9 things I can do LIVING IN FRANCE but not in the US

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

What do you hope to experience when you are abroad (either living there or traveling)?

[@cherylpumphrey2705]

Patricia, I want to sit on the steps of Momarte again, view the artists, walk the streets, pray, and journal.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

What a lovely vision,@@cherylpumphrey2705.🙂

[@gabrielapaulinho1luv]

Merci, Patricia.❤ What I hope to experience when I travel to France again, and each time I travel to Québec, is to be a confident woman as you are. When I achieve that level of confidence, then I'll be able to picture myself immigrating to either Québec or Northern France. I'm preparing for an upcoming trip, and I'll continue viewing your videos en route to, and while in, my destination. À bientôt, Gabby

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci,@@gabrielapaulinho1luv. My confidence has come from feeling the fear and doing it anyway. Doing and seeing what you've done that you didn't think you could is so empowering. Keep on traveling and envisioning yourself moving abroad with confidence. You'll get there, I'm sure! 😀 Thank you for watching.

[@joyceadams5765]

I believe it

[@Alex-mp1zb]

Patricia, it's a joy and an honor to have you among us!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

😊, oh thank you so much for saying this. It makes what I do so worthwhile and reinforces that I'm doing what I'm meant to.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Ah, thank you! 😊

[@cherylpumphrey2705]

I admire your tenacity, bravery, and elegance…

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Ah, thank you.😊

[@Misses-Hippy]

You have to REALLY want to be here (Europe), because there are a thousand obstacles and frustrations to get over, especially if you do not speak the language.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

@@Misses-Hippy so true. Know your why and remind yourself of this often!

[@fp2374]

Glad you notice I left the USA 22 years ago last time visit was 2015 but never back to live again Vive la France !!!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

So happy for you. Vive la France 🇫🇷!

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst I will never go back.

[@michelesauret7779]

Je vous trouve de plus en plus jolie et épanouie. La France vous réussit, votre instinct avait vu juste. Vous semblez de plus en plus en accord avec votre moi profond, ce que justement vous cherchiez. Vos prochains voyages vont vous apporter d'autres connaissances qui vont encore vous enrichir. Vous avez remplacé avoir par être, bravo Patricia et continuez sur le chemin du bonheur ❤️

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Vivre la vie dans la façon dont vous parlez et dans laquelle j'apprends le faire, n'est pas toujours évident. Mais avec des commentaires comme les vôtres je suis encouragée de continuer quoi qu’il arrive. Merci beaucoup pour votre mots vraiment touchants. Ils comptents beaucoup pour moi.❤❤❤

[@melaniesmith3954]

I like the exchanging having into being thought

[@carolynlarke1340]

I'm moving to Lapradelle in the Aude department in March. I love the language and the culture and have been visiting for decades. I finally realized how meager my life is here in South Florida where you can be killed any moment when walking or biking. The little stores are all gone for corporate horrors and Starbucks. I was so sad every time I came back here. I thought about it and decided to buy a little village house with a connecting bus that will link to the TGV in 45 minutes. I can't wait.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Congratulations! You will feel so good in France. So happy for you!

[@Misses-Hippy]

TGV: Train Gross Vitesse or Very Fast Train. I spent time in S. Fla too.

[@Itsukazutrap]

​​@@Misses-Hippy grande, not grosse Grosse would be big/fat. Grande is great/high/tall depending on the context

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@Itsukazutrap Oops. Corrected. Gross would be German. Grossartig or Grossmutter. Being a polyglot can create problems. The same fast train in Germany is called ICE (Inter City Express). Germans don't say "icecream" they say Eis? The lady at the wicket, very confused, told me there was a cider train for tourists, but no icecream trains.

[@denisscheffmann9240]

@@Misses-Hippy les Allemands disent " i tssé é"

[@nvrlkbk]

Hi Patricia! I stumbled on your video today. I am also an American living in France (since 2011). I am glad you can still list positive things after being here for five years 😂😂. Seriously, your lovely spirit shines through o this video and I wish you many more good experiences here. I have been to Collioure with my family and it is lovely. All the best. Jeff

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hi, Jeff. Oh, thank you for such a lovely comment. Hopefully, I'll still be able to list positive things when I've lived here as long as you have. 😀

[@kolapso3687]

As a french, I apologies for all the bad things. I hope one Day this country will wake up.

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@kolapso3687 Kolapso or Colapso = A cross between a Collie and a Lhash Apso. Perfect dog to take to the beach.

[@kolapso3687]

@@Misses-Hippy ? I don't understand your comment?

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@kolapso3687 Colapsable chairs, umbrellas, and a colapsable dog.

[@brisacostera]

I love this for you!! ❤ Also, I love how you take your time talking to your youtube audience. Like it's a conversation. Instead of a rushed video with a rushed voiceover like 99% of most youtube or social media content. 😊 Very refreshing.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you! I enjoy sharing in this conversational way it allows me to go a bit deeper. I'm happy that this format speaks to you. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Misses-Hippy]

Oui, c'est une sombre expérience. J'ai aussi visité Verdun, Vimy Ridge, Omaha et Juno Beaches. Ca fait mal de voir les Américains jouer avec leur démocratie durement gagnée.

[@gaxkiller]

As a French I can say you are definitely putting a lot of effort integrating yourself, good work :)

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Aw, thank you. This means a lot to me. 🙂

[@francocanuck]

Yes she deserve

[@kerriar]

You can also expect a longer healthier life living in France - longevity is significantly better than the US (and many other places) but that probably doesn’t surprise you.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

I feel happier here and I think that definitely impacts health. I've noticed the death notices posted at the church and often they are for people in their mid nineties. So I think you are on to something.

[@jonasbaine3538]

Won’t get shot in nice France. USA it’s a daily concern👎🏾. I toured nice eze and Monaco and as a black man felt great and relaxed.

[@sarala1jan]

So true …with recent presidential election, someone from the top ….RFK mentioned that there are at least 1000 ingredients that’s been banned in Europe and they are still added to the food in the USA. FDA !!! Not 1, not 10, at least 1000…..

[@kidinspace3965]

Patricia! Im also a black woman from Richmond, VA and I found your video thinking about options for places to study and work after undergrad. Thank you so much for sharing your experience, you paint a gorgeous picture

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello, so glad you found my channel. Besides France where else are you considering?

[@kidinspace3965]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Canada, (significantly) English speaking countries in Europe, and at my mothers request, Germany. The challenge of getting trhough physics grad school or a postdoc while also needing to gain fluency in another language is attractive, but of course the first metric Im measuring are the opportunities in each country. All your videos show at the very least its not impossible :)

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@kidinspace3965 Not impossible, but you will need time, money and a lot of good luck. It really helps if you have connections.

[@reginapolo3357]

I spent three days in Narbonne and three days in Menton and I felt in love with France. Yes the people is very nice

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Ah, Narbonne. I love Narbonne. Never been to Menton but I'm sure it's nice too. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Go to Menton during lemon season - You will be amazed! If you love Roman history; Narbonne is the place to be. You can still see the chariot marks in the rock.

[@panuntukan]

The main difference between shopping "under the same roof" (big supermarkets and malls owned by investors funds) and shopping from one shop to another in a city center is that you get along with people who care about their local reputation as a producer or retailer. They live there, they know everyone, everyone knows them and their family-run business. They are conscious about personal contact, mutual trust, ways to build relationships with small gifts, advises, remembering what this or that client likes or doesn't like, and so on. You can still find this humanist spirit in many countries in Europe, from the multiethnic poor suburbs to the small rural towns. One once said : "if you go to buy your low-price baguette and croissant in a big supermarket, don't complain when one day you will be in need for a special pastry high skilled product, for a special occasion, and discover that there are no more skilled bakers in town".

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

This is true. Having specialty shops is something I am learning to appreciate more and more. The quality and the connection with the store owners.

[@emjizone]

2:33 Yes, go figure: in towns where every store specializes in one category of product, you can be *served by people who have devoted their lives to studying and training on the subject* , and *who can't make any serious mistakes on the risk of losing their entire business* , as opposed to big companies able to survive their own flaws by diversification.

[@dumspirospero-s1l]

Bonjour Patricia. Je suis content de voir que vous avez trouvé un nouveau port d'attache en France et que vous vous y plaisez tellement. Si vous allez en Normandie, vous découvrirez une région très riche culturellement et bien différente du Midi à tous points de vue, paysages, climat, accent, gastronomie, traditions... Les plages du débarquement de 1944 sont un lieu incontournable et très émouvant, en particulier le cimetière américain de Colleville-sur-Mer, situé au sommet de la falaise dominant la célèbre plage d’Omaha. Nous Français, n'oublierons jamais tous ces jeunes Américains qui se sont engagés pour libérer notre pays de la tyrannie nazie et dont beaucoup sont enterrés dans notre vieux pays. En 1967, j'avais 15 ans, j'ai travaillé tout un été pendant les vacances scolaires dans le cimetière américain de Thiaucourt, dans le nord-est de la France, à tondre les pelouses, tailler les haies... et ces milliers de croix alignées m'avaient déjà profondément marqué. Bonne continuation.🥰

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci beaucoup. Oui, l'année dernière je suis allée en Normandie pendant quelques jours. J'ai visité une amie à Rouen, j'ai regardé la grande parade de l'armada, et je suis allée à Omaha Beach et la cimetière à côté. C'était une expérience très bouleversante et marquante pour moi aussi. Là-bas les gens sont toujours tellement reconnaissants des États-Unis. Ça m'a fait très fière de mon pays et de son sacrife lourd. Merci d'avoir partagé votre avis et votre souvenir.❤️

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci beaucoup. Oui, l'année dernière je suis allée en Normandie pendant quelques jours. J'ai visité une amie à Rouen, j'ai regardé la grande parade de l'armada, et je suis allée à Omaha Beach et la cimetière à côté. C'était une expérience très bouleversante et marquante pour moi aussi. Là-bas les gens sont toujours tellement reconnaissants des États-Unis. Ça m'a fait très fière de mon pays et du sacrife lourd.

[@titlouloute36]

Bonjour, je suis tombée sur votre vidéo par hasard et j'ai eu le plaisir de reconnaître Céret ❤️. Vous faites une très belle description de nôtre région, merci de la faire découvrir 🥰

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci d'avoir regardé cette vidéo. Je suis contente qu'elle vous avez plu. Et merci pour votre commentaire sympa. 🙂

[@KatherineTThan]

Wow! Thanks Patricia for making this super wonderful video. This is the first time I’ve ever heard about The France channel . Can’t wait to watch this channel.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

You are welcome. Thanks for watching! Enjoy France Channel!

[@walking-in-heals]

You are such an inspiration! Thank you for sharing this content. I’m in France now and it always feels like home to me. I hope to make it a second residence and it’s nice to hear you speak so highly of it. 🇫🇷

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. There is nothing like being somewhere and feeling like it feels like home. Best wishes with your plans.

[@walking-in-heals]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst thanks 🙏🏽♥️🇫🇷

[@plotinien]

Your video appeared on my feed today, and I watched it with so much pleasure that I thought I'd leave you a comment, not only to thank you for sharing your experience with us, but also for being such a positive woman! You sound very friendly. I admire your energy. I wish you success and joy for decades to come!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

😊Thank you for taking time to share your thoughts with me. They means so much. I'm happy that you enjoyed this video. Best wishes for success and joy for you too!

[@couvertgerard7742]

Parfois en tant que français on peut être triste ou même désespéré de voir que trop de français n'aiment plus assez la France, des personnes comme vous nous redonnent confiance dans notre pays, et, le plus important : le sourire ! Bravo pour cette vidéo et pour votre ouverture d'esprit. Vivant le quart de l'année en Italie j'y retrouve ces plaisirs dont vous parle, entre autre celui d'entrer dans un magasin juste pour échanger avec le vendeur dans une langue qui n'est pas la mienne.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci beaucoup. Je pense que c'est peut-être normal de ne pas valoriser les choses dont on s'est habitue. On peut avoir la tendance de focaliser sur ce qui ne vont pas bien et ne pas sur les choses qui fonctionne bien. Vivre dans un pays étranger est une bonne façon de élargir les horizons et de voir des choses différemment . Merci d'avoir regardé ma vidéo et d'avoir fait un commentaire.

[@elyseb674]

This Philly Girl is excited for you, Jersey Girl. Bon chance avec español! I was stationed in Spain for 2 years and will move to Naples for my last assignment in a few months. Looking forward to retiring in Portugal.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Muchas gracias !

[@elyseb674]

De nada mademoiselle 😊

[@WNYfellow]

Various sages have said "our thoughts are what make us." Your positive thoughts and positive, constructive efforts have made your new life in France.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Yes, you are 100% right. I haven't always been so positive and my life seemed to follow suit. Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts with me.

[@bjm1632]

I enjoyed this video so much! This is a lifestyle I can do, wow steps away from farmers markets and butchers, cafes. Thank you for sharing! 🌹

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

So glad this video brought you pleasure. Thanks for watching!🙂

[@XekoMML]

I'm learning English with you!!! Your pronunciation is perfect. 😊 Thanks

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

😀Wonderful ! Glad these videos help. What is your mother tongue ?

[@OhhDonnaa]

You are wonderful! I'm from PA and I live in VA now. I'm learning all about France now. I will be watching all of your videos! Merci!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Oh, thank you!😊 So glad you enjoyed this video. I hope you enjoy the others too!

[@StephenLester-kl7oy]

I love your warm attitude and demeanor! Thank you for this video. Subscribing!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Ah, what a lovely message to wake up to. Thank you. I appreciate your support. 😀

[@fbrosseau]

05:57 Vous citez le village de Collioure. J'y suis allé une seule fois et c'était pour une semaine. Étant du Québec, le Sud de la France, près de la frontière Espagnole lorsqu'il y avait des frontières en europe, ce coin de pays a été une découverte pour moi. Les paysages, l'architecture, l'histoire de la région, ses particularités, l'accent du pays, tout avait été un ravissement.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Oui, Collioure est sympa. En été, maintenant, il y a beaucoup de monde. Merci pour votre commentaire.

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst I'm up the road from Collioure, and from the same homeland! Would love to meet.

[@anniejolu7641]

Il y a toujours des frontières en Europe .

[@ninafritz2089]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience in France-I’m planning to move to Europe from US in the near future. You inspire me !

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you Nina. I'm delighted that you are enjoying my videos. Have you chosen which country in Europe will be your new home?

[@ninafritz2089]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Either France or Italy and all I hope for is peace. The US is just too crazy for me anymore.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

I hear you,@@ninafritz2089 . Best wishes with your move abroad!🙂

[@Deborah986]

You’ve got to go to ITALY- your so close😊

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@Deborah986 And the ride along the coast is to die for.

[@RPLstudiocity]

Hi Patricia! I'm hoping to do the same this year! Currently focused on Montpellier (b/c of their med facilities as I have lupus). So glad to hear you are happy with your choice.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Wonderful, Daisy! Congratulations on deciding to make the move!❤

[@YogaBlissDance]

Your lupus may heal or reduce once your stress is down.

[@RPLstudiocity]

@@YogaBlissDance That's my hope. I also think the quality of the food in France will help alleviate some of my fibromyalgia symptoms.

[@patriciamitchell9365]

Research the hospitals in countries outside the U.S., as they may not be experienced with conditions such as Lupus and Sarcoidosis. Especially small cities/towns. Also their health insurance (I think it's free for citizens - but you won't be a citizen for quite a while) so you'll have to pay out-of-pocket for everything.

[@RPLstudiocity]

@@patriciamitchell9365 I've done my research, thanks.

[@paulfigueroa9978]

Everyday must be an adventure for you! I am quite envious but I must satisfy myself to the occasional visit to France. Thanks for sharing your experience and best wishes!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Some days are an adventure. Other days life feels pretty normal. Though sometimes it's hard to believe I live in France. 😀

[@bradlafferty]

Hello. We are from the states and often muse on living in France in our retirement. I appreciate your overview in this video and look forward to watching more! New sub.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you for your message. Often we get an idea and think about it and then move onto other things. But the idea keeps coming back. If that is the case for you, France might be in your stars.😀

[@teescoffee5689]

Wow! This is great, you’re so inspiring! I’ve been thinking about what country I could live in comfortably outside the US. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed this video.

[@ivansmith654]

Franco-American French mother American father US army I was born Paris and I now live near Perpingan I can get locally made French wine and cheese daily, and that is impossible Stateside I know I have been there!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Yes, definitely different from the States. Thanks for sharing.

[@user-xz6bp9eq9p]

Also from Richmond and have been considering moving to France! How funny to find your video! Loved to hear your perspective. All things I’m finding so appealing about France.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello. So glad you enjoyed this video. Hope all is well in RVA. Thanks for watching!

[@rangamurali7667]

Refreshingly beautiful to hear everything you said about the wonderful journey you have begun. Can’t wait to hear more your vlogs in your words. Thank you!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Aw, thank you for your kind words. I'll definitely keep these videos coming. Thanks for watching.

[@greatfinds7576]

Just discovered your channel and I love it! So happy for you that you've enjoyed making France your new home. You go, girl!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. So glad you are enjoying my channel.

[@流浪漢パリ]

2:39 there are malls here too, since the 60s. But people prefer tiny groceries, markets and specialty shops.

[@TheGreenMoon-yz4zb]

yaaaay! So proud of you! Enjoy yourself!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. I will! 🙂

[@StepansOdyssey]

Hi Patricia! Thank you for sharing your experience! :)

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Oh, you are welcome. I'm happy that you find value in it.🙂

[@jossyDread]

Congratulations Patricia ! May I advise you to join one of your local "association"? Either a sports club, an art class, a cooking class, or even better an association involved in local festivities. It is how French people socialize, mostly in the countryside or smalls towns. You would have the opportunity to meet more French pepole, speak French, learn about local customs ... In my village we organize a big event for the "fête de la musique" each year (on June 21st) thanks to 300 local volunteers.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. 😀I have joined a couple, though not to organize an event. Might fun and I could dust off my project management and organization skills. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@peterbridge9394]

Nice, thanks. Very glad you're going to Normandy. We were once in Beaune on Victory Day, and attended the celebration and chatted with the mayor.

[@tortuexenad]

hello, welcome in the south west (I am from Tarn), you should try to go to Andorra or Pas de la Case to shop (free of tax) (be careful of some rules, we are limited with the number of cigarettes for example)

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello. Thank you. Yes, I've been to Andorra on vacation, but not expressly to shop. Many people in my area cross the border into Spain for lower taxes on cigarettes and alcohol, and lower prices on other items too.

[@thierryf67]

It seems you're in french Catalunya, near Perpignan. The travel to Normandy won't be easy, even if train are correct in France. I don't know if you already be there, you can go via Paris from the Rhone valley (via Lyon) in TGV (fast train) and then change railways station to go to Normandy, Or going west via Toulouse, Bordeaux, and the Loire Valley (Le Mans), but i think you'll have to change train more. Via Paris, it could be an occasion to have a little stay in a small hotel there and visit a little the capital city.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

The trip to Normandy was fine. It wasn't direct and I did have to change trains in Paris, but without incident. Since there was a big event happening there, the Armada I had to take an afternoon train back. But it was all good.😀

[@lucindanobles7728]

So great to hear your experiences and wanted to get back to France other than a quick tour. Perhaps couple of weeks. I did like this video and subscribed to learn more. ❤

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Travelling to another country and spending a bit of time in that place always helps you get a better feel for the place. Best wishes with our travels.

[@SandraWhylly-Lykes-e9e]

I am moving to France on Tuesday and hope to connect with you someday.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Congratulations on your move. How exciting! Best wishes and hopefully our paths will cross.

[@SandraWhylly-Lykes-e9e]

@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Thanks, Patricia. Feel free to stay in touch.

[@Chris-ho2de]

Merci, Patricia, j'ai beaucoup aimé votre vidéo. Je vous souhaite la bienvenue en France.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci à vous. Je suis contente que cette vidéo vous ait plu. 😊

[@olivierdelatouche9453]

When you'll get french really right (seeing the ethymology of the words easily) you'll get spanish and it1lian quite fast because those are latin langu1ges with a bit of greek

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Yes, learning Spanish with a background in French and from a French perspective I can see the connection.

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst And much of English is French.

[@流浪漢パリ]

1:29 we do not only buy. Many good and brand new items are sometimes just left by the street and we help ourselves :).

[@katsybo]

Looking to do the same. Love the Perpignan/Argeles area.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

It really is a beautiful area. Bon courage !

[@michaellourdemaria7245]

Merci Patricia pour vos encouragements. I wish you a wonderful and happy journey in south of France. A bientôt sur KZbin.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Je VOUS remercier. 🙂

[@jd3422]

With your positive attitude, you will get along well wherever you go. Brava to you!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Ah, thank you. Having a positive attitude, now, has changed how I experience life. 😊

[@garnray8568]

You are a wonderful, beautiful lady and you are more than welcome here in France. I hope you'll take French citizenship and become a citizen of our Republic. We want you !

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you so much. It's a scary idea to go for French citizenship, but comments like this one warm my heart and make me think that it will indeed be possible for me.🙂 Merci beaucoup !

[@garnray8568]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Oh don't mention it ! I mean it ! I hope you'll always stay here! 😊

[@alainfournol6786]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst @garnray is right, I could not say better…

[@michaellourdemaria7245]

Bonjour Patricia. I’m very impressed by your courage to decide to move in France by yourself. I understand your feeling because I did the opposite way. FR to US. Je vous suis sous KZbin et j’apprécie beaucoup votre regard et critique qui sont très pertinents. Merci à vous.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci ! Je suis contente que vous me suivez sur KZbin. Vous avez beaucoup de courage, vous aussi. C'est pas évident de s'installer dans un pays étranger. J'espère que l'USA vous plaît autant que la France me plaît.

[@danielcreveuil]

Merci Madame

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Je vous en prie

[@流浪漢パリ]

5:21 explore -> Veules les Roses, Gerberoy, Belle île, Biarritz, Arcachon, Strasbourg, Corsica, etc.

[@yourfavoritetimetraveler]

omgoodness! This energy of moving to France just dropped into my spirit. I randomly found your video and when you said your from Richmond VA! ME TOOOO! ❤ lol okay going back to the video 😂

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

There are no accidents. Hope you enjoyed the video.😀

[@webyourstuff1]

I was very impressed by your presentation. Thank you for sharing.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed this video. Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@karenwhynott6487]

Markets?? 😊😊 love your description.... yum 😋

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

☺Thanks, Karen!

[@shalenah]

love this! i lived in spain for 3 years and miss life abroad so much! i'm also in va. i'm quite fluent in spanish now but this inspires me to keep up with my french. i've been slacking with babbel heavily the past 1.5 months lol. wish you the best!!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Wonderful! Three years in Spain! Whereabouts? Yes, I've taken a few days off from my Spanish, and it's time for me to get back into it too. 😏 Bon courage !

[@shalenah]

Hiii my first year in San Roque, a small town in Cádiz, my second year the magical Granada, and my third year in Galicia in a small seaside town near Vigo. I moved right after college to be an auxiliar de conversación

[@dominiquebt]

Thanks for posting this. I love your lifestyle. It reminds me so much of the one I had in semi-rural Japan as an English teacher. I learned only a little Japanese in the time I was there, but still learned a lot about the culture just by being outside in a small town on foot and interacting with the locals. I loved being able to walk to the market/specialty shops, forage for fruit in certain areas, connect with nature just outside my front door yet still be within 45 minutes to a big city by public transport. My lifestyle sweet spot. I'm considering France as my retirement spot and will continue to follow you.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

What lovely imagery you paint describing your time in Japan. I feel so very fortunate to be here. Thanks for watching and sharing. 🙂

[@beakay8700]

I just subscribed because your point of view is refreshing, as is your hunger for learning, love of people, curiosity, and appreciation of nature and history. I currently live in Southern California and often think about moving abroad. I would love to learn French. It’s such a beautiful language. Did you take French classes in the states? If I ever move abroad, I think I would either choose France or Spain.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you for subscribing. I'm glad you are enjoying my content. I didn't take French classes in the US. I did Pimsleur Method and had a tutor there. I did take a class when I arrived in France, however.

[@beakay8700]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst That’s so great, I will look into that! 😊

[@avoidingtrees6692]

Welcome to my country Patricia. I hope you will live among us happy , and fulfilled.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci. Yes, I am living among you happily. Thanks for watching!

[@lucindanobles7728]

Wonderful video and see Southern France thru the eyes and experiences of a black expat and enjoy learning French. Well done 🎉🎉🎉 Ms Brooks

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed this video. I love learning so continuing to improve my French is fun (for the most part). Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@JPB57]

Hi Patricia, Bienvenue en France

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci. 😀

[@EdwardArmstrong-y3f]

Great video I am very impressed

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you.

[@cherylpumphrey2705]

The first time I traveled to Paris, I felt as if I had stein to a perfume bottle! I felt good, true, and so authentically beautiful… in a way that I had never felt in the U.S. … Sad to say, I was with my husband, and my expressive sense of freedom was something he had not seen before. I honestly think it perplexed him in a way that did not make him happy.

[@itguru2037]

Get divorced

[@briandriscoll1480]

How was your French avant de se deplacer. How long have you been there now and do you consider yourself now fluent.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello, when I arrived in France in 2018 I would say I was at a high A2/low B1 level. Yes I am fluent now and claimed that 18 months after arriving. 😊

[@briandriscoll1480]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Thanks.

[@flomiller6175]

Love France too great country to live in. So much to do and sea one will never be the same after living in France. Nice video!❤🎉😊

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

You are right. I won't ever be the same thanks to France!😀 Thank you, and thanks for watching.

[@laurettecastellano2830]

Hi Patricia we have so many similarites. I came to France 32 years ago from Québec. I live in a small ski town in the Alpes 20 kms from Italy. Being of italian origin l speak fluent italian as well. I love living here and never looked back to my old life in Canada. And by the way you have a new subscriber.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Wow. Yes lot's of similarities. And 32 years that's staying power. Good for you!

[@jamescurtis6217]

Patricia you are a beautiful lady with warm and sensitive presentation skills talking about the allure of `La Belle France` and your enviable life there. What`s not to like??? Really love it, I have subscribed and wish you all the best with your channel. Love from an octogenarian Englishman living in Czech Republic but constantly dreaming of France. 😘

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Ah, thank you. So glad you like my channel and that I can bring a taste of France to you in the Czech Republic. Thanks for subscribing. Take care!

[@rutos7]

Well done for learning languages 😊. I am learning a few languages, too. All the best in France for you 😊

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. Good for you with your language learning too. It's feels so empowering!

[@richardcorona3564]

Fabulous EP!!!. Yes. Relate to. Everything you shared! I'm in the zouthbof France too but on the Italian sice!!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. I haven't been out your way yet, but I know it's lovely there.

[@fashionandluxury101]

Wow!!! Love it! New subbie. So proud of your willingness to explore a different country ❤

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you for subscribing. I'm happy you enjoyed this video. 😀

[@heritage.home.crochet]

Hey girl, I actually live in Harrisonburg, VA, about 2 hours from Richmond and I appreciate your video a lot. I love the French culture and language and studied French as early as 8th grade. France has always had my heart. I'm currently researching places to visit in France, with a view to moving there. Your video is very helpful. While I think that living in the US is a beautiful singular experience, but I want to go to France ❤

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello! I almost got a job at the chicken processing plant in Harrisonburg back in the 90s. I'm glad you enjoyed this video. Bon courage with your plans.

[@emjizone]

7:09 Just because he was a remarkable painter doesn't mean he was the best person. In the same café today, you could meet people who are much less well known, but who would be much nicer to be around.

[@ashleymariah95]

Hello Patricia! How long did it take you to become a French citizen as well as learn the language? I went to Paris last year as my first time abroad and I loved the architecture and ambiance in France. I am not a big city person so I could never see myself living in a big city. I am glad that I came across your video on your perspective and journey about living in France. Thank you. 😊

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hi! Yes France is special. I haven't applied for French citizenship yet. I started learning French in 2014. When I moved in 2018 I had a good base of the language and by 2020 I considered myself fluent. Happy that you found my channel. Enjoy !

[@sr9253]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalystdo you have a residence permit? I’m retired so considering France to live

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

@@sr9253 Yes. I first had a visitor visa and when I renewed in my second year I got a carte de séjour (a resident permit). Best wishes with your plans.

[@azizpunkmetal]

What would you think about, in another video, doin' the list of' all the things you can do in US but not in France ?

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Sounds good. I'll add it to my list. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@parisbreakfast]

Ha you can get shot in the US. Why I love living in France among so many other reasons. True there is no cheese danish 😢 not yet anyway 🤞 Love your channel Patricia ❤

[@McCainnn]

You are a very nice person. Welcome in France.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you! 😊

[@Chris-kc3is]

Bienvenue 😊

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Merci !

[@fderon]

You picked a great region! Hello from the Pyrenees Orientales and welcome!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello! Thank you! 😀

[@jeffdigby1945]

Hi Patricia thanks for your video my dream is to live in Provence but I hold an Australian passport how did you get a visa ??? Thank you Jeff

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

My first visa was a vistor visa (non working) I had to show I had enough savings or passive income to live on. Now I have a profession-liberale visa which allowed me to start a business here and earn money. You might want to check out this resource. yourfranceformation.mykajabi.com/a/2147506818/gBx5pC Though it is from an American perspective, it lists, in detail, all the different types of visas. Best wishes.

[@elizabethglenbentley7882]

Hi Patricia, yes I'd love to talk to you. "Stuck" is the word! Thanks.

[@JM-gu3tx]

These exact same cheeses are now more common in certain big grocery stores in the U.S.. Change is slow but happening.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Wow. I imagine, if they are the real deal, they are pricier.

[@gabrielapaulinho1luv]

​@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalystVery pricey, indeed. I love Gruyère, and I paid US$9 for little more than a sliver.😬

[@j.c4007]

No, USA forbid cheese made with raw milk ( cow, goat, ...). Those cheeses are si delicious and best for health.

[@bombayjohn3057]

Bonjour Madame, it would be great if you can mix a bit of French in your conversations. That would be helpful for French learners like us

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thanks for your suggestion. Are you interested in my having conversation with others in French on some of my videos? Or were you thinking something different?

[@bombayjohn3057]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Just mix French words, expressions ... in your dialogues and also explain meaning along the way. For example if you say Les Legumes in your conversation, you can say it means the vegetables

[@XavS-qs9lx]

Hello, thank you for this very interesting video. France is a beautiful country with many very positive things, but also, as everywhere, negative aspects. For example, homeschooling has recently been practically banned, even though it's an interesting way of educating children.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. Im glad you enjoyed this. I knew that homeschooling wasn't big in France, but I didn't know that it was banned here.

[@XavS-qs9lx]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst Actually it's quite developed and many people/families are contesting that law :) It's not completely banned but very hard to do

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

@@XavS-qs9lx, I see. Yes there is definitely a structure to things here.

[@Misses-Hippy]

@@XavS-qs9lx I do not think it is possible to homeschool in France. It is for the child's sake. Also, you will be expected to support your 'child' until he/she is 28 YO, if they choose to stay in school, which is free for residents. Not sure about this law (saw on French soapy) but it seems you have to support your parents - if they are destitude, they can move in with you - like it or not! Oh, and there is no choice as to whom you leave in your will. Think good and hard, because 'forced heirs' is a thing - like it or not. I have no kids, but my husband does, and that will cause many problems should I outlive him. You have to really want to live in Europe, because being an expat (migrant) has its rude awakenings.

[@流浪漢パリ]

7:53 : Picasso, désolée de vous décevoir, était un monstre de cruauté.

[@altheagochenour6821]

Oh my gosh I’m from Woodstock VA the Shenandoah Valley🤗

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hi there! The Shenandoah Valley is so beautiful.

[@frenchmakoti]

New subscriber 🎉🎉🎉 Very positive video😊

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

🤗 I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching and subscribing.☺

[@asinglewomanontheloose5590]

Hi! I just discovered your channel (& subscribed!). You obviously have not lived in the areas of the US that I have. I picked them constantly from my garden last year - what a pest!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

No, only slugs where I've lived i the US. But if you've got loads maybe you can do like the French and cook 'em up! 😆

[@kolapso3687]

As a french I admit that it can be hard to deal with everything here. But your smile is like sunshine! Don't hesitate to visit spain and italy. Mostly Spain. People are friendly, both countries are beautifull. Wish you the best. Sorry for my bad english.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Bad English?! It's perfect! Thanks for such a beautiful compliment. 😁Yes, I'll be spending some time in Barcelona and Valencia a little later this year. I'm looking forward to it. I need to get better with my Spanish though. I haven't yet been to Italy but it's on my list. Thank for watching and commenting.

[@s3lfFish]

It’s great that you are happy here with us, and so close to Spain which is another wonderful country. As for Picasso it is right now a tricky subject as most are discovering what type of horrible man he was, most of his paintings, describing the pain he inflected on women, from manipulation to rape to destroying their lives, and the same with his children. There’s some interesting books and videos about it if you’re interested. I think it is important to know and expose who he was and how he came to be helped and not stopped.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Oh, was not aware of this. Don't think I'll be digging into the details of this but thanks for sharing.

[@s3lfFish]

@@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst yeah sorry didn't want to break your dream, but its been the french art topic for the past several years (well since me too I guess). It doesn't mean he wasn't creative, but it sure means he was a disgusting human being. Anyways there's so many artists to be looking out for, in France or elsewhere, I graduated from art school, my personal favorites (in the "fine" art area) : Marcel Duchamp, Robert FilliouLouise Bourgeois, Camille Pissaro, Picabia, Niki de Saint Phalle, Sophie Calle, Henry Ossawa Tanner, Frida Kahlo, Ana Mendieta, etc, etc. ;)

[@natasalways]

me and my girlfriend really want to move to Europe and we’re watching different videos on the subject. We both agree that your soul is just infectious and beautiful. I wish you the best! Hopefully we may join you one day in France. If you don’t mind me asking, what is your profession?

[@faramarzmokri9136]

Patricia your apparent pleasant personality has something to do with your declared happiness living in France. By the way where exactly you live in south of France? .Also how do you support yourself?

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you. 😊 I think I am happier here than I was in the US. I live in Céret. Funny you should ask, in my up coming video (Sept 26., 2024) I delve into how I support myself in France. But in short, I started a life coaching business here. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@melaniesmith3954]

Inspiring

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you!

[@sebastienlola]

C'est beau Céret (:

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Oui, tout à fait !

[@danielz2131]

You are a very interesting young lady. Good-on-you!!!!!!!!!

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Thank you !

[@juanfran579]

I'm a German living in Spain so I share these comforts of life even though for us Europeans shop and stall culture isn't as special as it is for Americans. Je parle plusieurs langues - allemand, anglais, français, espagnol, catalan et un petit peu du néerlandais - et je goúte du plaisir de me relationner avec les gens en parlant leur langue. Vives cerca de España. Como aprendes español, puedes hacerlo también en España sin duda. O dentro de poco si tu nivel de español no lo permite todavía. Life style is easy-going in the Mediterranean. It's one if its major qualities. I feel strongly attached to "my" continent feeling deeply European - more than from any country in particular. My vision has just turned too broad in order to identify with just one place. It seems to me that you feel pretty much the same way.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Yes the Mediterranean is lovely. It's impressive that you can speak so many languages. For now, my Spanish is beginner level, but I'm making progress. My vision of the world has definitely broadened since I moved to France.

[@michellem3879]

Hello from RVA. I’ve recently started to consider France as a place to retire to. How do you find the weather compared to here? Does it get as humid as Central VA? The older I get, the less I can tolerate it. 😅

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Hello! Here can have some humid days, but I think it's less humid than Richmond. Try googling "what is the relative humidity for_____ (name of town)"to get a sense. Temperature wise it very similar to Richmond in summer and winter. But the wind! I hadn't expected it and that takes some getting used to.

[@Ajtheoriginal1]

What part of France did you live in

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Pyrenees Oriental, outside of Perpignan.

[@yoni-in-BHAM]

I must add that there are a lot of specialty shops in California, Oregon and Washington State; let alone Alaska and Hawaii. You can see that my bias is the West Coast! 🤣 My brother lives in Virginia and it's pretty green there, but not as beautiful as where I live in the West! The US is a huge country and I've been to almost all of the states. Each state and region is so different from each other, it's mind boggling! Every place in the world has it's beautiful side and it's ugly side. I just enjoy wherever I am and all it has (good things) to offer.

[@PatriciaBrooksCourageCatalyst]

Yes, you are so right. There is beauty all around and the differences in location can be big in the US but also in the different regions in France .