Moving from US to France Expat Q&A | Adrian Leeds Tips | Moving to France from US

In today's video we're excited to share our interview with French real estate specialist, Adrian Leeds. In this video Adrian shares her knowledge, experience, and wisdom regarding moving to France. Adrian herself has lived in France for over 29 years, with homes in both Nice and Paris. We hope you enjoy and benefit from this interview with Adrian Leeds.
Bonjour! We are a couple who have fallen in love with France and decided to move from the USA to France ❤️ We moved to France in November 2022 and returned to the USA in February 2023 to address a health issue. We are spending 2023-2024 recalibrating our efforts with a home-base in Vero Beach, Florida and traveling back/forth to France.
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[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Adrian Leeds is a great resource for anyone moving to France who is looking to rent or buy property in France.🏡Adrian Leeds adrianleeds.com

[@dianegriffith3006]

Superb interview. I’m just turned 78 but still feel that Wanderlust.. there’s still time to LIVE.. loved hearing what Adrian has to say with her immense experience and knowledge. Thank you so much KJ and Tony!!

[@dianegriffith3006]

Been to France -about 11 years ago.. loved it. ❤️

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@gloriagreen1123]

I am 76 and planning to move to France within 3 years. I live by 2 maxims: "You are never too old to make a new plan" and "You're never too old to be young!"

[@scpmdt]

KJ & Tony I came upon your channel by chance & the only person who can give you advice & help is the wonderful Adrian Leeds & her capable team. Adrian helped me & my husband move to France nearly five months ago. The move was something I wish others can experience. From a year ago when we contacted Adrian things progressed like clockwork. She is compassionate, reliable & in a heartbeat if I have to move house in France I would only ever rely on Adrian & her team & “no one else”. We can never thank her enough. God Bless her.

[@victoriaking6064]

Great information. I will say as a New Yorker (city) that 70%of us do not have cars, myself included. I am considering living in France at least part time.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Then you're already used to not having a car, which is great! I loved not having a car.

[@BaguetteBound]

What a great interview! I love how clear and direct Adrian is in her responses.

[@sebastianfoucaud268]

Nice and interesting video. As an Australian, I love Nantes region: transport is excellent, the weather is mild and not too hot (less cold and grey than Paris in the winter due its proximity to the Ocean). It is very green (Nantes has been praised for its quality of life, educational system and state-of-the-art healthcare system and it received the European Green Capital Award in 2013). It is only 45 mn from the Atlantic ocean and beautiful beaches (as an Aussie, I know what a nice beach looks like when I see one). Only 2 hours from Charles de Gaulle International airport and Paris city (20 fast speed trains a day!). It has wonderful boutiques and restaurants (best crêperies and sea food in the world, honestly!). You can fly direct from Nantes airport to London, Brussels, Geneva, Copenhagen, Canaries Islands, Montreal (Canada), Tunisia, Morocco etc. It is the third highest ranking city after Paris and Lyon. It has one of the largest Arts Museums and one of the largest Natural History Museums in Europe. It is also the birthplace of Jules Verne, 19th Century Novelist (Around the World in 80 Days, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, From the Earth to the Moon etc.). What else do you need?! Take care and good luck in Paris (you will need it!!!!). S from Melbourne

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you, Sebastian 😊

[@rowandowland1391]

That's a great wrap for Nantes. We're formerly of Melbourne and now living in Europe. We're heading to Brittany next month and will drive via Nantes. We weren't planning on stopping but will now on your description. As someone from Melbourne you'll probably also recognise good coffee. What's the best place in Nantes to get one? Cheers..

[@patoshea5351]

I thought I was one discovered Nantes..best train..Gare station..not to mention its position in the Loire Valley....close to Rennes another treasure..city has clean buses,..just to know its also placement of island...hence bridges walking is issue..

[@patoshea5351]

Maybe difficult to access..but the OdellHotel...or any of the Apart hotels with kitchen..2 times..weekend cheaper 1:20:16

[@pawlieblog7967]

Definitely sounds like Nantes is a great option! 😊❤🎉

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

I can tell you guys are therapists by your interview style! "What I hear you saying is....." 😄😍. I also loved how well you played off each other and didn't ever talk over each other or Adrian. This was a wonderful interview; thank you so much to all three of you. I agree with Adrian that it's important to find an expat community right away even just to help ease the transition. It gets very lonely without a social circle. That being said, I don't totally agree that the French community is impenetrable for making friends. I think that's true in big cities, but not in smaller ones. I actually have made quite a few French friends through my local English-language meet-up in my city of about 60,000. Most of the members are French people who just want to practice, and they are super interested in us foreigners. Granted I do also speak French so it's been a bit easier for me, but even still, they have been very open. I lived in Lille for several months, so just a few thoughts. I agree it has a lot of appeal for all the reasons Adrian described, but for me the weather was just unfortunately a deal-breaker. Don't underestimate the grayness and humidity. I was depressed a lot of the time. The architecture is also dark, like Belgium, which is beautiful but for me personally brings me down. P.S. Tip for saying "Cannes": say "CAHN" but pull your lips back and smile while you say it. 😁It won't be perfect, but close. You should feel the sound more toward the roof of your mouth than in the back of your throat.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it and appreciate the helpful tips!

[@janelltabora527]

That’s my favorite part. Loved listening to the interviewer 🥰

[@joandelise145]

I loved this interview so informative and I’ve seen the personal side of Adrien that I wouldn’t know from tv. She is very personable and down to earth! Thank you.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it. Yes, Adrian is wonderful 🥰

[@pawlieblog7967]

There are also several good British and Franco-British real estate agencies as well as Adrian’s excellent service in France. Lots of Brits retire in France and there is turnover especially in Aquitaine and Occitanie, as well as Normandy and Brittany. Adrian is especially helpful if you want a place in Paris or Nice, IMO. She is lots of fun in person, and very knowledgeable. Nice is very expensive and Paris even more so. There are happy mediums. 😅😊 I grew up in London and I know there are many good towns and cities across France: Lyon, Toulouse, Aix, Bordeaux, Biarritz, Caen, Cannes, St. Etienne, Vichy, Dijon, Carcassonne and the list goes on! There IS LIFE BEYOND NICE AND PARIS in France. You can find Americans, Brits, Aussies, Irish and many other nationalities in a lot of areas. If you can afford Paris or Nice then you might prefer them, but there are a lot of other towns to consider as well.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you ❤️

[@nyegreg]

Having Adrian on your show was a great get. She recently discovered Lille? I think if she spent any time in Toulouse or Bordeaux she’ d discover both of those places too. Great public transportation, culture and lifestyle with easy access to skiing, Barcelona, Andorra, Coastal Spain and sunny wintertime golf. Switzerland and Germany does offer outdoor life in Winter.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We agree! We are so grateful!! Thanks for the recommendations.

[@sharonalexa]

Wonderful information! Please don’t forget us Canadians. Should be find a “North America community in France” ♥️. Tony the water colour is azure blue 💙

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Tony does this a lot (ie "Americans"). He did it again in this week's video so I added an annotation that says "other countries too" He needs more practice 😊

[@paulcousins1371]

Thanks to all of you Adrian is a fountain of knowledge and a lovely character,good questions from your audience 👏🏽🥂🥰

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rosalindd1386]

Adrian is a wealth of knowledge ! I would definitely use her services when needed ! I have a few properties to sell first so I can be free to enjoy my time ! Thank you so much KJ & Tony ! Very informative & happy I finally had time to watch this video !

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it. Adrian is fantastic ❤️

[@sibylledecarlo7108]

I really enjoyed KJ, Tony, & Adrian sharing her 29 years of living & working in Paris! She is a great resource & fun lady! Merci beaucoup- 🇫🇷🇫🇷

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, agreed. She is a great resource and great lady ❤️

[@paulschrader7420]

Good interview -- we just had dinner with her Monday night here in Nice!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it 😊

[@terryhutchings7701]

Will definitely be contacting Adrian's company, as I get closer to my move to help me with the whole rental process. Great information and interview.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, please do. She is wonderful.

[@nikkiscott4341]

Community of language does not equate with community of mind. Staying solely with people of the same culture and origin, exclusively, can have you staying on the outside looking in. That said, if you don't have early inroads through language, study or work, being social animals, you certainly need a support system to belong.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

True!! Great point.

[@alguedemer]

One of my students has just returned from Nice, it's really expensive. I'd recommend other places if you're tight on budget. Also, Nice has seismic activity and most French people know there'll be a big earthquake at some point there or nearby. Saying that, it's really sunny and hot there, so lovely weather. And there is seismic activity in other places in France too, like in the Alps, where my sister lives. Nothing big in my life time though. I'm looking to relocate to France myself after 26 years in London, won't say where as I don't want to have more competition with other buyers, but it's a great place foreigners rarely talk about. Bien bien...Why do I want to move back? London has lost something and like the expert here said about the Paris mayor, we have the same kind in London, and he has destroyed London...Freedom of movement, of driving anywhere you like is dead...I'm out...And I want to be able to go to a boulangerie and buy petits-pains of chocolat of quality whenever I want to!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for sharing. Good luck to you with your move to France... wherever that may be 😉

[@betteurbain7911]

I intended to remind KJ about Nice being earthquake-prone. Having said that, for KJ and Tony I like the Paris and Nice option that Adrian mentioned.

[@claudiadealmeida3274]

Adrian is wonderful! Thank you!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, she is!!

[@alexwyler4570]

That system of rules created a place of civility where a lot of people all over the world want to move. Florida and CA are very free for all. You can shop in pyjamas, and you can order TacoBell at 2 a.m. You can be rude to whomever you meet. I would prefer to stay in a place of civilized rules. You are expected to dress appropriately when you walk out of the house, have manners when you meet people, you eat foods with no weird additives at established times of day.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Agree 💯

[@zaram131]

💯

[@alexwyler4570]

The French language is the language of diplomacy because it is very exact. The English language is the language of business because it is so vague. In business, you want to be able to take advantage of people, and with English being vague, you can then say: " Ooooh i was not taking advantage of you, you just misunderstood". The English language allows you to act outside the box. The French language forces you to stay inside the box, stay in the rule world.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks, Alex. Good point😊

[@elenapolshakov3837]

This was phenomenally interesting! Thank you KJ, Tony and of course Adrian! ❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@RoughRider757]

Really helpful conversation. Thank you for such substantive information.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DenaOShaughnessy]

This interview was incredibly informative and helpful! As someone who shares your aspirations of retiring to France in the next year or two, it was great to hear Adrian's advice, especially about putting our fears aside. It is so easy to fall into the "what ifs." Thank you KJ and Tony for putting this together for us.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@carolmartin4413]

What a great video..tad long so split watching. Adrian was everything I expected...smart, knowledgeable, cut to the chase, really funny person. Thoroughly enjoyed...thank you all! From my casual, run to the store in joggers state of Wisconsin....merci!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@imsojazzed]

Kudos for sharing interview with Adrian Leeds. Merci Beaucoup…

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Da rien

[@krc5210]

That was Great!! TY.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@petervollers]

Fantastic video. Hugely informative. We are headed to Toulouse area in early September with the goal of possibly making a permanent move to France and we will definitely use Adrian’s service if we do this. Thanks.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Please do! She is fabulous!! Good luck with your move.

[@nikkioperas]

Great interview, love it !! Thank you!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@8twc]

Love listening to Adrian always ❤ she is so funny and intelligent!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, she certainly is!

[@gilliantracy7991]

Very informative. Thank you!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad it was helpful.

[@nancyrivard6194]

Excellent! Thank you!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you liked it!

[@JimmySmith-du7xz]

I really like it when a program like this takes its time to explore more deeply the topic at hand. This video was quite helpful!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cquinnth]

Lovely interview…..thank you

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jennysoto7063]

Great informative video. Congratulations !!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Merci ❤️

[@lucinda6816]

Was one of the questions to Adrian: paraphrasing… if they can travel outside of France with their long-term Visa? I read that to be eligible for the French passport after 5 years- that there is a limitation on how long the person can be outside of France for those five years. The French govt, want to see that the person really wants to live in France evidently.

[@jean61ify]

Helpful & informative ❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you found it helpful.

[@ahill9477]

Fascinating video, you were lucky to get her! She’s amazing.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. Yes, we were. And, Yes she is!

[@susanmitchell5447]

Thank you this was very interesting although I'm just an oldish Brit who has lived in France since I was young and married...I can see you are between Nice or Paris...so much I could offer on that but I have lived in Nice for 12 years and I am taking the unusual step to sell my little flat and move back to maybe 20 square metres in Paris to grow old ....Paris has always been in my heart and I can see positive and negative points as I can in Nice ! You are a couple in your decision and in the adventure together but Tony's '"when I came out of the train in Paris I felt at home".."hung around Notre Dame every day ".....I don't have a car and so the mobility to go anywhere from Paris is brilliant for me.....I understand your sentiments and people will say do this or that but the heart has to decide !.Bonne chance et continuation...🤞

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for sharing this, as most people seem to lean toward Nice being the better option.

[@CJ-Photo]

Hidden gems: Musee de Cluny and I also like Musee de Rodin (but that one probably isn't too hidden!)

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks 😊

[@catherinebent5101]

Really good conversation!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@lindadorman2869]

Thanks for sharing this lively conversation! I've heard Adrian talk several times and always learn a lot from her expert insight about moving to France. I would be interested to hear her thoughts on living in Lyon. As a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, it's one of my favorite places but then, I have yet to experience Nice!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it! Looking forward to hearing whst you think of Nice.

[@nikkiscott4341]

I don't see the 1970s vibe but I do see that generally, French style is more classic and more understated than in the US. However, street fashion is becoming increasingly uniform, although French and American people often don't style and wear the same things the same way. 😊

[@lulu6618]

Wonderful. Thank you

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Our pleasure!

[@shinyshinythings]

One thing about renting in Paris: it may be affordable in comparison to Manhattan, but it is not easy, there are many steps and procedures to follow. And you will for the most part be limited to renting only within a budget of 30% of your income, which you have to prove via a detailed dossier. The good news is that if you go just a little bit outside the city, rents drop significantly. And transport passes are cheap (and subsidized by employers!) so you can live in a commuter city for literally half the cost of living in Paris, transportation costs included.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you 😊

[@CindyPlachecki]

I love her fromHouse Hunters International. This was great info, we’re considering purchasing down the road in the Nice area. Lots of good things to consider. I’m enjoying your videos!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you are enjoying the videos 😊

[@erinaustin9968]

Love Adrian

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Ditto ❤️

[@GoGoChateau]

I don't think you'll ever regret moving to Paris - but if you move to Nice you might say, we should have picked Paris!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

True!

[@latteoatmeal7807]

loved that, v interesting. i'm also familiar with Nice, yep, v v convenient place, very interesting about buying & renting there. I'm def going to keep up with you two, all the best, bye

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@latteoatmeal7807]

thanks, btw - was looking & found this, that from 2023 on if a person wants a 'residency permit' (carte de sejour?) there's a minimum income (expected) but also now, a demand for an ability to speak French at the level of 'proficient'. arrrggghhhh!!!!!! good to know, but aarrggh. if you want the info, I found it by googling 'moving to France after Brexit long-term rentals', the website is - Leggett Immobilier International. it's under the 'Apply for French residency after Brexit' section. but seems to apply to all non-EU, not just we Brits. not sure what's classed as proficient but scary though. so will be watching to see if you get to pass, lol! best of luck, bye@@kjandtonylovefrance

[@jeffinabnit9819]

2:20 Thank you for interviewing Adrian today. I have a couple questions relating to renting in Nice: 1. How difficult is it to find a reasonably priced 1 bedroom apartment in a good/safe neighborhood in Nice? 2. Also, in the event apartment is unfurnished, how expensive is it to add kitchen units, etc.? Thank you.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it. Will see what we can find out.

[@nicolavetter9071]

Tons of great information here thanks to all three of you. Being a German living in the US for 10 years now it’s time to return to Europe and my husband and I are looking for ways to make that happen. Will contact you, Adrian!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Best of luck! Adrian is great!!

[@Hippy2021]

I don't know what all about the ads on KZbin . After several months research to retire in France I found it's very costly the living there if you want to keep the same level of lifestyle you are having in the US I live in CA known as one of the most expensive places in the US (the silicon valley near SF). I own a decent 800sqf condo utility bill a year cost less than 1000 USD, HOA less than 5k/year cover insurance, maintenance, garbage, water, swimming pool and tennis court. Property taxes less 4k/year. Monthly income 5k/month. As a single retiree I live comfortably with some savings. But to maintain the same level of living in France, even in the most secluded area, my income can not match, unless I downgrade. Foods in France like everywhere in Europe are similar prices to the US, I agree higher quality. Without a car you pay much more for commuting than using your own car as gasoline in Europe is much higher. I wish to find a solution but still get no answer. Keep traveling as tourist for now. France is not cheaper than the US for living permanently.i speak fluently french.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for you sharing your experience and perspective.

[@brigittelacour5055]

French hier, a small comment about the income taxes. You have to declare annually your income, salaries, pensions or other, and you pay taxes if that above a certain amount. If your pension is very low, low you may not pay income taxes.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you 😊

[@donnamiller83]

Thank you KJ and Tony for having Adrian as all was very informative and entertaining. Would you please tell what book that was life changing to you and Adrian as i missed it. Merci beaucoup

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

[@artnodulot1525]

i live in the french countryside quercy .look at saint cirq lapopie or cajarc .there is a lot of stone house where americans are living and they are very happy .:o) i like very much their positivity

[@pawlieblog7967]

Yes I’m sure it’s not so remote as it would be living “in the countryside” in the USA. France has public transit available just about everywhere, or you can be within a short ride to the nearest trains.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

❤️

[@southloupriverhomestead4696]

Very Interesting! She Seemed Like a Wonderful Woman!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

She is!!

[@eandbnorton163]

I share a birthday with KJs Dad! That made my day!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Nice!!

[@mentonish]

Its funny, the american crew who worked with me on the paris disney project were so sad to return to the USA

[@elizabethglenbentley7882]

Great investigative interview loved all the gold nuggets. How do i get in touch with you, Adrian?! That would make my day🎉

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

You can get in touch with Adrian through her website. There should be a link in the description.

[@CJ-Photo]

One question that didn't come up that I'm very interested in is the mortgage topic. I don't want to rent forever, but probably will never have enough money to buy with all cash. I've been reading about French mortgages and getting so conflicting (and also discouraging) information. Would love to learn more about that topic.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We'll have to look into that one.

[@Top.Mallorca]

Very interesting! Greetings from Palma de Mallorca

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Hello there!

[@tamaramadelin4831]

Bored and out!! I figured it out all on my own with my French partner!! Be realistic was the best info!! Exactly, culture is the problem...They live in a box, but love to think they don't! They have rules and laws, but there are social rules in addition!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Does this mean you are leaving France or not going?

[@tamaramadelin4831]

Left France and now in Portugal! We, my French husband and I, prefer the people, prices, culture, weather, etc! ❤Portugal

[@eandbnorton163]

A question came to me after reading about KJ’s Dad medical event: BTW I’m thrilled that his prognosis is great! He’s a super testament that lifestyle has huge impact on future health. Question: How would US Expat deal with a death while living in France. Are there any unusual/unexpected legal hoops that US Expats might encounter. Thank you!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you ❤️. I don't believe so, but will see what I can find out about this.

[@judit1783]

She was very interesting.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@mariepierre7402]

Hi. I've been watching several of the videos you have and really learned a lot. I am a widow it's been 15 years I just turned 61 but always wanted to live in France. I don't know anyone there but still want to go for many reasons. I live in Port St. Lucie Fl. and will be either renting in one of the big cities in France. Looking for any pointers helps. Thank you.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you found it helpful ❤️

[@sydneykasmar]

What a beautiful and light hearted woman. I really enjoyed your conversations and gained a lot of knowledge. I especially liked her travel tip ...if you read about a restaurant in the New York Times don't go there.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mariabanholzer5960]

Living in France for over 40 years, I do Not really See this couple living in France.... Have Not an european mentality for a cent.

[@buffytargaryan7171]

I love Adrian!! If I ever get a chance to meet her, I think I would fall over❤ I've been watching her on TV for quite some time and her episodes are my favorite! I need her help to convince my boyfriend to move to France with me.....LMAO. I would love to retire in France, but I need to convince him. Thank you so much for doing this interview with Adrian!! I do have one question for her if you care to ask at a later date: If you buy a condo/apartment are there assessment fees? I never see assessment fee numbers on any of the real estate sites for buying a condo/apt. in France or Europe in general.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks, we'll ask her.

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

By assessment fees, do you mean an HOA fee? If so, yes. I own an apartment with my fiancé and we pay about 100 € a month.

[@buffytargaryan7171]

Yes, HOA is the same as assessment here in the USA. Is that a standard price or does it fluctuate in some manner, for example; how much the condo/apt. costs?@@Rachel-rs7jn

[@gooster_yt]

They are called co-propriete fees, and are often listed as such or "charges" on the listing. They generally are lower. Ours are a bit more, 180E for a 2BR that includes central heating and an elevator.

[@buffytargaryan7171]

Thank you! @@gooster_yt

[@byronkerby6897]

Thank you so much for doing this interview, Tony & KJ! Very informative. Due to my wife's lung condition, I would like to know if it is difficult or expensive to rent an apartment with central air conditioning?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We will find out for you.

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

I'm sorry to hear about your wife's lung condition. I'm not an expert like Adrian, but in my experience central air is practically non-existent in city apartments. You'd have to have a house.

[@gooster_yt]

It is possible, but more likely in the south, where it is warmer. It is sill the minority of apartments, but you can find it or have it installed. It usually comes in the form of a central outdoor unit and then distributed piping to wall units (independently controlled). The challenge is that you need to have an area to place the outside unit, which often means in an apartment permission (from the city and/or the building) may be required.

[@diane6868]

Thank you! Super informative! How do we get ahold of Adrain in Paris or Nice?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

You can reach out to her on her website. It's adrianleeds.com

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks for the Super Thanks 🙌

[@MrRickywallace]

Abbey Bookshop in Paris is fantastic, in the 6th, I think.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, we've been there! Wonderful!!

[@gretaschuil6874]

Enjoyed this. I spend large portions of the year in Europe. I don’t understand the need to make nasty remarks about the U.S., however. Each country has big pluses and minuses.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

True. Each country does have it's pros and cons.

[@carolbrenner3121]

❤❤❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

❤️

[@VKjk]

I’ve lived in Bordeaux for a year before and I don’t understand what’s the hype about it. Like Adrian mentioned, it’s pretty but that’s all. It’s also very dirty and you can smell pee everywhere. The mayor is hopeless as well. I’m now living very happily in Lille. People here are soooo nice and this city is soooo pretty! Oh and, waaaaay cleaner than Bordeaux and Paris. Nice is very clean and beautiful but I prefer the cooler temp 😂

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you found a place where you are happy 😊

[@betteurbain7911]

Visited Bordeaux in the 1990's and it seemed boring and stuffy, no buzz as compared to Montpelier, Strasbourg, Paris, and even Angers. It was January though, but not too cold.

[@rowandowland1391]

Hi KJ and Tony, this was a really interesting interview thanks for arranging it. Our experience purchasing property in Italy was very different to what Adrian suggested it might be. The process is very well established, indeed ancient and strongly rule based in law. It's a system that purchasers can very much trust and is very similar to the process in France. Like France it is complex (but no more so that purchasing property in Australia) and purchasers without knowledge of the system should certainly engage a good lawyer but people should not be deterred from purchasing property in either Italy or France. With best wishes

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for sharing this so that those who are looking to move to Italy won't be so concerned.

[@Jim_in_AR]

I wonder whether it would be advisable to move to Nice as a 78yo single guy. Despite what Adrian said about fear, I wonder if I'd have trouble finding support if, say, I stepped off a curb wrong and twisted or broke an ankle. I visited Nice for a week in Nov 2021 and loved what I saw!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I think that's one of the reasons why connecting with an expat group early on and learning the language is so important.

[@dianegriffith3006]

Wondered this myself as I’m also 78. Just turned that age..

[@gloriagreen1123]

As I said to reader Diane, I am 76 and live by 2 mottos: You're never too old to make a new plan and You're never too old to be young! There is a wonderful French immersion language school in Villefranche Sur Mer just 5 minutes east of Nice that I attended 10 years ago. You might want to check that out if you don't already know French. Good luck!

[@olivlisa]

I think this is an important consideration. Connecting with an expat group could of course be helpful, but I think for some medical situations, one really would want to have a family member present to help and also want to be able to speak in English with doctors/nurses, etc. Complicated medical conditions or situations can be difficult to communicate if not in your native tongue. As an American expat in Italy, I can attest to the fact that in the hospitals here it is expected that a family member will take on some of the duties we are used to nurses doing in the US (giving sponge baths, helping you to the bathroom etc). It is something to think about as we get older.

[@jadejohnson4790]

Great! Thanks for sharing! Why do you want to move to France itself? Proper planning prevents poor performance. Have you considered the 90/180 instead of going through the visa process again? You may want to consider the correct visa if you go through the process again..for you new business. A long stay visitor’s visa doesn’t allow earnings like KZbin while in France. It seems that you initially just moved without work on your minds, then posting some videos led you down a path…was it the path you wanted?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We actually did move with work on our minds. We both work online as therapists, and this was a concern all along. We heard conflicting information about taxation etc.

[@jadejohnson4790]

You may want to get legal advice about work visas vs Long Stay Visitor visas. There is no visitor visa that allows earning income through online work..work is work, visiting is visiting.

[@sebastianfoucaud268]

😀

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

😊

[@shinyshinythings]

HouseHunters International advertised for subjects in a Facebook group and asked for people who had recently bought a place-so it seems like any drama about “finding the right home” must be at least somewhat scripted. That was for Spain I think, though, so maybe it’s different for the France version.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, just as Adrian described.

[@nikkioperas]

How much would health insurance cost for a long term visa for a couple?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

In 2022 it coast us about 1k

[@nikkioperas]

KJ, may i know the name of that book that Adrian read too. The power of now:))

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

[@stephaniech4008]

how did you move your stuff?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We didn't. We sold most of it and put the rest in storage.

[@chandeliers1022]

🍎 KJ and Tony Beautiful windy day! KJ, whenever you feel like something is going to happen, just think of one Doris Day's popular songs (Whatever Will Be Will Be) as she sings the future is not for us to see, Cay Sera Sera. How do you say it in French? Just wanted you to check out this couple that has a beautiful Chateau in France that you guys can probably spend the weekend at and get to know that part of France. The run and own a B&B. Most importantly, she is an American and her husband is From Denmark. A little like my husband and I, but I am not born American, but a naturalized citizen. Her Chateau is fairly new to the public and it's gorgeous! The name of their KZbin Channel is Queen's Escape. We'll put the link below. Not sure if you've heard of them. Please let us know if you should visit them and you can probably do a video and I'm sure your viewers would love that especially since Chateaus are becoming very popular with Americans. Also do a video of driving there for your vlog if you should decide to go there. Quite a few Americans are buying up the Chateaus in France. You guys should consider a Chateau and have someone run it for you and live there at the same time! Link to Queen's Escape below. Bye for now.🌴 kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoqQnZ-Bqputm9Usi=fUIoDbS4n3DdvSVG

[@chipsellarole267]

What French bank did you use when moving from the US. International bank? HSBC, a bank that is in both US and France?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We currently use a Wise account. We have not opened a bank account in France yet.

[@kristenkim3681]

@@kjandtonylovefranceI too have a Wise account. I can pay all of my bills with it. As a part-time resident of France (90/180 plan), that’s all I need.

[@jme104]

You don't say "bienvenue" to someone , you say bienvenue to some place . For example bienveune to KJ and Tony's house, or site .

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you!

[@alexwyler4570]

FYUn often the passion of French people can come across as angry when they speak in English.

[@elizabethglenbentley7882]

What are the easiest things to accomplish to get into France, what are the most difficulty for a young woman at 77 yrs old!??😂

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

This would be a great question for Adrian. I think it's actually easier when you are older and retired. The visa is easier to get.

[@rtfirefly3657]

A permanent move would not be something I would consider. Politically now seems unsafe and will only get more unstable. As long as you have your home in the states and can get back without a hassle.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

One could say the same about the US 🫤

[@giova3026]

Said, while a bunch of folks in Atlanta are being tried for trying to take over the govt. I think its a good idea to explore other options. Bravo KJ and Tony!

[@jme104]

Brussels has more access to the world Than Lille, you can go to Paris , Amsterdam , London and Germany . Furthermore, it's a capital city and it's a lot more multicultural than Lille .

[@charlenewilliford6957]

O

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

🤔

[@kathleenkalt3852]

I always watch HGTV when she's on.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We do too!

[@leondincesoar4947]

She confuses Lyon and Lille !!!! Lyon is between Paris and Marseille Lille is in the north, on the border with Belgium

[@cate3979]

The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy. That is the fullness of life.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

🙏

[@joannehenrickson277]

Sounds like Tony wants to go back to the “good ole days” - the fifties🤔

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, I think he would enjoy that.

[@tamaramadelin4831]

I prefer Nice way over Paris!! France in general is expensive!! Not true, as an EU citizen you get a way better loan, but if you can pay cash, ok...Luckily I didn't need a visa and have an EU husband!! Learn French, you'll need it!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Learning French 👍

[@deannab9511]

It's always interesting when Americans say European countries do things backwards or they don't make sense, when they have been doing things a lot longer(literally thousands of years) we didn't invent the wheel!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

True

[@alexwyler4570]

FYI That is never taught when learning French. French people are allowed to have emotions. So when speaking with a French, a real French person, you always believe the words over the body language. A French person might still be upset with bad news they got 15 minutes before meeting up with you. If a French person tells you they are not angry even though you think they act angry, believe what they are saying. When I first move to America 37 years ago, I was shocked at how civilized American work meetings were. 🤣🤣🤣i had NO idea about body language!!!! And you needed to go by the body language of Americans. 😂😂😂

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Understandably so 😊

[@kath6720]

I’m sorry. I’m French and I have lived abroad. This lady saying we are not logical is nonsense. Logic doesn’t belong to a country of culture. It’s simple common sense. The reason France is so bureaucratic is because equality is very important in France and trying to make sure that you are not cheated on, is a tedious process. We do not tend to pile on appointments also because every individual’s situation relates to that person alone and not their spouse or companion. So nothing to do with logic. And frankly, the culture is not so much a problem if you learn French. Learning a language is the way to enter a culture. You are making the effort, you learn how the language came about, you understand the expressions. Etc… And my advise to you is meet French people and make friends. Please do not let anyone tell you, you need to stick among yourselves. Nonsense. We are not as easily accessible and may seem arrogant but once you know us we are friends for life. She has a lot of good advice but I’m sorry, the logical part is simply not true;-) As for amazing places, well there is the cemetery Père Lachaise ( but you may already know about it! ) some of the greatest figures of history are buried there.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for sharing your experience. And yes, we are committed ot learning the language, but we have a LONG way to go with it.

[@kath6720]

@@kjandtonylovefrance You’ll be fine. People will be able to tell you are doing your best and will respond to it, you’ll see. You are both lovely and you are very open minded. I have no doubt you will feel at home before long. Bon courage 🥰

[@lours6993]

If you come, please make the effort to integrate which means an adequate level of the language and the right attitude. Please don’t add to the anglophone ghettos scattered around the country. They are somewhat sad both for the immigrant Brits and Americans and for the locals. If you love France, choose to embrace it.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. This has been a tip that we have heard over and over again (about the language and integration). We are trying our best with the language.

[@byronkerby6897]

I recently learned that thousands of Jewish French citizens have been fleeing France and seeking asylum in Israel due to increased anti-Semitism from the large Muslim population in France. The media seems to be hesitant to report on this, perhaps because it might cause it to escalate. Have you heard anything about this? Thanks!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

No, we have not heard anything of this.

[@pauletteyoung112]

There’s a large French population in Israel because of the anti-semitism in France.

[@frankmontague7544]

😮 DON'T OWN, RENT....and for the most freedom, Rent Short Term(BnB etc).

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I'm sure we will be doing that until we find the right place.