Moving from USA to France | Expat, France Travel and French Visa Update

[@plovenmark6424]

The Palais Garnier is the largest opera house in Europe and is outstanding in its beauty. My suggestion is to take a tour on a day that you are not seeing the opera. It’s exquisite beauty brought tears to my eyes. Another suggestion is to read the story of your opera ahead of time to give you a greater enjoyment of the experience. There will also be information about the performers that is fascinating. I have been following your adventures and am so pleased you are going back to Paris in October!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Great suggestion! Thank you, we will do that!! Thank you for your support. We are so excited to be going back to Paris!

[@lindadorman2869]

Great update on your plans and thoughts about France so far. Exploring more towns in always a good idea and I think you'll just know when you find the right place. No matter where you end up, I'm sure you'll still travel to other cities in France and beyond. What helped me was to make a list of criteria (including my deal-breakers) and score each city to see which meet my needs the closest. I'm considering staying the first year in Nice or Lyon and moving somewhere else after that. Looking forward to your interview with Adrian Leeds!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Hi Linda! Thanks for the tips 😊 Sounds like you have a great plan.

[@Cookie-ye5dq]

I live just outside of Paris and bought a little house. I am only 32 km from Paris and love my little town and the people.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Sounds wondeful ❤️. Congratulations!

[@trishac9516]

I know you haven't visited Provence yet, but one of the most memorable places we visited there was when we saw the Carrières de Lumiéres in Les Baux-de-Provence. It is the original immersive art show and is in an old limestone rock quarry and was amazing! You really need to visit Provence and see all the amazing countryside towns, too many sights to list. Aix-en-Provence is where we stayed and then traveled all over 💕

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for the suggestion. Sounds incredible 😍

[@izzyparis2062]

I lived in the south of France for almost a year, it was a lovely experience. You can travel around and about the area, thru Provence etc, it offers a bit more relaxed lifestyle than Paris. However, nothing compares to what Paris can offer but it comes at the cost of managing a larger city and dealing with traffic/queues etc. You didn't ask me, but personally, I would ask yourself what kind of lifestyle do you envision for yourselves, what do you want your daily/weekly activities to look like. Train travel is convenient, so can visit the places that you choose not to call 'home'. Chamonix/Mont Blanc is beautiful, a little sleepy, which for me makes it a nice place to visit but not sure I would want to live there. But honestly, it's one of my favorite favorite French cities thus far. For Adrian, question: what are the top considerations that people need to consider that might not be intuitive to Americans/Canadians etc. Have fun and stay safe on your upcoming travels!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks Izzy! Appreciate your feedback regarding the South of France and Paris. Also appreciate you providing a question for Adrian, which I've added to the list!

[@cquinnth]

You really need a car to explore all the beautiful scenery in Provence

[@rosalindd1386]

So very excited for you both ! So much to look forward too & I am excited to find out where you choose to live while in France! Thank you so much for all that you do for us ! Also looking forward to seeing your new home !

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you, Rosalind 😘

[@trishac9516]

When you go to Lyon, you need to take the train to Annecy which is about 30 minutes from Geneva. It is so beautiful and picturesque!! We were recommended to visit there from a French- born friend. Also, the food in Lyon is amazing. You probably know that it is the food capital of France, not Paris.❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Sounds amazing! Thank you 😊 We can't wait!

[@carmelitasantos5271]

Yes! I can't wait...I've seen a bunch of videos. I didn't want to go back to Florida without visiting Lyon.

[@charlenewilliford6957]

Welcome back. Looking forward to the next videos. Very excited

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you!

[@cquinnth]

The farther north you go in Provence……the less English you hear. You stayed in touristy spots in the tourist season. French people don’t like to speak English, but they do love it when visitors speak French. Paris is different from the rest of France. Do you want to live in a capital city? Or do you want to experience French life outside of Paris? Culture is everywhere in France.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Great questions!

[@lauraswihart4816]

OK!

[@ericdurville6306]

I am French and I noticed that when I go to New York I noticed that Americans don't like to speak French but they love it when tourists speak English😉

[@LisaNazarian]

So excited for your interview with Adrian and watching you on her Apres-midi (I follow her too). Wait until Tony is standing by the Seine again; he’ll be picking Paris😊. My two cents; live in Paris and vacation in Nice (If you end up torn between the 2 in the end). Thanks for the video!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. Yes, I think your suggestion is a good one!

[@pamhoppe9751]

So glad you are taking your time to decide where you will make your first nest in France. It's a big decision! Just for info - air conditioning is not standard in Europe & it's very hard for Americans to understand. Summers in either Paris or Nice are HOT! Nice has more airflow from seabreezes than Paris, with all the tall buildings. It is always possible to install a unit in the bedroom, but still not common in other rooms of a house. I don't know if you are considering a smaller location, but recommend you research a couple as you will learn French quicker and will be able to make fast friends as people are friendlier in the smaller towns. You can always travel to a larger city for special adventures, but if you're going to make a home, you will want to consider something outside larger cities to get the full experience of living in France. Look forward to hearing about your future visits!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, we are definitely staying open to a smaller town and what that has to offer.

[@angielu3273]

I agree. We visited some of the smaller villages. Many of them have everything one needs and are not far from larger cities by train or bus. It was a learning experience for me taking trains and buses since we live in rural Colorado and drive everywhere.

[@kathym394]

We spent a week in Geneva🇨🇭traveled to Lyon and Chamonix 🇫🇷 It was a fabulous trip! It is so easy. We stayed right on Lake Geneva and had a short walk to the Central Train Station for the train to Lyon. Chamonix is so close.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

That's so wonderful to hear that you had such a great experience. We are really looking forward to it.

[@terryfuselier8241]

Fabulous videos! Thank you for the recommendation of the program Lingoda. We will definitely check it out. Although I know Spanish, I am not fluent. My husband was fluent in French ; it was not his first language and he doesn’t use it in Texas. Your excitement makes us ready to go back to Europe.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Glad you enjoyed the video and we are loving the Lingoda program!

[@krc5210]

This was fun and informative. Looking forward to your interview w Ms midi. You are answering many questions for us and hesitating at the same decisions we would. TY!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@sharonalexa]

So exciting to hear your plans! Tony needs his Seine lol. I saw La Boheme in Toronto (in Italian). It was amazing. No translation which I loved! Your home is fabulous! 🌺

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you, Sharon. I'm sure the Opera is going to be fantastic!

[@mollymueller3701]

Lyon is merveilleux! Go have a drink at La Muse which is on the roof of the opera house. Amazing view!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for the recommendation 😊

[@Sonorus52]

Strasbourg, Montpellier and Bordeaux would be good additions to your list. Will you eventually want to buy a house or condo, or rent? If a condo or rental make sure to enquire about the possibility of installing AC. If you worry about heat, a recent article in Le Figaro might be of interest: “Les villes les plus menacées par l'explosion du nombre de jours et de nuits de canicule”; you might find it surprising.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks for the suggestions. Yes, I believe we will want to buy ultimately.

[@betteurbain7911]

I would like to echo the suggestion regarding Strasbourg and Montpellier, and add Rouen, Beaune or Dijon in the Burgundy (not Bordeaux) area, and Angers in the Loire. I have been in Lyon and Toulouse in the month of May decades ago, and it was so hot in Lyon that we filled the hotel bathtub with cold water (there was no pool at the hotel) and sat in it to cool off even though there was air conditioning. French AC is not as powerful as US. Also, watch for salle climatisee. That is singular. The salle that is climatisee is probably the lobby. Salles climatisees means more than one room is air conditioned, but you will want to make sure that it means the hotel bedrooms. Paris is several degrees cooler than Nice but lots of concrete--I don't know if there's a breeze off of the sea in Nice that helps cool things down or how humid it is. Nice gets much more rain than Paris. You might want to consider Seasonal Affective Disorder with the change in light. Also, the access to the sea or even the open land might be an issue for you as you said. I did not grow up near water but after living near it for 23 years, I have since lived, not near water, but on the edge of a city near rural areas. This helps with my Sagittarian impulse to be free. I can see the horizon. I intend to move back into a city (but near trees and a bayou) so that will have to suffice for me. Nice seems more touristy than Paris even though the capital receives a lot of visitors. Larger cities, with Paris being the largest, cost more. I was able to dine in what was then a 3 star Michelin restaurant in Strasbourg whereas that would be much more expensive in a larger city, especially Paris. You cannot beat Paris for the museums--they have one for everything, not just artists and artwork. Sorry this comment is so long with no paragraph breaks. Also I love KJ's dress and earrings.

[@bluewaterstudio]

I absolutely loved this video .. chocked full of valuable information for those wanting to move to France. Dare I say, I love KJ's blouse. In Paris, you must go to the Musée Carnavalet (free) for a trip thru the history of Paris. Just down the street from Place des Vosges. So much fun .. in Paris, every evening thrills me with something new. The important aspect is asking the question .. what do I want to do today? You can only stare at the ocean for so long (Nice) .. and embracing Paris could be challenging, until you let go ... ride your bike to your favorite restaurant and in your best French order soupe a' l'oignon .. close your eyes and feel just how fortunate you are to be in France with someone you love. Bonne journée -Daniel (Paris)

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you, Daniel. The blouse is a purchase from a boutique in Nice. We will definitely check out the Musee Carnavalet (you are the 3rd person to make this recommendation). We also agree with all your sentiments regarding Paris ❤️

[@worldwanderingwoman]

I love your both! Great videos, One thing though….I don’t see you guys in a cold place in France. Perhaps something in between. Although, you can travel back and forth to your home in Fl, in the winter time. I also see you in a big city not anything small. You seem very formal and small towns are very casual. I see you both in Paris!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for the feedback and suggestions ❤️

[@theresaedwards2863]

Hello KJ & Tony, So much exciting news, so happy for you! If for some reason the opera (performance) doesn't do it for you, not to worry, Palais Garnier (the building) will send you over the top with its beauty, history and grandeur. Also, was planning to attend and waiting for the October Apres Midi meeting date.....thank you! Looking forward to your presentation!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Wonderful! It will be so nice to meet you 😊

[@theresaedwards2863]

You as well!@@kjandtonylovefrance

[@janroach1852]

Will you visit Occatane? Brittany? Normandy? And Chartres, some of the towns in commuting distance of Paris. For those who want to live near Paris, within 45 minutes commting distance by train but do not want to live in the City. If you want to see art, in Nice you can get on a high speed train and go to Florence, the art capital of the world. May need to transfer in Milan, Milan is so close to Nice.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Oui ❤️

[@cquinnth]

Lingoda is great. I took classes for two years during Covid and was able to speak French when we visited France during the spring. I don’t believe you can really appreciate or understand French culture unless you speak FRENCH. Very happy for your future trips. Geneva and mt. Blanc are French speaking. Have fun!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you! That is great to hear that you had success with Lingoda. I am really enjoying it and hopeful that I will continue to improve as long as I keep taking my lessons.

[@cquinnth]

You will succeed in speaking if you keep taking the lessons, doing the homework, and participating ing the classes. Especially as you are going back and forth to France you will have opportunities to speak in France. You will get conversational! Getting to a high level of speaking French is hard because French schoolchildren learn to debate and love to discuss philosophy and politics as adults in cafes over drinks. But to do everyday things…….you will get there. Work hard and it will pay off! Also AC and screens are not popular in France. But now with the electric mini splits, things might be changing.

[@loricanner7981]

I’ve been to both the catacombs and the cemetery. Very cool. Wear really good walking shoes for the cemetery because it’s old and rough. Lots of cobblestones and it took a long time for us to find Jim Morrisons gravesite.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks for the suggestion about the shoes. We will definitely keep that in mind.

[@terrybouck5192]

Beth is in Vendee France

[@CedroneTravels]

Just bought a house in Gorron! Can’t wait!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Congratulations!

[@MarianneInmarsilia]

Strasbourg is great ….definitely visit at some point…. at Christmas for the markets if you can. Toulouse is also lovely as is Perpignan. I’ve lived in France for 33 plus years now and there are still many places I haven’t visited yet ! The winters in Nice are much more than slightly better than Paris lol. Have you ever considered buying a small flat in Paris and maybe another studio in the South for a regular getaway ? 28:34

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks, Marianne. We would love to purchase places in both Nice and Paris, but that's not financially feasible for us. We will most likely keep a home base in Florida, at least for the first few years.

[@edwardcolquitt6]

Glad to hear you are hopefully working with Adrian Leeds. And WOW that is incredible that you are speaking at Apres Midi. Next step will be taping a House Hunters International with her! I have decided that I enjoy your videos so much because you are both so real and down to earth. Nothing pompous or arrogant about the two of you. I hope you end up in Paris. Good luck. Interested to see you explore hopefully the 16th, Neuilly-Sur-Seine, and maybe Boulonge-Billancourt. That's where I would look for more space for the euro.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you, Edward. We appreciate the kind words and the recommendations regarding Paris.

[@PaulaActeson]

It's been so interesting following your journey to finding a home in France. We're Canadians, but currently looking to do the same thing. We're heading over to France in the next month for a 2.5 month stay to decide if it's for us or not. Canada is a great country but we LOVE France. We love the Limousine area with the village lifestyle but still have access to Limoges which has all the amenities you need. We plan on looking around other areas too because it's such a diverse country with so much history that we just don't have here in Canada. Looking forward to seeing how it goes and what you ultimately decide.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you! Excited to hear how it goes for you as well. Please keep us posted 😊👍

[@norcal0076]

Looking forward to the chat with Adrian

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

😊

[@trishac9516]

We went to Paris the first time in 2012 and our travel agent made us a reservation for dinner at the Eiffel Tower restaurant. We had a window table and our bill was 500 euros and this was 11 years ago!!! My husband always said it was the most expensive meal we ever had 😅 it was a one-time, lifetime experience, and we really enjoyed it! If you go, I would love to know what the prices are now😊 also, I went to an opera a very long time ago in Southern California and they had subtitles above the stage, on a built-in screen.

[@southloupriverhomestead4696]

We ate there in 2004 it was 345 euros . I don't remember the exchange rate but I know it was more than 345 dollars. Most expensive meal we ever ate but I don't regret it.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for sharing your experience! We will film the menu for you!!

[@rangamurali7667]

Bonjour KJ & Tony, Thank you for sharing your exciting journey! Wishing you both good luck! Question:What sort of neighborhood choices, locale to choose from, where rentals are moderately priced, at what rates, these questions pop up thinking of Nice and nearby areas, what other places would you recommend in south of France. Merci!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. Will run your question by Adrian.

[@artbrutnewyork]

Wow! So happy you’ve connected with Adrian Leeds! A few months ago, I suggested you would be a perfect couple for a House Hunters international! Can’t wait for the interview! Will you also record your talk at her “Apres Midi” in Paris? Question: Regarding your long stay visa: Once you complete the process at the prefecture/physical are you allowed multiple exits and entries or must you remain in France for the entire year/length of the visa?

[@patoshea5351]

Oh..you are back..i thought what i saw recently were old videos..glad you back... Since i am in England currently and rerurning back to U,S..after. spending 4 months in Normandy France...and realize i am missing France..but not the languages..England is no longer my interest..due issues hard to state differences I do suggest and my highlight was visiting Nantes to Tours and the Loire Region...Chateau Please consider your trips based on conditions time of year..such affordable and weather in South of France

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you! Appreciate the tips.

[@supernatitube]

Hi KJ & Tony, Greetings from New York! If you live in Paris you will be able to attend opera performances not only at the Palais Garnier, but also at Ópera Bastille (a much larger, but less intimate opera venue). There is the Royal Opera a Versailles, which would be “magnifique ». I do not read the scripts of the operas prior to watching them. I let the ópera surprise me. I get more immerse in them and enjoy them better this way. The more operas you watch the better you will know the authors and the style you like. Your taste will also change, as you immerse yourself in the world of opera. I personally love the operas of Gaetano Donizetti. Verdi is too much drama for me. Don Giovanni scared me (specially the end…). I’ve never been to the opera at Paris, but here in NYC the Metropolitan Opera has screens in the chair in front of you, where you can choose the language. You need to check which languages are offered. It usually tells you when you buy the tickets. Enjoy!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for all this helpful info. We are seeing Don Pasquale, and it states it is presented in Italian and translated into both English and French. So very excited 😊

[@Liffster]

You will be able to see the French and English on a screen above the stage and Don Pasquale is a hilarious opera-within-an-opera. Be sure to look up when the lights are on so you can appreciate Chagall's ceiling! @@kjandtonylovefrance

[@ruarifinn]

Palais Garnier is worth a visit with or without an opera. I would opt for a dance performance. I find Opera Bastille cold and austere by comparison. A chacon ses gouts.

[@kathleenmathews6096]

The Santa Fe, New Mexico Opera has small screens for each seat that show the translation. A bit difficult to watch the screen and the performers but it is helpful.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We're hearing different ways this is presented at different operas, so it will be exciting to find out.

[@lisab8277]

I love opera but haven't been to Garnier yet. You mentioned it was in Italian, so that would be Don Pasquale? Good idea to choose a comedy for your first opera -- it should be fun. Opera is all about the music and the spectacle. Not sure how Opera Garnier works, but for subtitles, opera houses usually project them over the stage or on a little screen on the seat back in front of you so you can follow along. It's also a good idea to read up on the libretto (the story line) before you go so you have a better idea of what's going on. And if you like that opera, be on the lookout for a good production of Rossini's "The Barber of Seville" -- it's quite funny. Regarding hot summers, that's a concern for all of us who are planning to live in France. It's only going to get hotter. Wherever you choose, I trust Adrian Leeds and her team will help you find a home either with air conditioning or with the option to have it installed.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, it's Don Pasquale!! Thanks so much for the helpful info regarding the opera. I am more excited about it than anything else we're doing in Paris. I have always wanted to experience an opera but have never had the opportunity. And yes, we trust Adrian will help us find the perfect home for us.

[@cquinnth]

I was in the Paris opera years ago and there was no air conditioning🥴

[@jolies5329]

Bonjour! IMO you are too anxious about climate. Paris is quite far north, so it is never as hot as the south of France. For a fact-based decision, look at temperature charts for the past 2-3 years. These can be found online. Yes, there are heat waves in Paris, but only for a few weeks in summer. High temps are not sustained over months at a time as they are in Florida, for example.The heat can be mitigated by choosing your apartment wisely: older buildings have thick walls, choose a place with cross-ventilation, shutters that can be closed during the heat of the day, limited western exposure, etc. If all else fails, central AC can be installed at a cost of about 15,000€ for a 200 sq m space. Good luck in your decision-making!

[@rivierarocket]

Sorry but as a long time resident in France I can tell you the at the apartment administrators will never allow them to install central A/C. In fact believe it or not the French themselves are against A/C. They'd rather suffer and many die. See heatwave of 2003. 16, 000 dead in a 10 days period. Yep. That's French logic.

[@jolies5329]

‘I’ve owned an apartment in central Paris since 1987. While true that not all buildings allow AC, many do, and more do every year. Where I live, an historic property, 2 of the 19 units have installed AC, with more to follow as the climate changes.@@rivierarocket

[@rivierarocket]

@@jolies5329 They may allow mobile units with hoses that really don't do the job like I have but definitely not central A/C. That means putting a large fan unit on the balcony and I'm not talking about a split. I doubt they let people put a heat pump on the balcony and the balconies are so small and the neighbors would go nuts over the sound and just to be difficult they would cause problems.

[@jolies5329]

Nope, regular compressors. Of course feasibility depends on the configuration of the building. The point is that if KJ and Tony are looking for a home with elevator access, and AC, there are plenty of options that I know of in central Paris, so not to be discouraged.@@rivierarocket

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you!

[@cherylgann1993]

You two are so darn cute together!! I feel like I have been on a trip!!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you, Cheryl!

[@southloupriverhomestead4696]

Thank You Tony for telling us who Andrean is. Some of us are not up on that sort of thing. I,m curious if I told you I get to interview Joel Salatin or Justin Rhodes do you know who I,m talking about. Funny how we think people in our area of interest everyone will know. I,m guilty of the same thing so I,m not being rude to you. Let me know if you knew 2 important people in my area of interest.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

This is KJ and I asked Tony if he knew who these people are and he did not. We look them up and they are both farmers. You must be a farmer or enjoy farming, which is why you would enjoy interviewing these individuals. It is interesting how we do sometimes expect people to know people who are prominent in a particular interest. We actually learned about Adrian from our viewers, who recommended seeking her help and expertise with our move to France.

[@carolmartin4413]

Such a nice recap of events, plans and places for the last year and onward. Glad you're having all these experiences as you settle into the future goals of your lives. I tend to go haywire with a lot of change so I sure appreciate what you're doing to find your ultimate home. Like someone said...why not both...have a home-base then holiday elsewhere...yikes that sounds so British 😅😅😅😊😊😊 Hi from the usual..Wisconsin

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We are considering keeping our home base here in Florida and going back and forth.

[@tatravels3082]

Great video. We bought our apartment in Nice last year with the Adrian Leeds Group. We couldn’t be more happier. Yea, we’re trying to learn French as well. We find that more English speakers in Nice more so in Paris from our experiences. Probably because of North America community & the UK. Looking forward to your appearance on Apres-Midi 😊

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. Congratulations on your apartment. We can't wait to finally get there as well.

[@deborahriddle7763]

Consider Bourdeaux ! Nice city with great amenities. Lots of expats there also.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. We will. This has been recommended by many others as well.

[@nancyrivard6194]

Paris can be extremely hot and humid too. Metro was horrible. 100 F last year for me was nearly intolerable. As for renting, easier to get AC in Nice flat than in a Paris flat. Exciting news about interview. Looking forward to it.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, that is exactly what we've heard too. AC is more likely in Nice than Paris. Makes it such a hard choice.

[@iloveparee]

You look so pretty, KJ, love your earrings and blouse. Do you mind saying where they are from?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. The earrings are from Macy's in the US and the blouse I bought in Nice at a place that I think was called Mangos.

[@trishac9516]

​@@kjandtonylovefranceIf the store was called Mango, it is a chain store that is based in Barcelona, similar to Zara. They have several stores in the US! If it was that store I'm going to have to look online and see if I can find your blouse😂❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

@trishac9516 Yes, it was Mango and I spied it on the sale rack when I was on line to pay and added to my purchase without even trying it on because the colors were so vibrant. Luckily it fit!

[@paulbismuth10]

For the opera i think the lyrics are in french or italian and you had the traduction on paper in English and probably in another language. The Père La Chaise cimetery is a fantastic visit. You also might enjoy the south of France better and find pocket of anglophones villages and small towns in the southwest. Good luck on your french. May you enjoy your future stay in France.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you 😊

[@maletu]

KJ and Tony move to Florida.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Not exactly...lol

[@markeilers207]

With your long-term visa (next) are you going to do residency in France, meaning you'll have to be there at least 6 months or more? But your tour plans don't seem to be in a 6 month chunks? Or are you just keeping your residency in the US?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We are planning to commit for a year in the fall of 2024. Don't know where yet and the residency is still something we are debating.

[@juliehermosillo1701]

On your first go around did you find that your lack of the French language was a barrier, especially when you first got there and had to take care of your long stay visa requirements? Also, how did you find a rental? My husband and I are retired and making our move in September 2024 and we're just beginning to learn the language and make our plan.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Not at all! Most Parisians speak English.

[@tracyc1630]

Hi, love your channel, one question that i have is im trying to figure out if i want to move to italy or france, does france have traditions in the Christian culture like italy and celebrities saints of their villages etc.. this is important to me but i cant seem to find any info on this, thank u❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Yes, France has Christian traditions. When we were in Versailles we learned about the King cake tradition. Look up "King Cake France"

[@tracyc1630]

Thank you so much

[@amfrance]

Seeing that Le Jules Verne is just one Michelin star, my guess is that the restaurant is booked out due to the location. I thought about going to Paris at the end of the month and hitting a Michelin-star restaurant for lunch, and there is plenty of availability and menus starting at about 60 EUR, but not at Le Jules Verne. 😅 In Paris, the Musée Carnavalet and Musée de Bibliothèque Nationale are also totally worth a visit. I wish I had seen both much sooner than I had. For me, the magic of France was always beyond Paris, especially in the south, somewhere between Provence, the Dordogne, and the Gers.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We're sure it has everything to do with location and the popularity of the Eiffel Tower with tourists. We've been told that most Parisians have never been to the Eiffel Tower. Thanks for the Musee recommendations. As for exploring beyond Paris, we are looking forward to doing more of that.

[@giova3026]

Hello friends, we love this video. Lots of good info! Q : So as soon as you arrive , how soon before going to the prefacture? We are sup to get our visa next week but will be arriving in France Sept 22. Just curious if we will miss it or if we have time. Since we also have to look for long term housing in Bordeaux!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

When you get your visa, it will have instructions on how to apply for your appointment, which will be online. You'll be asked for your address and your email, and then they'll contact you for your appt.

[@giova3026]

Hi KJ and Tony, just got our professional liberal visa today! Yes, read we have few months and can do it online. Suddenly, reality hit us and time to get serious with french language!! @@kjandtonylovefrance

[@KayeCarterTV]

I can’t wait to see your adventures to come. ❤Sending love hugs prayers and kindness ❤❤❤with positive thoughts ❌⭕️❌⭕️

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you ❤️ Sending you much love and gratitude 🥰

[@suzigemini]

A young lady has a KZbin channel called get the margarita (no it isn't a drinking channel) I don't drink either :) but her tour of her boyfriend's town was lovely. She highly recommends Fouras & Charente-Maritime . Great video as always. I personally would enjoy a slower life--but that is just me over Paris). How will you ever choose ;) Much love.🥰

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Hi Suzi! Yes, I know her channel and follow her. I haven't seen the video yet that you are referencing but will look it up and check it out. She is very good and puts out a lot of content.

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

Yes, I recommend Charente-Maritime too! I live (part of the year) not far from there and it's a wonderful region. I also watch Get the Margarita's channel sometimes.

[@adriennecruz3843]

Suggest you do the dinner cruise on the rivers of Lyon. Perfection.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. We will look into it.

[@sydneykasmar]

Loved the updates and your thoughts on what is important for you when choosing a place to live. Thanks. I like the idea of showing more of the meals you enjoy - a few seconds of time showing what's on the menu is always of benefit. Also and I may be in the minority, it's rare for me to watch a video that does not contain conversation or a voice over.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you 😊

[@binflynn1]

Very interesting, yous both look well 👍

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you! 😃

[@michellelyon3149]

Please check out Les Frenchies channel. They just reviewed a river dinner cruise which was fantastic! They are foodies so they both review many aspects of Paris. 😊

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We have. Their videos are great!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

👇👇Are you planning a trip to France? Check out this resource that we use to book all our tours👇👇 bit.ly/letsgotoFrance

[@loreeambur8474]

I am not a opera fan but saw La Boheme. It was in Italian. It was depressing and boring for me. I would like to see the actual opera house in Paris though.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I'm sure it's going to be spectacular ✨️

[@loreeambur8474]

From what I’m hearing, you enjoy where you are living now in Florida. Why not just go to different places in France as often as you can for different amounts of time. Besides, wouldn’t winters in Florida be better?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

We'll see, we may keep a place in Florida to visit family but would prefer to live in France.

[@goddessinfinity1]

KJ you might want to consider having your own channel so you can freely express your thoughts, opinions, and ideas without the consistent contradiction and opposition. Watching you be invalidated I found to be quite disturbing. Outside of that this video was very informative and an enjoyment to watch. Thanks for your contribution 🥰.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you. Yet, some people view me the same way. It's not as it appears ❤️

[@catherinearcaini466]

Hi, nice to see you. I hope you will come to discover Bordeaux one day ❤

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I hope so too!

[@judit1783]

France near Switzerland has had very bad floods and gets a lot of snow with very high winds. An acquaintance of mine had everything she owned flooded and came back to the US. She says she will never live anyplace where a/c costs several hundred dollars a month to operate and the government has rules on .how high your heat can be and how low your a/c can be (7

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you! That is very important to consider 👍

[@erinaustin9968]

I don’t get why you are flying back and forth for 2-3 week stays. Isn’t it more expensive? Why not go for a month each? That way you can stay at least a week in each city. A few days just (although a week is also insufficient) isn’t much time to get a real feel for a town or area.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I (KJ) still work, and even though I can work from wherever I am, it's a delicate balance. I don't want to be working while we are in France. We also don't want to move until we make a decision as to where we will land for that first year.

[@Liffster]

Two things: 1. You know you can look at the menu of the Jules Verne Restaurant on-line and see the prices, right? Tony sounded like he might be in for a surprise. 2. If you are making videos and earning money for them in France even if you are paid in the US, don't you need to apply as an auto-entrepreneur rather than a 'visitor' visa? I don't know the answer but I do know that the French are very strict about it and do not even recognize 'digital nomads'.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I'm not sure about that, but we will definitely confirm. We were told that because our business is located in the US and we are paid in the US that we simply needed the LTS Visa. I also earn money as a therapist online and get paid as a contractor directly through my business (no clients from France). I did not realize France has an auto-entrepreneur visa? I'll have to research it.

[@Liffster]

Adrian Leeds can answer it for you! The penalties for doing that are quite harsh, I understand. @@kjandtonylovefrance

[@nikkiscott4341]

All the rules 'n' regs on tax returns you may need to make, perhaps even on income earned overseas, may be relevant too. With residency, come obligations, I imagine, even if only to show that you are meeting obligations for businesses registered elsewhere.

[@rivierarocket]

Alsace...Alsace...Alsace

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Might be too cold for our Florida blood? 😊

[@cquinnth]

Alsace is beautiful!!!

[@rivierarocket]

@@kjandtonylovefrance In that case you migrate to Nice in Winter. Et voilà!

[@carynkabat4208]

The opera house is itself a show

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

It's stunning, and I"ve only seen photos so far.

[@Cookie-ye5dq]

You might want to look up the French tax code on income from KZbin after you make it your home.

[@rivierarocket]

If they are considered as self employed it's between 35-40% of net income before income tax. This includes health care, retirement funding (which they will never see because they won't have contributed long enough so this is lost money. All of this will be collected by the URSSAF. They have to understand that most of their money earned in France from all sources (except US Social Security which is non taxable in France will go to others under the French Socialist system.

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

As far as we've learned, we will be taxed but not doubly. Ultimately, we may shift our business to France. We make that decision when the time comes.

[@rivierarocket]

@@kjandtonylovefrance Not doubly for sure but at a higher rate than in the US. This is the case because of the US- France tax treaty.

[@carmelitasantos5271]

All Parisians will be required to speak English, i think is been implemented now, with the Olimpic games next year, how in the world do they expect the tourists to speak french....not good for business, the french gov would get lot of complaints about this. I left Fontainbleu, middle of July, i felt i was in Florida, too humide.. Took the train to England, and I'm in heaven with the temperatures in the high 60s. At the end of the month I'm heading to Lyon. Thank you for your videos

[@rivierarocket]

Be aware there is a heatwave in Lyon at the moment. In the 100°s F next week but then they say dropping to the 70°s...Maybe!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you! Enjoy Lyon!!

[@batteredbacon]

My sister and I had dinner at the Jules Verne it cost just less than 900 euro ......Toulouse is not a very nice town now....very over run with immigrants due to the industry and farming. We stayed downtown itwas very scary coming back from dinner lost of very loud threatening young men in the streets till very late. CHOOSE YOUR HOTEL CAREFULLY

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thanks for the tips!

[@angielu3273]

Will you be renting a car?

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

In February, yes

[@angielu3273]

Renting a car opens up a whole new world and is a good way to get immersed in the culture- asking directions to places etc. We flew into Geneva, rented a car to go to Annecy but got lost and ended up in Plaissance! Go figure. Took a wrong turn with the directions from the GPS. It was so much fun, The countryside is so amazing. Thanks for all the good info. We'll be returning soon. You both look GREAT,@@kjandtonylovefrance

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

@angielu3273 thanks for sharing this. To be honest, I'm a little nervous about driving in France but Tony said it was a breeze (and beautiful) driving from Versailles down to Nice. So, looking at it from the perspective of an adventure, if we get lost, ss well as a great opportunity to practice our French, is helpful. Thank you 😊

[@angielu3273]

I insisted that my husband did most of the driving since he is a self proclaimed expert driver I was the navigator.- that's not easy when you are trying to look at the sights. The round- points were too scary for me. Beware of the speed limits. We saw a big flash in the distance while driving at night and wondered what that was? Duh-Of course - a camera. The ticket was mailed to our home in Colorado! I was amazed by the amount of tolls. Rest rooms were sometimes a problem. Someone said that there is a restroom app for traveler? Love te hear about your experiences.@@kjandtonylovefrance

[@michelemarie2499]

If I may say , I find you look so pretty and handsome when you are at home , in the USA and in particular today You look happy , bright , joyful I think you are right to have a base in your home country There is something special there It doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t see the world and experience and love different cultures ❤️ Thank you so much for sharing 💕💕💕

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you ❤️

[@mariabanholzer5960]

You compare Paris and Nice? 😂

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

I know, right?!

[@tamaramadelin4831]

You guys are pure tourists...Why move there? I guess you really aren't and I don 't recommend it permanently! I agree...Explore! I lived in Paris, Aix en Provence and Bordeaux...Never felt 'home'! Great vacation, beautiful places, but never 'home'...After 16 years!!! Beware of culture shock...I think you might've had it!!! I do agree...You will know when you feel it! Lisbon for me...I'm home!!! France is overrated and I love to visit, but never live there!

[@kjandtonylovefrance]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I think that we too, just like you, will have to have our own experience and will know it when it feels like home.

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Thanks for the "overrated" 🙂 Maybe it just did not stick between you and France, and sticked between you and Portugal. As simply as that 🙂 Each experience is personal. I am glad you found happiness in Portugal !

[@tamaramadelin4831]

Nope! Nothing to 'stick'! I never felt an affinity with French people and I have a lot of experience with 2 large families and living in multiple cities!! I still have to call France for various purposes and dread it...The coldness! Lots of talk about Portugal being 'overrated', but for me it's peace, affordable and quiet! ✌️

[@heliedecastanet1882]

@@tamaramadelin4831 Dear Tamara, I would never dare to write about any country such a judgemental thing as "overrated" 🙂 It says a lot about you. A foreign culture suits us. Another one doesn't. That is all. There is no competition. No rate. Enjoy sincerely the peace and the quietness you found !

[@tamaramadelin4831]

@@heliedecastanet1882 Maybe I misunderstood, but look at your first comment...You said that and I interpreted it as Portugal is overrated! I absolutely love it here, but like everywhere it's not perfect...WIP like every new home and country!!