Calais

:This article is about the French city. Alternate meanings: Boreads (mythical), Calais, Maine, Calais, Vermont

Economy

The city's proximity to England has made it a major port for centuries. It is the principal ferry crossing point between England and France, with the vast majority of cross-Channel being made between Dover and Calais. The French end of the Channel Tunnel is also situated in the vicinity of Calais, in Sangatte some 4 miles (6 km) to the west of the town.

Related Topics:
Ferry - Dover - Channel Tunnel - Sangatte

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The mainstay of the town's economy is, naturally, its port, but it also has a number of indigenous industries. The principal ones are lace making, chemicals, and paper manufacture. It possesses direct rail links to Paris (148 miles / 238 km to the south).

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Due to the large difference in taxation between Britain and France on such items as alcoholic beverages and tobacco, massive shopping complexes targeted at British day-trippers have sprung up on and around Calais. Such day trippers are colloquially known as "booze cruisers" and have been the target of considerable attention from the UK Customs and Excise authorities.

Related Topics:
Alcoholic beverage - Tobacco - UK Customs and Excise

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~