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| CURRENT SECTION :: Overseas Guides | UK's most visited IT Contractor Site - 250k unique visitors March 2008 |
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Profile written by Matt Walters of Capital Consulting (October 2008).
France has historically been very open to foreign contractors, and its large technology centres near Paris and in Sophia Antipolis provide numerous contract opportunities. France has much to offer the foreign contractor in the way of culture, gastronomy, sports activities and tourism; while its proximity and close transport links to the UK allow for an easy return home. Public holidays in France include New Year’s Day, Easter, Easter Monday, Labour Day (May 1), V-E Day (8 May), Ascension, Pentecost, Whit Monday, Bastille Day (July 14), Assumption of Mary (August 15), All Saints’ Day (November 1), Armistice Day (November 11), Christmas Day (December 25). I. Languages While the official language of France is French, the main immigrant languages are Maghrebi Arabic, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish. The main foreign languages spoken are English (36%) and German (8%). For the English-speaking contractor, the language barrier can be a real stumbling block. While this depends on the area, the sector and a range of other factors, a grasp of the local language and a willingness to make an effort will go a long way. II. Accommodation There is a strong rental culture in France making it relatively easy to find a property for the duration of your contract. Prices for accommodation will of course vary depending on size and location, but a guideline figure of EUR 1300-2200 may be quoted for a small, furnished apartment in central Paris. III. Travel One of France’s key advantages in the view of many contractors is its proximity and copious travel links with the UK. i. Air The key airports of Paris, Charles de Gaulle and Orly provide speedy links to all key UK airports by Air France, BA and easyJet amongst many others. ii. Rail The rail journey from Paris to London (St. Pancras), takes just over a couple of hours, with regular departures. There are regular trains from Paris to all major European destinations, including sleeper cars for longer journeys. iii. Road / Ferry The drive from Paris to London is about 290 miles and, using the various ferry companies, the crossing alone can take from 35 minutes to over 5 hours and a half. The main crossings are: Dunkirk – Dover (Norfolk Line 2 hours), Le Havre – Portsmouth (LD Lines over 5 hours), Calais – Dover (P&O Ferries 1 hour and 30 minutes), Calais – Folkestone (Eurotunnel 35 minutes). Using the Eurotunnel, the driving time is approx. 5½ hours. Capital Consulting is an international payroll and contract-management company providing tailor-made tax planning services to contractors working overseas. For more detailed information on your personal situation, please contact Capital on +41 32 732 97 00. Previous Page
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