International students : Useful tips

Internet access

You will find an internet room in each faculty. You can log on to the intranet (login: E + n° student) in order to propose your own current events on line. The Intranet also provides you with the possibility of consulting your grades or re-registration on line.

You can also find several internet access and cybercafés in the city centre.

Shop opening hours

Most shops and businesses are open from 10am to 12.30am and from 2pm to 7pm, Mondays to Saturdays. Some supermarkets are open until 9 pm, Mondays to Saturdays.

Launderettes

If you are a resident in a students'hall of residence you will find washing machines in the basement. The are also several launderettes in town (approx. €3.50 per machine)

Second-hand shops

If you are renting an unfurnished flat, you can buy very cheap furniture in seconds hand shops. There are several of these in and around Nantes.

Rules of behaviour

"Undue noise"
Many people believe, wrongly, that excessive noise is only forbidden after 10pm. This is false - the law applies 24 hours a day. However it is generally in the evening that neighbours complain of  « excessive noise ». All they have to do is call the police, and officers will visit people responsible and demand that they cease forthwith.

Anti-tobacco legislation
Smoking is forbidden in public places. If you break this law you are liable to a fine. Since the anti-tobacco laws were passed, places such as cafes and restaurants are obliged to provide outside smoking areas. This also applies to university buildings. Smoking is forbidden in cafeterias and corridors of the campus ; from time to time, administrators find it necessary to issue a gentle reminder about this !

Dos and Don'ts

  • Most businesses do not like clients to bargain for goods or services (restaurants, hotels, clothing, food).

  • Tips: unlike other countries, tipping is not obligatory in France, as service is included in all prices. However you may leave a tip if you wish.

  • Alcohol levels: if you hire a car, remember that the permitted alcohol. Level is 0.5 grams/litre, the equivalent of about 2 glasses of wine.
Mis à jour le 03 May 2012.
https://www.univ-nantes.fr/international/venir-a-nantes/international-students-useful-tips