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FAST FACTS Area: 211,208 square miles (almost the size of Texas). Population: 58,518,395 (Paris, 2,150,000; Marseille, 868,000; Lyon, 410,000; Nice, 331,000). Language: French. Besides easy access from the U.S. there are a wealth of reasons to visit France. The elegant FGTO annual travel planner FranceGuide 2002 invites Americans to "Take a new look" at France. The 96-page free comprehensive magazine showcases France by featuring interviews and commentary by French actress Jeanne Moreau, Tour de France winner, Lance Armstrong, ending with Peter Mayle and his thoughts on the French flair for vacations. "FranceGuide 2002" covers the French Provinces with lively feature articles, suggested itineraries, information on events and special anniversaries. It also provides detailed practical information sections, from tips on the Euro to bringing the kids. Traditionally known as an ancient
country rich in cultural heritage and remarkable historic
landmarks, France is inhabited by an energetic people that have
happily married tradition and art de vivre with progress and innovation.
Land of mysterious prehistoric caves and Celtic monoliths, Roman ruins,
medieval fortresses and Renaissance castles, France is also home to
the Ariane space rocket and Airbus Industries, and the boasts the world's
most extensive high-speed train network. The French National Railroads--represented
in the U.S. by Rail Europe--inaugurated last June the new TGV Méditerranée
to Marseille, gateway to Provence, one of France's most famed regions.
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