hamster travel to france

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France travel: what are the rules for flying with a pet?

Some airlines allow pets in the hold and cabin, some only in the hold and others not at all.

People planning to travel to or from France by plane with their pet should be aware that different airlines impose different conditions of carriage.

The Direction générale de l’Aviation civile (DGAC) advises that passengers check these conditions before buying their flight ticket, and inform the airline that they are planning on travelling with their animal as some companies only allow a certain number of pets on each flight.

It is often possible to add a pet to your flight online by managing your booking after paying for the basic ticket.

It is also advisable to call the airline at least 72 hours before the flight to confirm that your pet will be travelling with you.

Most airlines will only allow dogs or cats so if you wish to travel with a bird or a hamster, you need to check with the carrier in question.

Dogs included within Category 1 on France’s dangerous dogs list – such as pit bulls or mastiffs – are not allowed to travel by plane.

Snub-nosed dog breeds such as boxers and bulldogs should only travel if a vet decides that it is safe to do so as they often suffer from respiratory difficulties.

You must also make sure that the animal has a valid European pet passport or equivalent, and that it has had all of the necessary vaccinations and/or checks for the country you are visiting.

Some airlines will allow small animals – as well as guide dogs – into the cabin. You can find out whether this is the case by getting in touch with the airline. You should ask too for the maximum permitted animal weight.

Pets not allowed in the cabin will have to travel in the hold, not with the luggage but with a pressurised, heated and ventilated space where their cages are not allowed to move about.

The cage in which your animal travels must have ventilation holes and be big enough that the pet can turn around and lie down comfortably. You may want to fix feeders or animal water bottles to the inside, but avoid bowls which can spill their contents.

You can also label the inside of the cage with the name of the animal, their microchip number, your name, telephone number and destination address. It should be noted that chains are not allowed when travelling by air.

Read more: Paris-Edinburgh flight delayed because of hidden dachshund in cabin

Individual airline rules

Air France-KLM

Air France-KLM states that an animal must be more than 15 weeks old and have had all required vaccinations up to date in order to travel.

Dogs and cats who weigh less than 8kg – including their carry case – may travel in the cabin.

Rigid cages are not allowed in the cabin so this bag must be of a specific type: sealed but with ventilation holes and not exceeding 46 x 28 x 24cm in size. This bag is considered as extra hand luggage and so will be chargeable.

For travel in the hold, the animal must be contained within a rigid cage with ventilation holes.

Each passenger may only travel with one animal, and pets are not allowed in Business class cabins on intercontinental flights.

Snub-nosed dogs and cats may not travel in the hold, Category 1 dangerous dogs are banned and those in Category 2 – such as Rottweilers and Tosas – are only permitted on freight flights.

Passengers will be charged:

€80 for putting an animal in the hold and €40 for bringing one into the cabin on domestic flights

€75 for the hold and €30 in the cabin on intra-Caribbean flights

€200 in the hold and €55 in the cabin for European and Europe-North Africa flights

€75 in the hold and €55 in the cabin for flights to certain overseas territories

€400 in the hold and €125 in the cabin for all other flights.

Delta Airlines

Small dogs, cats and domestic birds can travel in the cabin on Delta flights, normally for the price of a single ticket, to be paid at check-in.

The animal must be capable of travelling calmly in a carry case placed under the passenger’s seat.

They must also be at least 16 weeks old if travelling to the US.

Passengers may only carry one carry case each. Snub-nosed dogs and cats are not permitted.

The charge for pets is generally around €200 on international flights.

Ryanair only accepts guide dogs and other assistance dogs, and even these animals are banned on flights to or from Morocco and Israel.

EasyJet only allows guide dogs to travel on its planes, and not on flights to or from Egypt, Israel, Kosovo, Montenegro, Morocco or Turkey.

British Airways

Guide dogs can travel free of charge on British Airways flights, although only a limited number of them can come into the cabin.

Any pets getting on board must be in the hold, and their transport is organised by a service called PetAir UK. Prices depend on the animal size and type.

It should be noted that emotional support dogs are classed as pets by British Airways and so cannot travel in the cabin.

Vueling will take dogs, cats, birds (except birds of prey) and tortoises in the cabin, but they must be carried in a soft case whose dimensions do not exceed 45 x 39 x 21cm and which does not weigh more than 10kg with the animal inside.

These pets are only allowed to travel if they will not disturb or prove dangerous to other passengers. Therefore, if they are likely to have accidents during the flight – for example – they should not travel.

Guide dogs are allowed on Vueling flights and are subject to different rules.

It should be noted that no animal is allowed to travel in the hold of a Vueling plane.

Vueling charges €40 for pets on domestic flights and €50 for international flights.

Transavia allows pets older than three months and 21 days to travel on board its planes. In the cabin, pets must be in a flexible carrier under the seat in front of the passenger, and should not be moved during the flight.

The carrier should measure 40 x 30 x 24cm maximum and should weigh no more than 8kg with the animal inside. It should also be fully closeable, with air holes and plastic windows allowing you to see the animal.

For a single flight, the price of bringing a pet on board is €45.

Pets can also travel in the hold in a rigid cage at a cost of €70. However, Transavia will only take two hold animals per flight, so it is advisable to book as far in advance as possible.

It should be noted that snub-nosed animals can only be transported in the cabin.

‘Fighting dogs’ such as mastiffs or pit-bulls may not travel in the cabin or in the hold.

Have you flown from France with a pet? How did the airline involved handle the travel? Share any tips and your experience via [email protected]

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Moving a Pet to France

Rules and regulations for international pet shipping, blood tests, import permit, health certificates, banned breeds, age restrictions for france.

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What Pet Travel Documents Are Needed to Travel to France?

Every country sets its own rules for importing pets when you move to or visit their country. In France, it is the French Ministry for Agriculture, Food, and Forestry that governs pet importation. The rules differ somewhat, depending on where you live now. For instance, if you and your pet (dog, cat, or ferret) currently reside in another European Union country and your pet has a current EU Pet Passport , you do not need any additional documentation to bring your pet to France.  

However, if you currently reside in a non-EU country, there are specific steps you will need to take in order to bring your pet into France. You can consult this page to get the details , but we have outlined all the essentials below. You will be happy to learn that France’s pet import requirements are less complex than those of many other countries.

But do not take the requirements lightly. Without proper documentation, your pet could be sent back, quarantined, or even euthanized. If your pet causes or contributes to the spread of transmissible disease, you could be fined or worse.

If your pet will not be traveling with you, you will need to sign a consent form for the person who will accompany or be authorized to transport your pet.

Rabies Vaccinations

Rabies is the only immunization required for dogs, cats, and ferrets to enter France. To be considered valid, the rabies vaccine must be administered after your pet is microchipped. All countries make this distinction because each animal’s microchip number is its unique identifier and it has to appear on all documentation.

To enter France, your pet’s microchip must be ISO-compliant. Your pet's microchip must be readable and correctly reported on all of your pet's paperwork. If your pet has more than one microchip that is readable then all paperwork must show both microchip numbers.

The first rabies vaccination given after implantation of a microchip (or at the same time) is considered the “primary” vaccination. This definition also applies to a vaccination given after an earlier rabies vaccine has expired. All pets must wait at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination before they can travel to France. Please note that the rabies vaccination for pets traveling to the EU must be greater than 21 days old and less than 1 year old at the time of travel. If your pet's vaccination will be over 1 year, then a new vaccine will be needed at least 21 days prior to travel.

Other Vaccinations

Although other immunizations are not officially required for import, it is recommended that cats and dogs are vaccinated for the following. Do note that if your pet will be boarding, these vaccinations will be required.

• Dogs : DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus), Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Leptospirosis, CIV (Canine Influenza Virus)
• Cats : FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia), Feline Leukemia

If you are moving from a  non-listed country (where rabies is a known problem or not reliably controlled), your pet will also have to have a rabies titer blood test to prove their rabies vaccine is active within their body. This blood test must be completed in an  approved EU laboratory and must be done at least 30 days after rabies vaccination and at least 3 months prior to travel.

This is not needed when coming from the United States. 

France does not require an import permit for dogs, cats, or ferrets that are personal family pets.

The requirements described below apply only if your dog or cat or ferret will be entering France within 5 days before or after your own arrival date. If the timing difference will be greater than this 5-day window, your pet will need a “commercial” health certificate, which is somewhat different. No worries, though – our Starwood Pet Travel team can easily handle this for you.

You will need a French EU Veterinary Health Certificate that must be endorsed by the official government vet prior to shipment for each pet. It must be filled out and signed by a government-approved (USA Accredited) veterinarian within 10 days prior to travel.  Coming from the USA, the APHIS 7001 form is also required for some airlines but does not need USDA endorsement. France will allow the health certificate to be submitted to the USDA electronically but the USDA endorsement must be in original ink. The original endorsed health certificate and original signed rabies certificate must travel with your pet.

What Are the Pet Restrictions for France?

Like many countries, France does not allow the import of certain breeds of dogs, although there are no restrictions for cats. You can get more information about this here .

If your dog is one of the following breeds, you may not bring them to France unless they have an official, registered pedigree:

• American Staffordshire terrier (formerly Staffordshire terrier) or “pit bulls”
• Mastiff or "boerbulls"

If your dog is one of these breeds and does have a registered pedigree, you may import them but you will have to follow certain rules set forth for dangerous dogs . This also applies to Rottweilers and dogs that are “similar to Rottweilers,” with or without a registered pedigree.

France does not allow the import of puppies, kittens, or baby ferrets that are younger than 12 weeks and have no rabies vaccination, or those between 12-16 weeks whose rabies vaccine was administered less than 21 days prior to arrival. 

Do I Need a Microchip for My Pet to Travel to France?

All dogs, cats, and ferrets must have a microchip that meets ISO standard 11784 or 11785. (The number will be 15 digits.) The microchip must be implanted BEFORE the rabies vaccination. If your pet currently has no microchip, that should be your first order of business, because it is a prerequisite for obtaining documentation. If your pet has a microchip that does meet ISO standards, you have options:

• Carry a chip reader that customs officials can use to scan your pet
• Notify French customs in advance so they can have an appropriate scanner available
• Have your veterinarian implant a second, ISO-compliant microchip. This won’t hurt your pet. You will need to include both microchip ID numbers on all of your pet’s paperwork.

What Are the Quarantine Requirements for a Pet Traveling to France?

France does not quarantine pets upon arrival, providing they meet all the stated health requirements.

Are There Any Area Specific Pet Requirements in France?

Although France does not have any other pet import restrictions you will need to know about, airlines also have rules about pet travel. Therefore, it is important to consult your airline (or your Starwood rep) to learn if there are additional rules that apply to your pet’s journey.

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Our France pet shipping services include:

• Door-to-door transport
• Assistance with health certificates, import certificates, and other travel documents needed for animal transport to France (outlined above)
• USDA endorsement and consular legalization (when needed) of all relevant documents where required
• Airline-approved flight kennels provided with personalized labels, identification and emergency notification instructions
• Customs clearance and delivery to your home
• Local pet taxi service to and from the airport, your home, veterinarian, kennel, or groomer – available in major France cities as well as their surrounding areas
• Travel consultation and flight reservations

We will inform you of your pet's full itinerary before the trip and we will update you as your pet travels  to France .

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Taking your pet to France from the UK

• Pets And Animals

The requirements for taking your pet to France from the UK require constant checking since the UK departed from the European Union.

There is a lot of conflicting information on the internet about what type of animal you can and can’t take to France from the UK what medical treatment you need to prove and what medication for your pet you can and can’t take. We recommend you check the UK Government website which gives the most up to date information. And check with your vet before you travel as rules and requirements can and do change from time to time.  Your vet should also be able to help you with requirements and will also recommend any other treatments he/she feels might be suitable for your pet.

Taking your pet cat, dog or ferret to France on a permanent basis

For taking pets such as cats and dogs to France on a permanent basis, the basic requirements are in required order (which is important, if you vaccinate before you get the ID sorted you’ll have to re-vaccinate):

1. Identification: clearly readable tattoo or microchip under the skin (this is an electronic identification system) – this should be specified in the pet passport (3)

2. Valid vaccination against rabies (first vaccination and boosters) this should be specified in the pet passport (3).  You must wait 21 days until after the first full anti-rabies vaccination to take the animal into France.

3. EU pet Passport attesting valid rabies vaccination delivered by a Government-approved vet (in the UK, a local veterinary inspector). The passport also provides for a record of other past vaccinations, but a valid rabies vaccination will be the sole requirement for pets from EU Member States to enter into France. A Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) certificate is not acceptable for entry to France.

Make sure your vet records the following details on your pet’s passport and on a vaccination record:

Your pet’s date of birth/age,

Microchip number, date of insertion and its location in your pet,

Date of vaccination,

Vaccine manufacturer, product name and batch number and

Date by which the booster vaccination must be given (i.e. the “Valid until” date).

The UK Government recommends that pets are treated for tapeworms and ticks but this is not mandatory.

They also recommend you take check with your vet about any other treatments that he/she feels will benefit your animal against contracting common diseases in Europe such as distemper etc.

Taking veterinary medicines to France for pets (cats, dogs and ferrets)

If you purchase veterinary drugs for your pets in the U.K., you may take them to France if you are accompanied by pet(s) under medical treatment. You will need the prescription which proves that a vet prescribed the drugs for your animal and that you have bought them legally – keeping the receipt will help. You need to keep all the necessary papers (prescription) which justify the purchase of veterinary drugs.

Taking pets such as: bird, reptile, amphibian, insect, invertebrate, fish, rodents and lagomorphs (rabbit, guinea-pig, hamster, mouse, rat, etc.)

You are allowed to take pets that fall into the following categories with you to France and you don’t need a pet passport for them: bird, reptile, amphibian, insect, invertebrate, fish, rodents and lagomorphs (rabbit, guinea-pig, hamster, mouse, rat, etc.).

You will need to obtain certificates issued by a local veterinary inspector (a private veterinary surgeon who is allowed to issue certificates for the import/export of pets) to travel with your animal:

I. A certificate of good health (in both languages) to testify that your pet carries no signs of disease, in particular of any contagious disease specific to its species (for example, myxomatosis for rabbits, etc.). This certificate should be issued between 1 and 5 days before entry of the animal into France.

2. The owner of the animal must declare that: “He/she is the owner of the animal that he/she is accompanying and he/she will not sell it on.”

Approved routes

The UK Government requires that pets travelling into the UK must be transported using only approved routes.  The French authorities do not apply restrictions on routes of transport of pets between the UK and France. The use of private means of transport is allowed.

Routes approved for transport from France to the UK are listed on the UK Govt. website:

Dangerous dogs rules in France

Dangerous dogs in France are classified in 2 categories:

Category 1 : attack dogs – They are dogs whose appearance is of American Staffordshire terrier (pit-bulls), Mastiff (boerbulls) and Tosa types (i.e. without pedigree). It is prohibited to introduce these dogs into France.

Category 2: defence and guard dogs – They are dogs of American Staffordshire terrier, Rottweiler, and Tosa breeds (i.e. with pedigree), and dogs of a Rottweiler type (without pedigree).

American Staffordshire Terrier breed Known until 1972 under the name of Staffordshire Terrier – Not to be confused with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which is not listed as a dangerous dog.

Under French law all owners of dangerous dogs (category 1 and 2) in France must hold a certificate of aptitude for keeping a dangerous animal, delivered by an approved trainer, and a licence (permis de détention) for the animal, provided by the town hall (mairie) of residence. The UK Government advise that you should avoid taking animals in Category 2 to France even on holiday unless you have a French authorised licence as you could be fined by the French authorities.  It will be necessary to take an exam which is in French and lasts a whole day whilst you are observed by an examiner but you may be able to take an interpreter with you on request.  Check at your local Mairie for more details.

If you want to take an animal to France from a non-EU country you will need to check with your vet or Embassy to be sure of the rules.

Useful websites:

UK Government website https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-and-from-great-britain

France in the United Kingdom French Embassy 

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How to Transport Hamsters Internationally

Questions about traveling with hamsters.

Hi PetRelocation,

Do I need any special paperwork to transport a little hamster from Israel to the UK? I am traveling on Wednesday and today is Monday. At the very last minute I would like to give my sister's hamster a new home, as she is struggling to take care of him properly and I would love to take him back to the UK with me.

I know that from the EU no special quarantine is required but what about Israel? Also would there be a large cost? Would the hamster be able to travel in the cabin with me in a small carry box? I am flying with EasyJet. Would it be very pricey? Would it be very stressful for him?

Many thanks,

Janice  

Thanks for contacting us! You'll want to check with UK's official government website to find out about pet import rules. Per this site, it appears that hamsters coming from Israel must must undergo a four month quarantine under the Rabies (Dogs, Cats and other Mammals) Order 1974 and also need an import license. Read more about the process here . 

If you're moving forward, you would also want to check with the airline directly to find out about their rules regarding the transport of small animals (every airline is different), and you should check with the Israel Department of Agriculture to find out about export permits, procedures, etc.

As you can see, unfortunately it sounds like moving a hamster to the UK wouldn't be an easy task (especially in such a short time frame). You're welcome to contact us for more info or use IPATA.org to seek out an alternate opinion, however. 

Thanks again for the question, and good luck with everything!

Pet Transport Question Details:

Name:  Janice Number of Pets:  1 Pet Type:  Hamster Pet Breed:  Syrian From:  Israel To:  UK

Contact us if you need assistance with transporting your pet internationally. 

How To Travel With a Hamster: 6 Important Tips & Tricks

• January 24, 2024

If you are planning to travel with your hamster, whether it is a short car trip to your veterinarian or you are moving houses, it is important to make the travel experience comfortable and as stress-free as possible for your hamster.

Hamsters can easily get stressed, which can harm their health, and long travels can cause your hamster to become restless and stressed out. We’ve created this list of tips and tricks that you can use to make traveling an easier experience for your hamster.

• Top 6 Tips for Traveling With a Hamster
• 1. Place Them in a Travel Cage or Carrier

Moving vehicles can also cause your hamster’s cage accessories to fall onto them and injure them, such as wheels, platforms, and large toys. If you are planning to travel with your hamster for a short time, perhaps for a quick visit to a veterinarian or another close destination, you can place them in a secure small pet carrier.

These carriers will have fitted lids with ventilation that your hamster cannot escape, and the small space will be ideal for 1–3 hours until you can place them back into their main cage. If you are traveling for a longer period with your hamster, you can put them in a smaller cage that can be found in pet stores that can provide your hamster with more space during long travels.

• 2. Add a Thick Layer Of Familiar Substrate

Hamsters love to burrow and feel safer when they have a deep layer of substrate to burrow into. If your hamster’s travel carrier or cage allows it, you can create a substrate depth of 6 to 8 inches so your hamster can form a shallow burrow. You can add your hamster’s substrate from the main cage into the travel cage or carrier so that they have their familiar scent with them.

Adding a layer of thick substrate for a hamster to burrow is better than using a hideout that may get tossed around or fall over during traveling.

• 3. Keep Them Hydrated

It is difficult to place a hamster drinking bottle or water bowl in the travel carrier or cage because it can leak and make the bedding wet. If you are only traveling with your hamster for a short time, you can keep small pieces of cucumber with you to give to your hamster to keep them hydrated. If you plan to keep your hamster’s water bottle with them during the traveling, you should place a shallow lightweight dish underneath the bottle’s spout to catch any of the water that drips from it to prevent the water from making the substrate wet.

• 4. Keep Your Hamster Entertained

Most hamsters should sleep during the traveling because they are nocturnal, however, some hamsters will become interested in exploring during long trips and need a source of entertainment to keep them busy. Hamsters enjoy chewing so you can add in a variety of different chew toys that they can chew when they are feeling bored. Adding chew toys and other play items that they can explore will also stop them from trying to escape the travel cage and keep them occupied.

• 5. Keep The Temperature Regulated

The ideal temperature for a hamster ranges from 62 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit which may fluctuate in small travel carriers or vehicles during traveling. It is important to keep your hamster away from an open window or direct sunlight during traveling and your hamster should never be left unsupervised in a car. Make sure that the travel carrier or cage has sufficient ventilation for your hamster so that they do not overheat—hamsters are very sensitive to temperature changes.

• 6. Secure The Cage

A hamster’s travel cage or carrier may move around during traveling, so make sure if you are placing it in a car that it is in a secure place where it cannot move around. A sudden brake or movement in a car can also cause the travel cage to fall over, so you can try and secure the cage in between other items or secure a rope or seat belt around the cage to prevent it from moving around and stressing your hamster. A passenger can also hold a travel container during short trips to keep it secured.

• Can You Travel Often with a Hamster?

Hamsters can tolerate traveling when necessary if it does not happen too often. Traveling can often be very stressful for hamsters, and they do not want to be removed from their familiar environment too often.

Only travel with your hamster when necessary, as they are not the ideal pet for traveling because they do not like to be out of their familiar burrows and cages and hamsters will not understand the purpose of traveling. Even though traveling can be stressful for hamsters, it is still possible if the journey is as stress-free as possible, and your hamster has access to food and water.

• How Long Can You Travel With a Hamster?

Hamsters can travel for up to a day if they have access to food and water. If you plan to take your hamster on a long trip, make sure you bring extra water with or hydration foods and stock up on hamster bedding and food. If a hamster has lots of substrate and enrichment during long travels, they will eventually settle down and sleep for most of the traveling.

When traveling with a hamster, make sure that you regularly check on them when you make short stops, but avoid taking the hamster out of the traveling container as they may escape or bite you out of stress. Keep your hamster in a secure place during travels and make sure that they have no items in the cage that could fall over and injure them.

Once the traveling is over, you should place your hamster back into their main enclosure with the old substrate and accessories so that they are placed back into a familiar environment after traveling.

• See also: Ultimate Checklist for Camping With a Hamster
• “Is It Safe To Travel With My Hamster?”
• “Hamster – Wikipedia”
• “Travels With Hamsters”

Featured Image Credit: Henry Lai, Unsplash

Sarah Psaradelis

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Taking a dog to France and back in 2024: Everything you need to know

Taking your dog to France from the UK is a little more complex than it was before Brexit, however it's still pretty simple. In this guide we run through the 6 steps to take your dog from the UK to France and back again, including which documents, vaccinations and treatments are required, and when you'll need to get these done.

This guide is frequently updated by our vets to ensure our advice is up to date. If you think something is incorrect or out of date, please contact us so we can update it.

Six Point Checklist for Taking a Dog from the UK to France and Back Again

Book your dog in for a rabies vaccination at your vet practice

Research travel options and book your crossing to France

Obtain an Animal Health Certificate within 10 days of your departure date

Travel to France with your dog

Visit a vet in France to get tapeworm treatment administered between 1 and 5 days before returning to the UK

Return to the UK

1. Book your dog in for a rabies vaccination at your vet practice

All dogs that travel to the EU from the UK are required to have an Animal Health Certificate, and the key requirements for an Animal Health Certificate is that your dog must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.

Your dog will need to have their rabies vaccination at least 21 days before an Animal Health Certificate can be issued, so it's worth booking your dog in for a rabies vaccination at your vets as early as possible to avoid delays to your travel. Most rabies vaccinations administered in the UK are valid for three years, so there is no downside to getting the rabies vaccination booked in well before your travel date.

Prices for a rabies vaccination vary by veterinary practice, but they typically range from £50-90.

At the rabies vaccination appointment, the vet should give you a document evidencing the vaccination details, such as a vaccination card or vaccination certificate.

You'll need to ensure that this document contains the following information in order to get an Animal Health Certificate:

Pet details including 15 digit microchip number

Date of rabies vaccination

Batch number and manufacturer of rabies vaccination

Practice stamp and signature of vet who administered the rabies vaccination

France does not require that your dog is up to date with the annual, routine vaccinations but it's advisable to keep these up to date anyway.

2. Research travel options and book your crossing to France

There are a number of different ways to travel to France with a dog.

Travelling from the UK to France by air is very complicated, so most people tend to travel by car, either through the Eurotunnel or by ferry. When travelling with a dog you will need to enter France through a designated travellers' point of entry (TPE) .

The most popular routes are listed below:

Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais

Ferry from Portsmouth to Le Havre

Ferry from Portsmouth to Caen

Ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg

Ferry from Portsmouth to St. Malo

Ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe

Ferry from Poole to Cherbourg

Ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff

Ferry from Dover to Calais

Ferry from Dover to Dunkirk

You'll need to have an idea on which date you are planning on travelling to France before you book in for an Animal Health Certificate appointment, because the AHC needs to be issued within 10 days of your travel date and at least 21 days after the date the rabies vaccination was given.

If your pet is going to be travelling with a friend/family member or with a pet transport company, you (the owner) must be travelling within 5 days of your dog's departure date. If you are travelling more than 5 days outside your dog's departure date, an Export Health Certificate would be required instead.

3. Obtain an Animal Health Certificate within 10 days of your departure date

You will need to book in for an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) appointment with an Official Veterinarian (a vet that has done the extra course required to issue pet travel documents).

This appointment needs to be within 10 days of your travel date, and at least 21 days after your dog's rabies vaccination date. There is no way around the 21 day wait period following an initial rabies vaccination, so it's vital that you get the rabies vaccination booked in as soon as you have decided you want to take your dog to France.

Different vet practices have different protocols and prices when it comes to issuing Animal Health Certificates. Prices typically range from £100-£300 per pet. The Official Veterinarian vet that issues the Animal Health Certificate must physically scan your dog's microchip so Animal Health Certificates cannot be issued remotely.

See our page on Animal Health Certificate FAQs for more information.

At PassPets , we've issued thousands of AHCs for pet owners around the country, and with prices starting from £99, we're highly likely to be a lower cost option than your vets. To find out more about our service, visit our homepage, or call us to speak to one of our veterinary team. We have three clinics around the UK (Havant, London and Bristol) , and if you're not local all three locations are easily accessible if you would like to collect your AHC en-route to your ferry or tunnel crossing.

4. Travel to France with your dog

Once you have the Animal Health Certificate in your hand, you can travel to France with your dog. You need to have departed on your trip no more than 10 days after the AHC was issued, otherwise you will need a new one.

Different ports have different procedures for checking pets in (they will inform you upon booking with them), but generally you'll need to take your dog to their pet reception where you'll need scan your dog's microchip and they will check through the Animal Health Certificate to ensure all the information is correct.

The Animal Health Certificate is valid for ongoing travel within the EU (including Switzerland and Norway) for a period of 4 months from the date it is issued or until your dog's rabies vaccination expires, whichever date is earlier. However, if you leave the EU (for example to come back to the UK), you will need another AHC in order to re-enter the EU.

5. Visit a vet in France to get tapeworm treatment administered between 1 and 5 days before returning to the UK

All dogs entering the UK need to have tapeworm treatment administered by a vet no less than 24 hours (1 day) and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before the dog's scheduled arrival time in the UK.

The treatment date and time must be recorded by the vet at the bottom of page 4 of the Animal Health Certificate. Most vets in France are familiar with having to do this, as it's been a requirement for many years, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding a vet to get this done.

This is an example of how the tapeworm treatment table at the bottom of page 4 needs to be completed:

If you are travelling to France and returning to the UK within 5 days, the tapeworm treatment can be administered by a vet in the UK before your outbound journey to France.

If the tapeworm treatment is not administered in time or if it has been incorrectly recorded on the AHC, it will result in your dog being refused travel, and you'll need to get this done again.

See here for more detailed information on the tapeworm treatment requirements for returning to the UK.

6. Return to the UK

On your return to the UK, you'll be asked to show the Animal Health Certificate (with the tapeworm treatment details added to it) at the border. If the tapeworm treatment has not been given in the correct time period (1 to 5 days before arriving in the UK), then you will either have to wait until 24 hours have passed, or you'll need to take the dog to a vet to get the tapeworm treatment administered again.

____________________

Other things to be aware of

Dog food & treats - no meat based products allowed.

Now that the UK has left the EU, officially you are not allowed to bring meat or dairy-based dog food (including treats) with you unless your vet has given you written confirmation that your dog requires a certain dog food for medical reasons (and even then the limit is only 2kg).

So for your journey, you'll either want to consider feeding your dog at the port prior to arrival, or purchasing vegan dog food for the journey until you arrive in France and can buy some regular dog food. It's worth doing research before you go to work out where you can purchase your dog's regular food from in France.

On your return journey, there are no restrictions on bringing dog food from France to the UK.

Read the full rules from the EU here .

Some ferry companies require that all dogs brought on board and are not staying in the car wear a muzzle at all times, and some ports require that dogs wear a muzzle if they leave the car to walk around the port, so it's worth checking with the ferry company and port before you go to see what their rules are.

Pet Travel Insurance

Many pet insurance policies cover short trips abroad, but it's worth checking before you go to ensure your pet is covered.

Dogs travelling in a car

It's important to ensure your dog is safe when transporting them in your car.

When travelling with your dog in your car you should:

Always take plenty of water, ideally in a non-spill bowl

Feed your dog no sooner than two hours before you travel - your dog will travel better if they do not have a full stomach.

Take regular breaks

Ensure your dog is secure and comfortable, and has a familiar toy and blanket with them

Consider using calming tablets or calming spray

Never leave your dog in the car on a warm day

If you have any questions about taking your dog to France or anywhere else in the world, please don't hesitate to contact us. One of our team will be happy to help.

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Best Hamster Travel Carriers: All-time guide for travelling with your small furry friend

Things to ensure before you travel, healthy and fit hamster, pet-friendly hotel, packing some cleaning supplies, choosing a traveling cage for your little buddy, best traveling carriers for your hamster reviews, 1. living world hagen pet carrier, 2. habitrail ovo, 3. lee's kritter keeper, 4. kaytee crittertrail, 5. favourite portable cage, 6. kaytee crittertrail off to school, 7. iris extra small carrier, 8. kaytee crittertrail portable petite habitat, 9. miscue portable carrier, 10. shoresu outdoor portable cage.

If you have pets, travelling can be a big issue as you don’t want to leave them behind, and you cannot always carry them with you. Also, travelling with your cute little hamsters can be very difficult. You require proper travel carriers/cages for your hamsters to carry them safely and enjoying having your trip.

Like you need proper travelling baggage and need proper attire for your trip, in the same way, your hamster needs a proper travelling carrier for its travelling needs . You need to keep in mind that hamsters like to stay alone and are very sensitive to their surroundings. They get anxious very easily and travelling for even short trips can make them anxious if they are not properly taken care of.

You need to get the proper travelling cage for your hamster, the right products and utmost care to take your little hamster with you. They make great travel buddies if taken care of in the right way.

It is important for your pet to be healthy and fit to undergo travelling. You need to take your hamster to the vet and get a certificate of fitness for your hamster if you are travelling between states. The veterinarian will certify that your pet is disease-free and healthy.

If your hamster is on any kind of medication, have enough medication which will last the trip and keep a copy of the medical records of your hamster with you while you travel. Also, hamsters are very sensitive and get stressed very easily by a change of surroundings.

You should also search and make a list of vets at your destination which you might need in case of an emergency. It is always better to be ready beforehand.

Place your bookings with a pet-friendly hotel or you might have a lot of trouble. You should also place a tag on your hamster’s travel cage with your name and phone number while travelling. Pack a lot of regular food and water for your pet as they need to be on their regular diet to avoid any kind of stress.

You also need to pack some cleaning supplies for your pet's cage if you are going on a long trip. It is recommended to keep your hamster’s cage clean and tidy as hamsters like to stay in tidy surroundings only.

There are a number of travel cages available in the market for hamsters, but not just anything will suit your hamster. You need to look for carriers which have plenty of ventilation and are secure in every way.

If you are going for a long trip and a lot of travelling is involved, your travel carrier should have space for bedding, food, water, small exercise wheel, toilet for your hamster and its walls should be sturdy with a good amount of ventilation.

Travel carriers should be small and portable so that they do not take up much space in your car while travelling. A food dish and a water bottle is an essential feature in any of the travel cages as your hamster needs its clean food and water. It should also have a carrying handle so that you can carry it around at your ease while travelling to your destination.

The Living World Hagen hamster carrier is one of the best solutions for travelling with your hamster with a size of 11.8 inches X 9 inches X 8.3 inches. It is very durable and has two easy handles for carrying the cage around. It can also be accessed and cleaned easily with its large opening. It has an ample amount of ventilation to ensure an airy environment for your fluffy little friend. It is made on non-chewable plastic which is durable and lasting. It also has a ridged bottom to avoid it from slipping and has secure footing.

A locking system is also installed in the cage so that your little friend does not escape. It is best for the travelling needs of your hamster.

• Easy to carry with handles
• Good ventilation
• Ridged non-slip floor
• Durable and built to last with non-chewable plastic walls.
• Secure locking system
• Hard to assemble
• Not meant for Syrian Hamsters.
• Does not include a water bottle

Habitrail OVO Transport Unit is perfect for a small hamster with a carrying handle for easy carrying of your hamster. It is safe and has a retractable roof for easy viewing of your hamster. It is easy to clean and is easy to use. Its dimensions are 7 x 7.8 x 5.4 inches and has proper air flow to keep your hamster comfortable and ventilated.

• Easy to clean
• Easy to carry
• Safe and secure
• Good airflow and ventilation
• Connects easily to other Habitat Accessories
• The lock is not a very tight fit
• Plastic is not non-chewable

Lee's Kritter Keeper is rectangular in shape and has self-locking lids with feeder windows. It has handles which makes it portable and easy to carry while travelling. It comes in various colours which makes it an attractive choice for your children’s hamster pets. A small water bottle can also be placed as it has a small cut out for the same.

It is perfect for your hamsters and the upper lid is removable which makes it easy to clean.

• Self-locking lid
• Comes in a variety of colours
• Perfect for small pets
• The ventilation is not proper in the cage.
• Hard to remove the lid gently

Kaytee CritterTrail Carry & Go Travel Habitat is the best travel carrier available for travelling with your little fluffy hamster. It has a small water bottle, a food dish and an exercise wheel for your hamster to keep it active and energized. It is safe and secure. It has a convenient handle which makes it easy to carry and transport. It can be attached to other accessories of CritterTrail which makes more room for your little hamster. It is ideal for long trips as it contains everything for your hamster.

• Easy to carry with robust handles
• Has a small water bottle and food dish
• Clear plastic for easy viewing
• Contains an exercise wheel
• Ample ventilation
• Hamster-friendly
• Chew resistant plastic
• Difficult to assemble
• Not very sturdy
• The position of water bottle blocks the tube hole
• Water bottle leaks when the cage moves

Favourite Top Load Portable carrier is a lightweight carrier for your hamster travel plans. It is easy to clean and has a clear top so that you can keep an eye on your hamster easily. It has plenty of holes so that there is ample ventilation and your hamster remains airy and happy. It is easy to carry and perfect for short trips. It has a very elegant shape and has sufficient space for bedding, a food dish and a water bottle for your little hamster. It has non-chewable plastic and comes in the cute colour of blue and white.

The dimensions are 18.5 L X 12 W X 11 H, the bottom is 13 L X 6 W, and the top load is 12.5 L X 6 W which is perfect to keep hamsters.

• Easy to open and clean
• Attractive colours
• Light-weight
• Portable and easy to carry
• Transparent lid for easy looking at the hamsters
• Secure and safe construction
• Easy assembly
• Recommendable ventilation
• The closures are hard to close
• Build is not very sturdy

Kaytee Crittertrail off to School Pet Carrier is a sturdy, cute and colourful pet carrier for your hamster. You can take your small friend away on tips in this cute carrier. It has a push bottom and flip down front door which allows safe and secure access to your pets.

It is compatible with all types of accessories from Crittertrail and can be used for creating more space for your hamster. It comes in a variety of colours like blue and yellow and red and yellow. This is a multipurpose school bus carrier and has wheels for playing. It has a small food dish and a water bottle along with a rooftop opening for your hamster.

• Attractive looking
• Best for short trips
• Compatible with all Crittertrail accessories
• Can be used for extra space
• Safe and simple access
• Flip down front door
• Complete dashboard with a food dish and water bottle
• Proper ventilation
• Water bottle leaks
• Not recommended for long trips

IRIS Extra Small Animal and Critter Carrier is a carrier which is best for the travelling needs of your hamster. It keeps your hamster airy and comfortable and is easy to clean. It has a water bottle included in it which makes it easier to feed water to your hamster. Its top is see through and you can easily view your hamster. Its internal dimensions are 8 ¾ x 4 ¾, with a height of 4 ¼ inches to the top of the basket. It can be carried easily with a secure handle and has a latch for locking the cage.

• It is perfect for Syrian hamsters
• Nice attractive look
• Sturdy build
• See through top
• The water bottle is included
• The latch is difficult to open
• It does not have non-chewable plastic

Kaytee CritterTrail carrier is easy to carry with a strong handle and it includes a food dish, water bottle and exercise wheel for your hamster to spend time. It is also compatible with all other Crittertrail accessories and is the perfect travel companion for small hamsters

It has proper ventilation and provides a happy and safe environment for your pets. It has a sleek design and is easy to clean. It has enough space for your hamster to feel comfortable and is recommended for longer trips.

• Proper Ventilation
• Attractive colour
• Food dish, water bottle and exercise wheel
• Sturdy handle for easy carrying
• Easy to assemble
• Compact and portable
• Side tubes do not attach properly
• Not very sturdily built
• Water bottle does not work properly

Miscue Portable Carrier is a great carrying case for carrying your hamsters and going on short trips. It has a small water bottle from where your hamster can drink water easily and has holes on the top for proper ventilation. It has a clear top and the grid design of the cage makes it easy to clean. It is a safe carrier for your pet and comes in soothing colours. It has a secure lock which prevents your hamster from escaping and you can carry this light-weight cage with your anywhere.

• Soothing colour carrier
• Ample space for the hamster
• Jerky and not very sturdy
• Not meant for longer trips

It is a double layer cage with a handle for safe transportation. It comes in three colours: orange, green and pink. The hamster can move around in the cage where the top layer is for sleeping and drinking water while your hamster can play and eat on the lower layer. The upper and lower layers are connected with a slide which adds a fun element to the cage. It is durable and has proper ventilation.

• Multi-functional
• Double Layer Cage
• Spacious and stylish design
• Water bottle and feeder is included
• Not very secure and hamster can try to escape

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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Travel expert unpacks airlines financial losses, silver lining of Paris tourism slump to score deals post-Olympics

Airlines expect millions in Paris losses, expert share silver lining in August.

As athletes , coaches and trainers head to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, major airlines have reported serious slumps in flight bookings to the host city during the games.

Despite TSA hitting all-time record high traveler screenings here in the U.S., thousands of would-be tourists are instead opting for destinations other than the city of lights between the end of July and August when the quadrennial multi-sport event takes place.

Paris Olympics negatively impacts airline earnings for Delta, Air France

Earlier this month, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the carrier expects to see $100 million in losses during that period of time as a result of the lack in bookings to the company's key market of Paris-Charles de Gaulle.

"Unless you're going to the Olympics, people aren't going to Paris -- very few are," he first told CNBC . "Business travel, you know, other type of tourism is potentially going elsewhere."

Despite 15 million visitors expected in Paris for the Games, according to the Centre for Law and Economy of Sport , only 2 million of those are expected to come from overseas.

The Atlanta-based airline's international partner Air France has also forecast a loss upwards of $195 million, Bloomberg first reported , due to the reduced demand as travelers avoid the area.

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The French national airline's parent group -- which includes Air France, KLM and Transavia -- said in a statement it estimates "a negative impact on its forthcoming unit revenues in an order of magnitude, from €160m - €180m for the period June until August 2024."

The carrier added that it expects things to normalize post-Olympics, "with encouraging demand levels projected for the end of August and the month of September."

Travel and flight expert Daniel Burnham, senior travel product operations manager for Going, told "Good Morning America" that the airline is "still likely to make money during the summer months, but just less than they would typically expect."

"The Air France-KLM group had revenues of €30 billion in 2023, and the projected shortfall due to the games is in the range of €150-€200 million. That’s still significant, but it’s important to look at the big picture."

Key factors deterring travel to Paris, France during the Olympics

Burnham explained that "cost is easily the biggest limiting factor for Parisian tourism this summer."

"While there’s a segment of high net-worth travelers attending the games who are unaffected by high prices, as an industry, we’re moving past the post-Covid revenge travel period where discretionary travel spending soared, and price sensitivity is back," Burnham said of the average middle-class traveler.

Even if folks who do have flights booked, Burnham said that pricey Paris accommodations are a further deterrent for tourists.

"Prices for many rooms are two to three times higher than in 2023, and there are often lengthy minimum stays at some properties," he said. "Anecdotally, we've heard about spectators planning to stay in other European cities, like London, and commute in by train for the day to see specific events they have tickets for."

He continued, "Beyond the fact that many tourists are changing their plans to bypass Paris, many local residents who would traditionally vacation in August are staying put and delaying their own trips."

On the flip side, though, this is where Burnham predicts "Air France may reap some long-term benefits from major infrastructure projects enabled by the games, such as the recent upgrades to Paris Orly Airport."

What is shoulder season? Experts weigh in with tips to save on airfare, hotels in opposite seasons

How to find an affordable hotel in paris.

For anyone seeking out Paris accommodations that won't break the bank while the Olympics are being held, Burnham said that "much of the conventional wisdom still holds true."

"International chain hotels in central Paris are going to be the hardest to book at a reasonable price, but we recommend widening your scope to greater city of Paris," he said. "There are hotels near large, suburban rail stations with direct links to the city center. The area surrounding Disneyland Paris is a good example of a neighborhood with easy transit and a large number of hotel rooms."

As of time of publication, he said there are some bargains still to be found in that area with rooms under $200 a night.

"Also, consider the big picture of where Olympic events are being held. Seven French cities are hosting events, including Paris, Bordeaux, Nantes, Lyon, Saint-Étienne, Nice, and Marseille, most with fewer crowds and significantly lower prices to contend with," he said.

Post-Olympics airfare discounts to Paris

"We’re seeing excellent fares to Paris, and Europe in general, in late August," Burnham said of the "sweet spot right after the games finish on August 11, that we’d recommend targeting if you’re looking for late summer travel after the crowds have left from the Games."

Going has found fares from many cities in the $400 to $500 range, with lower accommodation prices.

"We’d attribute this to a hangover from the Games themselves where the admittedly large crowds have already gone home, but tourists who were specifically avoiding them haven’t returned, along with Europeans who pushed their vacations back into September," he said.

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The Best Villas in France

Between the faded glamour of Paris’s Grand Dames and the splashy resorts that line the shores of Saint-Tropez, France is a treasure trove of wonderful hotels. But for larger groups, greater privacy, and the knowledge there’ll always be a sun lounger available by the pool , a villa always makes a better choice. With views over sparkling seas and rolling hills, infinity pools and outdoor kitchens, here are eight of our favorites to book now.

Château de la Bourlie, Urval, Bergerac

France has no shortage of stunning châteaux, but this surely is one of the most spectacular available to book on Airbnb. In total, there are 16 bedrooms and 18 bathrooms, along with a variety of spacious common areas to take over, each impeccably decorated and ripe for exploring. When you’re done getting lost indoors, head to the manicured gardens for lounge chairs and stargazing—light pollution here is virtually nil.

Sleeps: 16+ Price: From around $5,877, with a three-night minimum

Mediterranean villa, Corsica

Corsica’s wild hills are on full display from the windows of this unapologetically modern villa, cut into the hillside and strikingly opposed to its rugged environs with its smooth curves, concrete floors, and Scandi-cool interiors. Outside, there are acres of garden to meander through that lead right down to Propriano Beach, plus a barbecue and a huge, glittering infinity pool.

Sleeps: 10 Price: From around $3,825, with a seven-night minimum

Ad Austrum, Occitania

To those in the know, France’s south-western Occitanie region, where this traditional farmer’s home sits, is regarded as ‘the other Provence’, with a similar climate and bucolic landscapes punctuated with pretty villages—all without the crowds. A stay at this villa is best spent wandering the cobbled streets of nearby Uzès, biking through the surrounding thyme-scented woods, and breaking up sunbathing stints on the terrace with a dip in the plunge pool. There are great hiking trails a little further afield in Pont Du Gard—ask your hosts to recommend some of the best walks.

Sleeps: Seven Price: From $383 per night

Maison Bord de Rivière, Normandy

Travel 60 miles from Paris to the cusp of this traditional Normandy village, and you’ll find this 18th-century estate right up at the edge of the river Seine. Its French roots have been given a California cool shakeup inside—a nod to the owners’ childhood in the US—with breezy white and neutral tones pepped up with dusty pinks and blues and the odd gleam of brass. Guests wake to a daily delivery of croissants, bread, jam and tea, and complementary Champagne on arrival helps get things off to a marvelous start.

Sleeps: 18 Price: From $743 per night

Casonu, Corsica

Designing this villa was a labor of love for the owners, who have gone to great lengths to use original and local materials wherever possible, in homage to Corsica’s rural heritage. The result is a cozy countryside abode with stone flagstone walls, patterned tiles, and vaulted ceilings, surrounded by all the hiking and mountain bike trails you could ever need. Jump in the car for 30 minutes, and you’ll reach several of the area’s best beaches—Plage de Baraci, Capu Laurosu and Capicciolo—in Priopolo, along with pretty Campomoro, with its unspoilt grassy hillscapes and clutch of fantastic bars, and restaurants.

Sleeps: Four Price: From $3,183 a week

Casa Fortificata, Corsica

People flock to Corsica for its mix of hiking trails and sandy beaches, both of which are right on the doorstep of this stone villa, which has been built with mostly reclaimed materials and enjoys unchecked views over the Gulf of Valinco. A modern take on the area’s traditional bergeries —aka sheepfolds, designed to provide protection for shepherds and their flocks—scattered throughout the mountains, inside you’ll find wood-beamed ceilings, a stone fireplace and a 19th Century chandelier, along with classic Corsican floor tiles that lead out onto a pool terrace with outdoor kitchen.

Sleeps: Eight Price: From $5,489 a week

Villa Neptune, Théoule-sur-Mer, Cote d’Azur

This villa doesn’t just overlook the Mediterranean; it’s practically teetering on it, with the waves of Théoule-sur-Mer lapping underneath. The unique location means you can dive straight into the sea from the private steps or launch a boat from the private jetty. There are sun loungers, a jacuzzi by the water's edge, and a shaded al fresco dining area that makes the most of those stunning blue views. The house epitomises French coastal elegance—polished floors, white walls, and neutral decor. All five bedrooms have private balconies overlooking the water, while some have romantic four posters or ensuite bathrooms with clawfoot bathtubs.

Sleeps: 10 Price: from $8,848 for 7 nights

Villa Ama Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez, French Riviera

What puts this low-slung villa a cut above the multitudes of swoon-worthy holiday homes near St. Tropez has everything to do with art. It’s owned by a renowned European collector, so the walls and 108,000 square-foot garden area are filled with astonishing museum-quality contemporary works from Jeff Koons, Richard Serra, and Damien Hirst, rivaled only by the enchanting unbroken vistas of Pampelonne Bay. With a staff of four on hand, limo service, and a helicopter pad for quick getaways, you may still prefer to lounge on a sun bed by the heated pool or take the wooded path to the beach, a five-minute walk to Le Club 55. The sleek modern interiors of the seven bedrooms—which includes one kids’ room with three beds, plus two bedrooms in the guesthouse—are uncluttered and unpretentiously elegant. In keeping with the spirit of the place, there’s an extensive gym for toned-body maintenance and, best of all, an open-air cinema with a giant screen that springs magically from the ground.

Sleeps : 14 Price : from about $54,533 for a one-week stay, or about $3,895 per person

This gallery was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Heston Blumenthal tearfully reveals wife was forced to have him sectioned

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Heston Blumenthal has revealed how his wife ‘saved his life’ after having him sectioned.

The celebrity chef , 58, owns the three-Michelin-star restaurant the Fat Duck in Berkshire and over the years has also appeared on TV shows including Kitchen Chemistry, Heston’s Feasts and on Top Chef and MasterChef Australia .

Earlier this year Heston revealed that he’d been diagnosed as bipolar after previously receiving a positive assessment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in 2017.

However, this week he emotionally recalled how the diagnosis came after his wife, entrepreneur Melanie Ceysson , 36, sought help to have him admitted to hospital under the mental health act.

During an appearance on The One Show , the couple recalled what unfolded at the time.

Experiencing ‘crashing lows’, Heston said his wife became extremely worried after witnessing ‘extremes in behaviour’.

‘These recurring highs to lows were getting strong and stronger and more regular. I was on a massive high and had been for several days. I was having hallucinations, feelings of paranoia and even suicidal thoughts,’ he said.

As he broke down in tears his wife said he was a ‘danger to yourself’ and she felt she had no other choice but to ‘push the red button’.

He continued: ‘Melanie made the difficult decision to have me sectioned which involved me being sedated. There was knock on the door, there’s a policeman, then five firemen and then a doctor with an assistant and I was like “What the hell is going on here?’ And then I saw the doctor pulling out this big syringe and then I woke up in hospital”.’

Melanie said that she experienced ‘the most horrible hours of my life’ at the time, but she was ‘so exhausted’.

‘I realise now looking back on it, it’s horrible for people that care about you. At the end of the day you saved my life,’ Heston told her.

He added: ‘Since my diagnosis I’ve learned a lot more about myself, and I’ve realised that a lot of my creativity is thanks to bipolar.

‘I’m hoping that talking about it can change the way we see the condition and put it in the spotlight for all the right reasons.’

When publicly announcing his diagnosis in May, Heston said he believed his neurodivergence was closely linked to his business success.

‘My most artistic, innovative and exciting work is because I am neurodivergent, which I describe as my superpower,’ he said.

Heston and Melanie married in her native France in March last year after the experimental cook, known for his whacky food combinations, moved there in 2018 after his busy restaurant life left him feeling like a ‘hamster on a wheel’.

They met in the Alps, where she was working and was assigned to look after Heston during a skiing holiday.

Melanie apparently didn’t know who Heston was and she ‘couldn’t even pronounce his name’ when they first met.

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Paris metro fares are surging during the Olympics. Buy your tickets in advance to save.

• The Parisian Autonomous Transport Administration (RATP) is hiking the price on day-of ticket sales beginning Saturday through Sept. 8.
• A single fare on the Paris Metro, bus, central regional rail (RER) system, and certain tram lines, typically costs 2.15 EUR (about $2.35).
• During the surge period, the single ticket fare will increase to 4 EU (about $4.37).

If you’re traveling to Paris this summer, you may want to buy your metro tickets in advance.

The Parisian Autonomous Transport Administration (RATP), which runs public transport around Paris, said it will hike the price on day-of ticket sales beginning Saturday through Sept. 8.

A single fare on the Paris Metro, bus, central regional rail (RER) system, and certain tram lines, typically costs 2.15 EUR (about $2.35), and books of 10 single ride tickets can be purchased for 17.35 EUR (about $18.07). During the surge period, the single ticket fare will increase to 4 EU (about $4.37) and the 10 ticket book will cost 32 EUR (about $34.99).

How to watch the 2024 Paris Olympics: Stream the Games with these tips

RATP said in a statement that travelers can save by planning ahead because the agency will honor lower fares on tickets purchased in advance. If you’re not traveling to Paris before Saturday, you can still load metro tickets on your phone at the standard rate. 

The transit operator is also planning to temporarily stop selling weekly and daily travel cards and the “Paris Visite” pass, which has validity periods of 1, 2, 3, and 5 days.

Instead, it will sell Paris 2024 travel cards between July 20 and Sept. 8. That option will allow unlimited travel in 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5- and 7-day increments and a 14-day online exclusive. A 1-day Paris 2024 card will cost 16 EUR (about $17.50), and the 7-day card will cost 70 EUR (about $76.55). The Paris 2024 card also covers some journeys in its flat fare that are excluded from other RATP fare products or would incur a surcharge, such as airport trips and some national rail connections. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Chicago Air and Water Show 2024: Everything you need to know

CHICAGO - Chicago's Air and Water Show is returning next month to celebrate 64 years of thrills.

Rehearsal will take place on Friday, August 9, followed by the show on Saturday and Sunday. The event was moved a week earlier due to the Democratic National Convention.

It is one of the many events taking place in August, with Lollapalooza set for the first weekend and neighborhood festivals continuing through the month's end.

This is the largest free air and water show in the country. However, the two-day extravaganza wasn't always this spectacular. It has evolved from a "Family Day" celebration with an $88 budget to now attracting more than one million spectators.

Who's performing?

Headliners include the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, who will showcase their skills while flying aircraft that reach speeds of nearly 1,400 mph.

The U.S. Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights, are also headlining. Their Demonstration Team consists of 26 soldiers who perform at some of the country's largest festivals and sporting events.

Additional performers are:

Military Performers:

U.S. Navy F-35C

U.S. Marine Corps 4-35B

U.S. Air Force C-17

U.S. Air Force KC-135

U.S. Air Force KC-46 Pegasus

U.S. Air Force B-1B

U.S. Army AH-64

U.S. Air Force/Maryland Air National Guard A-10

U.S. Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin Search & Rescue (SAR)

Civilian Performers:

RJ Gritter Decathlon Aerobatics

Trojan Phlyers - T-28 (2-ship)

Bill Stein Edge 540

Kevin Coleman Red Bull Aerobatic Pilot

Susan Dacy - Big Red Stearman Biplane

Ed "Hamster" Hamill - Folds of Honor Biplane

What's the best place to view the show?

The best location for spectators is on the lakefront from Oak Street to Fullerton Avenue. The show's focus will be on North Avenue Beach. Attendees can access the lakefront beginning at 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Food vendors will be located throughout the lakefront and public restrooms are scattered throughout the beach area.

The rehearsal performance on Friday will take place at North Avenue Beach from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

How can I get to the show?

The city encourages spectators to use public transportation. Additional CTA buses and trains will be used to accommodate the over one million expected attendees.

No beach parking is available and there are limited parking spots at Lincoln Park Zoo.

Millennium Park Garage will offer a pre-purchase discount and free shuttles to North Avenue Beach.

The city advises taxi and rideshare passengers to avoid being dropped off at the entrance of North Avenue Beach to prevent traffic congestion.

For the latest updates, visit the city's website .

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