Reunion d'acceuil:

I've been through four meetings already today. The last one, up soon, promises to be the nicest. Every year the Marie of Hendaye organises a reunion d'acceuil (hosted by the mayor) to welcome and help orientate new arrivals. I've never lived anywhere I have come across such a wonderful gesture of welcome. A question to my French readers: is this custom widepread in France or unique to Hendaye?