Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Guide
Contents
This guide is meant to prepare your arrival and your stay in Fontainebleau.
There are a lot of resources available for you on our Campus and its surroundings. The next few
pages will provide you helpful information which we hope, will help you through the path of INSEAD.
From emergency numbers, electricity or mobile providers to the list of medical professionals and
childcare options, helpful information will help you navigate with confidence at INSEAD and in your
new environment!
Feel free to contact us at studentlife.fb@insead.edu if you need any further details and if you have
any suggestions to help us improve our guide.
1. Vital information
Emergency numbers
General switchboard
+33 (0)1 60 74 10 10
Paediatric emergencies
+33 (0)1 60 74 12 84 (daytime)
+33 (0)1 60 74 12 88 (after 5:00pm)
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Claire Benoit
Assistant Director Student Experience – claire.benoit@insead.edu
Katja Boytler
Global Director Student Life & Experience – katja.boytler@insead.edu
Jéromine Fontaine
Student Life & Events Officer – jeromine.fontaine@insead.edu
Christelle Inacio
Student Life Officer – christelle.inacio@insead.edu
Eva Laporte
Student Life Officer – eva.laporte@insead.edu
Valerie Martins-Boer
Assistant Director Student Life – valerie.martins.boer@insead.edu
Jennifer Renard
Student Life & Visas Officer – jennifer.renard@insead.edu
Stefania Savoye
Student Life Officer - stefania.savoye@insead.edu
Sven Biel
Director MBA Program Management – sven.biel@insead.edu
Elisa Duperry
July Class Officer – Academic matters – elisa.duperry@insead.edu
Stephanie Gabriel
December Class Officer – Academic matters – stephanie.gabriel@insead.edu
Emilie Gay
Academic Manager, Degree Programmes – emilie.gay@insead.edu
Aurore Mace
Programme Coordinator – aurore.mace@insead.edu
Thibault Seguret
Programme Director, Master in Management – Thibault.SEGURET@insead.edu
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Campus Services
Email: 4444-CampusServices@insead.edu
Campus services’ goal is to ensure a safe, reliable and professional work place in order to facilitate
INSEAD’s mission.
IT & Multimedia
Email: 5555-ITservicedesk@insead.edu
Financing Office
The Financing Office will help you if you have any enquiries about financing, scholarships, loans or
sponsorship.
irina.schneider-maunoury@insead.edu
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Stress Management
Mindfulness _____________________________________________
A precious opportunity to help your mind maintain its strength, stability and peace in the midst of all
the challenges.
Mondays
12:00pm - 12:45pm & 1:00pm - 1:45pm CET
Contact: joa.scetbon@insead.edu
For Singapore, join Toby Ouvry online via this Zoom link
Contact: toby.ouvry@insead.edu
Psychological services_________________________________________________________
Insead has an international team of psychologists to work with students, staff and faculty in times of
personal challenge or crisis. They offer individual and couple consultations, as well as Mindfulness
groups, on the Fontainebleau and Singapore campuses. They also run workshops on various
psychological issues for MBA students.
In case of emergency:
Virginia Picchi: +33 (0)6 75 68 51 01 or virginia.picchi@insead.edu
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French administration
Fontainebleau Mairie (Town Hall)
The services provided by the Town Hall concern children schooling, birth and marriage certificates,
urbanism or information about cultural and sport activities.
Opening Hours:
Monday: 1.30pm – 5.30pm
From Tuesday to Friday: 8.30am –12.15pm and 1.30pm – 5.30pm
Saturday: 9.00am –12.00pm
Fontainebleau Sous-Préfecture
The Sous-Préfecture will help you if you have any enquiries about your residence permit or driving
licence.
Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00am – 12:00pm
Closed on Wednesdays (all day)
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Medical Professionals
Please note that this a non-exhaustive list.
General practitioners
Dr Salim Meliani
1 Rue des Sapins
77210 Avon
Appointments online:
https://www.doctolib.fr/medecin-generaliste/avon/salim-meliani-avon
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Dentists
Dr. Lebounnec
27 rue Guérin (Bât.3B), Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 64 22 46 37
Dermatologists
Hôpital Saint-Louis
1 Avenue Claude Vellefaux
75010 Paris
+33 (0)1 42 49 49 49
Consultations without appointment, mornings from 8:00am
http://hopital-saintlouis.aphp.fr/acces-a-lhopital-saint-louis/
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Dietetician
Gynaecologists
Dr Talal Annani
6 Rue du Sergent Perrier, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 60 72 60 72
Online schedule: https://www.docteurannani.fr/
Fontainebleau Hospital
55 Blvd. du Marechal Joffre, Fontainebleau
https://www.ch-sud-seine-et-marne.fr/offre-de-soins/mere-enfant/gynecologie-ivg/#site-
fontainebleau2
Homeopathists
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Laboratories
Fontainebleau Hospital
55, Boulevard du Maréchal Joffre
Pavillon Seramy/Plateau Technique (next
to the cafeteria)
Nurses
Baptiste
Maison de Santé
17 bis rue Anne- Marie Javouhey, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)7 85 18 02 71
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Ophtalmologist
For emergencies :
Osteopaths
Dr Jean-Louis Alcaide
160 Rue Grande, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 60 39 01 69
Dr Guillaume Carteau
8 rue des Sablons, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 60 71 17 73
https://www.doctolib.fr/osteopathe/fontainebleau/guillaume-carteau
Dr.Paule Mourlan
7 Rue de Ferrare, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)7 71 08 22 64
https://www.doctolib.fr/osteopathe/fontainebleau/paule-mourlan
Dr Isabelle Trohel
143 rue Grande, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 60 71 12 91
https://www.doctolib.fr/osteopathe/fontainebleau/isabelle-trohel
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Pediatricians
Dr Iulia Stoica
9 Rue des Sablons, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 60 74 59 59
https://www.doctolib.fr/pediatre/fontainebleau/iulia-stoica
Fontainebleau Hospital
55, Boulevard du Maréchal Joffre
Pharmacies
Pharmacie Brabis
19 Place Napoléon Bonaparte, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 64 22 20 73
Pharmacie Brunet
37 rue Grande, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 64 22 21 60
Pharmacie de l’Etape
126 rue Grande, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 64 22 21 78
Pharmacie de la Faisanderie
6 rue de Grande Bretagne, Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 64 22 22 13
Pharmacie du Marché
21 rue de la Paroisse
+33(0)1 64 22 22 66
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Physiotherapists
Podologist
Dr Isabelle Cervot
58 rue de France
+33 (0)1 64 69 02 83
Fontainebleau Hospital
55, Boulevard du Maréchal Joffre
Pavillon Seramy/Plateau Technique et l’IRM
rue Lagorsse
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Vaccinations
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http://www.cetiecap.com/
http://www.alphatrad.com/
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You can apply for your long-term visa in your citizenship country or country of residence. It is
noteworthy that the delay of delivery of the visa can be longer than expected. Thus, we strongly
advise you to apply as soon as possible (up to 90 days prior departure).
Delay in obtaining visas varies between the different countries, and from one case to another.
For more information, please check with the French Consulate where you live. Make sure that the
validity of your passport covers at least the entire duration of your studies + 6months. If it is not the
case, the visa delivered to you will be as short as the passport validity so will the residence permit.
How to apply?
To apply for a long-stay visa, you are required to follow those steps:
If you live in one of the countries mentioned on the website, you must use the online EEF procedure
prior applying for the visa. INSEAD is referenced under “other, CPGE…”. If you encounter some
difficulties, please contact the Campus France office directly as they will be the only one to be able
to unblock the situation for you.
3/ Anticipate your application long enough. Especially if you need to apply through Campus France,
it could easily add up to 3 weeks to the process. Campus France's process and the visa application
process are distinct from each other. Please keep this in mind as it may be in your best interest to
submit your Campus France application as soon as possible.
After acknowledging visa process – You could need supportive documents from INSEAD, once
your place secured (1st installment paid) – you’ll find all the required documents under the
MyDocuments section in your MyInsead platform
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5/ Book an appointment (if Campus France process applies to you, you will be able to book an
appointment at the consulate only once EEF is completed)
6/ The day of the appointment, you will be seen by a visa officer who will go through your documents
and check your file is complete.
7/ You may track your visa application. Please refer to the link shown on the French consulate site.
Please note that you will be able to see the status of your visa only once a decision has been made.
Non-EU partner married to European citizen gets benefit of a special Residence permit granted by
the European commission.
More details:
https://www.insead.edu/sites/default/files/assets/dept/mbajourney/doc/INSEAD_-
_MARRIED_TO_AN_EU_CITIZEN.pdf
INSEAD will help you apply for the required residence permit as a spouse of EU when you arrive.
If no other purpose of stay (work, studies…) you would need to apply for a long-term visitor visa
before moving to France and apply for the residence permit.
“Visitor visa could be considered as a long-term tourist visa (usually granted for 90 days max). The
visitor visa allows its holder to stay in France more than 3 months.”
To get the list of documents required and step by step process, please use the France- visa tool:
https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/ai-je-besoin-d-un-visa
Children
To get the list of documents required and step by step process, please use the France- visa tool:
https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/ai-je-besoin-d-un-visa
At the embassy/consulate, you have to apply with all the required documents in original and one
copy.
The visa section does not make any copies.
Ensure your passport is stamped on arrival on the French territory. If you are travelling/ transit from
another Schengen country, please keep your boarding card/ train ticket, an affidavit will have to be
added to your file. If your spouse is accompanying you, do not forget to bring your marriage
certificate (in French or English, otherwise with a certified translation).
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Anyone holding a long-term student/visitor visa, or spouse of French national visa holder.
Without the validation of your residence permit, please note that you will not be able to travel freely
into the Schengen area/ renew your current residence permit/ be granted your diploma, applying for
jobs….
There are severe penalties for not having it when requested by the authorities.
During P1, INSEAD will help you with the process to obtain the validation of your visa/residence
permit online.
Upon arrival you will have 3 months to complete your residence permit application dossier and
submit it to us.
A mandatory medical examination which all visitor visa’s holders who are issued residence permits
for France for longer than 3 months must undergo: it allows them to receive a medical examination,
preventive health care advice, and if needed, treatment and referrals for medical treatment. You will
receive an appointment for this medical examination.
EU residence permit
If you hold any EU residence card, thank you to provide a copy of it to Fontainebleau Visas at
visas.fb@insead.edu. Make sure you inform Visas well in advance in case further administrative
steps are needed prior your arrival. Each file will be treated case by case by the French authorities
via INSEAD.
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3. Fontainebleau Campus
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INSEAD badge
Any person working, studying or going through campus will be requested to wear his/her card with
the lanyard/neck cord as a mean of identification.
It is also possible for you, and partners without an INSEAD email address, to credit your badge at
Freddy’s bar, or at the restaurant cashier directly.
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Bookstore
Opening Hours
FOOT-NOTE is the exclusive provider of all INSEAD apparel and accessories. Other services
include paper goods, sundries, phone cards, and more.
https://foot-note.net/index.php/
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Camembert
The meeting point – camembert is located in the centre of the Constance Building.
It is close to the main Amphis, the South Wing, the Upper/Lower Galleries and the Bar.
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Clubs
Student clubs
The quality and diversity of the INSEAD community creates a stimulating and fun atmosphere: from
entrepreneurship to energy, INDEVOR to Music Clubs, Community members engage in a variety of
clubs and events throughout the year. At the same time you pursue your interests, you will be
forming valuable networks and friendships during your year at INSEAD.
If you are interested in engaging in any of the existing participant led clubs please visit the Club
Website page:
https://www.insead.edu/master-programmes/mba/student-life/clubs#accordion-faq-180997-0
Dining on Campus
Restaurant
In the restaurant, your card works like a debit card. You must keep money on your account, so that
it can be debited for what you eat in the restaurant.
Lunch
The restaurant is open from 11:45am – 2:15pm Monday to Friday (last entry).
Dinner
The Ermitage Hotel’s Treehouse Bar & Diner, located on the top floor of the hotel, operates from
6:00pm to midnight.
Freddy’s Bar provides evening meals until 9:30pm.
Bar
The main Bar is open from 8:00am – 9:30pm Monday to Friday and on Saturday from 8:00am –
2:30pm.
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Fitness Centre
It is located in the west wing of the school, behind the restaurant. Members have access to a variety
of cardio and weight training classes. At lunch time, from 12:15pm – 13:45pm the fitness centre
offers a wide range of activities. Yoga, interval training or step. You also have access to the Sauna
from Monday to Friday between 6:30am – 9:00pm.
Members are registered as library users when they check out a document for the first time at the
General Information Desk in the library and must present a valid INSEAD card.
The Doriot Library is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Contact: doriot.fb@insead.edu
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Infirmary
INSEAD’s infirmary is located in the library building opposite Security.
The Nurse is on campus Monday to Thursday 8:30am – 5:00pm and kindly reminds that she remains
at INSEAD’s staff disposal.
However, feel free to come to her office for emergencies and she will help you.
Parking
On Campus
INSEAD has the following free car parks (underground) available for its personnel, participants and
visitors (931 places):
Kindly be reminded that your car sticker must be visible for identification.
There is also a public car park with a capacity of 250 places (next to the Swimming-pool car park)
located in front of the EAC entrance. It is available for INSEAD and external. Please note that the
car park is unsupervised.
** Please note that P1 & P2 are currently unavailable due to construction work.
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Off Campus
You will find designated car park areas in Fontainebleau. They can either be paying car parks, limited
in time or free. If you do not respect the regulation for those which are partly free or paying, you may
get parking fines.
Parking fines
You can pay fines online through the official site: https://www.amendes.gouv.fr/tai
Please note that the fine increases if the ticket is not paid within 45 days of receiving it.
INSEAD provides free outdoor and underground car parking options to participants, professors, staff
members and visitors.
1- Please respect the parking spaces marked and reserved for disabled drivers, pregnant woman
and visitors throughout the different car parks.
2- INSEAD cannot be held responsible for any damages, accidents or thefts that may take place in
the car parks. Remember to lock your vehicle before exiting the car park; close windows & rooftops
and do not leave any valuables visible.
3- For safety reasons please note that the car parks are monitored by security video.
4- We do not recommend campus users to park in the public car park located next to the swimming
pool.
5- To access the INSEAD car parks & identify your car in case of an emergency, all MBA participant
vehicles must display visibly a personal ID number on the rear windscreen. Your personal ID is
included in your Welcome Pack that you receive at Registration. In the event of loss, a replacement
ID may be obtained from the Campus Services HelpDesk (located in the West Wing). Only one car
per MBA participant can be parked on campus per day. Your ID is valid for the duration of the
academic year.
6- Driving and parking is regulated and we ask you to respect the following rules:
- When driving underground please switch your lights on;
- Do not exceed the speed limit of 10 km/hour;
- Respect the signage and driving flow;
- Do not block or obstruct security access for the Emergency Services. Failure to respect this will
result in having your car removed without warning and you will be required to pay €120 to retrieve
your car from the Avon city car pound.
- The Security Department will clamp badly parked cars.
- Long-term parking (+30 days) is not permitted.
In the event of exceptional circumstances, prior approval must be sought from the Campus Services
HelpDesk. You will be required to leave a copy of the registration documents and the key with them.
After the 30 day deadline, if no prior approval has been registered, INSEAD will declare the car as
abandoned with the local authorities and the car will then be removed and destroyed.
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Bicycles
Security
Lost and found items are collected and centralized by the Security Team on campus. In case of a
loss, please fill out the form and declare it to the Security.
Location: Upper gallery
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4. Accommodation
Home Insurance
House insurance is mandatory in France. Please note that most banks offer these services and that
real estate agencies provide the house insurance on request.
Tenant insurance is obligatory in France - you cannot move into your rented premises without it.
This insurance covers the content of the property and the property itself against theft, risk of fire,
explosion, and infiltration of water etc. for which tenant may be responsible. This insurance normally
is paid upfront for the lease period.
Landlords are also obliged to take out insurance for the property to cover their liability for claims
arising from structural defects in the property, and for claims arising out of their repairing obligations.
Lemonade
Lemonade offers home insurance, powered by tech and driven by social good
https://www.lemonade.com/fr/en
Luko
Easy online home insurance guaranteed without redtape whether you are an owner
or tenant.
https://fr.luko.eu/en/
MAIF Hi Europa
L’Olivier
Renting in France
Tenant's Rights In France
The French legal system is strongly pro-tenant. Once the keys have been handed over, the landlord
does not have the right to enter the property without the tenant's consent. The landlord does not
have the right to check up on the tenant, for example, annual property inspections, unless this has
been agreed in the rental contract. They do have the right to enter the property to undertake essential
works and routine maintenance (although not improvements to the property), and the tenant must
allow this.
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Paying Rent
Legally you can be obliged to pay for the full notice period, even if you move out earlier – so
remember to plan ahead in regards to your departure date. As a mandatory requirement, you will
need to settle all outstanding rent and lease expenses before you leave. However, if the landlord
accepts a tenant before your notice period is complete, you can be exempt from paying the full
amount.
Tax D’Habitation
This is a local residence tax imposed on the occupier of a property. Technically it is invoiced directly
to the resident which is present on the premises on the 1st January, alternatively it is invoiced to the
landlord. Broadly speaking the cost is around 8% to 10% of the total rental for the year; payable in
October.
Calculation of the Tax:
The determination of the amount payable is made by the local council (commune), but the calculation
and collection of the tax is carried out by the central government tax authority.
The formula for the calculation is complex but, broadly speaking, it is based on the rent that the
property might be expected to achieve in the open market, having regard to the condition, size and
location of the property. This amount may not bear any relation to any actual rent that may be being
paid on the property. Fontainebleau is a commune in the higher bracket for this tax.
This is a municipal garbage removal tax run by local authorities. This tax is often included in the
charges of the property and is payable by the tenant.
Building Charges
These are charges of the running cost of a building, which are billed directly to the owner but are
paid for by the tenant. This includes the electricity in the common hallways; lift maintenance; cleaning
of the entrance to these buildings, garbage removal from the building onto the street and the
maintenance of the gardens. Charges vary depending on the services provided by the building.
Most owners have included some of the utility charges into the rental to avoid opening and closing
utility contracts (which cost in the vicinity of €25 for each change of contract). These provisions are
given to the owner by the utility companies based on the m2; how many occupants; and the
appliances in the apartment etc. This is a guideline only. Be aware that energy is VERY expensive;
and it is difficult to say exactly how much energy a tenant will use during the lease period; this
depends on whether the winter will be cold; how many persons are in the apartment.
Please take into account that these electricity and gas accounts are not just based on your
consumption but exclude a tariff for the contract, access to energy (+/- €10) monthly and VAT at
20%.
Most utility bills are in the owner’s names; so it is not always easy getting a final bill as these bills
are debited from the owners’ accounts each month; based on an estimation.
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This is the reason that the readings directly from the meters are noted down on your entry and on
your exit formalities; using these numbers the owner are able to make the calculation as to how
much you have been paying and how much you have actually consumed.
Sub-Letting
The tenant does not have the right to sublet, assign or transfer all or part of the tenancy without the
written consent of the landlord or by the agent
Where the consent of the landlord is obtained, the terms of the sub-letting can be freely negotiated
between the tenant and the sub-tenant, except that neither the term of the sub-tenancy, nor the
rental, can be greater than that in the head tenancy.
When the head tenancy comes to an end, the sub-tenant as no further rights to remain in the
property, other than by consent of the landlord.
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Entry Formalities
Please contact your agent or landlord to arrange a date and time in advance to meet for your entry
formalities. These include:
• Signing of the contracts - you will be expected to pay the first month rental from the start date
of the contract. Payment can be made either before your arrival or by bringing the rental with
you.
• In addition to the tenancy agreement, you should be provided with a thorough inventory (état
des lieux) that describes the nature and condition of any items belonging to the landlord left
in the property. This includes furniture, as well as the state of fixtures, fittings and décor. It's
critically important to ensure the inventory is complete and correct, as it will be the basis for
any negotiations when you leave and try to reclaim your deposit, or if you have to undertake
repairs during your tenancy.
Exit Formalities
Check the condition of the property against the inventory, and repair any damage or replace any
loss to avoid deductions from your security deposit. Allowance is made for normal wear and tear,
existing faults or forces beyond the tenant’s control (force majeure).
If you do not have an inventory you may lose out if there is a dispute over the condition of the
property. If no inventory exists then the tenant is presumed to have received the property in good
condition and the landlord is likely to receive the benefit of the doubt in the event of a dispute.
However, if you have evidence of the property’s poor condition, such as in photographs, this will be
taken into consideration.
Give Notice
Leases and contracts can be terminated with one month written notice in advance to the owner or
agent at any time. However, other contracts, requiring a 3 month notice period exist, so please be
sure to read the lease thoroughly before signing. When you give notice of your intention to leave the
property you should send a registered letter (lettre recommandée avec accusé de réception) to the
party that signed the lease and obtain an acknowledgement of receipt, from which the official notice
period starts
• If you have a shorter contract and leave before the agreed end date of the contract; the owner
could keep a portion of your deposit for damages.
• All contracts have a penal clause; this means to say if the rental is not paid on time; the first
of the month for the month ahead, the owner is entitled to implement this clause.
Deposit Refunds
BE AWARE that the return of your deposit (how long it will take and how much will be returned) will
depend on how clean the property is when you leave with respect of the following items.
• To replace all damaged objects or furniture, replace light bulbs if necessary,
• To clean the garden, if needed,
• To empty fridge, freezer, cupboards, closets from all your belongings,
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Please make sure that bathrooms and all places of personal hygiene are to be cleaned properly.
Be prepared to leave your rental accommodation right after the premises have been checked by
your landlord or by the agent. The apartment/house needs to be empty, clean and all luggage packed
before the inspection can take place. It is in your interest to be present during these inspections.
According to French law, the balance of your security deposit has to be returned within 2 months
after your departure. Any deduction made will have to be justified by invoices.
Remember that the state of your accommodation at the time of the exit inspection will condition
further actions, i.e. deductions from your deposit for extra cleaning, repairs, etc.
Provision for payment of the tax d’habitation and taxes for the ‘Ordures Menageres’ removal of
garbage must also be taken into account if this is not included in your utility charges.
Please note that the deposit cannot to be used in lieu of rental under any circumstances
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Eligible Any person with Student or any Student, Any person with
tenants the capacity to person following a apprentice, the capacity to
contract training course trainee, civic contract
(constitutes the not requiring service and (designates only
principal accommodation person on transfer any
residence of the for period or temporary accommodation
tenant) exceeding 9 mission that is not one’s
months. (constitutes his or primary one)
her main
secondary
residence)
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• In case of early termination of the lease, can the landlord keep the security deposit?
The deposit can be applied to cover unpaid rent, as well as repairs and cleaning beyond normal
wear and tear. It cannot be retained as a penalty if you terminate in accordance with the applicable
legal notice period.
• What can you do when an owner refuses to cancel and return the security deposit?
As a first step, we suggest that you clarify with your landlord why he or she refuses your
cancellation / return of the security deposit and that you enter into a discussion with him or her.
You should also make sure that you have respected the legal notice period as well as all of the
obligations incumbent on a tenant.
This first step requires discussion and an amicable solution with your landlord.
Secondly, it is possible to get in touch with INSEAD Student Life team, however, we would like to
point out that this structure is in no way able to provide legal advice and negotiate on your behalf. It
will only be able to give you advice or help you facilitate the discussion with your landlord.
Thirdly, if the discussion with the lessor does not succeed, legal steps can be considered by
turning to public institutions such as ADIL77. They can provide advice on specific legal issues free
of charge and are institutions that operate in French. In case of litigation, you could also consult an
external lawyer to your own charge.
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Bonapart.org is a Direct Renting Service dedicated to INSEAD Students. It is NOT an agency. Thus
it provides lists of accommodations available to INSEAD students, with the landlord’s contacts. You
contact directly the landlord of your choice.
Contact Details
http://www.bonapart.org
contact@bonapart.org
The Virtual Campus by CityJunction - A unique collection of Studio, Apartments, Houses, Shared
houses and Château's, validated by a label that qualifies and controls each property. After 12 years
of experience within the INSEAD housing market, City-Junction.com has become the Virtual
Campus. The Virtual Campus is open to all landlords, agents or agencies with only one criteria: a
strict respect for the quality demanded by the label. Our goal is to provide and to maintain the best
possible house selection and to provide a trusted partner that will help and support students in
booking and rental process. The Virtual Campus provides complete online rental services for those
future INSEAD students unable to come to the Fontainebleau area to look for their housing
themselves, before the start of their school year, due to financial constraints or work commitments.
We provide a user friendly site, multi support, with an agent ready to lead you step by step through
the reservation process.
We are an English speaking organisation, which makes communicating your needs much easier and
clearer.
Visit the Virtual Campus
info@city-junction.com
Office : + 33 (0)1 64 70 78 05
Mobile : + 33 (0)6 27 87 93 64
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MBA Housing
For over two decades MBA Housing has facilitated student’s lives by offering a complete package,
managing the entire process for your stay. Their services cover: visits, reserving a property,
preparing rental contracts, inspecting the property before your arrival, managing the property during
your stay, performing check-out inspections and returning of security deposits. Thanks to several
partnerships with various service companies by extension they assist with: insurance, housekeeping
and maintenance ....
Payment : includes non-reimbursable agency fee of 450€ in case of cancellation, non-negotiable
notice period: 3 months.
Managing 300+ properties with over 130 properties reserved for INSEAD students, with no doubt
the leader due the size of its portfolio of exclusive properties. From simple economically priced
studios, yet aesthetically pleasing, to majestic: elegantly renovated properties with beautiful French
accents and jaw-dropping high ceilings, you are sure to find what you are looking for.
Not able to travel before booking? Not a problem, all properties offered are presented in 3D giving
an interactive real life walkthrough experience like you're actually there.
The Marcel LODS “student” residence is close to public transport and the city centre (supermarkets,
buses, banks, post office, etc.).
It has been completely and tastefully renovated, and awarded the BBC (low-energy building)
certificate.
Each accommodation unit is equipped with a kitchenette (fridge, glass ceramic hob, extractor hood),
bed, desk, table, multiple storage spaces and benefits from the biomass communal heating system.
Fully furnished apartments T1 & T2, common areas including coworking space and a gym.
Close to shops and transportation.
For details, please see the flyer: Studently
4 rue Lagorsse
77300 Fontainebleau
contact@studently.fr
+33 5 32 53 69 51
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Shared Housing
ACM Meublé
We are professionals of furnished rooms, flats and houses since 2005:Your complete rental home
solution.
We don’t provide only rental but a full service. We make your stay in the Fontainebleau area hassle-
free.
No fees to book with us. Our rental contract is both in French and English: no surprises
Rent: everything is included even the insurance for the house, cleaning every week, taxes.
For any maintenance repairs, we have a team (handy man, gardener, electrician, plumber, mason)
Buddha House
Fully renovated shared house in Fontainebleau, just 10 minutes walking distance from INSEAD.
The house has a large modern kitchen/dining room, two living rooms, a large deck with tables, chairs
and a bbq. Terrace with lounger chairs. Laundry and ironing room, plus storage space.
All 10 rooms are fully furnished and all have an en-suite bathroom. Large flat screen TVs with DVD
player and mini-fridge. Sheets, towels are provided.
http://thebuddhahouse.fr
Château Fleury
The Château de Fleury is 12 minutes away from campus. There are 14 fully furnished and equipped
apartments, each with private bathroom and kitchen, bedding, linen and towels.
All bills included. Fully equipped Gym and communal dining and sitting areas. Large outside area for
bbqs, Table Tennis, games etc. No reservation fees. Bi-lingual English Manager.
Citrus coliving helps you feel at home in Fonty by offering quality, frictionless, shared
accommodation with a great community built-in. Founded by a recent INSEAD alumna, we are
tailored to your needs and cannot wait to find you a place to call home.
We offer accomodation in 1 bedroom flats, ideal for couples, 3-4 bedroom shared flats and Maison
Royale, a vintage 9 bedroom house, in the heart of the city, all within less than 10 min walk from
INSEAD.
Email: contact@citruscoliving.com
www.citruscoliving.com
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Colonies Coliving is a leading PropTech scale-up company operating more than 1 000 housing units
in Europe. Colonies operates 4 coliving houses in Fontainebleau, dedicated to the INSEAD
community. INSEAD students can easily book their stay online and will be assisted by a fully English
speaking support team. Tenants will be provided with fully renovated and equipped private rooms or
studios located in typical Fontainebleau houses. Rents already include all charges and no additional
agency or registration fees will be charged.
Leases are tailor-made for INSEAD students following any INSEAD program.
EasyColiving
Enjoy your stay in one of our residences close to Fontainebleau. Book your fully furnished individual
secured room, with a private shower, cupboard and toilette. Enjoy time with your housemates in the
shared spaces such as the living and dining room, a large fully equipped kitchen, laundry room and
garden. All inclusive price of €500 per month includes WIFI, electricity, gas, water, taxes, and a
weekly cleaning service. No extra fees. Studios with private kitchen are also available starting from
€700 per month.
Email: xavier@easycoliving.com
Mobile: +33 (0)6 43 47 89 73 whatsApp user
http://easycoliving.com
Four high-end shared houses for INSEAD students: Club 16, Le Parc, L’Abre Sec and Le
Salamander.
Utilities, linens and weekly cleaning included
38 bedrooms starting at 990€/m.
https://fontainebleau.mba-coliving.com/
La Nef
Seize the opportunity to live in a former historic Museum in the city center of Fontainebleau and
share quality time with other INSEAD fellow students.
LA NEF is only a 20 min WALK to the campus and close to all commodities. You can rent one of the
22 recently renovated nice apartments all with their own private bathroom and kitchen. They can
also come fully furnished and accessorized.
An on-site laundry facility as well as private and secured parkings for cars and bicycles are at your
disposal. LA NEF offers common areas for socializing or networking like a communal kitchen,
meeting rooms and gardens equipped with outdoor furniture.
Hassle-free: each unit can be visited remotely to start rental prior to arrival in Fontainebleau.
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Patchwork
Aside giving you access to a vast & growing panel of premium co-living housing , Patchwork has
been designed to optimize your off-campus experience on all levels. Start exploring your
environment, meet your network, book your stay and enjoy high quality content curated by insiders.
https://www.patchwork.me
Victoire by OpenHouse
In a 4000 sqm park, just 14 minutes walking distance from INSEAD, sits Victoire, a magnificent 18th
century mansion, completely renovated for the needs of INSEAD students, its 25 fully
furnished rooms with en-suite bathroom, swimming pool, 3 TV lounges, 4 communal kitchens, a
gym and a co-working space are waiting for you.
No agency fees, no registration fees. Full service, all bills included(insurance, weekly cleaning, taxes,
etc.)
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Short-term accommodation -
Hotels
Hotel Campanile Fontainebleau
Ibis
L’Aigle Noir
La Demeure du Parc
Le Clos St Merry
L'Ermitage
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Londres
Mercure
Richelieu
Victoria
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5.Banking, Service
Providers & Utilities
Banking
List of banks in Fontainebleau
Requirements
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“Carte bancaire”
When you open your account you should also obtain a "carte bancaire" (debit card) with a possibility
of a delayed account debit. The most common debit/credit cards in France are either the Carte Bleue
(Visa) or the Eurocard, part of the Mastercard group. Most banks have cash withdrawal machines,
which operate, with either card.
If you lose your Visa or Master card, you should call 08 92 705 705. From abroad please check the
numbers depending of the Card & country. Then contact your bank to confirm that you have declared
its loss.
• VISA
https://www.visaeurope.com/lost-your-card
• Mastercard
https://www.mastercard.fr/fr-fr/particuliers/support-conseil/perte-vol-carte.html
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Direct Debit
Electricity, gas, water, telephone bills, taxes and insurance policy premiums can be paid by direct
debit from your account.
https://www.revolut.com/fr/?lang=en
https://n26.com/en-eu/
https://www.hellobank.fr/
https://www.monabanq.com/
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Service Providers
Internet: Piracy Laws and Illegal Downloads
• BOUYGUESTELECOM
Online subscription or dedicated shop:
69 Rue Grande
77300 Fontainebleau
Tel: +33 (0)1 60 74 59 90
www.bouyguestelecom.fr
• FREE
Online subscription
www.free.fr
• SFR
Online subscription or dedicated shop
79 Rue Grande
77300 Fontainebleau
Tel : +33 (0)1 60 70 08 88
https://www.sfr.fr/
• ORANGE
Online subscription or dedicated shop
32 Rue des Sablons
77300 Fontainebleau
www.orange.fr
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Vivaservices Fontainebleau offers all its services in and around Fontainebleau, whether it's home
cleaning, childcare, home help, gardening, DIY or computer help, whether recurrent or punctual.
Noémie LECLERE
Director
Tel: +33 (0)1 85 48 14 75
Mobile : +33 (0) 6 08 47 15 31
Email : noemie.leclere@vivaservices.fr
www.vivaservices.fr
Nicolas Bousquet
5 place Galieni
77000 Melun
Tel : +33 (0)1 64 19 94 38
nbousquet.avocat@gmail.com
French/English
Diana Dukic
1 rue Barthel
77000 Melun
Tel : +33 (0)6 23 17 17 14
avocat@dlabo.onmicrosoft.com
French/English/German/Suriname
Isabelle Martins
13 Boulevard Aristide Briand
77000 Melun
Tel : +33 (0)1 64 39 07 86
Mobile : +33 (0)6 85 08 02 17
isabelle_martins@ymail.com
French/English/Spanish/Portuguese
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Utilities
Electricity and Gas
ENGIE
https://particuliers.engie.fr/
Water
VEOLIA EAU
Agence clientèle
47, rue Guérin
77300 Fontainebleau
Tel : +33 (0)8 11 900 400
https://www.service.eau.veolia.fr/home.html
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6. Getting around
Airports
Orly airport is closest to INSEAD, 15 km south of Paris.
Bus
The INSEAD private line operates from Mondays to Fridays and remains completely free.
The schedules are the following: Mornings: 8.30am and Evenings: 5.30pm
Meet in front of the Plessis Mornay reception (except on Wednesdays – stop rue Tavernier)
This bus driver will wait for the corresponding train coming from Paris if it is late.
The bus route is direct (and will not pass through the city centre of Fontainebleau).
VEOLIA buses wait at the Fontainebleau station on the platform n°6 (behind the train station)
Line 1 and line 4 also serve INSEAD from the station. There are regular departures from the station
at arrival train schedules and in between.
• Line 1 - The stops nearest INSEAD are: Dunant, St Aspais and Sous-Préfecture.
• Line 4 – Stade – Couperin is the stop for INSEAD
For more information, such as maps and timetables of the various bus lines, please visit the website:
https://www.transdev-idf.com/
Carpooling
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling. Its website and mobile apps connect drivers
and passengers willing to travel together between cities and share the cost of the journey.
https://www.blablacar.fr/
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Buying a Car
If you are buying a car, go to the Fontainebleau Sous-Préfecture (37 rue Royale) with:
_ the “certificat d’immatriculation” form
_ your new car insurance policy (Car insurance is mandatory in France)
_ your new “contrôle technique” document, to prove the car is road-worthy
_ your Driving License
Car Insurance
Below are a few suggestions of French insurance companies.
Axa
Direct Assurance
https://www.direct-assurance.fr/
Maif
https://www.maif.fr/
Maaf
https://www.maaf.fr
Most banks in France provide car insurance – feel free to ask your bank advisor
If you buy a car in France, and move afterwards to a new house, you will need to update your address
with the Sous-Préfecture.
Visit the Sous-Préfecture and ask a form for a change of address.
Sous Prefecture de Fontainebleau
37 rue Royale – Fontainebleau
Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – from 9:00am – 12:00pm (mornings only)
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EUROPCAR
44 avenue de Valvin
77210 Avon
Tel : +33 (0)1 64 31 42 57
https://www.europcar.fr
HERTZ
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Importing a Car
For a vehicle, which you have decided to temporarily register in France there is no exemption for
any country from duty payable. You must complete the necessary formalities for payment in France
with help of following websites:
For any other questions, or information on buying a car in France without paying duty, you should
contact:
Bureau des Douanes, Croissy Beaubourg (Marne la Vallée) - +33 (0)1 60 95 38 80
Driving in France
The watchword of drivers should be caution. Traffic accidents are one of the main causes of death
in France. Fontainebleau is particularly dangerous because of its forest and its animals crossing the
roads at any time but particularly at night.
Please keep in mind that drinking & driving is strongly penalised in France.
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Driving Licence
You can use your driving licence for the year you will stay in France but an International Driving
Licence is required for non-EU citizens. You are strongly advised to have a translation (in French)
of your driving licence with you, in case of police checks.
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Taxis
You may need to get around quickly in Fontainebleau or outside the town. Here is a list of taxis that
INSEAD uses. Taxi Reservations can be made at the reception of the main building.
When taking a taxi it is extremely important that you ride with an official registered chauffeur.
While choosing an unregistered driver may be a little cheaper, you are NOT insured in the case of
an accident or other mishap and INSEAD will be unable to assist. Please use one of the
recommended taxis in the attached list to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
Please keep in mind that it will be difficult to find a taxi on the spot in Fontainebleau
for a small trip (especially at night).
Trains
You can also take the train from the Fontainebleau-Avon station. It will
permit you to move around the surrounding towns of Fontainebleau
and to go to Paris.
Trains run daily, every 30 minutes, from Fontainebleau to Paris and
from Paris to Fontainebleau.
For late night trains please be sure to check the timetable as trains
often stop running around midnight.
https://www.transilien.com/en
In Paris
You will be able to find all information regarding METRO lines, BUS, RER, the best ways to go from
a place to another on: http://www.ratp.fr
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https://boutique.transilien.com/#/offres
The Navigo monthly and weekly travel passes allow you unlimited use of the public transport
networks in the zones you have selected.
1-5 Zone Paris Visite ticket for the number of days of your stay.
The Paris Visit pass is valid for 1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days in zones 1 to 3 (close suburbs) or in
zones 1 to 5 included airports CDG/Orly and Versailles at adult and child prices (from 4 to 11
inclusive).
https://en.parisinfo.com
https://en.parisinfo.com/practical-paris
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7. Leisure
Fontainebleau Market
Don’t miss the outdoor market in Fontainebleau on Tuesday,
Friday and Sunday mornings in the central square.
This is a great place to buy fresh produce, meat and fish, honey,
herbs, spices, flowers, clothes, shoes and many other things.
Open from 7:30am – 12:30pm
Each village has its own market.
Please contact your local town hall for further information.
Gastronomy
You will find many restaurants in Fontainebleau where you can taste typical
French cuisine or dishes from overseas such as Japan, Italy, Morocco…
Restaurants in Fontainebleau are often crowded. You will need to book a table
on Friday and Saturday evenings to assure a table.
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Tourism
France
France has a rich artistic and cultural heritage as well as world-class cuisine and
many lovely towns and villages to visit.
For some inspiration:
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/france https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g187070-France
Vacations.html
Fontainebleau
Paris
https://en.parisinfo.com/
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Entertainment
Cinema
Ciné Paradis
10 Avenue du Marechal de Villars
77300 Fontainebleau
http://cineparadis.cineparadis.fr/
Cinéma Ermitage à Fontainebleau
6 Rue de France
77300 Fontainebleau
http://ermitage.cineparadis.fr/
Asterix Park
Theme amusement park based on the stories of Asterix (by Albert Uderzo and René Goscinny),
especially well known in France for its large variety of roller coasters.
http://www.parcasterix.fr/
Disneyland Paris
https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-us/
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Parc de la Villette
The Parc de la Villette is the largest urban cultural park in Paris. 55 hectares of park,
of which 35 are open-air, mix nature and modern architecture, playgrounds and
activity areas for children and adults, cultural spaces and theatres.
Wakeboard
Base de loisirs La Noue Notre Dame
La Grande Paroisse
https://www.exoloisirs.com/fr/content/exo-77-la-grande-paroisse
Learning
French in Paris
https://www.ccfs-sorbonne.fr/?lang=en
http://www.alliancefr.org/en
French Cooking
La Cuisine Paris
80 Quai de l'Hôtel de ville
75004 Paris
https://lacuisineparis.com/
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Shopping Centres
Each shopping center contains shops, restaurants and a supermarket. They are traditionally closed
on Sundays. Sales are usually between June and July in summer, December and January in winter.
The dates of beginning and end vary between the regions in France.
Carrefour – Villiers-en-Bière
Carré Sénart
A6 direction Paris, follow signs Sénart (N104 / A5), exit direction centre commercial.
Shopping centre with many stores (Zara, H&M, Virgin Megastore, etc), cinema complex.
https://www.carre-senart.com/
Evry 2
A6 direction Paris, take the turn to Evry, go to the town centre (the shopping centre can be seen
from far). Shopping mall featuring over 230 shops
https://www.evry2.com/
Val d’Europe
Take A6 in the direction of Paris, then N104 in the direction of Marne La Vallée. Finally, take the A4
in the directionof Metz-Nancy and exit at 12.1.
Many outlet stores, open on Sundays.
https://val-d-europe.klepierre.fr/
Villabé
A6 direction Paris, exit 9 direction Villabé, cross over the A6, Sopping centre featuring IKEA,
Carrefour, Decathlon, Toys’R’Us and more.
https://www.carrefour-villabe.fr/
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Sports
You will find details of the following activities on the official site of the office de tourism de
Fontainebleau.
• Canoe
• Cycling
• Golf
• Hiking
• Horse drawn carriage tours
• Horse riding
• Rock climbing
• Swimming pools
• Tennis
Please keep in mind that there are several student sports clubs that you are welcome to join, ie
football, rugby, basketball. More information can be provided by the fitness reception desk.
www.fontainebleau-tourisme.com
To register or to access the INSEAD Fitness Centre, you are required to be a member of one of the
INSEAD populations (STAFF, PHD, MBA, MIM, EMBA, or EDP participants) or a partner or a child
(over 18 yrs of age) of the INSEAD member and have read and acknowledged the rules and
regulations of the Centre.
Group Classes
Are offered on weekdays at lunch times and in the evening. The Fitness staff can also design
individual programmes on request
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8. Leaving France
Prior to leaving France, you will have to anticipate cancelling the various contracts you have signed
such as internet or phone subscriptions. Please make sure that you inform yourself about the
contracts cancellation processes several weeks before your leaving. The different steps to do may
take more time than you think.
A word on timing: for most providers, the cancellation of your mobile phone plan will take effect 10
days following the reception of your cancellation request.
For a cancellation letter template please click here
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If you have to pay your last EDF, GDF and Water bills, you should do the following: send a registered
letter stating that you would like to terminate your contract, give them your meter reading up until the
last day, and your forwarding address.
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Most students rent furnished flats. However, If you bought your own furniture you will have to remove
them from the accommodation.
Please find below a list of removal and storage companies which may help you move or store your
furniture:
Alfred Travel
Alfred offers affordable and secure storage solutions for your luggage
https://www.alfred.travel/fontainebleau
Send My Bag
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9. Partners
Welcome and congratulations on your partner's acceptance to INSEAD and your decision to
experience this exciting and enriching year together.
INSEAD is a true melting pot of cultures and languages and a year here is a great opportunity to
meet new people, broaden your horizons, and even pick up a new language. Plus, Fontainebleau is
a national centre for heritage and outdoor activities, only 40 minutes from Paris by train.
The decision to leave your friends and family is always challenging but we’re here to help you create
your INSEAD family.
While some partner activities are organized by the school, you are more than welcome to initiate
new activities and create new traditions.
We would love your help at any time. This year is really what you make of it, so we encourage you
to get involved, try new activities and have a great time!
For insights to MBA Partner life in Fontainebleau listen to In the Know podcasts #14 & #36
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Useful contacts/information:
INSEAD MS Teams Partners Channel INSEAD In The Know
INSEAD Partners
https://www.fontainebleau-tourisme.com
If you have any questions you would like to ask before your arrival in Fontainebleau, please do not
hesitate to contact us.
Partners.FBL@insead.edu
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Some partners would like to work or continue a professional activity during the year they spend at
INSEAD. For further information, please refer to the following tips about job-search possibilities at
INSEAD.
• If you are an EU national, you do not have to obtain working papers - you are eligible
to work in France. However, there are certain restrictions with regards to nationality,
which means that it is not possible for non-EU nationals.
Once your partner/spouse has been accepted for the INSEAD MBA programme, you can start
consulting the job opportunities page published on our website. https://www.insead.edu/jobs
The best time to start looking for work at INSEAD is when you arrive on campus.
Generally, we encourage you to apply for temporary positions (CDDs), as it's very rare for us to be
able to consider partners for permanent posts (CDIs) due to the short length of time you will be in
France.
If you have identified a position on the website that you wish to apply for, you should submit your CV
and motivation letter as indicated on the job post.
Partners’ applications are processed along with others in the Human Resources department. Should
any appropriate opportunities arise, applicants will be contacted directly by the Human Resources
Client Advisor.
You could also register with one of the temp agencies in Fontainebleau who might be able to help
you find work. The three main temp agencies that INSEAD works with are:
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Volunteering
Volunteering your time to an association is also a way of enriching your « French » experience.
Crossroads is an international non-profit English-speaking association which, among many other
activities, encourages giving a helping hand in the Fontainebleau community.
You can find out more by visiting the website: https://www.crossroadsfontainebleau.com/
http://www.francebenevolat.org/ http://www.croix-rouge.fr/
http://www.restosducoeur.org/ http://www.servethecityparis.com/
For insights to Partners and children at INSEAD, listen to In the Know podcast episode #18
https://intheknow.insead.edu/podcast/18-special-feature-pursuing-mba-your-partner-and-children
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The playgroups offer a wonderful opportunity to meet other partners with children, and it is always
enlightening to see how easily children communicate despite the language barrier.
Usually the parents and kids continue for a joint lunch at the INSEAD restaurant.
Each year many families (or expectant families) come to INSEAD. Activities for children are
organised on a regular basis, again, by partners for partners including: play groups, baby music
class, workshop, outdoor activities and special events such as Christmas and other parties.
Regardless of where the children come from, they seem to always end up as great friends by the
end of the year.
Below are some suggestions for family friendly outings in the Fontainebleau and Paris areas.
Astérix Park
Theme amusement park based on the stories of Asterix (by Albert Uderzo and René Goscinny),
especially well known in France for its large variety of roller coasters.
http://www.parcasterix.fr/
14 Cours du Danube-Serris
77711, Marne-La-Vallé
Tel : +33 (0)1 60 42 33 55
http://www.visitsealife.com/paris/en/
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Year-long activities: rock climbing, wall climbing, nature trails, basketball, volleyball, handball,
archery...
Summer activities: swimming pool, nautical slides, paddling pools, games, trampolines...
Disneyland Paris
https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-us/
Jardin d'Acclimatation
Amusement park with rides, play areas, horseback riding, workshops & events
Bois de Boulogne
Route de la Porte Dauphine à la Porte des Sablons
75116 Paris
Tel : +33 (0)1 40 67 90 85
https://www.jardindacclimatation.fr/en
1st European park for big cats. Four pedestrian circuits for visitors to discover the
natural habitats of these predatory animals on four different continents.
Falconery and birds of prey show in the heart of the medieval city of Provins, hawks,
eagles and vultures take their flight over the spectators.
Parc de la Villette
The Parc de la Villette is the largest urban cultural park in Paris. 55 hectares of park,
of which 35 are open-air, mix nature and modern architecture, playgrounds and
activity areas for children and adults, cultural spaces and theatres.
211, Avenue Jean Jaures 75019 Paris
Tel : +33 (0)1 40 03 75 75
https://lavillette.com/
To Play
Royal Kids
Zoo-Parc de Beauval
Classed as the No. 1 zoo in France and as one of the most beautiful zoological
Parks in the world, ZooParc de Beauval is home to the largest diversity of animals in
France with nearly 6,000 animals including two giant pandas, found nowhere else
in France!
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Most working parents in France with children under 3 years old use licensed childminders or
“nounous”. There is a system of official authorized childminders registered with the local
authorities. The municipality of Fontainebleau has a list of approved childminders, which you will
find in the link below:
https://www.fontainebleau.fr/fileadmin/Ville/Liste_assistants_maternels_3_.pdf
Please note that most childminders take on children for a full academic year.
Crèches
Procedure :
• Call and book a Thursday afternoon appointment. (To facilitate the meeting, try to be
accompanied by a French speaker)
• This is pre-registration for the waiting list
• Click here for the list of required documents
.
Please note that pre-registration does not mean your child will have a place in the crèche
Daily fees depend on parents' financial circumstances and include lunch, afternoon snack and daily
care. Seats are depending on availability (For information in other villages check at your local town
hall (“Mairie”)
** The crèches listed below are private and function exclusively with companies. However, it
is sometimes worth contacting them to know if they have any unoccupied places **
Doudou crèche
9 rue Lagorsse
77300 Fontainebleau
+33 (0)6 31 90 33 95
contact@doudoucreches.com
http://doudoucreches.com
Babilou
42 Rue du Château
77300 Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 41 49 96 55
http://www.babilou.fr
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Little crèche
10 Rue de Grande-Bretagne
77300 Fontainebleau
+33 (0)1 60 96 71 67
contact.littlecreche@creche-fontainebleau.com
http://www.creche-fontainebleau.com
** The crèches listed below are private and function exclusively with companies. However, it
is sometimes worth contacting them to know if they have any unoccupied places **
A Saute Mouton
2 Impasse Carnot
77210 Avon
+33 (0)9 51 61 42 91
asautemouton@people-and-baby.com
Childcare Agencies
Opening hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 9:30am – 12:30pm and from 2:00pm – 5:30pm
Wednesday from 9:30am – 12:30pm and from 2:00pm – 4:30pm
O2 Care Agencies
O2 Fontainebleau adapts to your needs to allow you to reconcile the best personal and
professional life.
33 Rue Aristide Briand
77300 Fontainebleau
+33 (0)2 43 72 02 02
https://fontainebleau.agence.o2.fr/services/garde-enfants+fontainebleau+77300/
The customer service answers you from Monday to Friday from 7:00am – 8:30pm, Saturday from
8:45am – 6:00pm and Sunday from 10:00am – 6:00pm.
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Vivaservices
A homeservice agency which can provide you with a solution tailored to your expectations, whether
recurrent or punctual.
Noémie LECLERE
Director
Tel: +33 (0)1 85 48 14 75
Mobile : +33 (0)6 08 47 15 31
Email : noemie.leclere@vivaservices.fr
https://www.vivaservices.fr
Au Pairs
You can temporarily accommodate a foreign young man or woman who wants to improve his/her
linguistic and cultural knowledge in French. He/She will look after your children and help you with
daily tasks. Please note that it is not possible for an au-pair take charge of babies under the age of
3.
Au Pair Agencies:
Au Pair.com
https://www.aupair.com/
Au Pair World
https://www.aupairworld.com/
Cultural Care
https://www.culturalcare.fr
Great Au Pair
https://www.greataupair.com/
Babysitters
INSEAD receives offers from local students for babysitting, particularly in the evenings, in both
Fontainebleau and the surrounding region.
For local babysitters, you can consults these lists students and Anglo.Section High school
students
Disclaimer: Arrangements are to be made directly with the babysitter. INSEAD will not be held
responsible and expressly disclaims any liability whatsoever for any claim and controversies that
may arise
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Children’s Education
A few facts
Please note that Kindergarden in France requires regular attendance and should not be considered
as a child-minding facility.
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Kindergarden from 3 to 6 years (Ecoles maternelles) and Primary schools for children from
6 to 10 years
Ecole Saint-Louis
40, rue Carnot
77300 Fontainebleau
Tél : +33(0)1 64 22 08 60
ecolesaintlouis77@free.fr
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Giving Birth
Not all gynaecologists are allowed to practise in the local hospital or clinic, so you may not have the
gynaecologist who has followed your pregnancy at your birth.
Usually the local doctor can recommend a gynaecologist who carries out all the monthly checks.
This includes monthly blood tests to check for toxoplasmosis, measles etc. You take the blood tests
in a laboratory of your choice – to find one look under Laboratoires d’analyses de biologie médicale
in the yellow pages. It is also a good idea to get your blood group identified at the same time.
You will also have three ultrasounds (echographies) during your pregnancy. Very early on they will
be able to determine the sex of the child, but if you don’t want to know you should tell them.
Towards the later stages of pregnancy you will also have to meet the anaesthetist who will talk to
you about the kind of pain relief you are likely to require.
A midwife is called a sage femme and once your pregnancy is declared, you can sign up for pre-
natal classes (séances de préparation à l’accouchement) at the hospital where you will give birth. It
is a good idea to attend these courses, even though you may not be expecting your first baby, partly
to have a contact to call in case of problems and also because it familiarises you with the appropriate
French vocabulary.
You are obligated by law to register the birth of your child within three days at the local town hall
(Mairie), so it is advisable to have a name ready. If the child is born on a Wednesday, Thursday or
Friday, you have up to the following Monday to declare the birth. You will need to provide the Livret
de Famille (if you have one) and the birth certificate issued by the midwife or doctor. Declaring the
child is free. At the hospital, or sometimes at the mairie, you will be given a Carnet de Santé for your
baby. This is a book that contains the child’s health records: vaccinations, check-ups, operations,
illnesses etc.
Your baby will have a check-up once a month with the doctor of your choice.
Postnatal care: You will have a check-up two months after giving birth and your doctor can then
prescribe ten sessions of pelvic re-education usually carried out by a physiotherapist
(kinésithérapeute).
Testimonial
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,
Crossroads an English speaking association in Fontainebleau offers:
• Playgroup for Little Ones
The playgroup meets every week and caters for children from birth to 3 years. It is a good opportunity
for the babies to have fun and a welcome chance for the adults to have a chat.
• Toddlers and troops
A monthly meeting for children ages 3+ to get together and explore different areas and make new
friends.
https://www.crossroadsfontainebleau.com/
L.A.E.P l’Olivier (lieu d’accueil enfants-parents) at the Maison d’Enfance is open every Monday
afternoon from 2:45pm to 5:30pm & Wednesday mornings from 9:15am to 12:15pm for children
under six, accompanied by their parent (s) or a familiar adult, where everyone can participate in
games and exchanges.
Maison de l’Enfance
6 rue Anne-Marie Javouhey
77300 Fontainebleau
Tel .:01 64 22 11 27 /07 49 14 06 14
lolivier.laep@free.fr
http://lolivierlaep.fr/
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INSEAD Europe Campus
Boulevard de Constance
77305 Fontainebleau Cedex, France
T +33 1 60 72 40 00
insead.edu