Among its contributions to western civilization are champagne, Camembert cheese and the guillotine. Although France likes to think of itself as a modern nation, air conditioning is little used and it is next to impossible to get decent Mexican food. One continuing exasperation for American visitors is that the people willfully persist in speaking French, though many will speak English if shouted at. As in any foreign country, watch your change at all times. Most French citizens are Roman Catholic, though you would hardly guess it from their behaviour.
Many people are communists, and topless sunbathing is common.
Men sometimes have girls' names like Marie, and they kiss each other when they hand out medals. American travelers are advised to travel in groups and to wear baseball caps and colourful trousers for easier mutual recognition. In general, France is a safe destination, though travelers are advised that, from time to time, it is invaded by Germany. Other important historical figures are Louis XIV, the Huguenots, Joan of Arc, Jacques Cousteau and Charles de Gaulle, who was President for many years and is now an airport. The French form of government is democratic but noisy.