Understanding France's National Speed Limits
When driving in France, adherence to the national speed limit is a fundamental aspect of road safety and legal compliance. These limits are not arbitrary; they are established to match the typical conditions, road design, and traffic flow for different types of routes across the country. For drivers, particularly those unfamiliar with French roads, knowing these regulations is paramount to avoiding fines and ensuring a secure journey. This article demystifies the general speed restrictions you will encounter, covering motorways, dual carriageways, rural roads, and urban areas, providing a clear overview of what to expect.
The core principle behind French speed limits is differentiation based on road type and vehicle class. While there is a general 'national speed limit' concept, specific limits apply depending on whether you are on a motorway (autoroute), a dual carriageway (route à accès réglementé or voie rapide), a standard rural road, or within a built-up area. Furthermore, these limits can be subject to changes announced by signage, particularly due to weather conditions, roadworks, or specific events. For drivers coming from the UK, understanding these variations is crucial, as they differ from the UK's own codified speed limits and signage conventions.
- Motorway limits are higher, but vary by vehicle.
- Dual carriageways have specific, generally lower, limits than motorways.
- Rural roads have standard limits, often reduced in adverse conditions.
- Urban areas impose the strictest speed restrictions.
- Always obey posted signs as they override general rules.
General Speed Limits for Cars in France
The standard speed limits for passenger cars (vehicles under 3.5 tonnes) in France are as follows, provided there are no overriding signs:
- Motorways (Autoroutes): The national speed limit is generally 130 km/h.
- Dual Carriageways (Routes à accès réglementé / Voies rapides): The limit is 110 km/h.
- Other Roads (Rues, Routes Nationales/Départementales outside built-up areas): The limit is 80 km/h.
- Built-up Areas (Agglomérations): The limit is 50 km/h.
It is important to note that these are the baseline figures. These limits can be reduced by signage, for instance, due to roadworks, weather warnings, or specific hazards. Conversely, certain types of vehicles, such as those towing a trailer or caravan, or larger vehicles, will have lower maximum speeds applicable to them, irrespective of the road type. Always be vigilant for roadside signs, as they are the ultimate authority on the speed you should be travelling.
The Role of Signage and Variable Limits
While general speed limits provide a framework, roadside signage is paramount. France employs a comprehensive system of signs to indicate speed limits, which can be permanent, temporary, or variable. Permanent signs dictate the usual limits for a given road type or zone. Temporary signs might be erected for roadworks, events, or specific hazards, and these always take precedence. Most critically, France uses variable electronic signs, often displayed on overhead gantries, which can dynamically alter speed limits based on real-time traffic conditions, weather (e.g., rain, fog), or other safety factors. These variable limits are typically displayed in red digits and are legally binding. Ignoring these signs, whether permanent or variable, can lead to significant penalties.
Understanding the dynamic nature of French speed limits is key to safe driving.
Variable Speed Limits for Weather Conditions
France frequently implements variable speed limits based on weather, particularly on its major routes. During periods of heavy rain, fog, or icy conditions, electronic signs will often display reduced speed limits. For instance, a 130 km/h limit on a motorway might be lowered to 110 km/h or even 90 km/h during adverse weather. This is a crucial safety measure designed to account for reduced visibility and increased braking distances. Drivers must treat these electronically displayed limits as the absolute maximum speed allowed at that time. Failing to do so not only poses a significant risk but also carries penalties. The system aims to make driving safer by adapting speed recommendations to prevailing conditions, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach.
Speed Limits on French Motorways (Autoroutes)
France's motorways, known as 'autoroutes', are designed for high-speed, long-distance travel, and as such, they carry the highest general speed limits. For standard passenger cars (under 3.5 tonnes) and motorcycles, the national speed limit on these roads is 130 km/h (approximately 80 mph). However, this figure is not absolute and can be influenced by several factors, making vigilance and attention to signage essential for any driver.
Conditions Affecting Motorway Speed Limits
The 130 km/h limit is for dry conditions and good visibility. When it rains, the speed limit is automatically reduced to 110 km/h (approximately 68 mph) on motorways. This is often indicated by variable electronic signs. If you are driving in fog, or if the road surface is wet or icy, you must be prepared for further reductions, which will be clearly displayed. For drivers towing a trailer or caravan, the general limit is significantly lower: 110 km/h on motorways if the combined weight is under 3.5 tonnes, but this reduces to 90 km/h if the trailer/caravan is unbraked or if the combined weight exceeds 3.5 tonnes. Always check the specific regulations for your vehicle combination.
Always observe variable speed limit signs on motorways, especially in adverse weather.
Differentiating Autoroutes from Other Major Roads
It is vital to distinguish French motorways (autoroutes) from other major roads, such as 'routes nationales' or 'routes départementales' that may appear to be dual carriageways. Autoroutes are typically toll roads (indicated by the letter 'A' before their number, e.g., A10), they have restricted access (no direct entry/exit from residential areas), and feature specific signage. Other high-speed roads, even if they have multiple lanes or a central reservation, are not motorways and therefore do not carry the 130 km/h limit. These are often classified as 'voies rapides' or 'routes à accès réglementé', and they have their own set of speed limits, generally lower than those on autoroutes.
When approaching a French motorway, look for the distinctive blue signs with a white 'A' and the motorway number to confirm you are entering the autoroute system and its associated speed limits.
Tolls and Their Impact
Many of France's autoroutes are toll roads, managed by various concessionaires. While the presence of tolls is a commercial arrangement, it signifies that you are on a high-quality, well-maintained road system designed for efficient travel. These roads are generally in excellent condition, with clear lane markings, good signage, and fewer junctions compared to non-toll routes. The tolls contribute to the upkeep and development of the network, ensuring that drivers benefit from high standards of infrastructure. However, drivers should budget for these costs, as they can add up on longer journeys.
Speed Cameras and Enforcement on Motorways
French authorities are rigorous in enforcing speed limits. Motorways are equipped with numerous speed cameras, including fixed cameras, average speed cameras, and mobile speed traps operated by police. The penalties for speeding, even by a small margin, can be substantial, involving fines and potentially penalty points on your licence, which could affect your ability to drive in France or elsewhere in the EU. Therefore, maintaining awareness of your speed is not just about compliance but also about avoiding significant financial and administrative consequences. Pay close attention to your speedometer and the posted speed limits.
Dual Carriageways and Other Major Roads
Beyond the motorways, France features an extensive network of dual carriageways and other major roads that require specific attention regarding speed limits. These roads, often designated as 'voies rapides' or 'routes à accès réglementé', are designed for faster inter-urban travel but do not possess the full access restrictions of a true autoroute. Understanding their speed limits is crucial to avoid penalties and maintain safety, as they sit between the high-speed motorways and the lower-speed rural routes.
The 110 km/h Limit: Voies Rapides and Equivalent Roads
For passenger cars and motorcycles, the general national speed limit on dual carriageways and roads with restricted access (voies rapides) is 110 km/h (approximately 68 mph). These roads typically feature a central reservation separating opposing traffic flows, and often have multiple lanes in each direction. However, like motorways, this limit is conditional. In wet weather, the speed limit automatically drops to 100 km/h (approximately 62 mph). Drivers must be observant of variable speed limit signs, which are frequently used on these routes to adapt to traffic flow, weather, or roadworks. These roads are generally well-maintained and signed, but they may have more junctions or points of access than motorways, which can necessitate slightly more caution.
Always check for variable speed limit signs on dual carriageways, especially when conditions change.
Rural Roads: The 80 km/h Standard
When you leave the designated dual carriageways or urban areas, you will typically find yourself on 'routes nationales' or 'routes départementales'. The general national speed limit on these standard rural roads, outside of built-up areas, is 80 km/h (approximately 50 mph). This limit is applied by default unless specific signage indicates otherwise. Many of these roads are single carriageway, meaning opposing traffic shares the same road surface, often separated only by a white line. They can also be winding, pass through villages, and have frequent junctions, driveways, and agricultural crossings.
Given the varied nature of these roads – some are straight and clear, others are narrow and twisty – the 80 km/h limit is a baseline. Drivers must remain alert to changes in road layout, potential hazards like farm vehicles or cyclists, and the presence of villages where the limit will drop drastically. In recent years, France has seen a trend towards reducing the default rural speed limit in some areas, so always confirm the current limit via signage. For drivers accustomed to UK rural roads, the French 80 km/h limit might feel familiar, but the road conditions can vary significantly.
Considerations for Vehicle Towing and Other Classes
It is crucial to remember that the speed limits discussed are for standard passenger cars and motorcycles. Vehicles towing trailers or caravans, or larger vehicles such as vans and motorhomes, have different, generally lower, speed limits. For example, a car towing a trailer under 3.5 tonnes will face a 110 km/h limit on motorways and 100 km/h on dual carriageways, dropping to 90 km/h on other roads. Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes face even stricter limits. These distinctions are vital for compliance. Ensure you know the permitted speed for your specific vehicle and load combination, as indicated by French regulations.
Before travelling, familiarise yourself with the speed limits for your specific vehicle category, especially if you are towing a caravan or driving a larger vehicle, as these can differ significantly from car limits.
Crit'Air Sticker Requirements
While not directly related to speed limits, it is important for drivers to be aware of environmental regulations. Many French cities require a 'Crit'Air' sticker (or 'Crit'Air vignette') to be displayed on vehicles entering designated low-emission zones (ZFE - Zones à Faibles Émissions). These stickers classify vehicles by their emission levels, and certain older or more polluting vehicles may be restricted from entering these zones at specific times or on specific days. If you plan to drive through or into major French cities, research the Crit'Air requirements for your vehicle well in advance. You can obtain these stickers online, often via the official French government website, and they are essential for legal access to many urban centres, regardless of your speed.
Urban Speed Limits and Built-Up Areas
Navigating through French towns and cities requires a significant reduction in speed compared to open roads. The national speed limit within built-up areas, often referred to as 'agglomérations', is strictly set at 50 km/h (approximately 31 mph) for all passenger cars and motorcycles, unless otherwise indicated by signage. This lower limit is in place to enhance safety in environments with higher pedestrian and cyclist activity, more frequent junctions, and complex traffic interactions.
The 50 km/h Default in Towns
The 50 km/h limit is the standard and applies as soon as you pass a sign indicating the start of a built-up area, typically a white sign with the name of the town or village. This limit remains in effect until you pass a sign indicating the end of the built-up area, usually a sign with the town's name crossed out in red. Within these zones, speed limits can be further reduced by signage to 30 km/h (zone 30) or even 20 km/h in specific pedestrianised areas or school zones. Conversely, some main roads passing through larger towns might have higher limits, but these will always be explicitly signposted. It is imperative to scan for signs constantly, as the speed limit can change quite frequently within a single urban journey.
Always assume the limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas unless a sign states differently.
Variable Urban Speed Limits and Zones 30
Many French cities and towns are increasingly implementing 'Zones 30' (30 km/h zones) across large areas, particularly in residential neighbourhoods, near schools, and in busy shopping districts. These zones are designed to improve safety for vulnerable road users and reduce noise pollution. They are typically marked with specific blue and white 'Zone 30' signs at the entrance, and the limit applies until a sign indicates the zone has ended. Some cities also use variable speed limits within urban areas, often displayed on electronic signs at junctions or along main arteries, to manage traffic flow and safety during peak times or specific events.
Enforcement in Urban Areas
Urban areas are heavily policed for speed limit adherence. You will encounter a variety of speed detection methods, including fixed speed cameras at intersections and along main roads, mobile speed traps, and even unmarked police vehicles. Given the lower speed limits, exceeding the 50 km/h (or lower in Zones 30) by even a small margin can result in immediate fines. The French authorities take a strict stance on speeding within built-up areas due to the increased risk of serious accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Be particularly cautious when driving near schools or in areas with high foot traffic.
International Driving Permits and UK Licences
For drivers from the UK planning to drive in France, it is important to be aware of licence requirements. Since Brexit, UK driving licences are generally valid for short stays in France. However, if you are taking up residency or driving for extended periods, you might need to exchange your licence. For short trips, a standard UK photocard licence is usually sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not mandatory for UK licence holders driving in France for tourism but can be a useful document to carry, especially as it can clarify your licence category for local authorities. You can obtain an IDP from the Post Office in the UK. If you are a resident and your UK licence is nearing expiry, or if you are involved in an incident, you may need to consider the process of exchanging your licence for a French one, which can be complex and has specific deadlines.
When driving through a French town, anticipate frequent changes in speed limits and be ready to reduce your speed immediately upon passing any signage indicating a built-up area or a specific low-speed zone.
Vehicle Specific Speed Limits in France
The national speed limits in France are not uniform for all vehicles. While passenger cars and motorcycles have their standard limits, a wide array of other vehicle types, such as those towing trailers or caravans, heavier goods vehicles, and public transport, are subject to lower maximum speeds. Understanding these distinctions is vital for compliance and safety, especially when driving a vehicle combination or type unfamiliar to you.
Towing a Trailer or Caravan
For vehicles towing a trailer or caravan, the speed limits are significantly reduced to account for the added weight, altered handling characteristics, and increased braking distances. The specific limit depends on the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the towing vehicle and the trailer/caravan combination:
- Motorways (Autoroutes): 130 km/h for cars/motorcycles; 110 km/h for vehicles towing a trailer or caravan with a combined GVW under 3.5 tonnes; 90 km/h for vehicles towing if the combined GVW exceeds 3.5 tonnes, or if the trailer is unbraked.
- Dual Carriageways (Voies rapides): 110 km/h for cars/motorcycles; 100 km/h for vehicles towing a trailer or caravan with a combined GVW under 3.5 tonnes; 90 km/h for vehicles towing if the combined GVW exceeds 3.5 tonnes, or if the trailer is unbraked.
- Other Roads (outside built-up areas): 80 km/h for cars/motorcycles; 90 km/h for vehicles towing a trailer or caravan, regardless of weight, unless signage indicates otherwise.
- Built-up Areas: 50 km/h for cars/motorcycles; 50 km/h for vehicles towing (no further reduction unless signage specifies).
It is imperative to know the GVW of your vehicle and trailer. This information is usually found on the vehicle's registration documents or plates.
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and Vans
Vehicles classified as Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), typically those with a GVW over 3.5 tonnes, face more restrictive speed limits across all road types:
- Motorways (Autoroutes): 110 km/h
- Dual Carriageways (Voies rapides): 100 km/h
- Other Roads (outside built-up areas): 80 km/h
- Built-up Areas: 50 km/h
Vans and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) with a GVW up to 3.5 tonnes generally follow the car limits, but it is always wise to check specific signage or vehicle documentation if you are unsure.
Always confirm the specific speed limit for your vehicle type and combination before driving in France.
Motorhomes and Campervans
Motorhomes and campervans are classified based on their weight. Those with a GVW of 3.5 tonnes or less generally follow the same speed limits as passenger cars. However, if the motorhome's GVW exceeds 3.5 tonnes, it falls under the HGV category for speed limit purposes:
- Motorways (Autoroutes): 110 km/h
- Dual Carriageways (Voies rapides): 100 km/h
- Other Roads (outside built-up areas): 80 km/h
- Built-up Areas: 50 km/h
Drivers of larger motorhomes must be aware of these limits, as they are significantly lower than car limits on motorways and dual carriageways.
Carry your vehicle's registration documents, which clearly state its GVW, to easily confirm applicable speed limits if questioned.
Public Transport and Other Vehicles
Buses, coaches, and other forms of public transport also have their own specific speed limits, which are generally lower than those for cars. For example, a coach carrying standing passengers might have a limit of 100 km/h on a motorway, while one with seated passengers only might be allowed 110 km/h. These limits are in place to ensure the safety of passengers. Pedestrian-controlled vehicles or those with special permits may also have unique restrictions. Always look for signage that specifically applies to buses or other public transport if you are driving such a vehicle.
Driving in France: Essential Compliance and Safety
Beyond just adhering to speed limits, safe and legal driving in France involves understanding a range of other regulations and safety considerations. These are designed to create a consistent and secure driving environment for everyone, whether you are a local resident or a visitor. Familiarising yourself with these points before your trip can prevent unexpected issues and ensure a smoother experience on French roads.
Mandatory Equipment for Your Vehicle
French law mandates that certain safety equipment be carried in your vehicle at all times. While not all items are strictly enforced with penalties for non-carriage (e.g., the reflective vest is for use if you break down and exit your vehicle on a road outside urban areas), it is highly advisable to have them:
- Reflective Vest (Gilet Jaune): One fluorescent high-visibility vest per occupant, kept within the passenger compartment (not the boot).
- Warning Triangle: To be placed behind your vehicle in case of breakdown on the carriageway.
- Breathalysers: While historically mandatory, the penalty for not carrying them has been removed. However, it is still recommended by some to carry one.
- Headlight Beam Adaptors: If your headlights point to the left (as UK cars do), you must use beam adaptors to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers. These can be stickers or adjustable units.
- Spare Bulbs: It is recommended, though not always strictly enforced, to carry a set of spare bulbs for your vehicle's lights.
Ensure your vehicle is equipped with these items before you travel. Failure to have reflective vests or warning triangles readily accessible can lead to fines.
Alcohol Limits and Drink Driving
France has a strict drink-driving policy. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.5 grams per litre of blood (g/l). This is equivalent to 0.25 milligrams per litre of exhaled breath. For new drivers (those with less than three years' experience), the limit is even lower at 0.2 g/l. These limits are lower than in some other countries, and even a small amount of alcohol can push you over the limit. It is always safest to abstain from alcohol entirely if you plan to drive. Penalties for drink-driving are severe, including significant fines, licence suspension, and potential imprisonment.
Never drive in France if you have consumed any alcohol; the risk and penalties are too high.
Mobile Phone Usage While Driving
Using a mobile phone while driving in France is prohibited, unless it is hands-free. This applies to making or receiving calls, texting, or using navigation apps directly. If you are caught using a handheld mobile phone, you will face a fine and penalty points. Even using a phone hands-free can be a distraction, so it is best to set up your navigation before you start your journey and limit any calls to when you are safely stopped. This rule is strictly enforced to minimise distractions on the road.
Consider using your car's built-in navigation system or a dashboard-mounted smartphone holder for GPS, ensuring your phone is set to hands-free mode for any necessary calls.
Fuel and Service Stations
Fuel availability varies. On motorways, service stations are frequent and offer both standard unleaded petrol (essence) and diesel. However, they are often more expensive than those found off the motorway. On rural roads, fuel stations can be sparser, and some may be automated, requiring payment by card, potentially only cards from French or European banks. It is advisable to keep your fuel tank reasonably full, especially when travelling on less populated routes or outside of standard business hours, as many smaller stations may close overnight or on Sundays. Look for 'GPL' (LPG) or 'GPLc' if your vehicle runs on it.
What to Do in Case of a Breakdown
If you break down, the procedure is to first ensure your own safety and that of your passengers. Put on your high-visibility vests before exiting the vehicle and move to a safe location. Place the warning triangle a sufficient distance behind your vehicle to alert other drivers. Then, you must contact the relevant breakdown service. If you are on a motorway or dual carriageway, you will typically find emergency telephones located at regular intervals. Using these will connect you directly to the road authorities who can dispatch assistance. If you are not near an emergency phone, call your breakdown assistance provider. Do not attempt to repair your vehicle on the carriageway.
Comparing French and UK Speed Limits
For drivers accustomed to the United Kingdom's road rules, understanding the differences in speed limits between France and the UK is a key step in preparing for a trip. While both countries aim for road safety, their regulatory frameworks, signage, and specific limits vary. This section highlights the principal distinctions to help UK drivers adapt quickly and safely.
Motorway Differences
In the UK, the national speed limit on motorways for cars and motorcycles is generally 70 mph (approximately 112 km/h). France, on the other hand, sets its motorway limit at 130 km/h (approximately 80 mph) in dry conditions. This means French motorways generally permit higher speeds than UK motorways. However, the crucial difference lies in the variable limits in France: rain automatically reduces the limit to 110 km/h, a concept not as directly codified with automatic speed reductions on UK motorways, where variable limits are typically introduced through electronic signage for specific reasons like congestion or roadworks, rather than weather alone.
Dual Carriageways and Other Roads
UK dual carriageways also have a general speed limit of 70 mph for cars and motorcycles. French dual carriageways ('voies rapides') have a higher standard limit of 110 km/h. On single carriageway roads outside built-up areas, the UK limit is 60 mph (approximately 96 km/h) for cars and motorcycles. France's equivalent – standard rural roads ('routes nationales/départementales') – has a default limit of 80 km/h (approximately 50 mph). This means French rural roads are generally subject to lower speed limits than their UK counterparts.
The most significant difference is France's lower default rural speed limit of 80 km/h compared to the UK's 60 mph.
Urban Speed Limits
Both countries apply lower speed limits in built-up areas. In the UK, the default speed limit for cars and motorcycles in a built-up area is 30 mph (approximately 48 km/h), though many areas now have 20 mph limits. France's default urban limit is 50 km/h (approximately 31 mph). While the UK's 30 mph is slightly lower, France's 50 km/h is a widely applied standard across towns and cities, with an increasing prevalence of 30 km/h 'Zones 30' to enhance pedestrian safety. The key takeaway is that both countries enforce significantly reduced speeds within populated areas.
Towing and Vehicle Classes
Towing regulations also differ. In the UK, drivers towing trailers are generally limited to 60 mph on motorways and 50 mph on single carriageways and dual carriageways. France, as detailed previously, has more nuanced limits for towing that depend on the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer, but the maximum for towing on motorways is 110 km/h (for lighter trailers) and 90 km/h for heavier ones. This suggests that while French limits might be higher in some towing scenarios on faster roads, they are more stratified by weight. For HGVs, the UK limit on motorways is 60 mph, while France's is 110 km/h, showing a notable difference in permitted speeds for larger vehicles on high-speed roads.
Download a reliable French road rules app or website before you travel to have quick access to current speed limits and regulations, as these can sometimes be updated.
Environmental Zones and UK Cars
A significant difference for UK drivers is the mandatory 'Crit'Air' sticker required for many French cities. The UK does not have a comparable national system of mandatory low-emission zone stickers for foreign vehicles entering its cities. Therefore, UK drivers must research and obtain the correct Crit'Air sticker for their vehicle well in advance if they plan to drive into French urban centres, as failure to do so can result in fines. This is a crucial administrative step distinct from speed limit compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions about French Speed Limits
Driving in France involves understanding specific road rules. Here are answers to common questions about the national speed limit and related driving regulations.
What is the national speed limit for cars in France?
For standard passenger cars, the national speed limit in France is 130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on dual carriageways, 80 km/h on other roads outside built-up areas, and 50 km/h within built-up areas, unless otherwise signposted.
Do speed limits change in France due to weather?
Yes, speed limits on French motorways and dual carriageways are automatically reduced in wet weather. The limit typically drops from 130 km/h to 110 km/h on motorways and from 110 km/h to 100 km/h on dual carriageways. Variable electronic signs will display these changes.
Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required for UK drivers in France?
Since Brexit, a standard UK photocard driving licence is generally valid for short tourist visits to France. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not mandatory but is recommended as a supplementary document for clarity.
What are the speed limits for vehicles towing a trailer in France?
For vehicles towing a trailer, speed limits are lower: generally 110 km/h on motorways (if combined weight
Navigating France with Confidence
Understanding and adhering to the national speed limit in France is a cornerstone of safe and legal driving. From the high-speed autoroutes to the intricate urban streets, each road type has its prescribed limits, often modulated by signage, weather conditions, and vehicle type. By familiarising yourself with these regulations, and the other essential driving requirements such as mandatory equipment and alcohol limits, you can ensure your journey through France is not only compliant but also safe and enjoyable.
Key Takeaways for French Driving
Remember that signage always takes precedence over general rules. France uses a system of variable speed limits, particularly on major routes, which adapt to real-time conditions. For UK drivers, paying attention to the differences in speed limits, especially on rural roads, and understanding the requirements for things like the Crit'Air sticker, are vital preparations. Keep your speed appropriate for the conditions, be aware of your surroundings, and consult official resources for the most up-to-date information before embarking on your travels.
The most effective way to avoid fines and ensure safety on French roads is to drive defensively and always be aware of posted speed limits and potential hazards.
Driving in France is an experience that can be greatly enhanced by thorough preparation. Whether you are planning a scenic tour through the countryside or a direct journey on its efficient motorway network, a clear grasp of the rules of the road will allow you to appreciate the journey without unnecessary stress. Always drive responsibly, and enjoy your travels across this beautiful country.