France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. Around 83 million people travel to the country every year, enticed by its varied landscape, historic cities, 37 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and incredible food. For contrast, more than twice as many people visit France as visit the United Kingdom. In fact, more tourists go to see the Eiffel Tower every year than visit the whole of Brazil.

Most of us can just about get by in French. We can buy petrol, we can basically feed ourselves, and with a little bit of luck we can book ourselves a hotel. But sometimes we find ourselves reaching for phrases that aren't quite in the guide book, and that's where our advice steps in.

Crossing the Channel – the ferry, tunnel and customs

Yes, it is me, it’s just a bad picture

C’est moi, je vous jure. C’est une mauvaise photo.

How many macaroons may we take from the buffet?

Combien de macarons pouvons-nous emporter?

That’s a fetching beret, officer

Ravissant beret, monsieur

Do you have any sick bags, please?

Auriez-vous un sac vomitoire, s’il vous plait?

Excuse the smell, it’s just the camembert

Pardonnez l’odeur, c’est le camembert.

Did you remember to pack the children ?