Health and Safety

Medical Services

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): - EU citizens must have - Covers public healthcare - Not full coverage - Private insurance recommended - Keep all receipts

Healthcare Facilities: - Hospitals in major cities - Private clinics available - Pharmacies everywhere - English-speaking doctors findable - Emergency services excellent

Pharmacies: - Green cross signs - Rotating Sunday/night duty - Pharmacists give advice - Many medications available - Prescriptions sometimes needed

Emergency Contacts

Essential Numbers: - General Emergency: 112 - Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15 - Police: 17 - Fire/Rescue: 18 - Tourist Police Nice: +33 4 92 17 22 22

Useful Apps: - SOS Help (multilingual support) - Find pharmacy on duty - Google Translate offline - Maps.me offline maps

Safety Considerations

Common Sense Precautions: - Beach theft biggest issue - Secure valuables always - Well-lit areas at night - Official taxis only - Trust instincts

Specific Warnings: - Pickpockets on transport - Beach vendor scams - Fake charity collectors - Overcharging at clubs - Unlicensed tour guides

Travel Insurance

Essential Coverage: - Medical expenses - Trip cancellation - Baggage loss - Personal liability - Emergency evacuation

Often Excluded: - Extreme sports - Pre-existing conditions - Expensive electronics - Cash/documents - Read fine print