Why We Left the USA (and moved to France)

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

GET YOUR Paris Travel Guide 👉 bit.ly/LesFrenchiesParisTravelGuides RECOMMENDED DAY TRIPS FROM PARIS 👉 bit.ly/RecommendedParisDayTrips

[@kathewright5619]

We used this guide in planning our trip in November--wonderful, valuable information!

[@Songbirdstress]

tdlr, why I moved to France? Because I love my wife. So cute.

[@FoodNerds]

We’re going to Paris for the Olympics could we meet with you two?

[@yinyangforyou]

This video was excellent!! I've watched it 3 times. Would like to have known what kind of online business you had. What did Colleen do for a home business? How much was the average rent? How much was it to get a bin? I hope you do another one soon answering people's questions. Did you have family living close by? Was it easy for your son to make friends? Did your son appreciate and like the move? Does he tour a lot? This is not intended to be rude but, I have to speak out because it's so apparent. Colleen seems like a very nice, adventurous person but, she does not look like she's from France at all. Meaning, she needs a huge makeover with her dress and hair. Is that the only top she owns? She wears it in every single video. She looks like a slob. Her hair looks horrible, she wears the same exact top for four years and clothes that do NOT compliment her figure at all. If she's going to be on camera, try not to look like a slob. I know this will be deleted but as her husband, you should let her read it because it's true.

[@VirginiaLuche]

Hope we can have meet in Paris next month amd have a photo with you two. My husband, my teenager and I your new followers. You are bith amazing and inspiring❤

[@olafrotkohl5898]

Thanks for this video. My wife and I moved to France from Arizona 5 1/2 years ago, and we haven’t looked back. We’re out in Normandy, with easy access to Paris by train, and it has worked for us beautifully. Indeed, the physical planning and administrative tasks were, in retrospect, almost insurmountable, and yet, by simply tackling one thing at a time we somehow managed to make it. As you have found, the French people themselves have been incredibly helpful, patient, and kind, and that includes all of the fonctionnaires in the government offices. We are supremely grateful to the Republic of France and the people of France because we are truly at home here.

[@FreshGrey-pm4vw]

do either of you speak french fluently? or did you have to learn?

[@Hippy2021]

​@@FreshGrey-pm4vw I speak French fluently but most french speak English like us. Language is not an issue. I would recommend to visit Paris to enjoy the culture and the beautiful place that has to offer. No need to worry about language. People there are simple and kind and there is no violence of any kind but take time to learn and understand french people as they act different than Americans

[@FreshGrey-pm4vw]

@@Hippy2021 I visited Paris 20 yrs ago- I see things have changed a lot. It seems more open and people connect more. However as Colleen mentioned, she felt like an outsider not understanding her sons school teacher who didnt speak english. It does help when one person in a couple is fluent - for sure. Builds confidence and you can practice.

[@justice-jb5ld]

What kind of immigration permits are necessary?

[@iris_luxlover]

Omg! My family and I live in Arizona! And it is our dream to move to Europe. Maybe France or Scotland. Was it really hard to make that move?

[@louisazhou5271]

❤I was so lucky to run into Colleen and Antoine in Paris (near the palace) when they were shooting this episode last week. I ran towards them basically screaming 😂. I followed their advice on the metro card, dining options, and even places to shop and buy souvenirs. Now I’m back in Boston, with best memories of Paris. Thank you again for all your videos. Will visit Paris again!

[@fatimateresa19]

Wow lucky you

[@kpkp-hc1hq]

You were lucky!

[@marie-christinelange131]

You're always be welcome in our country !

[@mikegill4038]

I am from Homestead Florida and moved to Bordeaux 42 years ago ! I was single and in my twenties ! I never regreted this decision !

[@alluringbliss4165]

why did you move?

[@delnacarruthers9335]

Just visited Bordeaux...its wonderful!

[@thehapagirl92]

Did you meet a nice French girl?

[@declissonolivier9376]

@@thehapagirl92 Why always girls???? Can't you fall in love (or like) with the way of living?... Always the same "poncif" (i let you traduce this word)... Stay in your mobile home in Nevada... You're perfect there...

[@barbaracameron5610]

Took my daughter to Paris when she was 13 yrs old. She lived it so much, she returned as 18, as a student at the Sorbornne.junior year abroard. She loved it.had an apt.provided by her college, on st.germain. travelled theu Europe.back after graduation,to get her Masters in French literature at the Sorbornne. she did her dream.My daughter died of cancer 10 yrs later. If you have a dream..do it now!!! U never know.❤

[@PascalDupont-ft7hd]

La vie est changée elle n'est pas ôté.

[@BuffaloDark]

Paix à son âme, que la bienveillance vous accompagne. Cdt

[@JuneBarbone]

Oh, so sad..😢

[@kathewright5619]

Colleen brought tears to my eyes when she spoke about feeling useless when meeting with your son's teachers. That strikes at a parent's core. What I admire about Colleen (and Antoine too-- after so many years and finding he identified as an American) is the willingness to completely change your life, immersed in a new culture. So hard to do--much easier to stay! This is your best video, by far. Thank you! And please give my regards to Vincent ('my new friend in Paris'). After 30 years of visiting Europe, the St Germaine tour we enjoyed with him in December stands out as our BEST tour ever.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you 🤗

[@Monica68817]

Who is Vincent? Please give us info! We stay in St. Germaine when we’re there.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

@@Monica68817 here are his tours lesfrenchiestravel.com/les-frenchies-food-tours-in-paris/

[@monichat]

What I particularly loved is how the couple having left one country for another don't say bad words about the country thet left, as some people do sometimes. Merci !!!!!

[@AndreiJikh]

This was my favorite video of your guys', I didn't want it to end! I'm taking my parents to Paris on the 27th of this month, excited to be back for the 5th time with your guide! Thank you!!

[@yoannarsie3277]

As a parisian you make me falling in love again with the city where I live!!! It’s amazing!!!

[@AlinBiohazzard]

But then, you get out and you get hitted by "Paris" life....its cool and sad at the same time. Don't get me wrong, France is beautiful and i love it!(i live in IdF 94) But boy.....there are soooo many rotten things, from the administration to the poorest people. Its feels like we are in future but stuck in past, having great ideas for revolutioning things without taking in to account the true real stage of society. And to show you that i don't speak non sens, my small example is that my security number is still not defined after 3 months from deposit my documents and i keep getting asked to send documents that i already gave to them months ago :D....and i have maaany more. Yeah, its cool to travel and visit...but by living you can discover the true face of the beast 😂.

[@christianayme7316]

@@AlinBiohazzard The past and its traditions are important to us ...With the past we live the present time .It can't be otherwise , the two notions are closely intertwined .Our past is obviously very different from yours. Stop looking at things from the wrong angle.Of course life is different in France , it can be very difficult to cope and adjust with the humdrum hurdles one may encounter .These can be overcome .Why don't you get to live here for some time , stay for six months , then you should be more to the point .

[@AlinBiohazzard]

@@christianayme7316 i live in zone 94, and i was living in 93 for sometime....i think i know how its going around. Paris is not France, as every french will tell you! Paris is cool just for "some days" and beautiful in the eyes of people that are not living here( working, having childs, having business,etc), but when you live here (like me), well...things are very different and many need to be improved.(I can give you loads of example, but is not the right place here). Anyway, who want to know the truth will find it sooner or later and the "honeymoon" will start to become "sour and sometimes a bit sweet". Don't get me wrong!

[@christopherlyon4946]

This is your best video yet! I’m a Brit living permanently in France, and I have known France for over 50 years and speak French comfortably, but not perfectly. I didn’t think I would learn much from your videos, but I was wrong. Your content is excellent - full of practical advice, deep human wisdom, realism about the negatives, and a warm enthusiasm for France which is a joy to watch. But I always wondered what you were doing here. Now I know! Thanks for sharing your deeply moving story which resonated a lot with me. Very best wishes to you both. ❤

[@ambambroni]

This was so wonderful. I love that Colleen used her own experience in the school to reflect back on what it must be like for Hatian and Latino families in FLA. She brings so much heart to this project, I'm glad she decided to get in front of the camera. Thank you both!

[@monichat]

Ms. Colleen is a darling !

[@mariemccorry5405]

Now here is a channel I truly enjoy, I'm like you Collen, I love the French EVERYTHING, I don't like the 20-year-old influencers, I want to see the older, honest, mature realistic videos. I'm hooked! thank you both for this channel. Someday I will go.

[@ocker2000]

Past summer my young kids (9 & 14) and I prepared our visit to Paris using your videos as a guide. My impression was that you had moved to Paris many years ago. This video shows you have only moved a few years ago! I am very impressed. You made our visit to Paris a success! Thank you and please keep making videos. You are making a difference.

[@kazamistanmustang1359]

J'ai adoré l'annecdote sur le Conté fruité 😂 mais il faut dire que c'est un véritable exploit de revenir après tant d'années et retrouver ces automatismes. C'est aussi une énorme preuve d'amour d'avoir tout quitté pour la France chapeau monsieur. Votre dame a de la chance de vous avoir, on peut sentir l'amour et le respect qu'il y a entre vous. Quoi de mieux que de découvrir la France avec un bilingue français pour vous madame. Bonne chance à vous et bienvenue madame

[@rossignollyr]

I was almost 8 years old when we moved to Arkansas on January 8, 1998, for my dad's job. My mom had all these expectations from the TV shows that she'd watched, their honeymoon on the west coast. She knew basic English as she had studied it to become a secretary. But it hit her hard when she realized Arkansas wasn't really like the west coast, and sending your kids to school when all they ever knew was France, was not a piece of cake. She almost gave up when my younger sister who was 5 was just refusing everything. She was ready to give up her dream and go back to France. We were only expats for 4 years but we would go back every summer after that. I haven't been back since 2013 and I still feel like I've left a part of me behind. Even though I wouldn't want to live in the US anymore, and even if I was always 100% French, I still feel like part of me is American. And as I've grown older, I've come to realize all of the challenges my parents had to face moving across the pond in the late 90s with three young kids who didn't speak a word of English. It must've been hard, but what an experience! I still have vivid childhood memories. It feels like it was only yesterday.

[@JM-gu3tx]

Going to Arkansas would be severe culture shock for many Americans from big cities. I'm surprised you picked Arkansas. That's a plate that has beautiful nature sights and things to do in the country, but not if you are used to big city life.

[@linuxmill]

I grew up in Arkansas. It is beautiful and there some wonderful people there. There is also Harrison and the mindset that's rooted there. It has no place in the world of decent people.

[@marih3286]

The educators in Florida were wrong. Immigrant parents DO CARE about their children's education. The language barrier prevents them from being more involved...

[@GorgieClarissa]

@@JM-gu3tx omg this.... i could never move to arkansas

[@thehapagirl92]

Ew Arkansas. Come to California. Arkansas is trash

[@carmel_badchap]

Thanks for sharing your very personal experiences guys. I’m visiting France for the 2nd time this November. 1st time was with my late husband & kids in 2017. This time solo. I’m feeling much more confident about my trip, thanks in part to your helpful videos. Sorry I can’t commit to more, but here’s a coffee xx

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you so much! It's our pleasure to share our love of France. And we want everyone who visits to travel with confidence.

[@Emm08310]

It feels really good to have people explaining in very simple words what ''foreigners'' feel when going back home. I've been the black friend for everyone here in France, and when I go back home to the French indies (crazy to say that it is still France), I'm just the white cousin. Thank you so much.

[@lexm17]

This was so well done! I’m British-French and often wonder what it would be like to live their full time rather than just visit

[@hilarywatts1547]

❤ The love and respect you have for each other is really refreshing and beautiful ❤

[@charliec2960]

You guys have no idea how awesome it is to hear your story and look through your photo album. After watching you for years! Knowing your backstory is truly wonderful. And I'm only three minutes in... Thank you for your vulnerability, Colleen. It's so important for us to understand the truth of moving to Paris. Amazing guys. I hope this is just part one.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Wow, thank you!

[@evelyngrammar]

It takes great courage to move away from a place you've lived for 25+ years...or your whole life! Thanks for taking us on the journey.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

It seems strange to find courage in doing what you say you want to do. And yet, it definitely took courage.

[@DesdeAndalusia]

You were born to be an "influencer". Nothing about your video is pretentious or fake. You are both so easy to like. Thank you for your video. It was so honest and informative. ❤

[@susanschwarz7022]

So affirming to see that 183k subscribers resonate with real people, quality content and genuine feel good vibes. Let’s go 200k subscribers!

[@user-pefftoast1]

Being an American who loves ALL things French, I have watched a ton of KZbin videos about Paris and France. Honestly, this is by far the BEST video about moving 🇫🇷 to France that has ever been posted on KZbin! I appreciate Les Frenchies sharing their personal story with us in every detail. No wonder I subscribed to their incredible channel many months ago. The information is so honest and spot-on. Thank you Antoine and Colleen for your insights. Your channel is THE BOMB. 😊 Everyone needs to subscribe to your channel TODAY. Vive la France!

[@colinmgordon]

Oh man - "I ask a lot of stupid questions in perfect French" is an all time line; a genuine laugh out loud moment! Bravo for being unafraid to make mistakes and advocate for yourself. I too dream of moving to France, and each time I visit, I feel silly for either asking obvious questions or lack confidence because I fear my elementary french is not going to be good enough. But, it does not stop me from powering through! I think the level of uncomfortability I usually experience is good for growth and humility, and will abate in time. Thanks for this video!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

you're very welcome!

[@Songbirdstress]

@@LesFrenchiesTravel I'm the opposite, British, moved to France at a time books etc were too expensive to buy often, I had a moment re reading Jane Eyre, thinking "brook" what's a brook? Lol. Your fruité moment made me laugh, it's the taste, fruité :)

[@mim8099]

That is so wonderful of you to try such an effort as learning French language! Welcome to France, dear Colin, whenever you feel like coming back 🥰 And please feel free to know that even us, French speakers, are not always able to master this language all the way, most of the time.😅 So we’’ll learn on together!

[@michaelamappala5238]

So thoroughly enjoyed this video. Laughed at what Antoine said: “I asked so many stupid questions in perfect French.” Congrats to you and Colleen for living your dream, and sharing your ups and downs.

[@CKLee-rs4kl]

Through it all, you've created another success -- that's what happens when a couple supports each other. Many happy returns in the new year!

[@anniebowen1]

Well said!!

[@keev8012]

Thank you for sharing your story. As an American who decided to move to France a few years ago I have a special appreciation for not only your deeper motivations but also the highs and lows of your journey - especially having to do a lot of it during COVID.

[@lilypad342]

This is exactly what people need to hear! Facts and real life experience! I love your channel and this solidified my respect for both of you. Thank you for your honesty.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you for watching!

[@Wanda649]

Good Video, I have feelings for France, My Mother was from France.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Glad to hear that

[@flatironnewyork]

What a beautiful story, and so well-told. I'm glad you moved to France and started this wonderful channel, which is going from strength to strength. My dream is to spend a couple of months in Paris each year. Fingers crossed the stars align for me one day, as they did for you. ❤

[@nox8730]

The interesting thing is that while the french tend to hate Paris, foreigners love it for some reason.

[@j-loosenfout67]

@@nox8730 Hello, As a Frenchman born in Paris and of Parisian origin through my parents, grandparents, etc. (I'm 56 years old and I've lived in the south of France for ten years now), I think we can't say that the French don't like Paris. This is a generalization that doesn't really make sense. Paris isn't the most visited city in the world by chance. It's Parisian life that's most frequently criticized, not the city itself. But, it's often the same thing for all the megacities in the world. Because life is completely different when you live in a "town," a medium-sized town, and a big city with a very large suburb. We don't have the same priorities, the same way of life or thinking, the same opportunities. We build ourselves with what surrounds us. And this creates subcultures that stick to the general French culture that we all share nonetheless. But, indeed, we sometimes see ourselves as iron dogs precisely because of these subcultures which undeniably shape us and make us different depending on where we come from. I lived in Paris for more than forty years and I never got tired of this city, ever. Paris has always amazed me. And I have memories of it, certainly contrasting, but happy ones nonetheless. It was rather the climate (weather) that ended up making me move. On the other hand, what I've observed in forty years is that the tourists who have ended up taking the place of Parisians in Paris. And this is precisely because of the enthusiasm that this magnificent capital represents for all those who come to visit and end up dreaming of settling there. This caused real estate prices to explode. But how can we blame them when we know the French way of life and the magnificent architecture that surrounds us and these landscapes that change so much from one region to another? So much so that we sometimes have the feeling to change countries even though France is smaller than Texas! 😊 Peace, people. ☮😉

[@nox8730]

@@j-loosenfout67 Yes, that is pretty much it. If you are born in Paris (or any other city), you will most likely get used to it naturally and like the place. Not so much if you were born elsewhere. We all know that parisians love Paris, it is just that only them do. Paris is visited for good reasons indeed. But you just listed part of the reasons why those like me who were born elsewhere don't want to go there: - Price of lodging. - Too many people, too much stress. - Those people oftentimes don't see you (big city conundrum: why?). - Those who pee where they shouldn't (happens elsewhere, but Paris is something else). - The metro (this metro depressed me for real). - Big european city = traffic jams (and even with the (good) EU city policies, it is equal to: take that damn metro anyway). - Crime rate, incivilities: foreign (northen african and eastern european) gangs that rob tourists (and others), and authorities do nothing to expell them from France. Despite them being there specifically to rob people, because Paris is one of the most visited place in the world. They know our politicans are all the same cowards ever since Daladier. - A lot of what you get in Paris, you can get elsewhere, too. I live in a pretty random and inconspicuous french city, and at a 10 minute walk, there is the castle of King Henri IV, for example. There is no Louvres indeed, but well. - Working in Paris is the least desired prospect for any french who were not born there. For obvious reasons. I am a History freak, and so, this aspect of Paris really interests me. But will i go there again ? No. I spent two days there once, to visit someone. The place 'looked' nice. But it wasn't nice. We are different from you: we weren't born with a tie to this city that would make us yearn for it.

[@j-loosenfout67]

@@nox8730, Don't take it badly, but when I read you, I realize you only consider perspectives from your point of view. However, it’s not shared by everyone. Indeed, today’s Paris may seem less safe than before. But if you're a history buff, you know Paris was a much more dangerous cutthroat throughout its History than it is today. It’s very recent; the relative security in Paris (or big cities and even in the countryside, except that today, we're over-informed, stuffed with news items) is not even a hundred years old, just like the same very recent relative insecurity barely fifteen years ago. For years, I moved around Paris on a massive scale at all hours of the day and night. And, obviously, I’ve been bothered. Ultimately, it was rare compared to the numerous trips made in the capital. I watch a lot of reaction videos about Paris. And I can tell you what you consider significant faults, which are often apparent qualities for those who live there (inside the city). The metro, for example, is obviously an ordeal if you take it during rush hours. And I know what I’m talking about, knowing I worked for around ten years intramural, even though I came from the suburbs. I also went to school there (Technical High School) for two years, plus various internships and temporary jobs. But apart from this forbidding aspect, it’s also the densest metro in the world (in terms of the number of stations). It was designed from the start as the means of transport Parisians should always favor (intra-muros). In fact, you can find a metro station less than 500m from home (most often, much less). And this, whatever your address in Paris, in addition to bus lines, boats, and other picturesque means of transport. It’s unique and undeniably practical, ultimately a luxury. Most Parisians (intra-muros) use their vehicle very little. *“A lot of what we find in Paris, we can also get elsewhere.”* The answer is definitely nope. For a lover of the arts, History, architecture, gastronomy, “heteroclism,” hidden gems, and outings, Paris is unique in France (grouping all these aspects in the same place and with so much density). It’s the largest city in France, the capital, and not just any town in History. Moreover, you can’t judge a city as abundant as Paris by spending two days there. At best, this is a fanciful judgment; at worst, it is terse and lapidary. Based on this observation, you can’t deny there’s an undeniable bias in your opinion. 😅 You base yourself on a feeling nourished by TV images, clichés, and gossip, but ultimately, tiny on your own familiarity with the place. Two days isn’t an experience. I have many friends from the provinces who came to settle in Paris for work and never left- or, like me, in their old days, because they were looking to reconnect with a certain tranquility and end their lives in more advantageous climates. But, for most people, when you’re young, a city’s excitement and opulence is an asset, not a fault. We can also move elsewhere often, go to the countryside, the sea (Normandy, or do the wine routes and others, for example) on a weekend. You don’t have to confine yourself to the capital when you live there. With my friends, that’s what we did in the end, and quite frankly, without much money. Living in a place where you know all the tricks and good deals, and in a city like Paris and its surroundings, is a treat. But still, you have to want to search and, above all, to move. That’s my point of view, anyway. For this, like me, you have to be curious. Don’t be offended by the slightest annoyance; adventure is worth it! And, at this level, Paris and its surroundings (even a little distant) have nourished me handsomely. 😋😅 Have a pleasant day.

[@astree214]

@@nox8730 I'd say I agree to you both. I'm born in Paris, lived 30 years in Paris, then moved to south France because I couldn't get with the everyday travel times. I'd never want to go back to Paris. Last times I went to Paris, I couldn't stand the "smell" in the metro. So much pollution, dirt, noise, angry faces, ... I'm now a "young" retired, in a small south France village of 117 people, sorry 118 now with me, and so happy to be living far away from the Paris crowd. But yes, "la ville Lumière" will ever be a wonderfull city to visit as a tourist, not many other places in the world are at this level of magnificence and beauty. And Paris isn't France, it's only a very small part of what France is, and a very small part of the beauty of our country. Paris isn't France. Tourists only visiting Paris know nothing about France. Even too many parisians know nothing about their own country.

[@mrkopecky]

I’m glad you all kept at sharing France. I’m looking forward to a 2025 visit. Skipping 2024 Olympic season.

[@keith96969]

Besides having to buy more tickets it wasn’t too crowded at all. I felt London was more busier felt more uncomfortable there.

[@mlomarechal6877]

J'adore le sourire de Colleen ! quelle belle aventure vous vivez, continuez ainsi car cela en vaut la peine et nous ravis à chacune de vos vidéos.

[@chondasaine4331]

I love this channel! You helped me book train tickets to Lyon, find the best food and figure out where in France I want to live. THANK YOU!

[@lynnstrosnider8410]

Back in the early 1990s, our American family of four had the opportunity to live in St. Germaine-en-Laye for two years. It was without a doubt the best experience of our lives! Working and going to school in a foreign country can be very difficult, but it changes your perspective in so many positive ways. As Colleen and Antoine explained, one of the benefits is that it gives you the chance to re-examine your personal identity. I especially appreciated Colleen sharing her struggles resulting from not knowing the language, as well as her empathy for new immigrants who face similar challenges here in the U.S. Les Frenchies is a wonderful KZbin channel. My husband and are planning to be Paris for a week this coming December, and will definitely be watching future episodes for suggestions of new places to check out!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

❤️❤️❤️

[@franticstamper9342]

I agree. No one has an appreciation for what immigrants go through when they haven't gone through that themselves. I remind my more "right wing - send them back" friends of that all the time. It's not easy to leave everything you know behind and enter a new world with new rules and a new language. You literally are a fish out of water.

[@louisacoote2337]

Did you/your children go to the Lycée International in Fourqueux ( now a suburb of St Germain en Laye)? It follows the French curriculum in French, but there are classes in your mother tongue, separated by language (Spanish, Greek, German, Japanese…) and taught by native teachers. In primary school, it is a morning and an afternoon a week, then in secondary, it is extra hours of literature and history/geography on top of the French program.

[@lynnstrosnider8410]

Yes! The Lycee was perfect a perfect fit our family. The boys were ages 9 and 11 when we arrived and spoke zero French. Most of their subjects at the LI were taught in French by French teachers, and only their English and Studies were taught by American teachers. A lot of our St. Germaine en Laye neighbors were also expats, so the kids were playing on a daily basis with not only French children but also Brits, Italians, Scandavanians, etc. It was amazing to see how quickly they picked up the language.

[@susanmarie2231]

Thank you for taking the romance out of moving to another country and for sharing how challenging it is. Thank you for keeping it real. I am a lifelong Michigan resident by choice. Best wishes.

[@massbygus]

I would have left EVERYTHING but my clothes... I am a 62, single man, retired, and moving to Montpellier In August 2024, to study intensive French for 6 months, and hopefully, will be able to stay in Europe for ever... Applying to the student VISA at the French consulate, here in Los Angeles. Hoping to get the retired visa as opposed to the student visa...🙏🙏🙏 You guys are inspiring...!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Bon chance!

[@mariekirby7471]

How wonderful! You must be there now. I would love to hear about how you like this program in Montpellier. What an adventure!❤

[@cindyzhou1571]

OMG. This episode totally "hits the spot". I love it. I love the background stories and learn about your motivations of moving to France. I love seeing your old photos. You guys are so amazing. Love your style which always seems so practical and down-to-earth.

[@gabrielleparis3532]

❤️🇫🇷Your love for each other and your beautiful marriage brought smiles. So much gratitude that you moved to Paris and you began filming and sharing your adventures with all of us! Thank you for being my Saturday joy, my quick trip to Paris via KZbin, Colleen and Antoine❤❤❤❤

[@isahyahuza05]

Your story isn't only amazing but also inspiring 🙌 Merci d'avoir partagé 😇

[@caselou67]

This was an amazing tale. I can feel how challenging it must have been and still is. Personally, I think I couldn't bare dealing with the burocracy so that is why I choose to be a tourist. And if I like the place, I visit again, and again. Like this month it will be my second visit to Paris within 2 years time. I am pretty aware it is not the same as being a resident but we live with what we can get. About this yt channel, your secret is your charisma! Both of you. Informative but also friendly. And the beautiful city you chose to live in helps quite a bit. Cheers from Rio, I'm a Brazilian who loves the world ( Florida e.g. I have been soooo many times!

[@alastairgreen6783]

bureaucracy

[@lenoraGrayce]

Love you two! Thank you so much for sharing your incredible and informative story for someone from your generation who has job and family obligations to consider, rather than 20 and 30 year olds who have no family or careers to worry about! ❤

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you so much!

[@keithsimpkins3724]

It was so enlightening to hear why you guys decided to move. I remember when I first found out you guys were going to France. You seemed so confident and to hear the other side is inspiring. We also made a move, not quite as far, so we can relate to a small extent. So proud of who you’ve become and what you guys have done. Can’t wait to see you. Brian just told me tonight he can’t wait to come out to Paris. Follow your dreams, I have been inspired by you guys and continue to be.

[@nina-um4mm]

I LOVE this video so much. I am a Californian currently living in Sweden with my Swedish husband. We’ve been here for a month now. I can relate to almost everything you’ve said in the video. I heavily depend on my husband because I don’t speak Swedish. I feel completely useless 😢. The locals are nice to me and I don’t even know how to thank them. Thanks for this video is gives me so much hope ❤️

[@geertstroy]

Just LEARN Svenska... I did it being from NL and dont even live there...MOOOVE.

[@esthers5772]

I love this!!! The pandemic changed so many lives. My husband and I went from lifelong city dwellers to country people. Think Mennonite country. Your videos are so refreshing. Too many North Americans have romantic ideas of moving to Europe, but when reality hits, they are shocked. It works for some, but it’s important, as Antoine says, to live there for at least 6 months and spend a winter. It’s hard to believe that you have been living there for such a short time. Can’t wait for next Saturday’s video. 👋🇨🇦

[@waimeagrl5142]

You have the best channel on France.

[@gilliantracy7991]

I’m moving to Strasbourg from the US in a little over a week on a one year visa (to start). I’m braced for the challenges and hope it will be worth it. Thank you for sharing your challenges! ❤

[@mlomarechal6877]

strasbourg est une très très jolie ville, j'espère que vous vous y plairez.

[@tj5308]

What kind of heath insurance did you need to get your one year visa?

[@TravelinDevil76]

Awesome life story :) It’s so nice to see two people so happy with each other and life in general. Love all of your videos and hoping to make it to France in the near future.

[@sanjulienne]

I knew your return to France was recent, I was unaware how recent, fascinating story and congratulations on a successful transition!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you

[@CS-jk5gx]

Love your channel, lots of great information. I am French from Bordeaux and am also a US citizen living in the US for 28 years. A video that might be useful to all considering moving to France, is a video regarding fiscal impact. As soon as one is a French resident (6+ months out of the year as a rule) you become taxable in France on your worldwide income. Most foreign people will be utterly shocked at the tax brackets % in France. And although there is a system of "non double" taxation, that doesn't mean you won't get taxed twice, just that SOME of the French tax to pay will be recognized by the US, and credited back. For example true income tax will be recognized by the US but not "social" taxes, which account for 17.2% of your taxes... It gets complicated... I would recommend never moving before having your US/France (or whatever country/France) tax scenario ran by a accountant specializing in international taxation. Happy travels!

[@CrankyCorvid]

Super useful information, thanks so much for posting that!

[@branlotin]

Especially as the US are one of two countries in the world to use citizenship based taxation, meaning that US citizens living abroad and paying taxes in their country of residence will still need to register and fill forms for the IRS, and the IRS'' requests are such that most french banks will not accept to open an account for US citizens as it would cost them too much to comply with those.

[@elenapolshakov3837]

This was so interesting and I can relate on so many levels - we moved to the USA 28 years ago (from Ukraine) and had to go through pretty much the same hardships, the hardest was the language barrier, and it’s impossible to explain how it feels until you go through it yourself. I have so much respect for you guys and I’m so happy to know you found yourself - for you and for us!

[@jeremykargas2200]

Good on you both! Living your dream😍 Life is too short not to. So great that things worked out for you. I love your youtube videos of Paris and am really excited to be coming to Paris in July🇫🇷 Wish you all the best 😊

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thanks so much!!

[@paristoptips]

The story behind the stories! Thanks for lifting the veil on what brought you back to France and led you to start your excellent KZbin channel! Et excellente année 2024 avec bientôt 200 000 (300 000, 400 000?) followers !

[@michaelpayan6653]

I was born in France myself. Came to the US at age 11 from Cannes. My parents expected to stay for 5 years and retire in France. I am now 84 years old and my wife and I enjoy your video and gives us an idea of what life would have been. One item you have not covered is with regard to the healthcare system especially for seniors. Thanks again for all the info.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you very much, Michael. We have plans to make a video about healthcare, but mostly when people get sick when they are visiting France and how the system works

[@christopherdieudonne]

I'm also an American expat living in Paris and it's quite nice to hear other people's stories about moving to this wonderful country. Also, this 11:10 resonates with me so much. After having lived in France for more than 20 years, when I go back home, there are just certain American things I'm not used to and I also see it in people's eyes. When I'm in the USA, it's like I'm a foreigner who doesn't have a foreign accent. LOL

[@christopherdieudonne]

@@phillipbanes5484 I don't think I said things bother me. I believe I mentioned there are things that I'm no longer used to. For example: (not so) subtly being rushed to finish my meal at a restaurant by the wait staff or being approached every 10 seconds by sales staff in a store. Actually, those *are* things that bother me. LOL

[@christopherdieudonne]

@@phillipbanes5484 It's clear you just want to argue. Ok, you win. Happy?

[@christopherdieudonne]

@@phillipbanes5484 Whatever

[@kenb9487]

If you don’t like misinformation, the. You may be better off staying off the internet

[@kenromero9236]

Loved this video! Great to see how Les Frenchies began. Bien merci.

[@BerkeleyMelrose]

*Omg!!! I love this story! You guys always have the best tips about traveling (and now living) in France. I’m currently applying to jobs in Europe and definitely will be rewatching this video to get ideas about what issues/problems I need to consider when moving abroad.*

[@craffte]

I love how well edited this is. Nice job, no fluff, just pure content. Thanks.

[@austinschuld8786]

This video could have gone on for hours and I still would have loved it. We've been following you guys since darn near the beginning when we were planning for our honeymoon. We're still pretty young, but dream of someday doing what you're doing and retiring in France. Thanks for all the great recommendations and for connecting us to the city we love but can't visit as often as we'd like.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

You are very welcome!!

[@BMe-o4k]

I greatly appreciate this video! I am 100% French - American 1st generation…this is all so true. I feel like a “foreigner “ in my own “Native” Country. Watching this is a great experience to witness firsthand. I look forward to reconnecting and feeling “at home” in my homeland. Love watching your videos. Merci!!

[@rowandowland1391]

We're pleased to discover your channel and hear your story. We're both in our 60s and 3 years ago retired and sold up everything to move from Australia to Italy. We also lease a small apartment in France and now live between both countries. As Lucille Ball said " I'd rather regret the things I've done in life than regret the things I haven't done". We have no regrets whatsoever and can't see us ever moving back to Australia. Life is simply too short and then you're dead! 🙂

[@gloriasaliba3395]

How wonderful I live in Sydney Australia and it’s my dream to live in Europe

[@oksanaiavorovska7768]

Thank you very much for your kind suggestions and advises❤❤❤

[@camilleybanez4614]

Colleen and Antoine, you both are such a treasure for those who love traveling and especially for first time Paris visitors like moi. My fiance and I recently went to Paris and Strasbourg after Christmas (a last minute decision). I watched so many of your videos to help us prep for the trip. I have to say all your recommendations made our trip special specifically Chez Ferdinand Christine (best bouef bourguignon)! Keep making content and inspiring us Americans. Thank you! 💖

[@thor75013]

Quel plaisir de vous voir épanouis dans cette ville si spéciale ! J'espère un jour vous croiser dans la rue et vous témoigner toute mon affection. Vive la France, Vive Paris, Vive les Frenchies!

[@lauraguida8482]

❤Thank you both for sharing your very personal story and what your challenges were with us. You are my people!! Both of you are very likeable and a joy to watch because you are down to earth, funny and you understand the concerns and questions of a typical tourist. Your channel provides clear, thorough and valuable content that anyone visiting Paris would find helpful, whether it’s their first visit or not. I am hooked, keep the videos coming! ❤

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you!!!

[@thezmanchar]

I love Paris. You did the smartest thing going back to your country.

[@christopherwoods6777]

I love your videos. I binge watched you guys before going to Paris for a week and it was big help. You present a real version of what it's like to experience Paris and not the "Emily in Paris" version.

[@timcooney3600]

Thanks for the video! We moved to Lyon 3 weeks ago and love it. Learning all the new ways is thrilling, irritating, and tiring, but completely worth it. We love the terrace culture!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Have fun!

[@frenchxican_a]

You guys are so inspiring! thank you for sharing your story with us ❤ and Antoine, I cannot agree more with you, your advise to anyone wanting to come and live in France is ON POINT! enduring winter + tax system its THE ultimate test...

[@brianmurer3485]

I've been to Paris 8 times and found you two while planning our trip to the Olympics. My wife and I love you two. Well done!!!

[@eileenmenguito7031]

You guys are my favorite travel couple! Keep it up! :D

[@kevinslover100]

Just stumbled on your channel and it was like a breath of fresh air. Your approach and thinking about navigating life and how to tell a story is infectious. Thank you for taking the time to create content that’s actually helpful to regular people because so much of what exists isn’t unless you’re young, beautiful and rich and even that usually isn’t genuine.

[@SamLeccima]

I first visited Paris in the early 90's when I was in college. I fell in love with Paris immediately. 30 years later, my wife and I travel there often. I/we love your channel and have used some of your tips on our trips. This video is one of your best because we got to know you better. You answered a lot of questions for us. We hope to run into you on one of our trips. :-)

[@IzzyOnTheMove]

Quelle histoire intéressante! Je suis québécoise et je ne suis pas encore allée en France, mais un jour... :)

[@krismyers4940]

You’re videos are the best! Definitely, nothing like other KZbin videos out there! I’ve been following your videos well over a year in preparation for a trip to Paris & Strasbourg. Thanks for helping make our trip run smoothly & memorable!🇨🇦

[@charleslewis1]

Love your story and the info and insight you provide is so real, personal and even touching! What a dream and we are so happy for your success!

[@567triaful]

Vous êtes tellement agréables à regarder et écouter. Vous avez une très bonne connaissance de Paris en trois ans. Un plaisir de vous avoir découvert. Je vous souhaite beaucoup de bonheur en France !

[@monicahowley2518]

Thank you for sharing your decision and move. When I watch you it is as if you had been there forever! It truly was inspiring and uplifting. Your videos are absolutely amazing.🌸

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you so much!

[@jeanflab1]

Bravo Antoine et Coleen, votre histoire est très intéressante. Je vous souhaite une belle année 2024.

[@mirelaxo]

I don’t know why but your story made me cry, like several times. 😅 What an amazing story and I’m so happy you guys decided to share it. I never would have guessed that you have only been back in France for a few years. It goes to show it’s never too late to chase your dreams. What an inspiration you both are.

[@robinbeisel702]

Same!

[@nathanhaese4158]

Thanks!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@sally3570]

What an amazing and heart warming story! So endearing and of course, as usual, helpful! Thank you so much for sharing it! ❤ I stumbled upon your channel when planning our 25th wedding anniversary. It was my first trip across the pond and my husband had not been to Europe since college. I watched every video you made and just ate it up. Everything was so incredibly helpful. I bought the guide too. Perfect! I will be forever grateful to you both! So glad you stepped in front of the camera Colleen!!!!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉Keep the videos coming!!!❤

[@nahuisbenitez9267]

I cannot begin to explain how touching this video was for me. I reached you guys a few days ago, looking for random information on travelling to Paris. I think I've watched all your videos in less than 3 días. Twice. As an Argentinian, I don't have enough English words to express how clear and specially warm your videos are. I'll be in Paris in March, looking for any woman wearing stripes! Keep it up!

[@monica.melendez]

Allez, on y va✨

[@co94]

Your enthusiasm radiates throughout the video. Tyvm

[@martijnkeisers5900]

Such a lovely video. I moved to Buenos Aires once and i know how challenging a different language and culture can be. It was difficult but it was an amazing experience i will cherish forever! Greetings from Amsterdam ❤

[@leonardhardesty6921]

This is your best video ever! I took 6 years of French classes 30+ years ago and have sadly never been to France. I really love the language. Hoping to go with my family in 2025. You give me courage and inspiration.

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

🤗 you got this

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Thank you for sharing.😊

[@mkwvocal]

Love Paris and my husband and I think about moving to Paris. We’ve visited many times and continue our love for this city. I’m going to share your channel with my husband. Who knows we could be your new neighbors.

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

Thank you for the video!

[@barbaraarsenault1192]

I am very glad you did this video. I only found your channel a few days ago. This video explains a lot about you two. Awesome channel. Merci!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thank you

[@airplane800]

I've lived in 5 different countries, and I speak five languages. I lived in Paris, and I have uncles and cousins there. What I've learned is that the magic is in you not in places. No place will make you happy. It is the decision to be happy that makes the whole difference. You will be happy on a place where you will be able to make friends and get a sense of belonging. I noticed also that it makes a huge difference what you do in life and your income level. It makes a huge difference between living in France with a nice profession and high income and working as a clerk in a hotel. I joke that with money in your pocket many places are beautiful. I've met many French people in the US that loves the US. I have a French cousin in Las Vegas, and he loves it. I've met hundreds of European students in US universities and the majority would stay in the US if they could.

[@christianayme7316]

Very partial view .So hackneyed .I used to be hooked by America fifty years ago. Not any more.This country is too far nowadays from what it really could be . I yearn for the Land that came to our rescue twice and whose political leaders had quite a stature. Vive l'Europe ! Its past and its historical landmarks and the good life we have in France in comparison to so many countries steeped in prejudice ,war, hatred, gullibility ...

[@SurpriseMeJT]

Yes, you'll be happy where you have a sense of belonging and make friends. However, how does the catagory "Friends and Family" rank in terms of needs? As we get older, we usually are in contact with less friends. We worry more about schools, security, way of life, more vacation days to actually enjoy life, etc. Funny you talk about money - I believe that the poor in France acutally eat higher quality food than say, rich people in the US. I make less money in France than I could in the US and I will not move back to the US anytime soon. Economic incentives and the business environment shapes society - how people treat each other, etc so even if we remove "friends and family" from the equation, we would still look at our situation and think - how many times my life has been threatened by someone, how much road rage I have to deal with to get somewhere. How many times was my property has been damaged by thieves? Does the food I eat make me sick? How am I treated at work? All of these things really are dependent on the environment and a different country can change these factors in a very big way. I completely see how young people would love the US. When you're young and carefree - so much optimisim - America changes so much and it can be exciting. But these huge economic swings, the finiancialization of everything and the lack of free time is suffocating and stress inducing. America loves these young folks because it uses them up, makes sure they have no money left to save for retirement because they bought into the marketing of trying to live like they're in a tv sitcom or hollywood film. Las Vegas for some people like myself - is a very terrible place to live. People are raising families while working nightshifts in hotels and casino's. That's not healthy or good for your kids. The whole economy is built around taking money from you and giving you nothing worthwhile back. The level of education is very low there. Las Vegas is an analogy for what America is - a huge casino with lights and enterntainment providing nothing real or long term in return - a spiritual wasteland exhibiting the worst of humanity. Foreigners love the idea of America. Actually living there long term is a very different story. If you're rich and just hang out with rich people in gated communities enjoying the luxeries in life, it might not matter where you are too much because a luxury hotel in a crappy town is not too different than a luxury hotel in Paris or anywhere else.

[@SurpriseMeJT]

@@christianayme7316 Greed, corruption and the fact that corporations are now more powerful than governments. Corporations control government and we're seeing the results of that in the US. Europe has a different version of something similar but for the everyday citizen, it's sill far, far better than the US in my opinion.

[@SurnaturalM]

1:27 That radio in the background look fantastic.

[@lursf9316]

i admire your resilience and your flexibility. i wish i had a tenth of it. it's not easy to reinvent your life the way you guys did. just the patience to go through the bureaucracy alone. respect.

[@helenegeiger1182]

I am a Parisian and I stopped taking the Métro sometime ago! Walk, or a short taxi ride is well worth your safety and having to neck with everyone in a crowded subway full of seedy characters. Enjoy the memories, free of pickpockets and thieves on the prowl. Bonne vacances!

[@sunset4724]

hi! I am interested in staying in Paris for university. I would like to know what is your experience with the safety in Paris? Is it as dangerous/scary as people say it is? Is it common there to get stolen from or even robbed?

[@burninhell107]

I'm parisian, lived here for 25y now (before was living in a small towns in the west of France)​. I'll never Say Subway IS 100 percent free of pickpockets, petty crimes etc... But not different from many other capitals(except japan and south korea) yes it can be crowed in commuting jours but only snobs would take taxi during these hours and get stuck in traffic and late. If you need info to reassure you don't hesitate to ask@@sunset4724

[@theluxuryvagabond]

What a great video! Thank you algorithum for showing me this couple. I love to hear real life experiences as my husband and I are on our own journey to move out of the U.S. I know the challenges we face to make the move happen will be worth it!

[@bclevy]

I was born in the US from French parents and grew up in France between age 3 and 23. After 49 years in the US, mainly in California, I would never dream of going back. Life is enjoyable, but the French bureaucracy and confiscatory tax system (Colleen and Antoine you should look up the estate tax rate) make it unthinkable. Visiting for one month a year is all I need.

[@gisellamunoz5798]

I do agree, france has good things, their health france system and education is unbeatable if you compare to the US, even though some people say that those systems are getting worse, but still is way better than the US as it is free (well you pay your taxes for it) but for someone who has lived for 6 years in Paris region with my 2 kids, their bureaucracy, unfair system, and how some people in power can change and decide your life in a minute is depressing. Also Paris is not France and if you live in the city is a big bubble , it depends also the distric; go to live close to Gare du Nord,Aubervilliers, you will cry is a third world country too. If you live in a nice borough in Paris that’s why I saw in this video , it is ok as long as you don’t take public transportation at rush hours and of course you have money to afford that as Paris is way too expensive to live. I live in a very nice suburb of Paris and I can’t complain but the salaries are too low and we can’t afford to buy a property in a place we want to live (and we have good jobs) we are too poor for the bank but too rich for French system tax..well I can say more but I would need a whole day..to sum up , we are leaving france very soon and probably , we would come back when we get retired directly to the south of france if everything goes well, but for now , it’s time to leave ..

[@HereBeBarr]

Great storytelling!!

[@LesFrenchiesTravel]

Thanks so much!

[@fredericpayan6708]

As a French person, you're very courageous. I left France 30 years ago and I will never go back. This country has lost its mind

[@saul.t.2.969]

Hmm, are saying France has lost its mind? Or, the US? I’m an American and I’m fed up with American. Mostly because our political situation and our immature positions and capitalism is truly just legal greed.

[@stevenbarnes8238]

Thanks for your channel. My wife and I have been to paris 3 times 2013, 2015, 2018. We stayed in the 5th in an apartment on rue de boulanger and loved every minute!. We took the metro everywhere and also the bus. We went to Champagne and took a river cruise down the marme and took the train to Chatre. Now we have all the memories!. I live vicariously thru your channel so thanks again.

[@meropale]

It's funny the French would find him too direct. My experience has been that the French don't beat around the bush compared to Americans.