About Pas-de-Calais

map of pas-de-calais 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

Nord Pas-de-Calais guide 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

Pas-de-Calais guide 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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