Hollywood welcomed to boost French tourism

In a bid to boost French tourism in regions such as Provence, a group of film buffs are attempting to entice Hollywood to make more movies there.

Despite French hotels usually being packed out at this time of year, the French film commission Film France argues that there can never be enough tourists in the country.

Patrick Lamassoure, managing director of the commission, said: "A feature-length Hollywood production can generate around 300,000 euros a day to a local economy.

"So you can imagine the benefits a month-long shoot can have."

French hotels still proving popular

Some would argue, however, that French hotels aren't in need of a boost after one situated in the stunning Rhone Alps region has been voted top of its class.

In a poll of the top ten castle hotels in Europe, Tripadvisor voted the Chateau de Bagnols near Lyon into third place.

One TripAdvisor member said of the hotel, which is surrounded by vineyards: "Every detail of this hotel is just grand, the garden, the pool, the rooms, the restaurants for both breakfast and dinner and the salon for drinks."

The 13th century castle also houses a dry moat, Renaissance murals and a drawbridge.

French railway set to improve

Good news for those thinking of buying French property, the French railway system is set to improve.

The owner of the French rail network Reseau Ferra de France has agreed a deal with telecommunications adviser Nortel, which should make the country's trains even more efficient.

Equipment from Nortel will include sophisticated radio systems and communication services which should mean less delays and a better experience for commuters.

All these factors bode well for those thinking of buying in France with tourists looking to rent out holiday homes and improved services making it an even more attractive country to retire to.

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