Destination: Abroad

When I mention that I call France my home, people always have questions. Surprisingly, it’s not about conquering the language barrier or dealing with homesickness; the most common query is, “How did you do it?”

With this website, I’m excited to answer those questions and share invaluable travel and expat tips. But that’s not all— I’ll also collaborate with expat friends and professionals who’ll bring you their insights and advice.

You’re not alone.

One resource I’ve counted on to help me relocate to France is Renestance. Dennelle Taylor Nizoux, an American married to a Frenchman, was in her early days putting down roots for the business when we met in Montpelier. I grabbed onto her coattails immediately. Dennelle had the right “stuff” to help me with the seemingly endless paperwork for legally residing in France. Most importantly, her services included accompanying me to the Prefecture to translate. That was worth gold!

Today, Renestance has a list of services for Americans relocating to France that cover a wide range of categories. From relocation services to real estate— and more — Renestance can help with everything from French health care to discovering the charm of the Occitanie area.

As we go through the steps in this series, you’ll meet others to help you. Check this site often for the latest information and resources.

Now, what’s your game plan for a new life in France?

Be prepared

Retiring in France as an American requires careful planning and a willingness to adapt to a new culture and way of life. Before you can start savoring the wine and soaking up the French way of life, some work must be done. Accept that it’s required, then get on with it.

Accept the Work Ahead

Americans looking to retire in France must first apply for a long-stay visa. This process starts in the U.S. at the French Consulate nearest you—the visa grants permission to live in the country for more than 90 days. The exact type of visa will depend on your circumstances and intentions.

Document gathering is essential for a move to France. Have all your paperwork ready, from proof of income to health records. Some documents may need translation into French.

Understanding the financial aspects of a move to France is crucial. The cost of living can vary significantly based on location, with cities like Paris pricier than smaller towns. It’s also essential to grasp the French tax system to understand your obligations in France and the U.S.

Additionally, think about both short and long-term healthcare. Health insurance in France is obligatory for everyone, even ex-pats who meet residency requirements — meaning a person who has lived in France for three months to stay in the country for another three months minimum. If you remain in France for a short period, you may purchase travel insurance with good medical coverage. Research health insurance options to ensure coverage.

Adapt to the New

Adjusting to life in France involves more than settling into a new home. The climate, daily routines, and even how businesses operate can differ. While there might be similarities with American customs, there are also notable differences. From how people greet each other to dining etiquette, learning and respecting these nuances is beneficial.

Being open to new experiences can make the transition smoother. Whether joining local coffee groups, learning to play pétanque, attending events, or just walking around your neighborhood, immerse yourself in your new environment. It is both enlightening … and fun!

Enjoy Every Day

The process of relocating is just the beginning of your French adventure. There’s a wealth of experiences and options out there. France offers fantastic and diverse landscapes and historical sites to visit, culinary options … and, let’s not forget, the weekly markets! You’ll love exploring wine regions, discovering the local cafes, and meeting new people. If you allow it, there’s never a dull moment.

Be Patient

Moving to another country, especially as diverse and historically rich as France, can be exciting, challenging, and promises countless joys and new experiences. Settling in smoothly often comes with its set of hurdles. As with any significant life change, it’s essential to approach the journey with patience and humor.

Navigating Unexpected Hurdles

No matter how well you prepare, some things might catch you off guard. For instance, the bureaucratic processes in France may be slower than what you’re used to back home. Property purchases or utility connections might take longer than expected.

And then there’s your “dream home in the picturesque south of France.” You may discover it requires more renovations than you thought. Or you’ve moved to a busy Parisian neighborhood and didn’t expect the noise to keep you awake. It’s all part of moving to a new location. It can happen anywhere.

Information Overload

There’s a lot to absorb when considering a move to France. It’s not just about the big things; sometimes, it’s the minor details, like understanding the seemingly outlandish number of cheese varieties or knowing which days local stores and markets operate.

The Power of Patience

For every unexpected problem or delay, there’s a silver lining — an opportunity. The market that’s closed? Explore a new cafe instead and mingle with locals. The language barrier? It can limit your willingness to participate with others. Or it can lead to humorous and memorable stories. Take classes, join conversation groups, and practice speaking the language with your new French friends.

Property renovations a nightmare? Positive-minded people seem to transform the project into a passion. Engaging with artisans and craftsmen can be a chance to learn the culture and language. When completed, the new residence has many good stories to share.

Be Flexible

For anyone considering retirement in France, flexibility is not just a virtue; it’s a necessity. The journey to live in a new country is filled with unpredictable moments and unexpected turns. Being adaptable can be the key to navigating these changes smoothly.

Unexpected Hurdles in Daily Life

Life in France, while excellent, can catch you off guard. Local customs and practices are rich in tradition and are sometimes different from what you’re accustomed to. For example, shops might close for a few hours for lunch, or some services might operate on a different timetable. Settling up utilities, banking, and accessing healthcare vary from ours. It takes Americans time to adjust coming from our world of non-stop commercialism.

Adapting with Grace

Each challenge is also an opportunity. When you come up with an answer, a solution, or an educated guess, it can give you a profound sense of accomplishment and integration. It’s all about approaching unforeseen situations with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

Be Resilient

Taking the bold move to retire in France is, in essence, embarking on one of your life’s most significant changes. While the allure of it seems irresistible, the path to creating a new home in a foreign land is challenging. Resilience is a necessity.

The Nature of Setbacks

Even the best-laid plans come with unexpected setbacks. One common challenge is homesickness. Leaving familiar surroundings, your loved ones, and the comfort of your known environment can be daunting. Missing family milestones or simply the usual sights and sounds of home can sometimes be overwhelming.

Language differences amplify the feeling of being an outsider. While you may live among many English speakers, daily interactions can be frustrating. Accomplishing simple tasks can be difficult. Every day presents a learning opportunity and, sometimes, a challenge.

Building Resilience

Every challenge brings with it an opportunity for growth. Resilience is built through confronting and overcoming obstacles.

Stay Connected: Maintain family ties with video calls. It’s almost like being there. Regular calls, social media updates, and even old-fashioned letters and postcards can bridge the miles.
Join Expat Groups: Your new best friends are often among the expats you meet on your first days at your new home. They provide a sense of belonging and a ready support system for people who have faced similar challenges.
Embrace Language Learning. Even basic conversational skills can enhance your expat experience. Language classes aid in language skills and provide an opportunity to meet people. Keep trying.
Seek Familiarity: Create spaces in your new place that remind you of home. Decorate with familiar items, cook comfort food, or maintain routines that remind you of home. Attend local events or take regular walks to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.
Stay Positive and Reflect: Journaling or maintaining a blog can be therapeutic. It offers a platform to express feelings, reflect on experiences, and track personal growth.

Resilience is more than just the ability to bounce back; it’s the capacity to adapt, learn, and find strength in adversity. Every retiree who dreams of a French escapade is already equipped with the resilience from a lifetime of experiences.