Why did you move to France?
My husband & I are both British. We always wanted to live in France but our language level was not high enough to secure French employment. We were not sure we could achieve the move successfully after so many bad stories of Brits that lose everything and have to return to UK. Our children had a good basic level of French from attending schools in Canada.
When my husband had to return to London for work, we decided to check out the possibility of his weekly commuting to France. We found amazing flight deals from London (Luton) to Nîmes year round with Ryanair.
For 1 yr now my husband has flown to be with us every weekend.
How did you do it?
We just arrived and rented cheap holiday accomodation whilst I searched for a home, schools etc. We checked out ex pat websites but found them pretty useless and designed totally for the retired expat. Relocation companies were expensive and gave poor advice (in my opinion!)
Convincing a rental agent to allow us a home was the biggest challenge but the offer of 6 months rent paid in advance finally did the trick! Opening French bank accounts are another hurdle without French employment... we just continue to use British banks.
Tips and Tricks
- Rent don't buy... so many French trying to sell houses that flood etc. Take time to learn all about your new town and check you've made the right choice.
- Children cope well with school French and will progress quickly in the language. Teenagers will find it much harder (I have 2) consider private schools with smaller classes and some only 800 euros a year fees!!
- All immigrants should check out free (govt subsidised) french language courses in your area
- Note it is not always hot in S France; winters are cold thanks to the Mistral.
Has living in France lived up to your expectations?
We are happy living in France and intend to stay.
What has surprised/disappointed you the most?
Eating out, socialising, and attractions are expensive.
Have found French discipline rather extreme, parents will slap children in public etc. Also, I have not been able to secure even basic employment, thought my English would be an advantage but all French students have a good level.
Are most of your friends French or other expats?
Very few expats live in my town so all friends are French... I sometimes miss someone that will chat and joke in English and share a pot of tea!
Do you have anything else to add?
Do it
