexpected illnesses or mishaps, get travel medical insurance. It's an important component of any well-laid travel plan.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in France – FAQs
Though the French healthcare system is typically regarded as reliable and able to provide excellent care, it isn't always affordable for tourists. If you were to get sick or injured in France, you would want to receive the best care possible without getting stuck with an enormous bill. In case you require medical treatment, the best way to safeguard your finances is with travel medical insurance.
Why buy travel medical insurance before traveling to France?
Buying travel medical insurance before traveling to France is important for the same reason that you use seatbelts and helmets. While having insurance won't prevent unexpected medical emergencies, it can definitely help shield you from the financial impact.
You may be wondering if there are France travel insurance requirements. Travelers from certain countries must get a Schengen visa in order to visit France. If this visa is necessary for you, compliant health insurance is mandatory.
Tourists from Australia, Canada, Japan, the USA and many other countries can enter France for up to 90 days without a visa, and are exempt from the Schengen travel insurance requirement. However, due to healthcare costs in France, travel medical insurance is still highly recommended.
What should I look for in my France travel medical insurance?
If you require Schengen visa insurance to visit France, it must meet certain criteria to be compliant. A minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage is required, as is coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.
It's also important to consider what activities you plan to participate in while visiting France. If you intend to ski, snowboard or participate in adventure sports, it's essential to get travel medical insurance that will provide coverage for those activities.
France's Most Popular Cities for Travel
The land of cathedrals and castles, France is on every traveler's bucket list. France welcomes tourists from all over the world with its vibrant culture, history, and refined cuisine. The Eiffel Tower is likely to be the primary attraction for most travelers, but there are so many other sights to see. Every city of this European country has something that sets it apart from the rest of the world. And no matter what part of France you are in, fun and enjoyment won't be hard to find.
France is much more than just Paris. While the "City of Light" is an essential destination for any visitor, it shouldn't be the only place you visit in the country. To make sure you don't miss out on the hidden gems of France, here are some other popular cities that you should visit.
La Rochelle
Popular for its limestone edifices that glow at night, La Rochelle is nicknamed the "White City." An important seaport in days gone by, it is a charming city with photogenic waterfronts. La Rochelle has a historic center, a marina at Port des Minimes, and many sandy beaches. All of these make it a perfect place for some laidback enjoyment.
Colmar
Located in the Alsace region, Colmar is a city that's quite close to Germany. This is why, over the course of history, it has changed hands several times between the two countries. But now, as a part of France, this old town attracts tourists with its cobblestone alleys and delightful canals. It is dotted with several churches and museums. It is also in a famous wine region, so don't miss tasting some wine when in town.
Lyon
Lyon is located right where the Rhone and Saone Rivers meet. It has always attracted merchants and industries. For tourists, it has a rich cultural heritage on display. This sophisticated city is punctuated by renaissance buildings and architectural wonders. While walking around the beautiful city, don't forget to stop for a scrumptious meal.
Nice
Located on the French Riviera, Nice is a sunshine city. With abundant sunlight, France's fifth largest city is a cocktail of cultures. The Italian-inspired architecture, medieval streets, and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea make Nice a perfect pick for all types of tourists.
Lille
Lying between Flanders and Paris, Lille is a popular stop for tourists. There are plenty of museums to explore here. And being a university community, it has a culturally vibrant city center. Plus, there are a lot of shopping destinations and thriving nightlife.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in France
France is a safe travel destination for international tourists. However, without knowing what risks you could be exposed to, you stand a higher chance of facing issues. Keep the following tips in mind to enjoy your French vacation to the fullest.
The Presence of Pickpockets
Where there are tourists, there can be pickpockets. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when at crowded tourist places, in busy marketplaces and streets, and while using public transportation. Keep your valuables in sight and close to your person.
Transportation Troubles
Airport taxi and rental car scams can occur in France. Make sure you book your taxis beforehand. And don't leave your valuables in a rental car. Also, if you want to travel using the trains and other public transportation options, be sure to have their schedules, as well as maps of the routes.
Adventure Risks
If you decide to ski or snowboard in the Alps, you need to keep an eye on weather conditions. Stay aware of avalanche and winter storm warnings. Also, hire only registered tour providers and guides to ensure safety.
Public Demonstrations
Public demonstrations can occur in many cities in France. Though these gatherings are unlikely to cause problems for tourists, it's still best to avoid them. Also, plan more time to get around, as demonstrations can cause traffic jams.
Before You Travel to France - Do This
Before you set out for your French vacation, make sure you do these three things:
- Learn a little French. It never hurts to know a few basic words and phrases to make communication a little easier.
- Keep in mind that the month of August is the unofficial "summer vacation" in France, when up to half of French vacationers go on holiday. Though this does not affect major tourist destinations, it may be more difficult to find open restaurants and stores in other locations. Also, beach resorts in France are typically their busiest during this time.
- Buy insurance. Before you pack for your trip, don't forget one of the most important parts: travel medical insurance.