France EDIA Resources

Public transportation system – Tours 
- The public transportation system in Tours, France is well-organized, and reliable.  There are two main transportation networks: the bus system that provides transportation over the entire city as well as surrounding areas, as well as the modern tram line that makes it easy to navigate the urban area. Operated by the company Fil Bleu, there have been significant efforts in order to ensure that public transportation is accessible and supportive to those with disabilities and physical mobility issues. Most buses and trams are accessible for wheelchair users, as they are equipped with low floors, and ramps. The main train stations are also equipped with elevators and ramps. All stations of the tram line are accessible (with a few exceptions) to allow people with wheelchairs or reduced mobility to be able to access ticket machines and platforms. In addition, Fil Bleu also offers assistance services for passengers with disabilities, including help with boarding and having an agent accompany you. This service can be reserved by contacting Fil Bleu at +33 2.47.66.70.70 from Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 
- Moovit app is a useful route planning tool to navigate public transportation in Tours. The app provides real-time updates, schedules, ticket prices, and service alerts, as well as alert you when it is time to get off. 
- Using taxis in Tours is also a viable option, and traditional taxis can be found throughout Tours at taxi stands, on the street, or available to be booked via phone. Local taxi companies include Urban Taxi. The app and website monTransport.com is an efficient and convenient tool to compare and book taxis. 

Public transportation system – Paris 
- The public transportation system in Paris consists of buses, trams, the metro, and RER trains, all that have accessibility features for persons with disabilities and physical mobility issues. The city buses are operated by Regie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP) and the majority of them are wheelchair accessible, with lowered floors and an electronic ramp at the center door. The Paris Metro underground stations are not equipped to accommodate wheelchairs as the stations often have large gaps between trains and platforms, lengthy stairways, and a lack of elevators.  

The climate in both Tours and Paris, located in the north-central climate zone, is a sub-oceanic temperate climate where summers can be quite hot, reaching up to 35 °C. The average relative humidity is about 78%, which makes the weather feel hotter. It is important to plan for the heat and humidity by packing breathable and light layers, cotton clothing, sun protection including sunscreen and hats. The terrain in this region is mostly flat, which makes it easy for individuals with physical disabilities and mobility issues to navigate. 

In France, service dogs are generally well-respected and allowed in the majority of public places, including restaurants, shops, buses, and trains. France recognizes the importance of service dogs for individuals with disabilities. French regulations declare the following specialities eligible for the attestation: visual impairment, hearing impairment, motor impairment, diabetes, epilepsy, and autism. It is important to research all requirements for service dogs, including the proper microchip (ISO-compliant microchip that is 15 digits long), a rabies vaccination, a EU Pet Passport or a health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, and your service dog certification. Bringing a service dog to France will require organizing alternate accommodations, as the residences may not allow service dogs. In addition, many field trips and site visits may not allow service dogs as well. If you have a service dog for a disability, it is advised that you contact your Accessibility Advisor and the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) so that we may assist you in researching this process thoroughly. 

If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that may not be supported by the residence accommodation, you do have the option to stay off-campus to access suitable accommodations, such as a hotel or apartment. These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive than what the original accommodation would cost.  If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, you are required to research your own accommodations (i.e., hotels) in the area that is in close proximity to the residence. Please note that Summer Abroad does not book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional fees incurred (paid directly to the hotel or booking website).  

We encourage you to reach out to the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations as soon as you receive your program admission. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs.  

If you require support for any mental health concerns, we encourage you to reach out to Summer Abroad so we can work directly with you to provide necessary accommodations and support during your program. All Summer Abroad students have access to International SOS, which has a partnership with U of T, who will connect you with a network of health professionals in your area. If you require a doctor or counsellor in Tours, iSOS will be able to help you find a mental health professional in your area.  

France’s society has seen a shift in social attitudes towards mental health, with a heightened awareness of mental health issues. There are many initiatives being brought forward to combat misconceptions surrounding mental illness, such as the Fondation de France’s “Let’s Talk About Therapy” workshop, a large-scale public discussion in 8 French cities that led to recommendations taken up during France’s Mental Health Convention in 2021. Despite progress, mental disorders still continue to be taboo as there is sometimes misunderstanding, fear, and stigmatization that accompanies discourse surrounding mental illness. For this reason, if you require mental health support while abroad, it is important to remember that these stigmas come from a cross-cultural difference, and do not stem from ignorance. 

 If you are bringing medication with you into France, remember to check if your medicine contains a controlled drug. You can check with the French Embassy to make sure your medication is legal. You should always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, with your doctor’s prescription. 

Reminder: Students with pre-existing concerns must meet with their Accessibility Advisor to discuss needs and prepare relevant documentations before applying for Summer Abroad.  

France is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world, with the climate for 2SLGBTQ+ people in France being generally progressive and inclusive, with multiple anti-discrimination legal frameworks and provisions that support equality and protection against discrimination. Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2013, and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation is prohibited by law. The social attitude toward sexuality in France has consistently led with a “laissez-faire” attitude, meaning that they prefer not to interfere in personal matters and respect the privacy of others. Both social attitudes and laws concerning gender identity are generally supportive, however non-binary gender recognition does not exist. 

However, it is important to note that individual experiences can vary. In rural areas or smaller communities, the level of visibility and acceptance may differ from larger urban centers. It is always recommended to exercise personal judgment and consider local customs and laws when navigating LGBTQ+ issues in specific locations, especially while exploring the country on your own. Being aware of local attitudes and customs can help ensure a safe and positive experience during your time in France. 

Summer Abroad is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, and support students of all sexual orientations and gender identities. If you have any concerns or require support regarding your 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, so we can assist you in finding additional resources as well as explore your accommodation options. 

France is generally a safe destination for women travelers. However, it is important to always be vigilant and adhere to basic safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and travel in groups. There are low incidences of petty crime, but there is always a chance of pickpocketing, purse, or phone snatchings, especially in busy crowds. Stay informed, travel with friends, remain cautious, and use trusted transportation instead of walking alone, or late at night. 

If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information on how Safety Abroad can support you in a crisis, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”) 

Emergency contraceptive pills (i.e., Plan B) are available behind the counter from pharmacies, hospitals, schools, and family planning clinics, meaning that they are able to purchase without a prescription. 

The majority ethnic group in France is white Europeans of French descent, however their local population comprises of multiple ethnic groups including large minority communities of Asian, North African, Middle Eastern, and African communities. Tours is generally safe for racialized students, but racial discrimination and harassment can occur. People of color may experience discrimination that comes in various forms, which includes micro-aggressions such as being stared at or other direct methods such as receiving inappropriate comments, or being racially profiled by the police.  It is important to be aware of local customs and cultural norms and take steps to ensure your safety, including always carrying identification and using trusted transportation services.  

If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

France is a secular country that emphasizes the separation of religion from public affairs, seen in a principle known as “laïcité,” which impacts how religious practices may be perceived and accommodated. 

Christianity is the dominant religion, with its main denomination being Catholicism. France also has a large presence of Muslim populations that reflects the presence of immigrant communities from countries in North Africa, such as Algeria and Morocco. There are diverse places of worship across Tours including churches, mosques, synagogues, and etc. 

Multi-faith students that travel to France must be aware of French society’s dedication to being secular. In public spaces, some religious symbols and attire may be restricted (such as government buildings). It is important to be mindful of laws regarding religious symbols and attire in public spaces. 

If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience. 

The presence of Muslim communities in France makes halal food options widely available. There are multiple apps and websites available to help you locate halal food options in France, including HalalTrip, Zabihah, and HalalZilla. 

There are online resources to help find kosher food options in Tours as well. The app Kosher GPS helps you find kosher restaurants, shops, and synagogues. Other apps and website include Chabad.org, and Kosher Near Me.