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One of the smallest régions, but with the densest population after Ile de France, Nord-Pas-De-Calais is a
largely industrialised and 35% of the popluation work in heavy industry, although much of this industry is
in decline. Historically, the région has been heavily dependent on coal mines, as well as the iron, steel
and metallurgical industries, which employed a high percentage of the work force. Since the mines and many
of the plants closed, unemployment has increased, and remains well above the national average. A concerted
effort is being made to re-employ these workers by attracting new investment to the area. This includes tax
incentives, grants, free enterprise zones, and low-interest loans.
Nord-Pas-De-Calais shares its border with Belgium and so there is a strong Flemish influence. Many people
still speak Flemish and the locals drink more beer than wine, especially noticable during carnivals
or annual fairs. Accessibility to northern European countries is good thanks to excellent rail and
road links. There is great accessibility to the UK, via a number of passenger ports and Eurostar at Lille.
Over 20 million people pass through Calais each year and it's often scoffed at by those who asssociate it
with beer-bellied day-trippers simply stocking up on booze and fags. Most people rush away from the area
as soon as they can, without discovering the spectacular 40 km coastline - the Côte d'Opale - between
Calais to Boulogne.
- Regional information for Nord, Pas-de-Calais
Flemish culture takes hold in France's most northern tip. This is a landscape dotted with windmills and canals as
opposed to the normal vineyards.
- Regional information for Pas-de-Calais
One of France's least explored departments, the Pas-de-Calais offers tranquillity, Gothic gems, a stunning
coastline rich in birdlife and some excellent cuisine.
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