Worth to know

2Provence would naturally like all our guests to get the most out of their holiday. Below, you will find some practical advice.

Equipment, etc.

Our classification of the holiday properties cannot be set up against international classifications because the properties are private homes. We have not taken the personal taste of the owners, the interior decoration, furnishings etc. into account in the classification of the properties. The holiday properties are fully furnished with kitchens and a fridge and stove unless stated otherwise in the description of the property. The bedrooms are equipped with duvets and pillows. Please note, however, that in most properties in Southern France, the “duvet” is actually a blanket. Bring your own bed linen or towels or use our linen packages. Also, bring tea towels and dishcloths unless stated otherwise in the description of the holiday property.

Size

The stated size of the properties is according to information supplied by the owner. In most cases, these refer to the interior dimensions.

Access

Many of our properties with views are located on sloping land. Access can thus be difficult. These properties are not suitable for handicapped people.

Protective sheets

If the mattresses have protective sheets, then these must remain clean. It is thus not permissible to use the protective sheets as sheeting.

Barbecue

In some parts of France, the use of barbecues is prohibited due to strong winds or drought. Please comply with these conditions.

Beds

In the holiday properties the standard bed size is 140 x 190 (double bed) and 90 x 190 (single bed). The mattresses are often of a different standard to those that we are used to in Scandinavia.

Shutters

Shutters and doors must always be closed and locked when you leave the property.

Dustbins

The dustbins must be emptied regularly and prior to your departure. If refuse collection does not drive past the house, then there are public containers on the roads close to the house.

Noise

In France it is forbidden to make a noise after 22.00. As our properties are often located in residential areas, we would ask you to please comply with this rule.

Septic tank

Most of our properties have a septic tank. It is thus forbidden to throw tampons, sanitary towels, cigarettes and similar items into the toilet, as this will lead to the drain becoming blocked.

Safety at the pool

Children at the pool must always be under adult supervision. Tenants are responsible for correct use of the security system at the pool (alarm system, fencing etc.). The security system is only a supplement and can never replace adult supervision of children.

If you are in doubt about the security system at the premises, we will answer any questions you may have.

Speed cameras

Watch your speed when you drive in France. In the slightly larger towns, there are often speed traps, either manned or in the form of speed cameras. Look at how the locals drive. If they keep to the speed limit, then you can be certain that there is a camera somewhere in the vicinity. The police require speeding fines to be paid on the spot, in cash, or else you will be escorted to the nearest cash machine by the police.

Parking

Parking in France is an art in itself, which the French have mastered. If you have parked in town and someone double parking in the next spot parks you in, then you should not worry too much, it is likely to be someone who “just” needs to fetch some bread, talk to a friend or something like that. Just honk your horn a couple of times and the driver will come running out, gesticulating and apologising.

Cars are functional items in France and a couple of small dents are not regarded as anything serious. Use the parking lots in large towns as much as possible. Parking here is more secure than parking next to the pavement. Remember that in France you do not need 1.5 m in front and behind a car in order to have space to park your car.

When parking on steep roads, turn the wheels so that the car turns in towards the hill/pavement edge in case the brakes become fatigued. You could consider laying a stone under the innermost front tyre.

Do not leave valuables in your car

Remember to remove valuables from your car when you leave it. In the larger towns along the coast, it is also recommended that you lock your doors and your boot when you are driving. There have been many instances of someone simply opening a door or a boot and taking whatever they can snatch whilst the driver is waiting at a red light.

Buses and trains

Buses are a really cheap and effective method of transport along the coast and you will also avoid the difficulties of parking.

The trains are generally of a high standard with very quick journey times between the larger towns along the coast.