Moving, living, working, retiring abroad
France is located in Western Europe, neighboring Spain to the southwest, and Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland and Italy to the northeast and east. To the north is the English Channel, which separates it from the United Kingdom. The south of the country has a long and beautiful coastline on the Mediterranean Sea, known as the French Riviera or Côte d’Azur.
France is one of the top three largest countries in Europe, with a surface area of over 200,00 square miles, larger than the US state of California. In addition to continental France, the country includes several other territories overseas that are part of the European Union, such as Saint Martin and Martinique, located in the Caribbean.
France is a diverse country with interesting differences in lifestyle, culture, architecture and climate between its regions. From the sunbathed beach resorts of the south to charming villages characterized by German-inspired architecture in the north, and a sprawling wine-country all over, France is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its crowning jewel is the capital city of Paris, located in the central northern region, also known as the fashion world capital and without a doubt the most famous city on the globe.
France has a robust education system that caters to a diverse range of students, both French and international. Most expat families enroll their children in international schools in France, particularly because they seek instruction in their native language (often English), and also because they also want their children to learn in a more familiar set … Read more
There are so many great reasons to visit Paris and its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Champs Élysées, Le Louvre, and all the city’s beautiful architecture. Paris is also world-famous for its food, wines, and colorful nightlife, including Le Moulin Rouge. While it is wonderful to enjoy all of these during a trip to … Read more
Is France a good place to live? Moving to France has its pros and cons, as does any situation that involves moving abroad. While any tourist could come up with their list of reasons as to why France is worth moving to or not, it takes an actual expat (or former expat), to validate those … Read more
Are you searching for French property for sale to purchase a second home, an investment property, or a new home upon your relocation to France? There is plenty of attractive real estate for sale in France, but the industry is not as digitized as it is in the United Kingdom or the United States. This … Read more
Moving to another country is usually the culmination of months of planning and excitement. France is a great country to live in, with gorgeous nature, interesting towns and villages, and the best food and wine in the world. But moving to France also requires adjustment to a more different lifestyle than you might expect. Although life … Read more
If you are planning to move to France, one of your top priorities is likely to be the ease of access to good healthcare. The really good news is that the French healthcare system is regarded as one of the best in the world and it is available to everyone, both French nationals and foreigners … Read more
France is a large country with great variety of regions and local characteristics. Its cities are memorable and many of its towns and villages are simply charming. So what are some facts about France that are most important to know if you want to learn about this amazing country? There is a tangible French character … Read more
France has long been a firm favorite with many nationalities who choose to make it their home. Speaking English is France is not very common, but the large numbers of foreigners who have settled in the country is proof that you can have a fulfilling life in France as an English speaker. France is particularly … Read more
One of the first things you will want to do as an expat on your arrival in France is to open a French bank account. A bank account is often necessary if you are planning to rent or purchase real estate in France. It also makes everyday transactions such as paying utility bills, much easier. … Read more
Looking to visit or planning a move to France, and wondering what the weather is like? This guide will get you familiarized with the French climate for every month of the year, so you can plan and pack accordingly. France is a large country with a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. The weather tends … Read more
Have you decided to move to France? Congratulations! C’est magnifique! It is important that you now start planning your relocation as soon as possible, because the French are world famous for their bureaucracy, and there are many time-consuming administrative tasks to complete. To make your move abroad as seamless as possible, we’ve put together the … Read more
If you are planning to move to France, it can be extremely beneficial to try to learn French fast. It is true that if you are moving to Paris or another major city, you may be able to get by without speaking any French. However, if you’re planning on living in a rural area in … Read more
Each country has its own character and La République Française is certainly unique in lifestyle, culture, and traditions. All countries have a wealth of reasons that make them unique, some unusual ‘claims to fame’ plus some amusing customs, so we’re happy to share such facts about France that you might have not heard of. When … Read more
France is a popular country to retire in and it has hundreds of desirable locations that check the boxes on your retirement wish list. France was blessed with a great variety of geographies, climates, and cities, towns, and villages, so you’re sure to find the best place to retire in France. With 3,500 miles (5,500 … Read more
There are certainly many points to think about when planning your move to France, and your budget is usually top of mind. France is large and all its different areas offer a different lifestyle which comes with a different cost of living. So, what are the best cheap places to live in France? We’ve compiled … Read more
Paris is one of the most famous capital cities in the world, with interesting, vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own style, vibe, culture and, of course, cuisine. Paris is also the most popular place to live in France for expats not in the least because of its diversity and some of the best neighborhoods you … Read more
Moving to France and looking for a job, but don’t speak great French? Don’t worry! There are plenty of jobs in France in English, especially work opportunities where native English skills are essential and difficult to find among locals. Finding jobs in France in English as an American, British, Canadian, or Australian, when you don’t … Read more
France as a country is very family-friendly and a great choice for expats with children. If you’re planning a move to France or relocating within the country, finding the best place to live in France for families is the first step in the process. Some non-French families move to France and settle in the country’s … Read more
Making a living in France as an expat while enjoying the French way of life is a common objective for many when considering a move abroad. Some people get the chance to do so for a few years while working for a large international company. Many are exploring ways to successfully work in France so … Read more
France is one of the most popular European countries with expats seeking the perfect retirement. The climate, French food, and lifestyle are all big draws, especially to British, American, German, and Dutch retirees. With good advanced planning and research, retiring in France from USA or other countries is smooth sailing. Retiring in France To make … Read more