Toulon Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Stay connected with local options or portable devices.

SIM Cards & eSIMs

Purchase local SIM cards (Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free Mobile) at carrier stores, supermarkets, or tabacs. Passport is needed.
eSIM options are available for newer phone models for convenience via Airalo.
Consider a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent access.

Internet & Postal Services

Access the internet and send mail with ease.

Access & Mail

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Look for "Wi-Fi Gratuit" signs.
La Poste is the national postal service. Post offices (Bureaux de poste) have yellow and blue signs. Stamps (Timbres) are available at post offices or most Tabacs.
Mobile data coverage is generally strong in and around Toulon.

Language & Translation

Overcome language barriers with useful tools.

Tools & Tips

French is the official language. English recognition varies; learning basic phrases is appreciated.
The Google Translate app (offline French pack recommended) and DeepL Translator are highly beneficial.
A French phrasebook can be a useful companion.

Important Phrases

Simple phrases for daily interactions.

Essential Greetings & Requests

Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR): Hello / Bonsoir (bon-SWAHR): Good evening.
Merci (mehr-SEE): Thank you / S'if you please (seel voo PLEH): Please.
Parlez-vous anglais? (par-LAY voo ahn-GLEH?): Do you speak English?

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Shops: 9/10 AM to 7/7:30 PM, Mon-Sat (smaller shops may close for lunch).
Supermarkets: 8:30/9 AM to 8/9 PM, Mon-Sat (reduced hours or closed Sundays).
Restaurants: Lunch 12-2:30 PM, Dinner 7-10:30 PM (often closed between services).
Museums/Attractions: 9:30/10 AM to 5/6 PM (many close Mon/Tues; check specific hours).

Banking & Holidays

Banks: 9 AM to 5 PM, Mon-Fri (some Sat mornings). Closed Sundays and public holidays.
ATMs (Distributeurs Automatiques de Billets - DAB): Widely available 24/7.
Public Holidays (Jours Fériés): Banks, post offices, and many shops close. Transport may have reduced schedules.
Seasonal Closures: Smaller businesses may close in low season (winter). Verify specific operating times.

Plan Ahead for Closures

Verify opening hours for specific businesses and attractions, especially during public holidays or the low season.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interacting respectfully with local customs enriches your travel experience.

Greeting Customs

Always greet shopkeepers and staff with "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" when entering an establishment. Use "Au revoir" when leaving.

Appropriate Attire

Dress code is generally casual chic. For religious sites, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

Dining & Tipping

Wait to be seated. Service charge included; extra tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for excellent service.

Photography Ethics

Respect privacy and local regulations.

Guidelines

Generally fine for public places and significant locations.
Seek consent before capturing close-up photos of individuals.
Strictly avoid photographing military installations or personnel, especially around the naval base.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid certain subjects in laid-back conversation.

Subjects to Avoid

Avoid discussions of money, politics, or religion except if you know the person well.
Do not compare France negatively to other countries or make sweeping generalizations.
The nation of the french republic is generally a liberal and progressive country regarding gender and LGBTQ+ rights.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure & Transport

Efforts exist for improved accessibility, especially in public buildings.
Most newer RMTT buses feature ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Toulon train station features lifts and ramps. Pre-booked assistance can be used for train travel.

Airport Services & Attractions

Gain airport lounge access with Priority Pass (10% commission, 30-a daily treat).
Seek compensation for flight disruptions via Compensair (€5-12 fixed, 30-day cookie).
Téléphérique du Mont Faron cable car cabins are generally accessible. Major galleries are typically accessible.

Local Information

Contact the Toulon Tourist Office for specific assistance or resources for accessible routes, facilities, and services.

Additional Practicalities

Further insights for a smoother journey.

Cultural Sensitivity

Foster positive relationships through respectful interactions.

Interacting Respectfully

Initiate interactions with "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir."
Ask permission before taking close-up photos of people.
Dress modestly when visiting churches: cover shoulders and knees. Maintain silence during services.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Info

France is a country generally progressive.

Local Context

LGBTQ+ rights are protected as required by law.
Toulon is generally a welcoming city.
Public showing affection in public is generally okay, regardless of sexual orientation.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices can make a positive local consequences.

Support Local

Opt for local eateries, cafes, and non-chain shops over international chains.
Look for "Produit en Provence" or "Made in France" labels for ethical shopping.
Purchase directly from market vendors and small, independent shops.

Ethical Travel

Travel with responsibility and consciously.

Avoid Harmful Practices

Be aware of activities that might exploit animals or local populations.
Avoid tours with direct interaction with potentially stressed or mistreated wild animals.
Donate to reputable local charities or NGOs rather than directly to street beggars.

Sustainable Tourism Partners

Eco-Friendly & Ethical Tours

Find eco-friendly lodging on Ecobnb.
Shop for sustainable outdoor gear at Patagonia.
Book ethical tours with G Adventures.

Carbon Offsets & Reusable Products

Offset your carbon footprint with Terrapass.
Discover reusable products at Package Free Shop.
Support conservation efforts via The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

Accommodation

For stays of a month or more, renting an apartment is often comfortable and cost-effective.
Utilize platforms like Airbnb or local rental agencies.
Immersion in local life, buying things at markets, and cooking at home.

Exploration Pace

Discover the region extensively at a relaxed pace.
Combine driving with train travel for diverse exploration.
Discover hidden gems not accessible on shorter trips.

Support Local Culture

Support local cultural institutions and artisans who preserve Provençal heritage.

Airport Services

Services that support air travel convenience and rights.

Airport Lounge Access

Gain access to independent airport lounges worldwide.

Priority Pass

Provides frequent travelers with independent airport lounge access.
Access lounges around the world.
10% commission, 30 days cookie.

Flight Compensation Service

Receive compensation for flight disruptions.

Compensair

Service that helps customers receive compensation.
For flight delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane.
€5-12 fixed commission, 30 days cookie.

Local Customs & Etiquette Reminders

Greeting Basics

Always use "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" when entering places.
"S'if you please" and "Merci" are important for politeness.
These courtesies open doors to friendly interactions.

Dining Out

Wait to be seated in most restaurants.
Keep hands on the table while dining.
Cutting salad with a knife is impolite; fold larger leaves with a fork.

Summary of Points

Toulon offers a good mass transit system and connectivity. Learning basic French phrases greatly assists daily interactions. Public holidays cause closures; checking ahead is advisable.

Toulon Travel Tips