What people MAJORLY UNDERESTIMATE when moving to France

➟ 👀 ➟ BLOG: 8 Things people MAJORLY underestimate when moving to France: bit.ly/3XyiEk2
As a blogger/YTer in this space, I field a handful of advice-seeking emails each week that come from people looking to move to France. I think it’s great that people are doing their research before moving abroad and trying to get as many perspectives as possible before making such a huge life change. A recurring theme in these emails is that people severely underestimate what a major life change a move abroad to France can be. Let's talk about 4 important things people overlook when deciding to move to France.
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Salut! I'm Diane, an American who has lived in France since 2012 and the creator of the blog/KZbin channel Oui In France. My channel's focus is "Everyday French life and beyond." I make videos on French culture topics, France vs. US culture comparisons, food, travel, language, and give you my thoughts about what it's like living in France as an American in the Loire Valley. Thanks for being here and if you enjoy this sort of thing, please share with friends and subscribe!
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[@OuiInFrance]

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[@mgparis]

I'm so sorry about what happened to your nephew! I just discovered your blog and found your post very interesting :)

[@user-sr6ji8wp6y]

❤

[@robinknight2251]

I am French Canadian and I grew up in an Anglicized French city. I spoke French until school started, so it is literally my first language that I have not practiced daily for years. Last August I realized how rusty I was when I went for a weekend to Montréal, I found that I was not able to understand my first language as much as I would have liked. Use it or lose it! Since August I have actively been listening to French KZbin, reading books, listening to French music, and watching French Canadian TV. I spend a minimum of 1 hour a day and I am just at a point where I can understand about 75% of the words being spoken without having French subtitles on. You have to really want it.

[@LionelCOSTE]

Same on the over side. Practicing oftenly with well minded people seems the best way to improve our skill 😊

[@sydmccreath4554]

Have you seen the film “Betty Blue 37°2 le matin” ??

[@truckerdaddy-akajohninqueb4793]

I'm an Anglo living in Sherbrooke from another province. I'm fluent in French. Proud of it. My grammar is excellent. But I still feel like I don't belong.

[@360.Outdoors.Videos]

Hello Robin . I am trying to learn English on YT ! On my channel you will hear French German and English . Of course my English is not perfect . Nevertheless you can compare the two versions . If I can help you do not hesitate to ask . Have a nice day most of all .

[@CiTYLiiFE]

As an American who had studied french for years in school/higher education, I agree that actually becoming fluent in French or perhaps any language is a journey, not a destination. I've been living here for 5 years and let me tell you there are SO many nuances to french (different registers like formal, familier, and verlan) and so many cultural references. I used to get straight A's in all my french courses but I got pegged down a couple notches after living here and trust me the french do not hold back when correcting or making jokes about your accent. So be prepared to leave your ego at the door!

[@barbaracameron5610]

My daughter studied french is school she went to the Sorbonne jr yr she was put in classes with foreign people like her

[@gillesgrindel7985]

The reciprocity is available: when french people are angry and want to hit something, they say they are hungry and want to eat something.

[@sew_gal7340]

I do find the french to be quite mean and snobby to those who do not know french very well...been there and dealt with that sadly

[@nox8730]

Yes, well, those who do not care to get better with french generally are not the target of jokes, because we won't bother with them for long. So, if you got corrected, that probably means you efforts are acknowledged. Good for you.

[@danielcreveuil9811]

Very smart comment ! Nothing to add.

[@arthurbosch1460]

I moved to France eight years ago. I study everyday and although I've learned a lot, I'm convinced I'll still be learning ten years from now. It's a beautiful language, but difficult.

[@OuiInFrance]

Absolutely, I'll always be learning French. I look forward to it ;-)

[@mikemars5984]

i don't think you ever conquer a language. A lot of English people have yet to learn to write and speak correct English.

[@georgecrick7764]

I also moved to France some 9 years ago, I've have had lessons and work at learning every day. I am learning lots of words and phrases but struggle to put sentences together, still I'm enjoying learning. It's become a work in progress.

[@user-ug1qs8bo4w]

Ok thanks. Now I don't feel so "bizarre";).

[@Belaziraf]

You'll still be learning because you like studying. As an immigrant myself, I was lucky to be very young when we first came in France. It helps a lot. But I encounter a lot of new immigrants from all over the world. And frankly, if you ae a bit serious when learning, one or two years let you master pretty much most of what you need for everyday life. The point is to meet with French speaking people. It doesn't matter if they're immigrants too. It will help your hearing and grasp very quickly that some words don't need to be perfect. Grammar is important in everyday speech, but not essential. What you need most is a wide knowledge in vocabulary. Not what you find in books, but in real life. A mix of formal, familiar, local dialects, etc ... Some expressions and words are offensive out of context or depending on the intonation. The same goes for polite and formal words and speeches. That's why I say vocabulary is the first priority. Basic grammar, in the sense of being able to write decent simple letters would require something between 1 or 3 years. It will make your working life easier. Working contracts are mostly written in a way it's easy to understand and avoid conflicts. High profile jobs will require a better understanding of grammar. One interesting thing is that even journalists of the old days admitted that they barely knew half of the existing words and expressions. Modern journalists have even less knowledge. I stopped reading newspaper and online news regularly because it's full of mistakes a kid wouldn't even do. Strangely enough, you will notice that non natives have a better grammar and more vocabularies.

[@WaddleQwacker]

I'm French, moved to NA, so I kinda go through the same problematic but from french to english. When it comes to language, i feel like people who do not have the experience fail to understand that there is a massive difference in learning between the "being comfortable to have a chit-chat at the bar" level and doing "filling my taxforms and calling a hotline to set up a mortgage" level. it's not even a matter of knowing advanced and perfect grammar, it's just the kind of ease and flexibility you can perform with the language on a detailed subject and with stress and interferences.

[@blaire85]

Have lived in France for the last 16 years (we planned a long time in advance of moving) and when we moved people said "oh you'll be fluent in no time", no! It takes , time dedication and perseverance. It's been a long, hard and sometimes frustrating slog.16 years in and i'd never ever say I was fluent and I'm speaking it every day. I think French Doctors can be straight and to the point and it can throw you off guard sometimes. My Doctor is an advocate for getting tests done so I do consider myself fortunate. Politics, I just don't go there. Taxes, you pay a lot in and I agree you do get good benefits out of it. I wouldn't want to go back to the UK, I like my life here the good and the bad (you'll get that wherever you go) embrace the cultural changes and go with the flow. Sadly, I agree with you there are far too many people who look at living here through rose tinted spectacles.

[@francocanuck9435]

Stay positive ,very good enjoy

[@jaykilborn2508]

You talk about French doctors being straight and to the point, my wife had some tests done and she went to see the doctor for the results. The doctor came out and said "you have pancreatic cancer and it is inoperable''. She wished the doctor had been a little less blunt.

[@picholoup]

@@jaykilborn2508 so sorry, I hope you will get the adequate treatment . Yeah, blunt 😥might be the better word here. I've moved to France 42 years ago, I'm German American and was raised speaking two languages. I suppose, having to cope with two languages makes it easier to pick up another one. Reading and listening to the news,having neighbours and friends who are French and speak next to nothing in your mother tongue helps, not having a bunch of expats helps too and on top of all that, we live in a region where there practically are no Germans or English speaking folks around, so I assume, for us, it was kind of not sooooo hard to get pretty fluent and then there are the kids and school and you just have to come up to snuff to help them with their homework. All that keeps you on your learning toes and then there is work....If you're really thrown in the bath, it easier to learn the subtleties of a language.

[@jaykilborn2508]

@@picholoup It is not me. It was my wife who had cancer. She died in 2021. She was French and she spoke english. Ninety per cent of our conversations were in english. If I needed something in a store, she would ask. Now that she is gone, I am alone, in a foreign country. That is a great motovating factor to learn to speak french.

[@picholoup]

@@jaykilborn2508 I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you have not given up on the French and their way of life. I do know of some cases where things were like you described them. We have two friends, who live in France as long as we do and had french wifes, they had the same language related problems.

[@palupalu5647]

From a French point of view, wealthy immigrants should contribute to the improvement of the "living well together", and not confining oneself to grouping together in communities as English pensioners do, for example, and who exchange relatively little with the rest of the local population. Moreover, the arrival of new inhabitants who buy houses at prices beyond the reach of the locals, is likely to drive out the young local population whose life is increasingly precarious. this applies as much to Paris intra muros as to small rural villages. So beware of the risk of latent conflicts during your exchanges... What is amusing is to see Anglo-Saxons settling for their old age in France, when French retirees go to settle in Portugal or Tunisia, also causing the difficulties explained above. In short, in one sentence, ask yourself what you can bring to France, and if you do, you will be considered as eternal friends!

[@WaddleQwacker]

Pro tip: if you bring (good) food, you'll fit right in.

[@Lilavrila]

💯 d'accord !!! 😊

[@brianmccloskey8364]

The arrival of new inhabitants who buy homes out of reach of the locals is an increasing problem in the US as well. It's driving housing prices up dramatically. Young people cannot get a solid start on adult life. Those buying aren't often moving in to the houses they buy. They rent them out instead for high prices.

[@Lokichangchang1]

Ask yourself what makes you feel entitled to take from foreigners 😂 twat

[@davidmatthews3093]

A good video explaining what needs to be understood before people commit themselves to a huge life change. I’m not sure of the arrangements for North Americans but a mistake that a lot of British families seem to be making is that the really believe that they still have the right to move to and work in France. This is reinforced by positive social media posts that tell them to go for it and anything is possible when in fact the jobs open to immigrants from Britain are few and far between. Half an hour browsing through the French-visas website should show them that without a particular skill set, transferable qualifications, a very good understanding of the language, a gilt edged business plan or a small fortune work is not an option. Videos like yours are important, people need to face up to the realities and not just cross their fingers and dream.

[@AnnM223]

When I immigrated to America many years ago, to the land of opportunities, I also found out that in reality, things are very different. The sooner you accept the differences, the better your life will be. You have to be very adaptable which is not easy even if you come in your twenties.

[@lechatel]

Good sensible advice. With my husband I have a business here in Normandie. It involves relocation, helping people settle in and buy homes....and helping people move on and sell them. We see a lot of very excited dreamers....and we see a lot of broken dreams. I think a lot of people see France as some kind of special place where the normal rules of economics and day to day life simply don't apply. We have to make them face the reality that bills still accumulate, and tax and charges still have to be paid. There is a depressing number of people who buy a picturesque property without really considering the running/maintenance costs and how they will fund it all. Often there is a vague idea (one cannot call it a 'plan') of having gites or Band B or 'doing courses' and so forth. Now I am not saying you can't make a go of a business like that, but you have to approach it seriously and put in the work and do a proper business plan. And many people don't do it because it cuts across the whole 'French dream'. Which is a pity, because they end up giving up, and they lose a massive amount of money, and cause themselves huge stress, in the process.

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you for this perspective. It makes a lot of sense and I can totally see how someone anticipates one reality and is faced with another. Setting up a business and running it is not to be taken lightly and I think more people than we realize have stories like the ones you've shared. But because people feel ashamed and maybe even embarrassed, they're not the majority we hear from on blogs or videos sharing their stories. So people get this skewed impression that it's so easy and fun to buy and renovate a house, start a gite business, or any other host of activities. I appreciate you taking the time to leave this comment. It's an important one!

[@amyspeers8012]

You were such a huge help when I first moved to France…and continue to help after 5 years! ❤

[@OuiInFrance]

I appreciate you, Amy. Thanks for sticking around in the Oui In France community all this time. I'm so happy my content has been helpful and continues to be.

[@jouffroy47]

Great post. As someone who has studied French for 44 years, bought a tiny apartment in Paris 23 years ago but has never really lived in France, I appreciate your thoughts. My latest 6 week episode with trying to upgrade my French apartment's cable service to fiber [it finally got installed and working after I left the country] after having to call service each time a different technician came to do his assigned task, or try to fix the problem, or investigate the problem and try to blame it on something out of his realm of expertise, is a microcosm of why I would likely go batty living there. 🙃

[@OuiInFrance]

Oh yes, lots of patience is needed for things like that. Hope it all worked out in the end. Thank you for watching!

[@davidmatthews3093]

With that mindset you are undoubtedly correct but to make the transition you need to discover how the systems work and go with them and not simply say they’re different so wrong.

[@truthalonetriumphs6572]

@@davidmatthews3093 It is not simply "different" when it "doesn't work." "It is wrong, but you have to suck it up" - that I agree with.

[@lijohnyoutube101]

@@davidmatthews3093 different is when two pathways go in unalike directions but both achieve resolution. In many French systems the culture seems to have completely accepted a culture of indifference/feigned incompetence etc. etc. in order to actually solve problems. That is when it becomes, ‘wrong’. In some ways France seems to have extremely high standards, like in its education grading. In the bigger picture of society however they accept very frequently pathetic ‘problem solving, as adequate. It is mystifying why they are so willing to accept such ridiculously low standards.

[@heleneculioli-atwood6997]

Don’t worry. It happens to French people like me. I left France in 1985 and came back in 2016. I am still frustrated about everything.

[@dougmartin7129]

I love visiting France and I’ve had many trips over the last few decades. I even thought of getting an apartment but visiting keeps the charm going without all the real life hassle that gets in the way.

[@lechatel]

Sensible. So many people move over and think it will be like an everlasting version of their annual holiday. And of course it isn't because the bills and day to day problems are no longer left back in the UK or wherever....they come with you.

[@happycommuter3523]

Very sensible. It’s also true of anywhere’, even in your own country. My parents used to take vacations in Bar Harbor, ME every year, they absolutely loved it, and joked about moving there all the time. But living somewhere year round is SO different from going there on holiday, when you’re not working, and everything is filtered through the rose-colored glasses of leisure and pleasure. It’s a good thing they never carried through on this pipe dream, because my father died, and that would have left my mother alone in a strange place, a several hours’ drive from her nearest family.

[@kerouac2]

My biggest complaint about people moving to France is the fact that they do not really try to blend into French culture. They don't watch French television, listen to French radio and don't go to see French movies because they have access to all of their "home" sources of entertainment and information. I really think that these elements are essential to understanding (and criticizing) French culture. I have had a number of expat friends (and have now eliminated them) because I could not even convince them to watch the French evening news. So there was no hope for them ever watching French series, game shows, soap operas or talk shows. And so they will never understand French culture.

[@Taldanmus]

She so totally nails this, as usual! And it’s badly needed, It seems the vast majority of KZbinrs play down the tough stuff and I have a feeling people are being suckered in. Great work here.

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you! I think it's easy to get caught up in the fun and excitement of a move abroad so much so that we neglect looking at the very real challenges that are just as important.

[@pnwesty7174]

I'm almost 50, married with no kids - hoping to retire in 5-6 years, living modestly. I am doing the research now (including taking "immersion" French lessons) to possibly land in France. Planning a southern Brittany trip in June, followed by a trip to eastern France the following year. Your advice and insights have been a part of the research process. 😁

[@OuiInFrance]

So glad you've found my advice helpful. ;-) Enjoy Brittany -- it's one of my favorite areas!

[@alank1995]

Brittany is amazing! I lived in Rennes for a year back in 2000 and travelled around a LOT. I know you said south, but I can highly recommend St. Malo, Dinan, Rennes, Mont St Michelle obviously :) There is also a little town called Vitre that we've been to a few times that we really like. There is a small hidden park behind the chateau called Pré des Lavandières that is just perfect for lunch picnic. I also can't stress enough how much we appreciated visiting a lot of the WW2 sites. They are fascinating and well worth researching. The Longues-sur-Mer Battery and the landing beaches are particularly interesting.

[@anorilian4560]

Je suis français et je trouve que les points que vous soulignez sont assez pertinents et en fait ça vaut pour tous les pays. L'apprentissage de la langue, si on a le projet de s'intégrer à la société, est indispensable et long et sans fin (même pour les natifs !). Il faut aussi découvrir la culture francophone populaire pour saisir les références comme quand quelqu'un d'une quarantaine d'année dire qu'il y a les bons et les mauvais..., en expliquant qu'il font la même chose, mais que le bon, il est bon et le mauvais, il est mauvais (le bon chasseur, quand il voit un truc, il tire, mais c'est un bon chasseur ; le mauvais chasseur, il voit un truc et il tire, mais c'est un mauvais chasseur). Le "problème", c'est que beaucoup d'anglophones peuvent vivre en France en ne côtoyant que des anglophones et en vivant dans cette bulle. C'est abordé dans cette vidéo : kzbin.info/www/bejne/jobdlpp6itmaf7c. En résumé, une quantité non négligeable de natifs anglophones vont s'installer à l'étranger sans réel projet de s'intégrer dans la société du pays d'accueil. Le système des impôts et très (trop !) compliqué et il désavantage surtout les classes moyennes. La TVA est chère, mais les produits de première nécessité (nourriture et livres, notamment) sont à 5%. Il y a de nombreuses subventions possibles, mais c'est rarement les plus démunis qui peuvent y avoir accès. Concernant la santé, la formation est publique et sérieuse, mais les erreurs de diagnostic peuvent exister. Le désert médical de certaines régions (hors grandes villes et sud de la France) est un vrai problème, d'autant qu'il est nécessaire d'avoir un médecin référent pour profiter du remboursement. Aller directement voir un gastroentérologue quand on a mal au ventre, ça ne se fait pas. Mais les soins sont accessibles pour tous ou presque. Aux USA, mon image est qu'un hôpital peut refuser de soigner quelqu'un ayant eu un accident s'il n'est pas solvable (pb qu'on voit dans les séries médicales). L'état veut dépenser moins dans la santé pour faire des économies, mais dans le privé, on privilégie les secteurs rentables (chirurgie esthétique, par exemple). Parfois, il peut y avoir des associations entre hôpital et clinique dans une petite ville, pour acheter et utiliser un CTscan en commun. Pour la politique, effectivement, il y a aussi des mouvements extrêmes, même si LFI et le PCF ne sont pas tellement représentatifs. Ils ont l'air extrême parce que l'échiquier actuel s'est énormément déporté à droite. De plus, le terme "social" et "socialiste" n'ont pas le même sens en français et en anglais, il faut faire attention. La vie politique est sûrement différente est elle est globalement organisée autour de 3 points : les néolibéraux, les nationalistes et l'écologie-sociale (justice sociale + écologie). Par contre, je trouve qu'il y a un point important : le logement peut être très cher et aujourd'hui, de nombreux Français, même ceux ayant un emploi à plein temps, peuvent avoir des difficultés à payer un loyer ou faire un emprunt pour acheter du bien immobilier. Sûrement que si l'on vient de Grande Bretagne ou d'une grande ville Américaine, cela pourra sembler moins cher, accessible, mais ce n'est pas le cas pour l'écrasante majorité de ceux qui vivent sur place. Bonne continuation à vous

[@martinasandoval5326]

It is illegal to refuse treatment in a hospital in the US. You will get a huge bill but they cannot refuse to treat you because of money.

[@bawhitham]

Older American, living in a southern France city. I really enjoy your blog, so a few comments... 1) I absolutely agree with your comments about the language. After studying for years in prep for my dream to move to France, I still find the language hard and getting to fluency is a slog. But it really is essential ! ! ! 2) I am surprised about your health care experience. This is certainly not the case for me. My wife and I are both in the French Health care system and have a "mutuelle" to cover some extras. My doctors spend lots of time with me, I'm never rushed, and I think they send me for too many tests. I do agree that the wait time can be long for some specialists, dermatology, for example. 3) Many countries have reciprocal agreements (tax treaties), so the tax burden can vary depending on your situation. I am retired, and most income is from abroad (i.e. not French), so the US is where most of the taxes are paid. My tax burden this year mostly included the percentage owed for health care. That burden was so significantly less than we would pay in the US, that I happily sent off the payment.

[@christinelafontant3138]

Do you need Health insurance as an American living abroad to go to the doctor?

[@Belaziraf]

@@christinelafontant3138 Like for most countries in the world. In EU and certainly other countries, the system hold to Hypocrate's oath to some extent. You heal or treat first, you talk about money later. Some countries will tell you what it will roughly cost, or you just have to ask for them to do the calculation. There may be variation due to unforeseen medical acts, but unless your life is at stake and noone can decide for you, you will always be consulted first. Once you're fully under French healthcare system, you will have to pay a symbolic copay (1-2 € for a generalist), 65-70% covered by public healthcare and your personal insurance covers for the rest. If the doctor is equipped, you will pay the part that the Healthcare doesn't cover. Then you'll be reimbursed minus the copay. Your information is stored in the "Carte Vitale" that identifies you as a beneficiary (and all those legally attached to you). Personal health insurance is mandatory here and are called "mutuelle". Strictly speaking, they are nothing more than complementary insurances that can cover the rest of the bills. And it is important to check that your insurance company have made the necessary formalities to allow automated data transfers so instead of waiting for reimbursement, you will be automatically fully covered minus copay. Personal insurances usually cost between 30 to 130€ per month depending on your age and the plan you choose. Avoid companies who ask about your health. The regulation forbid refusing someone because of health, but they do raise the cost of the plan. The Public healthcare, namely Sécurité Sociale, issues a price list every year with or without updated limits. Those are the prices limits for treatments. The percentage you get covered for is based on that list. Same for the "mutuelle". You can basically change your mutuelle every year at the contract anniversary. So no need to subscribe for a plan you have no use for and choose 100% coverage for general treatments and 150-300% for specialist like dentist, optical, and hospitalization (if you need a personal room or in case you have to go to a private hospital). Percentages over 100% don't mean you will be reimbursed that amount, but that you are covered up to that percentage in case the treatment cost is higher than what is allowed in the price list. If you need to wear glasses, I advise you to choose a plan that offer "frais réel" for optical. The price list set a base price for glasses at around 20€. There are affiliates that do propose ugly glasses for that price. It's question of likes, dislike and choice.

[@PeterNiallLancaster]

As a British person living in Nantes I agree with everything you said. I’m lucky that my French wife, who is fluent in English, helps me with a lot of French things and puts up with my bewilderment at some things.

[@MrGearoid65]

Am just back from Nantes, 1st time visit thanks to Ryanair cheap flight from Dublin. I'm a Francophone for many years (age 58) but I really really appreciate that you must have an incredibly high level of French to actually live there enjoyably and deal with the normal day-to-day stuff which life throws at you wherever you live! Heading back to Nantes asap! 🇨🇵

[@plumebrise4801]

OOF Nantes ,it became the French equivalent to Birmingham in recent year (It was Marseille before)

[@elliebellie7816]

So true about "falling in love with the idea" of a certain place. I followed the blog of a single woman who moved to Mexico for a couple years and I couldn't wait to move to that same place based on her blog. Fortunately, I went for a two-week visit beforehand and I was shocked at how awful this place was in person. She loved it, I hated it and nearly made an irreversible mistake based on her comments only.

[@AnnM223]

Opinions are subjective, we should always keep that in mind.

[@LisaSoulLevelHealing]

Lol. I love Mexico. But yes.

[@alank1995]

Really great video Diane. I lived in France for a year back in 2000 and while almost everything was positive, there were some eyeopening things as well. There was a lot of paperwork and red tape. One of the biggest hurdles was getting a back account. We also had trouble renting an apartment and we even offered to pay for the full year up front. But even after all that it was one of the best years of my life and we've been back many, many times since. The one thing I always tell my friends is that if you've visited Paris, you have not visited France. Paris is amazing, but there is just so much more to see outside of the city. Such an amazing country!

[@quiggleyscripple]

The bank account hassles in France started with FATCA. Before that it was a walk in for 10 minutes easy. French banks REALLY don't like being forced to report on their clients four times a year.

[@jfrancobelge]

@@quiggleyscripple Indeed. It's the U.S. authorities, thru FATCA, that force foreign banks to report on the accounts of U.S. citizens abroad. That's why some European banks (not just in France) now simply refuse to open bank accounts for U.S. citizens, it's just too much hassle for them. I've worked for a large U.S. employer in both France and Belgium for years, and in two instances (forgot why) I had to prove to my bank that I AM NOT a U.S. citizen.

[@terryhutchings7701]

You are so right! Yes, even in US doctors are not perfect. My son's appendix actually burst in the ER while the ER doctor was scolding me for bringing him in for what the doctor thought was the flu. So appreciate your video, very timely. I am retired and looking to sell my house this spring and head to France. I only plan right now to stay for 6 months to a year and go from there. I am going with an open mind and do plan on taking language classes before I go. I am also researching French history and reading travel guides to educate myself more about the country. Thank you for all you do!

[@OuiInFrance]

You're very welcome, Terry, and sorry to hear about your son's appendix. Hope it all turned out OK in the end. I think you are taking a reasonable approach to everything and good on you for continuing to research! Bonne chance ;-))

[@fredericbenzaquine3510]

As a French guy I love to hear about what you have to say about France, it’s very clear you way you speak and gives so much perspective on the pros and cons, thank you.

[@KFCJones]

I heard a man say that he was from India originally. He came to live in the US, then tried France, then finally returned to the US. He realized that as a foreigner in the US he could be welcomed as a new American, but in France he would always be a foreigner. "You can learn our language, love our culture and food, but you'll never be French" was the feeling he described. In the US it was "oh hi, yeah, get to work brother". Obviously his US experience was in a certain part of the US

[@heliedecastanet1882]

Actually, what you say applies to most of European countries (and actually, to a lot of countries of the world : try to find your place in Japan, China, Egypt, India, etc, etc… Good luck !), not only France. Because the US were built differently, as a country and a nation. Immigrants built the country, whereas, in Europe, it is a different story, a different construction. So, yes, it is more difficult for a stranger to find his place in a European country, sure.

[@margokerby1533]

@@heliedecastanet1882 We are from the USA but have not found our place here. Since my husband and I seem to be misfits here, we are hoping to find our niche somewhere in the French Riviera. Wish us luck! :-)

[@tomaaron6187]

I’’m French Canadian and even I felt like an outsider after doing a couple years of high school in Alsace. It wasn’t a negative but I always felt like a novelty. Having said his, it’s much more than language but race and culture. Being white I had zero issues but not so easy for others. It is similar for someone moving to Quebec here in Canada. There is an ‘us and them’ ingrained in the culture.

[@heliedecastanet1882]

@@margokerby1533 Good luck, dear Margo ! But try to visit, if ever you have the opportunity, the "other" southern France : southwest. Not just the Riviera 🙂 When do you plan to come to France for a tour ?

[@margokerby1533]

@@heliedecastanet1882 My husband is 70 and I am 67 but we decided to go back to school and finish our college education. We should be done in about a year, and that is when we plan to relocate to France. The reason we chose the South of France is because of the weather, the food, we no longer want to be car-dependent, and we want to see other European countries at leisure. We've researched Nice, Toulon, and Aix en Provence. We also want to be near a SANDY/NOT ROCKY beach. Now we need to learn French and take care of the Visa, passports, Vitale cards, etc. Thank you for asking. We are very excited!

[@GorgieClarissa]

I honestly felt very humbled by this video. I think you are correct that people fall in love with an idea of what they think something is vs what it actually is. I am guilty of that myself. I do love French culture and have thought about moving to France a lot. But a lot of it really has to do with... I don't like where I live. I am not sure if that is my city/state or the actual country itself. But I did move to Thailand for about 2 years and I taught English there and because of that, my perception vs reality, has really slowed me down (in a good way) when it comes to making such a drastic move. Thailand was always a temporary move. I still fantasize a lot over the socioeconomic situations. Not going into massive debt over medical or college. I currently deal with the college debt and my family has dealt with the health debt. It's painful. I also watch videos of an American in Germany who talks about how she makes less money in Germany vs Texas, but she is able to do more/have more in terms of better life quality. I think that's ultimately what I want is just better life quality. I do believe that exists here in the US. However, I question if I will ever be able to make enough money to be able to see that better quality of life. I really enjoy your channel for being so informative and both encouraging and discouraging. It's so easy to romanticize the unknown.

[@davidhalldurham]

I've noticed that a lot of people (especially, perhaps, young people) who want to move to France or other foreign countries are running FROM something. It might be an unhappy family life, bad job, etc. Sometimes they're just unhappy with themselves. That's not going to work. Wherever YOU go, there YOU are. So, before "escaping" to la belle France, people need to honestly ask themselves why they want to make that move.

[@OuiInFrance]

Super important to think that through, 100%

[@sylviam6535]

That’s why the saying ‘enjoy YOURSELF in X’ is so well thought out. If you are not happy within yourself, you’ll not be happy anywhere.

[@kkobrien]

Great video as usual! Thank you for saying it's normal to have doubts when researching a move to France... I'm in the middle of that right now and there's definitely a lot that feels daunting! But such is life when you have an adventurous spirit 🙂

[@kentbyron7608]

Big gratitude for your courage, vulnerability and precious free speech. What you are doing is bringing philosophy and anthropology into the discussion instead of just painting a Facebook idealistic perfect picture that a tourist will see. Keep sharing your marvelous intelligence and experience! Thank you!

[@tomcole7688]

Sage advice Diane! I love your balanced approach in all your videos. I have no intention to live in Europe, but am close to retirement and plan to do a great deal of foreign travel. You are providing me a great education, and I think many of the matters you cover about France could be applied to any foreign travel!

[@jml4774]

It's so funny to see this video. We had planned to move to France for one full year (as retirees) but after much more research (thanks to you) we are not going to do it now. It does not even make me sad because it is a good decision for us. We may come for a month...but no longer feel a full year would work for us. Thanks Diane!

[@OuiInFrance]

If you don't mind me asking, as you continued researching what was the deal breaker for you? I applaud you for doing the research needed and making the best decision for your situation.

[@KristenLS]

I apologize for barging in, but I too would love to know what the deal breaker was for you as well.

[@Elizabeth-qy3zk]

Yes please, I also don't mean to push in but would like to understand more as my husband and I have been researching and looking at long term visas etc.

[@-wh5hr]

Why would anybody move to France? Intolerant, rude, and unwelcoming.

[@jml4774]

@@OuiInFrance After watching your videos, I (we) came to the conclusion that we had a "romanticized" idea of what moving to France for a year would entail. Once I started looking into it seriously, I realized that it is more complicated (and more expensive) than I thought it would be. For example, for health insurance, we would have to continue to pay for Medicare, while buying health insurance in France (which was about $700/Month each.) I checked into a much less expensive health insurance but felt it was too risky (and neither of us has any pressing medical issues.) We would also not be comfortable coming back to the USA at all during the year because we would only have Medicare (if we came back, got sick or hurt, and did not have a supplemental plan, our 20% could be literally millions of dollars in the USA.) If we paid for both Medicare and BX, while we were out of the country, it would be another $10,000 (for 2 people,) for the year. Finding a bank in France seemed like an insurmountable task. My language skills are beginner and my husband does not speak any French. Lastly, we'd heard so much about how people would not necessarily be helpful when it came to bureaucracy (like banks.) When I really looked into what was required and how difficult it can be, we got very discouraged and decided against it.

[@andrewrobinson2565]

My wife and I moved to France over 34 years ago and we can't remember what we have forgotten. 👍😂.

[@AnneMB955]

Just came across your channel and really like the way you speak clearly and with no bias. 🇦🇺🇫🇷

[@thedavidguy01]

Diane, I think you’re doing a great job of providing realistic, practical information. As someone who watches a lot of videos about France I would say that many, many KZbinrs (and media) present only a fantasy version of France. As much as I love visiting France, I have no illusions about living there.

[@fuzzylon]

Thanks, Diane, here are a couple of things I would add about the language and about taxes: 1) Language - Not only does learning French take more time and effort than I expected, but not being able to communicate makes so many other things more difficult - from buying a new home to finding the correct bus stop. It's just relentless. - In some parts of France English really isn’t widely spoken (away from the touristy cafes and restaurants) - I mean, why would it be. - Digital translation apps can be a great help, but the results are not very reliable. - For some things (like buying property) you may need to find a professional who is bilingual (and certified in France and where you come from so they can explain things to you) to ensure you really know what you’re getting in to (and that costs money, of course). - Get the right recommendations for language courses - if you’re moving to France your needs will be different to someone who wants to learn the language for leisure purposes. 2) Taxes - Don’t assume that tax works in the same way but with different words. It is very different to what I was used to. So many individual bits and pieces. I don’t know how I’d cope without having an accountant (for which there is also a cost) particularly as I have started a business here. I adore living in France, I really do, but forewarned is forearmed.

[@beauthestdane]

We very much appreciate that you provide this type of content. We are still in the early planning phases ourselves, and plan on several more visits before we pull the plug and move there as retirees.

[@krc5210]

We are thinking along the same lines. Retiring in france. Best of luck.

[@OuiInFrance]

You're very welcome!

[@dicol8634]

Thanks for brining these topics to the table. As a foreigner living in Canada, I can totally relate to you. Similar considerations and advises. Be informed before making such a big jump.

[@sonicart1808]

Facts.....My wife & I did this and boy did we underestimate the language barrier as well as many other points raised here....good video thanks!

[@byebyebyetotheusa]

What a PHENOMENAL video! This is my first time coming across your channel, and I am blown away! Diane, you are absolutely fantastic; so well spoken, clear and concise in your thoughts, incredibly thoughtful with the subject of your content and thorough in explaining it in a way that isn't manipulative or one-sided. You have a new subscriber and fan in me. I look forward in hearing more from you. Que Dieu te bénisse et porte-toi bien! - Mel C.

[@OuiInFrance]

Wow, thank you and welcome aboard!

[@fuzzylon]

Hi Diane, You are so right. Great video. I am so, so happy that I moved to France, but it does have its challenges and people do need to think carefully before going ahead.

[@OuiInFrance]

Thanks for watching!!

[@AddieAndGaby]

Thank you for making such honest and well balanced videos.

[@lospopularos]

Excellent review! Objective and to the point! Thank you.

[@carolynlarke1340]

Anther great little video. Thank you. I continue my personal search for that perfect village in the south of France. I have spent 2-3 months each summer in a different village, none bigger than 2000 people for 5 years. I continue to study, read and watch French tv shows as well as going to a local place where French speaking Canadians gather. I'm an extrovert so it's been great introducing myself and just bustin' into French and making it clear that I want to learn. Yes, there can be some scathing criticism but everyone I've spoken to has helped me hear, listen and comprehend. The journey continues.

[@semilvr]

Really important video with content that not a lot of people talk about. Thank you

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you for watching!

[@christinecharaudeau8592]

Wonderful tips! So true, especially the language part. I seemed to have expected to wake up some morning and just be fluent by simply being there, and that is just not how it works. You're so right, it's wonderful living in France, but it's definitely not without its headaches and frustrations, all of which are worth it IMHO :) It's much easier to be a tourist but there's nothing quite as sweet as living in France

[@FrenchEntreeMagazine]

Great video Diane! Such great advice for people looking to move to France, bravo!

[@jillharrell3256]

Thank you so much for your video. I've lived in England , mostly California; and only a short time in France a long time ago and we are planning on looking around after a couple more recent trips to see if France is still a place we'd like to end up. So true, it's still a real place with real imperfections. Still planning on looking around, living / renting and seeing if we want to buy :-)

[@juliejones9101]

This is very timely for me, so thanks! I’ve been doing my research for several months now. I’ll be living in Paris on a student visa this April, and yes, the fear of the transition is setting in! 😅

[@OuiInFrance]

You'll have a blast but I totally understand the fear of the unknown. Take it one step at a time. ;-)

[@andreakest2018]

This is a great video, it really is important to be realistic about the challenges and barriers.

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you!

[@sonjarose22]

I have said it before, but I love your videos! I’ll be here 6 years in June and oh my goodness my French 😂. I thought I’d be fluent in two years 😂 so naïve I know. I’m just so relieved that I’m at the level now that I don’t break out into sweat when people talk to me about random things. Thanks for making these ! Not to sound creepy but you feel like a friend. 😊 I appreciate all the realistic things you talk about!!

[@OuiInFrance]

Awww, thanks Sonja. That means a lot. The language learning journey is a JOURNEY, for real hahaha. Thanks for being a friend ;-)

[@Claudi771]

Yeah ❤

[@arthurbosch1460]

This is a great, realistic video. Merci beaucoup! ❤❤

[@OuiInFrance]

Glad you liked it!

[@JaxonsDd007]

Your words ring so true.. I have my foot in the door for an apartment in Ernèe and I can say it will probably be 3 years before I can do a full time leap..

[@janiceschroeder9908]

I know what you mean about the language. I love France. I went over there to study a month's worth of it at the Sorbonne and learned some interesting things. It's always interesting to see how different people say things. At the end, though, I still felt as though I was fighting the language and was glad to get home! But I do think France is just a wonderful place and a great country

[@richardcheatham9490]

First time viewer, here. Impression? This is the channel I'll be following for its clarity of content and particularly the speaker's articulation with spoken English. Really well done.

[@OuiInFrance]

That means a lot. Thank you! and bienvenue.

[@KristenLS]

Bonjour! I just started my journey of learning French, in person, 2 weeks ago. YOU ARE RIGHT! Wow there is much to learn. I had been using Duo Lingo and Pimsleur for the past few months, however there really is no comparison to classes in person. I joined at the Alliance Française in my city in Florida. I feel like I am in over my head at this moment, but I will make it through! New to your channel, and I enjoy your videos. Thank you!

[@francocanuck9435]

Do not give up ,you deserve the best

[@monicabarnett9231]

👏 great job! I speak Italian at a B2/almost C1 level and still take a weekly small group Italian class. It helps sooo much. Wishing you the best in your ongoing French studies!

[@TyphoonJig]

T'inquiète pas, ça va bien se passer.

[@MrGearoid65]

Courage, ça va aller. L'Alliance Française à Dublin est super pour apprendre le vrai français. Dûr mais efficace! 🇨🇵

[@reelhawksstudio]

French expat living in the US for a long time. Considering a move back, partial or complete. Thanks for the straightforward and realistic info!

[@burtleboeuf1429]

My wife has exactly the same experience in the UK this year as you have just related. Exactly the same experience, including same length of stay in the hospital all because the GP wrote it off. In fact, first time, they told her to go away and talk to the pharmacist.

[@magdastar2249]

Great video Diane. 👍 The key is to upgrade your insurance to private status, then you get top notch care at a fraction of the cost here on the U.S. Depending on where you live here ( am currently in Nevada) it seems things, especially crime, are going downhill. Will see what the future holds. I prefer a society that cares about the greater good. Loved the way you expressed that. By the way taxes and HOA's are through the roof here. Keep up the great job. 🙏👌

[@BillyOddments]

And THIS is why I watch your channel... Info, info, info!!!!!

[@OuiInFrance]

I appreciate that!

[@kombatsportfr8834]

As french, this video helps a lot a french to understand several aspects of the us. Thank u

[@davidmusset3435]

Diane, you are nailing it! You understand french culture better than we do. Even learning french for us is not a given. I would say the average french person doesn't master the grammar, and many make conjugasons mistake, so do I.

[@norbertfontaine8524]

French healthcare ranked 1st in the world, 20 years ago.. Now you have to wait for hours in the emergency room. It takes at least 6 month to get an appointment to a dermatologist, an eye doctor..

[@mgparis]

Yes, and also many doctors don't accept new patients - sometimes it can be frustrating finding a specialist, and I'm in Paris! I can't even imagine in the "medical deserts".... :S

[@iryna7689]

Here in the USA you have to wait for hours in the ER as well! Last time I took my mother, we spent 8 hrs in the ER. And it’s not free here

[@stephjezo6470]

I have been a lurker since I found you and this video was wonderful. It would be helpful to a lot considering a move or a similar situation to see a sample budget of what one may experience. Of course reality will vary but an idea or suggestion of what expenses can look like would help so many, it if that is possible. Some info on things like what you know about raising a child there would also be helpful as a starter even if you don't have kids yourself. Great video!

[@OuiInFrance]

Thanks for stepping out of lurkerdom, Steph! I appreciate that. ;-) When you say a sample budget, do you mean for a move or life in France in general? I've thought of doing a video for the latter, but just like anywhere, there are so many variables, with location being a big one. You can find a cheap house or a really expensive one, same for cars, food budget, mutuelle, etc. so I feel like it might open up a big can of worms. But I'm open to doing it if you might be able to clarify on what would be most useful. Thanks again!

[@stephjezo6470]

@@OuiInFrance Oh just "daily" life type. A moving budget would seem to be too hard to average because there are SO many factors that may or may not apply. To that I would say just sell everything you can and start over because shipping these days would be a time issue and incredibly expensive. I have actually considered part time living somewhere overseas because we homeschool (a whole other concern that varies wildly by country and thus the part time somewhere) and having an idea would help folks like me and may also help families with school aged kids that would use the public schools. It has been funny because my French teacher, who only ever studied and traveled in France, taught us a lot of what you mention and we didn't even know it. Pretty cool. Then over time I have picked up on other things so hopefully when I do make it over, I can fit in a bit better as all should try and do when they go somewhere. Keep up the great videos, this one has me considering how I would handle some of my medical concerns for myself.

[@joyfullypacinglife8847]

I can relate...being a tourist is totally different from being a resident!

[@OuiInFrance]

Say it louder for people in the back!!!

[@gillesm.2093]

Well done! Very well documented!

[@dl7562]

Love the video, especially your context at the end!

[@OuiInFrance]

So glad, thank you!

[@xelakram]

An excellent breakdown of the pitfalls. Thank you!

[@OuiInFrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@xelakram]

@@OuiInFrance 👍

[@burrillgray4812]

Excellent clip, well done. I moved to France in 1983 (- 1995) as a student and then somewhat “organically” transitioned” into a job. In all candor, I did little research prior to moving there but I had previously spent a lot of time in France. In addition, France in particular and Europe more broadly were vastly different then unfortunately than is now the case. The challenges I experienced mirrored closely with your comments but then I was young, adventuresome and loved the French language. I did meet Americans there and some had a far more difficult time of it than did i acculturating to French life for reasons which to me seemed odd. It was my observation at the time that we went to France for entirely different reasons. I knew what I wanted from the experience and my expectations were wonderfully realized. My American compatriots seemed consistently lost and troubled by their daily lives; I felt they focused more on what was missing from home in the US and not at all on what was right in front of them. And finally, ironically what turned out to be considerably more stressful, unnerving and Down right scary was returning to the US. I probably should have done more research in that regard. Merci. A bientôt.

[@denisdoja4015]

Your content is really great I think your a great KZbinr and blogger well done

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you so much!

[@melstjohn3766]

You are so right , plenty of day to day challenges/ frustrations here especially if your French isn’t good . Competent French is really key to making all easier

[@OuiInFrance]

It helps so much!

[@Hide_and_silk]

Even with decent French, French bureaucracy is beyond challenging at times!!

[@juliannetrinh1999]

Thanks for this video. It’s hard to move to any country. I moved to the US from France years ago and had a hard time learning English too 😂

[@Off_the_clock_astrophysicist]

I like the bit about de-romanticizing moving to another country, and France in particular. I am an expat the other way. Grew up in France, moved to the US. What I miss about France is the quality of the food. The ability to go to the grocery store and buy pretty much anything knowing that it will be delicious and not poison me. The reason I left was because the culture was not for me (my family was half Swiss). One thing to be aware as a foreigner in France is that breaking into the culture is extraordinarily difficult. There is the regular hate and discomfort around foreigners that one finds everywhere, but there is also the fact that French culture is quite opaque and strange. It's like the entire country is a small town. Another thing that gets me when I visit is the chaos. Take the frustration we experience in the US when we get the runaround from consumer service. Or when a webform malfunctions and sends you back to square one. Multiply that by 5. Can you live like that?

[@lijohnyoutube101]

I just do not understand the French acceptance of such subpar customer service standards. In other areas for example food, education the country of France has high standards. Why are they so incredibly comfortable with such ridiculously pathetic approaches to problem solving in customer service?

[@Off_the_clock_astrophysicist]

​@@lijohnyoutube101 If you ask the French, they will tell you to relax. While this sounds like a non-answer, I think it is actually the answer. I learned in high school that there were societies with "contexte faible" and societies with "contexte fort". I don't know what they call it in English. The "contexte fort", "strong context" refers to societies where rules are stricly enforced and little allowance is made for individual circumstances. That's Japan, Switzerland and to a lesser extent, the US. The other type "weak context" refers to more chill societies. That's France. In the former, everything runs like clockwork, but on the flip side, it gets quite heartless if one has a special need or circumstance. In the latter, it's complete chaos, but on the flip side, it is also easier when one needs some help not allowed by policies or if one has a family emergency (or simply granpa's birthday to celebrate). As an example, last winter I was in France with my husband and we discovered that we could not bring luggage on the public transportation in the small town that we were in. I was waving the driver goodbye and getting ready to call a cab when the latter took a breath and invited us to come on board, giving us instructions of what to do with our luggage. Against company rules. We delayed the bus further. As a fellow passenger, I would have been irate at the delay and trouble. But the passengers on the bus helped us with our luggage and waved at us when getting off. The French also make wide allowance for demonstrations and other democratic actions. In high-school I did not appreciate making it home at 8:30pm starving and with homework still to do for the next day because a demonstration had shut down public transportation for half the afternoon in my town. On the flip side, they were showing Parisian women in their skirts and heels gracefully hopping off military trucks that had been brought in to help with the catastrophic situation there. They were saying that they found that kind of fun. It was actually a tacit support for the movement.

[@glorgau]

@@lijohnyoutube101 I'd like to talk to the manager please.

[@hamidnikzad3812]

French have some sort of Marxist Mentalities which is very difficult to cope with. I am not greedy but the french lifestyle doesn't suit me. Living in a tiny flat and earning minimum wage. By the way france is not a welcoming country for foreigners. They live too modestly and I don't like it. If you are Arab and have darker skin avoid France.

[@ggold3357]

My family moved to Switzerland in Sept for my wife's work, Your perspective is right on (with a few Swiss differences that aren't worth going into here). Language is HUGE! We are in a French region (north of Geneva), and neither my wife nor I, or our 10 year old son, speak French at all. We started learning before leaving but the move happened very quickly. Larger cities almost everyone speaks English, which is helpful. But we live in a small, rural community where most people aren't comfortable in English. It's been tough, even when 99% of our experience has been with very patient and considerate locals. Living day to day (as opposed to being on vacation) can wear on you psychologically when you can't communicate effectively even for basic things. It has gotten better as we've gotten more comfortable using French. But you're spot on: you do not pick it up just from being around it. You really need to work at learning French. It is a very difficult language. We're going to be here for 2-3 years, have had a wonderful experience so far. The only other thing I would add to this talk would be: social connections. Life is miserable if you don't have friends to share it with. And Europeans in general are socially different than Americans: one is not better or worse than the other, just different. You need to get connected with folks or you're going to feel isolated and lonely very quickly.

[@RollingToaster]

You should check out 52 minutes video: "Shane Dardon expatrié américain établi à Pully"

[@jfrancobelge]

In the course of my career I've seen quite a fez foreigners, and especially Americans, learning French. An realized how lucky I am to be born a native French speaker, not having to learn French as a foreign language; don't misunderstand me, I love my language and the culture that goes with it but, no doubt, French is not an easy language to master. Bon Courage!

[@semsemeini7905]

Geneva / Switzerland is way different than France. Each European country is different. My mother lived there 40 years.

[@kimc555]

Great video - your content is very balanced i think

[@sherrieshatzen3801]

It's good to see you back on You Tube. All of your points are important. The most important one (in my opinion) is be aware of the tendency to romanticize something & have unrealistic expectations which is sure to leave you disappointed or worse. People who are looking for a geographic solution to a life problem need to become more self aware rather than jump on a plane. Our problems accompany us wherever we run to. I love France & I love experiencing other cultures, so if someone has the desire & has spent some time in France & is willing to adjust to a different life experience than in the US, then Bon Voyage et profiter d'une vie francaise.

[@OuiInFrance]

Hi Sherrie, it's 100% true that our problems come with us. Thanks for watching!!

[@dev5963]

As always, thanks for your honest and balanced approach. It terrifies me anything I hear someone is moving to a new place without ever visiting (unless job related sothey have little choice). That goes for anyplace in the US or the world. Language is a huge challenge anytime you are don't have at least intermediate skills. As an American, I speak English. The English in the UK sometimes leaves me confused. If someone is at a place where they are moving to France (or anyplace), if they have the ability, rent a house/apartment for a few months before committing. But not in Paris where they can easily survive on English. Spend a few weeks in smaller towns or rural areas. If they can survive there, it's not a guarantee that they'll settle in but it's a better gauge than 2 weeks vacation in Paris.

[@jimbocharles2428]

Great vid, We are English and have lived in France for 9 years. Agree with everything you say here.

[@lisaspikes4291]

I don’t want to move to France, but I have considered moving to Montreal! I’ve been there many times and love it. But I’m afraid of their winters! Yikes! If I could afford a summer home there, I would definitely go!

[@Snoopdad-zw4mz]

A friend moved to France to be near her some family, stayed for about six months and then returned much worse for wear. She felt isolated and it might have been in part language related.

[@joyfullypacinglife8847]

Great vlog as always!!

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you!

[@musictherapy3976]

I really appreciate you showing both good and bad. I'm working towards my own move and appreciate content that isn't all Paris and rosy! I want to be better prepared, especially since it's a multi-year process for me. Thank you! Do you like getting emails like that? It never occurred to me, but if you do, maybe I'll send one!

[@kimberleymarkova3641]

Absolutely. The easiest way is to come with a good level of academic French and find work asap. I came here with university level French but this way not enough. My French became completely fluent through working here.

[@DenOnTheCoast]

This post is the best advice I have seen on the net in regard to a move to France. Good practical advice with the perspective of solid experience. Je suis australien, mais je suis d'accord pour les américains qui veulent déménager en France, c'est un excellent conseil !

[@jeanforest8060]

Tell me... WHY???

[@Lepewhi]

I am an American that moved to Belgium years ago. I had an accident while in France and had to go to the hospital(emergency). As I had gained Belgian nationality(EU), my overnight stay, scans.. cost virtually nothing, as I am covered in the EU. Sure, the hospital was not the Hilton, but very professional and the nurses/doctors were kind(and good food). Likewise here, I can see a doctor the same day, the next day, or another doctor. Plus, medicine is much lower than in the US. I could never live in the US, as I couldn't afford medical cost, amongst other things. It is difficult to just move to Europe, many hoops to jump through. And only do it if you have family/friends there, work, support. And above all, spend lots of time there before making a move. It is not easy to immigrate here, as even some British friends who have live here for years, have been forced to go back because of Brexit. Just a warning.

[@derian9273]

Point one is the truth! I lived in France from Oct 22 to April 23 and the language was a challenge, even though I considered myself as knowing "enough" to get by. I loved being there though.

[@jilllusey7001]

Great job. Good video. I like your candor.

[@OuiInFrance]

Thank you!

[@Sonorus52]

Hi, Great video ! Regarding taxes, it’s worth mentioning that the tax situation for people who move to France in retirement and those who are working is very different. The US-France tax treaty basically says that income is taxed in the jurisdiction where it’s sourced, so pensions, Social Security, 501k etc are taxed solely in the US.

[@Chris-wm3xq]

Thanks for telling the truth!

[@OuiInFrance]

Just my point of view and so glad you found it helpful.

[@Chris-wm3xq]

@@OuiInFrance it's important to go in with your eyes open.. What sites are reliable to check?

[@OuiInFrance]

@@Chris-wm3xq Depends on what information you're looking for. Anecdotal blogs and videos from people like me can help you get a feel for things like French culture and what day-to-day life is like. But official French government sites are really important to read for background information on taxes (especially what goes into starting a business, inheritance tax, etc.) and healthcare. I'd try to get as much info as possible from a variety of sources and go from there.

[@Chris-wm3xq]

@@OuiInFrance Thanks

[@barryhaley7430]

Well thought out video.

[@mikemars5984]

I'm from the UK and always loved France. I wish I had worked there when I was younger. It would be too difficult to do it now but the grass is always greener on the other side. A lot of Brits moved to France pre covid and when both were part of the EEC. A lot of French people moved to the UK because they preferred it to France. So really everywhere is the same, just your point of view.

[@ferryoceane5754]

True about learning languages! I'm french so learning french wasn't hard for me lol, but i did learn english at school and then i lived in england for a while and even if the bases learnt at school did helped me, i learn a lot more during those months in London than years at school! But of course, it wasn't enough to be fluent, i started to read in english, watched movies and tvshows in english as well, youtubers, etc... i even put my phone in english mode 🤷‍♀️ little by little it helps!

[@ninecatsmagee8384]

It works for children to pick up the language -- but not so for adults. I knew some French but struggled. My husband had no interest, although he could cope reasonably well, and I got no encouragement at all. We were retired and I could see, if he passed away how it would be there on my own. Women already in that position weren't too happy because they'd never have "a life" on their own. I loved the health care and our GP was fluent in English. There really were no obvious "problems" and I found the lifestyle and people, just amazingly engaging. Of course, the food is fascinating and so much to learn and try. We had a large, beautiful home outside Dinan and access was easy to anything we needed. Even so, I was lonely. People in our village invited me to come to the pub, chat, and learn more French. The government offered so much to help people integrate. But going there alone was off-putting. I was there for three years before my husband had a series of strokes that he didn't survive. I returned to the UK alone.

[@glorgau]

I don't even watch the American evening news. It's all just propaganda. Next people are going to tell me the BBC is "trusted".

[@mayavandecasteele7309]

I live and work in France. All my colleagues are French and yes it is frustrating trying to catch up my level of french. I manage conversationally now but still have a long way to go!

[@SCGMLB]

One major "potential" hurdle that people need to handle is immigration. Unless you're a citizen of the EEA (the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) or Switzerland you can't just go to France and decide to stay, much less work there. You need to have permission to stay, and it's going to involve paperwork and red tape. That’s not to say that it isn't doable. In many cases it can be. But, having permission to reside and/or work in France should be high on your list of things to do before you decide to pick everything up and relocate yourself. Otherwise you might find yourself in a position where you're told you have to leave.

[@OuiInFrance]

Yes, super important to get the visa situation nailed down

[@jeanforest8060]

At long last! And this statement should be way up on Diane's list! France is NOT one of the United States of America! Foreigners are only allowed a three month stay... Then you must have permission to remain in France! Not an easy permission to obtain may I add. A basic REALITY check that even post-Brexit Brits now have to face... to their dismay!

[@thhseeking]

Hello from Australia!! I was born in Belgium and lived here for most of my life. I've watched a few "chateau renovation" channels, and was surprised at Sundays: Quite apart from the bells (I haven't heard bells here for decades on a Sunday), here Sunday mornings are often filled with the sound (racket?) of lawnmowers. That's apparently a no-no in France. At least in some parts. Incidentally, I worked for a while with a Frenchman from near Lyon. and he had a less-than-good opinion of Parisians :P I'm sure that some Parisians have similar opinions of people from other cities in France :P Many years ago I saw an interview with a New Zealand couple living in rural France, and they were asked about the stereotyped French arrogance. Their response was they'd not encountered it. If you go there with an open mind and willingness to learn and integrate, you won't have any trouble in that respect. Obviously, if you go there with an attitude of "my country is better", you can expect a not-so-welcoming reception. That goes for any country, really.

[@OuiInFrance]

Parisians definitely get a bad rap!

[@thhseeking]

@@OuiInFrance Yet I used to know a really sweet Parisienne :) Sadly she was a tad far away, so nothing came of it :(

[@marchervais1269]

I have some tips for you, in case you aim to speak french perfectly: get yourself to be born in france, live in France since this date, and learn thoroughly at school.

[@sandrad3346]

I follow other websites of people who have moved to France, a couple of websites are from people who have not started learning the language until they moved there. I think that it would be difficult to navigate society without good knowledge of the language, especially if running into major life problems that need to be resolved. Also, I have a friend who lives in France who purchased a "mutuelle" to get proper coverage in the French healthcare system.

[@OuiInFrance]

My biggest tip is start learning French well before the move. So, so important. And yes, pretty much everyone has a mutuelle of some sort.

[@kiera3603]

I’m moving to france next month. I got a job teaching English. I got my college degree in French, but we mostly read old French literature and wrote a lot in fluent French. I’m super nervous for casual French because I know my strong suit is using it educationally. I test for C2.

[@alguedemer]

Yes, it's important to learn French to a good level before moving there. I teach French to people who are going to relocate, it will make your life a lot easier to speak the language. I'm a native speaker with 26 years' experience.

[@cisium1184]

Very sensible. I think books like _A Year In Provence_ and _The Sun Also Rises,_ and of course various movies, contribute to unrealistic fantasies about expatriate life not just by focusing on the romantic parts but also by making light humor of the difficult aspects.

[@sherij7330]

Great video!

[@OuiInFrance]

Thanks!