Living in the Languedoc:   Driving:   Driving from the UK

Although it's longer, the easiest, cheapest and least painless way is the Dover-Calaise ferry, and then tank along the toll paying autoroutes.   Passenger cars can carry up to five people legally.   All passengers must wear seat belts. Right-hand-drive vehicles without ajustable headlights need deflectors fitted to the lights.  Failure to comply is a breach of the law and may also invalidate your insurance. A GB sticker must be displayed on the rear of your vehicle, caravan or trailer. Failure to comply could result in an on-the-spot fine.   Euro-Plates (Number plates that include the GB Euro-symbol make display of a conventional sticker unnecessary when driving within the EU.  

Many drivers undertake long journeys in, or through, France. Care should be taken to plan journeys and take sufficient breaks; a minimum break of 15 minutes after every two hours of driving is recommended. Roads in France, particularly motorways, are of an excellent standard. Speed limits are higher than in the United Kingdom; but the accident rate is also much higher.

Contact your insurer for before taking a vehicle overseas.   Ensure that you are covered and that you have the necessary documents in your possession.   You may be asked to produce your documents at any time.   To avoid a police fine and/or confiscation of your vehicle, be sure that they are in order and readily available for inspection.  

If you are towing a boat, check with the AA or RAC to make sure you have any additional documentation that may be required.   If you towing a caravan, please go somewhere other than the Languedoc. Resist the temptation to overload your car with boxes of wine to take home.   Apart from the safety risks, overloading can incur fines and possibly invalidate your insurance.