Which is better: France or the United States?

[@afhyoutube]

Whoever edits these videos needs a raise. Just a masterpiece of visual storytelling.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Haha, thank you. That would be me. 😁

[@denniszenanywhere]

@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT You're outdoing your son in video editing. 🙂

[@Kiwiwanderer]

I totally agree. The content. We need this. All the working wounded still working our moronic office jobs -…dreaming of a life in Italy , France or Croatia ….thank you for the inspiration ❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you guys for the kind comments. That’s quite a statement about my son. I don’t compare to his incredible skills, but thank you! 🙏

[@carolynclitheroe3588]

Maybe it’s time to start experiencing the joy of in real life French flea markets instead of online…! That would make a great video too…

[@diegomontana9411]

ABSOLUTELY agree with you! I left Canada to live in France 23 years ago and I NEVER regret! Excellent decision! with all it's ups and downs, Europe is sill the best alternative to north America.

[@vzmax]

Et vice-versa ! La liberté est morte en France ou en Europe soviétique, c'est aux E-U qu'elle existe encore...

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

👍😁

[@vzmax]

Alors que moi qui suis français (vraiment français) aimerait m'établir avec femme, enfants et mon fric au Québec où existe encore une liberté belle et bien morte en France, pays devenu oppressant.

[@gabrielleparis3532]

🇫🇷Always a special smile when I see a new video from you. Yes, I took the leap at age 20 and moved by myself to Paris in the 70s, found work, a lodging and attended school. There was no rich parent funding my living in Paris. It was more work than pleasure but it changed me forever. I became fearless to launch into new endeavors the rest of my life and now in my 70s I continue to challenge people's ideas of aging, still maintaining a richly rewarding consulting practice and living an expansive fulfilling life filled with social connections and meaningful solitude. I travel to Paris and all of France several times a year. We must always remember the universe is an expanding force and if we allow ourselves and our lives to contract, we are going against the very force that keeps us alive and learning and growing every day. Thank you for the wisdom and rich ideas in all of your videos. They are a treasure.

[@wildhorses6817]

Do you live in US now ? Or have you found another preferred Country.

[@debbieottman4207]

Bravo! So well said! I agree 100%🥰🇨🇦

[@roxanne7806]

Glad people like other countries to live in otherwise everyone would live in USA AMERICA.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Very well put. 😁🙏❤️

[@InfiniteMindset99]

It was my dream to visit Paris, France in the late 80’s and I have been back several times visiting Lyon, Nyon, and other areas into Switzerland. My dream is to visit again soon on my own and have new experiences, maybe retiring in Europe in the next 10 years. I get my fix of new and old locations on MHZ with outstanding French tv shows. It does feed my soul. C’est magnifique, monsieur!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Right on 👍😁

[@ATLIEN333]

I went to Paris for the first time at age 57 the week before Thanksgiving. I felt so much more relaxed than anywhere in America. I felt completely safe and the Metro was outstanding.I will be back very soon.

[@publicminx]

in reality London and Paris are not safer than for instance NY. And apropos: NY has actually older buildings than London (for instance the old Dutch Wyckoff House from 1652). The reason for that is the Great Fire in London 1666 which destroyed basically everything. This means most old buildings in London are from a later time (and here is where more is preserved than in NY - which had a rather substitute mentality (destroy old for new) even if it continued at first just like any other European city with absolute comparable old buildings. Apart from that: Berlin, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Munich, Warsaw, Vienna, Prague, Copenhagen, Zurich etc. are indeed much safer than all big/comparable cities in the US ...

[@vzmax]

France is now islamized and africanized, it's not safe any more, France doesn't look like France, it has nothing to do with it used to be.

[@Kitiwake]

😂 well .. Plenty of pick pockets and the suburbs are dangerous, especially if you're white.. But it's true, you're unlikely to be gunned down in public.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

👍

[@isabellevega5732]

Hearing that you like France and that you are having a good time is fantastic. I will be visiting the South of france in April for the first time, I know it will be wonderful. Please, when Cecilia feels ready, tell her to delight us with a tour of all the beautiful things she has done in the house🍃

[@queens6583]

Yes, please a house tour and plans for the house.

[@kathyeyesopen4078]

I will add to that request😊

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Soon, promise! 😁

[@sherrimartin1057]

​@BeneaththeSurfaceYT yes, please !

[@ciaobella8963]

I moved to Italy almost 12 years ago. I moved from the US. Most of what you talked about I could apply to Italy and the Italians. For me, I love the relaxed joy of life here, in the special way Italians express it. I have been to France many times, and although they are friendly and value much more than just making money, the Italians are much louder about how they express themselves, haha. Any excuse for a festa here. I love good Italian food and good French food equally. But it's the simplicity of the Italian recipes (most recipes anyway) that I prefer. Either way, over the centuries, northern Italy and southern France have always connected. I enjoyed your video and was happy to see that you released one. Sending you both my best wishes for your life in France.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Excellent observations, and thank you so so much!

[@TAG993]

Bravo and thanks for another video. Seems the transition has suited you well. You look great and much more relaxed. Thank you for the update and looking forward to seeing more updates. Cheers

[@MegaDrummerboy16]

The U.S. has totally ruined the culture. We have no friends here other than our immigrant friends from Burma, Iraq, Eritrea. We are the white people with all ethnic friends. Why….? because our fellow Americans are lazy selfish entitled people who have no concept of the rest of the world. Chasing money is the culture & we live in an expensive home/ neighborhood. Do we know our neighbors? No. I can see 17 rooftops from our backyard. Not a SOUND from neighbors.. A study was just published about loneliness & which states ranked the highest & lowest. We are in north Idaho…. # 46 one of the lowest…& we don’t know our neighbors… If we could move to France or Italy, we’d be there in a heartbeat. Now we are aging, mid 60’s.. & the time has passed us by. So we live vicariously w/ your videos. You’ll be thrilled 10 more years later that you & your wife made the move when you did. I have a French journalist friend who lives in the country, she’s worried about the political state of France.

[@tina-g8p]

My father is from Italy. I think my grandfather wished he never left , but they had a good life in America too. They would be shocked to see what it's turning into today.

[@caliberto5087]

Stereotypes... Impossible erase stereotypes from some people. What are you doing here?

[@dr.gaosclassroom]

I have followed your journey and enjoyed almost every video you uploaded. I admire your honesty and courage. You are inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your life with us!!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, and for your amazing support! Means a lot. 😁

[@shivarahimipiano]

Glad to see you guys settled and happy with your new life in France. My husband and I moved to south of Spain a couple of years ago from Canada and we are very happy here. We are in our late 40s, so still many years away from retirement. As you said people in this part of the world are very friendly, warm and welcoming.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Indeed. Thanks for your support and best of luck!

[@BigSmallTravel]

We vacationed in Elviria in the south of Spain, near Marcella, and enjoyed it. Where are you located? The people in Andalusia were very patient and warm indeed. We are based in Florence, central Italy, so things are more tense here compared to Southern Spain. As well, we enjoyed the expat friendly and services made for tourists and expats alike who do not speak Spanish. If you are curious, check out our video in Southern Spain on our channel and let us know what you think?

[@shivarahimipiano]

@@BigSmallTravel We live in Mijas between Fuengirola and Mijas Pueblo in the mountains. I visited Florence in 2019 and absolutely fell in love with the city and the Tuscany region overall. Such a beautiful place to live! Where are you from originally?

[@heidemarierippert1842]

Hello from Germany! Glad you enjoy the European way of living and you are most welcome! Your lifestyle is as well the result of how hard you worked in the US to earn money to being able to afford living in Europe.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Very true!

[@publicminx]

@heidemarieririppert: thats NOT the European way of living. Central Europe/Germany is a bit better here (and even on the higher standard there is a lot to complain). French services sucked already back in the 80ties and 90ties and not much changed. One of many reasons why France always had a bit aspects of a lesser developed backward Southern European country (and also a reason why it is behind the UK despite of the same population size). Yep, some like those Southern Stereotypes (and its obvious that the youtuber and his son has some more relation to the Romance/Latin sphere (which is in the case of France only half true - lets not forget that there is a reason why it has a Germanic name, btw. the same as in Frankfurt, Frankenstein etc)) but there is a difference between a slower, traditional lifestyle and unnecessary things which don't add to the life quality (also not if one tries to sell oneself those as 'part of the deal'). I have no problem if people still like to live under such conditions and get enough lie quality out of it. But in the political stage France blocked for ideological reasons already a lot of progress or supported obviously wrong financial decisions of Southern European countries (against the Central- and Northern States) - which dmgs Europe (there are a few other cases of course where they supported rational things). Also the union system of France sucks and requires a reform. But this, indeed is another topic and does not necessarily has to bother retirees living in the country side ...

[@User12345fan]

Not just worked hard, he worked hard but in the US. Working as hard in France wouldn’t have allowed him this lifestyle he has now in France.

[@mic498]

@@publicminx You must be fun at parties

[@aliciathom9633]

Love hearing your story. Our son and his family moved to a small village in the Cevenne, and have been so welcomed and included, it is delightful. We are originally from the UK and moved to Oregon in 1991. 18 years later we moved to Moscow, Russia (not Idaho!) for work. During our seven years there we built a holiday home in Turkey as a place to recharge and rest. When we left Moscow I suggested we take a year’s sabbatical in Turkey before returning to Portland. Eight years later we are still in Turkey and loving it, having sold our home in Portland! We are nearly 69 and 74 and have no idea what the future holds but making the most of every opportunity and experience.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Love your story! ❤️😁

[@superchouette3358]

We are French.Notre famille vous aime tant .Vous êtes un petit rayon de soleil ☀️ ainsi que Daniel … Longue et heureuse vie en France❤ Merci pour votre vidéo si intelligente et vos remarques si fines….

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Merci infiniment 🙏😁

[@sandraferreira6911]

I’ve watched your videos and my husband and I can relate. When our 2nd child was 8 weeks old, we took our leap of faith and moved to Brazil. Everyone thought we were making a big mistake. But it was the best thing we did. We have since moved back after spending almost 7 years in Brazil, but now in our 50’s, rethinking our next stage in life. Thanks for the videos!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, and good luck with your next phase!

[@abcxyz4653]

Can I ask why you moved back?

[@matthewcote5198]

Love seeing your videos man. Very inspiring. And yes, I'm facing this problem right now in the US. My values aren't aligning in regards to the working culture. I had a work meeting yesterday, and in it, the area manager was essentially saying, "You all need to work harder!" despite us having a record year in all of our metrics. I studied philosophy in university, and still write and research, but lately, it's becoming almost impossible to delve too deeply into my mind because every time I start to think, I think about work! Life should be enjoyed and excellence should be cultivated. We only have one brief, fleeting existence; and to live it subservient to values of corporate growth seems very silly.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Ah, you’re beginning to open your eyes. Love it. ❤️

[@soniabayer578]

Yes indeed… life in America is a rat race ! Not balanced, little down time,and go, go, go! Mentally and physically exhausting to say the least! $$$$$$ not life!

[@Olivier-GM]

Il faut travailler pour vivre, pas vivre pour travailler. :)

[@denisewalsh6586]

So true..its over before you know it.

[@carolynlarke1340]

I studied French for years. I was inoculated as a child with a love for the place with a visit with the family at 8 yo and my father's stories of living in Bretagne and Normandy in the 1950s. As soon as I could I started visiting on my own. After retirement I started spending 2-3 months riding all around the country. There were a thousand reasons France got to be so important for me that I decided to move there in 2020. Through delays and all I searched for a place of similar size as my present house, 100sq meters or so. It had to he inexpensive but in a new environment where I could walk and bike and swim. I found a village house with a garden on a river in the Aude Department, almost to the Spanish border. Got my Visa in less than 2 weeks after applying in person in Miami. I'm planning on flying out 15 March with my sister in law and 2 cats. For me, a native of and living in the Miami area, I am done here. There is nothing left to love. The fishing is done. There is no nature remaining to walk through. The food is expensive and we've plowed up every farm and orange grove to the point that stores import citrus from Cali, TX, and South Africa. The prices and quality reflect the excessive road time. Traffic is so bad that it takes well over an hour to travel 15km. There is zero, useful, public transportation and people are run down and killed daily by cars. The system of laws, right of way and urban design make it impossible to be safe. I will not go into the gun violence problem but it's also every day. In France I am so at ease. I know there is crime, particularly in big cities but it's not the violence level of the US. Bikes and peds are protected and I can say from experience, Don't speed in/through French villages. They are serious about protecting people so the fines are substantial. Camera enforcement is a good thing. Where I am moving hunting culture is deep. It's been beyond living memory since anyone has been shot. Hmm. The tiny village of Lapradelle has 300 people yet every day there are 5 beautiful coaches that can take you to TGV hubs in an hour or so. They cost $3 each way and have wifi, cushy seats and are quiet and clean other than the occasional sports teams celebrating on board. The people are kind and helpful and were so happy to hear I am moving in this spring to live not rent out to tourists. While it is a summer tourist area they are mostly well behaved families and Europeans not the louts and drunks I have endured here in S Fl . My French has progressed and I was able to get both my bank account and water service started speaking only French. The people were so nice and helpful when I was grasping a bit but language is a thing for me so it will only get better. I've even begun to recognize the local, Occitanie accent so I know who the real locals are. The packing is moving along and the cats are catching on that things are changing somehow. They're in for the change of their lives. So am I. Can't wait. This video is spot on. Thanks for the work.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

And thank you right back for sharing!

[@tamaratrejo222]

Sounds wonderful!

[@Olivier-GM]

Bienvenue dans votre futur chez vous. :)

[@23Petios]

I am a candidate for living in France!

[@AngelaStazknee]

I watch your videos for courage, you remind me it’s ok to be afraid, and that my mind is going to be negative and it’s up to me to keep facing the challenges to make the changes during my mid-life. I too have a desire so deep for change, my brain & body will no longer let me stay settled. Thank you!

[@publicminx]

you could feed your desire to change by concretizing the way mentally. you lose for instance nothing by just doing some research of getting work in Europe (if necessary). especially the more wealthy countries in Europe (Germany and most countries around) actively seek for all kind of workers, very skilled ones BUT also for simple jobs! the possibility to do that became in the last decade easier and easier. again: you could just look (say for fun) a bit around - to get a more concrete possible route in your mind instead just abstract fears ...

[@sherrieshatzen3801]

Merci bien de votre video. YES! France is amazing. I have spent a great deal of time in France, mostly Paris & Provence. I have never felt as at home as I have in France. Manners matter. Having grown up in the South (a long time ago) being polite, being gracious, being courteous--having really good manners--was important. Not so much in many other areas of the US, or maybe it is the passage of time, the advent of technology, the importance of being constantly busy, the fact that work is always the priority-no excuses, no matter what. Intellect is respected & nurtured. Food is respected. Bread must be chewed. Art is a basic part of education. I could go on, but France is at the top of my list.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Could not agree more! Thank you so much for your support. 🙏

[@publicminx]

Could not disagree more regarding bread. Germany has bread. France has no bread (ok, around the border to Germany maybe), even if French and Americans think that a Baguette is a bread. It is not. It is a 'kind of bread' (like most 'white bread like bread rolls/buns'). One has to keep in mind that in most parts of the world bread never evolved much since it was introduced in ancient Egypt back then. Often even the shape remained the same. General rule: if a French and an American talk about bread than its like an One-Eye talks with a blind one. And btw. the 'Croissant' is a kind of copy-paste of the Austrian 'Kipferl' (or German: 'Hoernchen' (diminutive of 'Horn')).

[@Belaziraf]

@@publicminx Bread is basic food for most countries using wheat as staple food. They just take different forms but they still are bread. Some better than others. About croissants and the likes, it has to be understood than most French pastries or "viennoiseries" are called as such because of their origin : Vienne, so yeah, they take roots in Austria. Noone denies this. And like any food, they are adapted to the local tastes. Like pizzas is rooted in the US and people think it's Italian. Asian food will never taste the same onsite and in the West. They already don't taste the same in a restaurant aimied towards Westerners and in a restaurant for locals. Or in restaurants aimed towards other Asian tourists. It's still a business after all. It's easier to find foreign cuisine restaurants in big and crowded cities because of the competition to offer real differences.

[@RaySqw785]

@@publicminx well well well, there's about 35 kind of bread in France, the bread you talking about is the low cost and regular insipide "parisian" or "baguette", as croissants aren't alonne as pastries, you stereotype the tourist vue, i personaly hate parisien bread as much as german black brick they call "bread", but its a french stuff foreigners can minds up!

[@vzmax]

@@Belaziraf Les "viennoiseries" françaises n'ont pourtant rien à voir avec ce qu'on trouvait jadis en Autriche puisqu'elles sont chez nous faites à partir de pâte feuilletée, une invention culinaire là encore bien française.

[@bodilyc]

We left Portland OR 2.5 yrs ago and moved to France. Shipped a 40 foot container and our car all the way to Pau. Bought a house and try beyond belief to settle in and adapt. We had a very different experience than you. It was the worse time of my entire life and as a Brit I had already transitioned to America as a young adult and managed to embrace a new culture. So I know I am very capable of this. However, France was mostly a very very difficult and depressing experience. We ended up selling our house there and returning to the States. I just want to point out that even with all the very good intentions (as you have had) sometimes a place is not equal to the dream one has of it in reality. I am happy you are loving it there, but want to express that for every good story as yours is, ppl should be aware that there are equal bad stories with not so good outcomes.

[@gracevm]

I love it when there’s counterbalance… can you expand on your experience and why you left after the arduous task of moving overseas?

[@bodilyc]

We found that in general, the French were not so keen on Americans. We found that we were repeatedly taken advantage of with any kind of trades men, or hiring we had to do. The price for us as Americans was ten fold their average charges. We were lied to repeatedly, and given our limited language ability we were often not able to defend ourselves. Pleas know that some ppl were lovely and a few friends were made but generally speaking we never were accepted. The French bureaucracy is very trying and the struggle to have ppl come when they are scheduled and work a full day is just beyond belief. Little accountability and frustration with limited access to most things we def take for granted in USA. @@gracevm

[@gracevm]

@@bodilyc thank you, that makes sense and it also sounds like what I’ve been reading happens to foreigners in Portugal as well

[@patriciasalem3606]

@@bodilyc I suspect many foreign countries are challenging when you buy and want to fix up properties, although even when I owned a home in the US Midwest, I found it difficult to get contractors to commit to a work schedule. I'm looking to rent abroad in the next year or two, but the issue I run up against is having pets. And there's also the stability of not owning your residence. I moved five times within Mexico in the seven years I lived there because of unscrupulous (that's putting it mildly) landlords or noise problems with adjacent properties. I didn't mind the poor infrastructure (getting internet set up or the lack of postal delivery), as I saw that as a trade off with the slower pace of life. But you're right, it is hard to feel you're being taken advantage of. As a single woman, I think I was probably more of a target than couples. Probably the more resources (aka money) you have to deal with these issues, the better the experience.

[@jonathanjacques7250]

Happy living a nice slow life in the US. Retired and loving life.

[@atys]

It's really great that you feel welcomed. I hope you will have a great life in France and the opportunity to visit the whole country.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, and yes, that’s the plan!

[@Franceandbeyond]

Your situation is very similar to ours. We sold everything in California, packed a couple of boxes, and moved to France in 2022. Best decision ever!! There's no going back. It's not an easy journey, but it gives us motivation to keep on going. I'm glad I've found your channel.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Awesome 🙏😁

[@bfouryou3885]

Having spent many summers in France (my father's side) and revisiting regularly, couldn't agree with you more. Really, that balance and taking time to enjoy resonates with us. We are getting ready to early retirement and France is on our radar. Cheers from Montreal Canada.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice!

[@vzmax]

Je suis toujours surpris de constater que personne n'est satisfait de son sort. Personnellement, j'adorerais déménager au Québec. Non pas à Montréal mais plus loin dans la campagne.

[@denisewalsh6586]

I went to McGill University in Mo treal..the French in all the department stores like Simpson, Le Bai were so unfriendly..I would ask a question in English and they would answer me in French.

[@humblebee3018]

I love how you take the time to read and reply to the comments of your viewers and subscribers. Your Interaction with us is fantastic! I'm from Spain living in WA state for 20 year but always wanting to go back to Spain or France, or Italy. It would feel pretty much the same to me!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks for the support. Hope you get back to Europe soon. :)

[@alexanderscharf2806]

I am absolutely happy I have subscribed to you guys. Brilliant, eloquent, concise, very articulate and wise!!!! Thank you!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much! 😁🙏❤️

[@SusannahPerri]

The first time I made an adventure out of my life was at the age of 21 when I lived alone in England for about four months, (after working and saving my money for three years). My plan was to go back but I settled down and raised two children, which put a major delay on doing anything for myself. Two decades later, after an ugly divorce, my free spirit reemerged and I started traveling solo again. Now, with so much hostility and negativity in the US, I am deciding which country to move to and France is high on my list.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

👍😁

[@christinelynd9253]

Husband and I (50 yr olds) are considering world travel/ early retirement and I love your insight just on change, motivation, intention and growth. Keep up this wonderful content!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, good luck to you!

[@MegaDrummerboy16]

Remember 50 is still young no matter what the shallow USA culture feeds you. Go now & find a better place to live.

[@lynettedeswardt9104]

I absolutely enjoy your outlook on life - excellent content , one can see the care and thought that goes into your video's.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so so much for your lovely words 🙏❤️

[@cj99cj991]

So inspirational! Your videos are so beautifully edited. I really appreciate the time and care you put into each piece. Living in France has been a huge goal and one that will be obtainable in the next 3-5 years. Including the audience in your journey allows me to not only see the joy of it all but the difficult challenges …that ultimately make the experience so rich.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much. Best of luck with your own journey. 😁

[@amyspeers8012]

Totally agree! We made the leap in 2017. It was supposed to be for 2 years but we never wanted to leave. So happy you are finding France to be a good fit.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice. So you are here in France, correct?

[@amyspeers8012]

@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT Yes! We are waiting on our new visas. After that, we will apply for citizenship.

[@rickchandler2570]

I think a lot of countries in Europe are like this. I could say the exact same thing about Portugal. I know it didn’t work out for you here, but my wife and I love it here and all the points you say about France, I can mirror those about Portugal. Very happy you both found your place in France

[@profscott2012]

I deeply appreciated your comments and vision of France. I made the leap at 22 to live in Paris for 15 years during the 70's and 80's. I agree with most all of your comments regarding the pro and cons of France. However, I would like to add the importance of learning and knowing French. At 40, I made the leap to live in the Bay Area of CA, then quit my job and retired at 62 to live in Mexico , where I've been now for about 12 years. At mature 75 turns around the Sun, I have the urge to live in the South of France. I expect something like culture shock and a lot of alone time, which is fine with me. Your comments of feeling it was time to move on, despite the advantages of where you were living previously in the US, resonated profoundly. I don't know how to say this otherwise, but I sadly don't recognize the US anymore, So, out of my comfort zone again and onto the new story.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Good for you! And thanks for the kind words. 🙏😁

[@patriciasalem3606]

Having lived in the Netherlands, French Canada, and Mexico, I do appreciate that slower pace of life and focus on high-quality experiences. I'd like to get out of the US, as I've known for a long time it's not right for me either (and likely to keep getting worse). I tried Mexico (for a good 7+ years), but it just became too unsafe. Now I'm trying to find the perfect combination of visa feasibility, acceptable climate, pet friendliness, and appealing culture elsewhere. I can get by in a number of languages, so I'm open to several countries in Europe, as well as possibly Uruguay. As you say, I have to really get in that mindset of believing it's possible and taking steps towards seeing those pieces come together somehow.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

How have you made out?

[@reginapolo3357]

I just spent 3 days in Narbonne and 3 days in Menton, and overnight at some towns in between and the French people is extremetly polite and welcoming. I was very surprised of how they would kick in into Spanish or English when I struggled with my French

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Right? 😁

[@ChaiTogether]

I really needed to hear this today. This is true when there is a strong intention for change, God bless you! And your family. 😊🎉❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! 🙏😁

[@kimberlystritt8631]

I spent what was suppose to be a month that became two in the summer in South America - mostly Argentina 🇦🇷. Beautiful people & country. It truly opened my eyes to the way many countries who have that work/ life balance. A simple metaphor is old money vs new and it’s not about what’s in your account but your soul. For me I’m hoping the US is not my last stop. It’s not about disliking this country, it’s as these people are choosing and sharing how for them it’s about something different. 🥂🇫🇷

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nicely put 😁

[@librarylady6mena368]

We lived in France for 9 years, in the south which is likely different than the north. I found must of what you say to be true. In our case, it was a work related move, so we knew it was temporary. However, had I had the chance to stay, I would have. The US no longer clicks for us either, we make our home between Uruguay and Germany right now, but our children live in the US, which makes a big difference as does age. Great video! Merci beaucoup❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you for sharing, and for your support!

[@pabrownie19]

Can't wait to hear about any house updates!! It looks like you both have settled in quite well!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

It has been a long journey that has paid off really well. Still in progress, of course, but very much enjoying it. More on the goings-on with the house real soon…

[@nikij.6058]

I’m from your former city, Portland. Have lived here over 25 years. In my late fifties asking myself if I want to liver here forever. My son lives and works in Sweden. I’d like to be closer to him. Visiting Europe made me think there is so much more out there and different ways to live. Your story is compelling. It would be hard to leave as I have an awesome 50s brick home on five acres, lived here the whole time! So, maybe I’ll join you somewhere in Europe. Best life to you both.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, and best of luck with your own journey!

[@lindam4259]

perfect age to leave...late fifties. i'm early 70s and wish I did it sooner, although no time like the present, as they say!

[@denisewalsh6586]

Five acres is nice..most people in t he world are not blessed with that acreage..I have 3 acres here in Long Island, NY and it is hard to leave plus 30 minutes from the ocean..

[@JasonMcLay]

The food story is so true. I lived, for a short time, in Chalais between Bordeaux and Anguoleme, The markets were fine but the restaurants were not great. In Paris, I felt too walled in by buildings but the food was magnificent. I love your channel and your son's too. So insightful and inspiring. Thank you for all you share with us. The way the USA is now, for sure, choose another place. Hopefully, things come around but the USA now feels like children in politics, "I want it my way and I will not compromise." A stalemate government will never work for the people. Anyway, you are an amazing family. I live vicariously through your eyes and I realize, even though I will never meet you all, somehow, we are all in this together. Great thanks.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

🙏😁

[@tytec5]

Great to hear your take on why you love France better than the US. I am French born and raised, moved to the US when I was 19. I ended up staying because I met my husband and started a family and so on. I miss France terribly, even more so now than my children have their own lives and families. I keep dreaming of moving back, but not an easy decision to move away from your children. Being an expat is strangely getting harder as i get older, but I must add that I also feel like an expat when I am in France. I love hearing that for the most part you have a positive experience with your move to France.

[@cwednesday]

I hear you. I'm also French and moved to the US at 24 years old. I love being back there every year, but actually moving back would be intense. The whole 2 hour lunch and closing for August stuff gets on my nerves. lol. And as for the bureaucracy, it makes me want to sprint back to the US. But I agree with you that being an expat becomes harder as you get older.

[@marianacaffaro]

I’m an Argentinian immigrant in Galicia, Spain, and I can say exactly the same of Spain, except for the post

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Jaja, qué bueno pero qué lío, no?

[@sbmenard7374]

American in France four years and wholeheartedly agree with your observations. The lack of good customer service doesn't bother me anymore, but it does take some getting used to. For example, when I go to the phyiscal therapist I'm left on the table while the practitioner goes out to check on other patients, give them exercises to do, etc. I might be waiting 5 minutes until it's my turn again, but the care and bedside manner are top quality, so I can live with it. Keep the videos coming!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks for the comment and for the support!

[@stayfocused1041]

French living in the US here. Left France 40 years ago, would like to retire there, but...How about "l'insecurite" everybody in France is speaking about? Burglaries, aggression, mass immigration, knife attacks, it is difficult to avoid noticing all this, plus an impoverishment of the population, and many other issues that did not exist 40 years ago. I would live in the countryside, not in a city, however, I read that there are a lot of problems in the country as well. The US was wonderful while I had a successful and busy professional life. Now retired, needing medical care that costs huge amounts, isolated in the countryside without genuine community, good restaurants or culture is quite unsettling. Plus, the US is going down, fast, although France is too, and the EU is frightening. I am asking around for feedback, keeping in mind that it is always subjective of course. Thank you

[@vzmax]

@@stayfocused1041 Le fric que l'Etat prend d'autorité dans nos poches sert à financer notre submersion migratoire par des sous-civilisés, comment voulez-vous dès lors qu'il n'y ait pas une explosion des crimes et qu'on ne s'appauvrisse pas, pécuniairement parlant et, pire, civilisationnellement ?

[@dianabialaskahansen2972]

Just saw the Portugal video before this, so uplifting to hear you found yourself a new home that suits you better in France. I was thinking the Netherlands would be the best fit based on what I heard in Portugal video, but France is also an amazing country, even if I never lived there, only visited.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

It is truly amazing. Thanks for following us along… 🙏

[@KimberlieOtt]

What a positive video. Thank you for an insider's view of such a lovely country!!!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

🙏😁

[@3genwomenabroad-cm6fl]

I moved to the south--and you are saying pretty much to the word, exactly what I am experiencing...perhaps only that the culture is less disfused with expats in the countryside of north than my village in the countryside of the south. And, maybe the food is better in the neighboring city of Paris rather than Cannes and Nice...However, basically, word-for-word, my experience in leaving the states for france. well done. you both look happy and healthy. your house is beautiful. your family is together on the same continent...I shared to my social media. thanks for the update and insight.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much 😁🙏

[@Lifeinthewyldewest]

Your videos are mind blowing, so good! I loved hearing your take on France! I love to see you living your dream. Also a fan of Nathaniel, I see he comes by it naturally. Thank you for editing this wonderful video and sharing it with your KZbin community.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

And thank you, right back for your lovely comments! 🙏😁

[@Estelle0dcma]

As a French I am glad that you and Cecilia have been enjoying living in France. It's a beautiful country that a lot of French people sometimes forget. I have been travelling to the most wonderful countries (imo) for several weeks each time in Europe, South Asia and North Africa. Even if I love discovering new places I am also really happy to come back home. I am not saying it's the perfect country in the world, it has its flaws but it offers so much overall. I share your opinion on the restaurant in the countryside. There are a bunch of nice places but you have to do some research. Entering one randomly could be an entire experience. If you haven't yet, I highly recommend visiting Lille and Bordeaux where I lived a few years back. Beautiful walkable cities, amazing quality food and history. Enjoy a wine tour near Bordeaux stopping by the most iconic châteaux (vineyards) and go for a day to Arcachon (train from Bordeaux) to share fresh oysters and white wine with a view on the Atlantic ocean. Lille is a quaint place with beautiful little streets. Enjoy typical food and it's well known for its beers. Add a day trip to Bruges (Belgium, less than one hour trip) to discover the Venice from the north. Little canals, beautiful houses, Antics shop, good food. Good job, your French is amazing at the end of the video!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much! For your kind words and amazing suggestions. 🙏😁

[@daviddechamps8840]

​@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT Having been working for a US company for 20 years, I have had many discussions on the US vs Europe models with colleagues. Pro's and con's on both sides, of course. There is probably an age things as well: there is a time for each priority, in life. And I guess that, when you have achieved a certain financial security, it's easier to enjoy and focus on the rest. Beyond Lille and Bordeaux (which I like a lot, as a Belgian), if you ever want to visit Brussels (1h20 from Paris by train), I'd be more than happy to be your guide. Don't hesitate to reach out!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

@@daviddechamps8840 Indeed. Age and stage in life do factor in greatly. Thanks so much for your offer! So nice of you. 🙏

[@mdte5421]

Yep I agree I lived in Lille for 3 years ( I went to grad school and I really moved for love too from Toronto ). Lille is absolutely beautiful and a very strategic placed to all the big cities . I orrery much visited all of nord -pas de Calais ( from lievin to Amiens). I’m now back to Toronto but looking for apartment in Arras or Albi ( yes closer to la campagne 😍).

[@sheilashells]

Your videos are such a treat. I absolutely love them!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much! 🙏

[@SusanHaver-yf6xj]

I've been living in France now for nearly 50 years (came from the UK). I can remember how different everything seemed to 70s Britain, but how exciting it was to soak up a new culture. Really nice to hear that you have settled in to your new life here in a relatively short period. You have been willing to embrace the ups and downs and your positive outlook has definitely helped. Bonne continuation !

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much!

[@o.m.6374]

Much of the comments you make about the lifestyle in France can also be made about many other parts of Europe in general, like Italy for example, a country that exudes that work-to-live-ethic along with an irrepressible joie-de-vivre and welcoming nature (think back to the singing on balconies during the lockdown of the Pandemic), and is synonymous with good food, it is culture rich and also famous for poor customer service. As a North American expat living for the past 3 decades in Europe, while I like enjoy my visits across the pond, I would not want to live anywhere else.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Love Italy!! ❤️😁

[@kozkozof]

As a French person, I feel personally flattered that you guys picked my country to take that big leap of faith and moving there without even speaking the language. (Even though Spanish is helpful with that, it definitely isn't easy either !) The things you love about France are actually the exact same ones that we love about it too, although we may complain about it sometimes (slow life in August with no services open, few options for food outside of big cities...) I'm very happy you're enjoying yourself here, and I wish you the very best !

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! 🙏😁

[@yuleendevery9243]

I always look forward to your posts. Informative and very easy to watch with a depth that many podcasters seek to achieve but you always nail it perfectly. Thank you. Glad you are settling in to your new adventure. Have been watching you from New Zealand since before you sold in Oregon and made the big move.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Wonderful, so great to hear. Thank you for your lovely words!

[@pazsugarspice]

Thanks for sharing your experience in moving to France from the USA. I am also on a journey to do this in the next couple of years. I am learning French (again), and about the different areas to semi-retire/settle. I have loved France since I was a teenager, but also would consider other countries in Europe. While my thoughts about France are still conceptions as I've never lived there, you have touched on a few in this video. I love that French people are so polite with manners and more personable in business. I have leaned in this video that work-life balance is important and from other videos I've seen. This is enticing. I am obsessed with architecture, especially periods in the Renaissance.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

You should take a leap of your own! 😁

[@marsupiomarsupi4421]

Brits say French people are "lazy", but French "work to live not live to work". British ONS (Office for National Statistics ) 20 January 2022. International comparisons of UK productivity - Main points: - The G7 countries’ average (excluding the UK) output per worker was 13% above the UK in 2019. - The UK’s output per hour worked is less than France and the US. - France is between 9% and 28% more productive than the UK, with a central estimate of 18% more productive. (btw your videos are great!)

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Wow, crazy stats. Thanks for sharing! 🙏

[@RosaB_AA]

Well, that's people don't know that others persons work for them for generations, both countries traffic with person (France traffics slavery with 1.3 million of persons, for example) and how about the neocolonialism, today?. That's the part of France or Britain don't speak.

[@publicminx]

yep, but Germany and the Netherlands work the least on the planet, are more productive than the rest of the planet, yet earn more than France or most of the rest of the planet. And in difference to most other wealthy countries Germany has in relation lower living costs (from food to electronics to cars etc. ). And UK has despite of a similar population to France a noticeable higher GDP ...

[@RosaB_AA]

@@publicminx that's right, Germany and Netherlands invade other continents , traffic with person and practice genocide like the other countries. Netherland have colonies in America and other place today, rights?. Instead, Germany made de gas chamber. What productive!?¿

[@RaySqw785]

@@publicminx remove were the French can't challenge, Oil&gas and higher pound currency rates, then compare GDP :)

[@Agnes-ht1kz]

I worked in France aged 19 for 2 years and loved it. Retired and came back aged 64 and settled. Now here for 11 years. I love my home country Scotland and keep an appartment there. Here, where we have settled in the south west of France it is very like Scotland..but warmer. Love it. Visit Paris as often as possible to meet old friends and soak up the culture. Good luck in your venture.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice, and thank you so much. All the best to you guys.

[@alexandrelarsac9115]

On interactions with the French, never forget that we are not raised to be "nice" with strangers but to show them respect. Hence the greetings.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Yup 👍

[@vzmax]

Il y a surtout le fait qu'aucun Français n'est tenu dans son propre pays de parler une autre langue que la sienne !

[@villerat86]

Hello from Washington State, great videos. I am hoping to move to Stuttgart Germany soon. My 3rd visit there was a month and a half for 2022/3 Christmas and New years. I love the food and way of life in Europe, and I do not have to use a car for all traveling needs. I would like to take a trip back to Paris one day and give another try. Cheers 🍻

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Good luck!

[@trace_element]

As an American from the PNW who moved to Germany 1.5 years ago, I can say that these pros and cons apply here as well. Must be a European thing! I would also add the cost of living as a major pro.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Yes, having been in various places in Europe, I can totally see that. Have not experienced the cost-of-living quite the same way. Can you share more about that?

[@publicminx]

​ @BeneaththeSurfaceYT no, the cost of living is not the same. Germany has one of the best combinations of higher income (more than France) but lower life spending (from food to electronics to cars etc.). France is more expensive (you also work more and more hierarchical for less income). Switzerland has MUCH higher income than France or most other countries but also MUCH higher costs (MUCH, not just like 5-10%) - but still you get net more out. Similar is Luxemburg. Since Germany is the third largest economy and the most populated country in the EU and the most diverse industry etc. etc. it has due to this size if one is skilled the income of Switzerland/Luxemburg (not average but depending on the industry/economic) but with lesser costs. Many make the mistake to compare just average costs. Also the US has in reality a wider gap between very high income (depending on where you are) and a much lower income than the average income suggests - also due to its size smart individuals have a great choice. Many European countries like in the East have low income but also low expenses - but nowadays comparable quality of grocery food to the more western countries, especially former eastern but actually central European neighbors to Germany like Czech, Poland etc... apropos: they have a kind of medium income and living costs. Scandinavia has higher income but also much higher costs. And btw, many are a bit like backward religious thirds world countries with not getting alkohol everywhere. Some countries have a relatively low-medium income but relatively high costs of living (Spain, Portugal, Croatia in more tourist regions) ... etc etc... long story short: there is a huge gap and the gap is often much wider than the US compared to some of the more wealthy European countries. You can get relatively cheap housing in most parts of Eastern Europe/Balkan, Spain, Italy, especially in the more rural regions (actually all suffer much more than central europe from urbanization (and demographical changes), because in difference to the stereotypes, villages/towns are much more dead than those in the wealthier countries and thats why you have much more 'ghost towns'. Housing or finding apartments to rent is in most wealthy countries and their bigger cities at the moment a problem. Its often not just the price but simply to find one in the first place. Thats for instance better in Vienna than in Amsterdam, way better in Poland or most parts of the East, in Greece etc... in theory you could get for 0 Euro a house in Germany btw. (and for sure also some other countries) in rural areas, but they usually come with much more costs (laws to restore them/renovate etc. ) which often means they are not worth to get them (and actually getting a house in rural areas is risky anyway as long they are not part of a growing metropole region (ujnless you really know that you want that) ...

[@trace_element]

⁠@@BeneaththeSurfaceYT For me, as someone who is a homebody and cooks a lot, the cost of food is a huge thing-and it is significantly less expensive in Germany than the U.S. Also things like phone plan and (huge!) medical expenses and pharmacy items. This is from my limited experience, but in both urban and rural living. Before I had medical insurance I visited an ER in central Germany for a broken toe and was super worried about what to expect from the bill (received in the mail). It was 47 euros. Housing costs are much, much less, renting or buying. But coming from Seattle almost anythig would be! The only thing which I have noticed is significantly more expensive is fuel, but that is completely reasonable considering the state of things today.

[@inessapomaz1597]

​@BeneaththeSurfaceYT everything depends on your salary. I'm a Ukrainian and forced to move out of my country because of the war. I have been living in Germany for two years. When you have a American salary, of course it will be enough to live a good life here, including all good positive side of Germany. But having a German salary of an ordinary man, for example 1600 Euro you will have 100 or 200 left at the end of the month. And there is a big problem to find a job, you even cannot work at the shop without diploma. For every single job you must have a diploma. West Germany is overpopulated, it's really difficult to find a flat. The price to rent a small house in a not big town would cost around 1400Euro.

[@philiphema2678]

Sooooo much sense in what you say! Experience is the true educator and destroyer of misconceptions!!! Bonne journee!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

🙏😁

[@janebaker966]

"I asked God for everything so I could enjoy life,God gave me Life so I could enjoy everything" not my words,hope I've remembered it right,subtle difference!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

👍

[@Insurancemom123]

I haven't seen your videos in a while, but I have to say you visually look so much more relaxed and whatever negativity that was hanging over you seems to have lifted.I think France is working wonders on you, hope you keep enjoying yourselves

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks🙏😁

[@Bangle9]

I am happy to see that you look better rested and healthy. Great that you are settling in so well. Im considering a big move myself within a couple few years.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, and best of luck with your plans!

[@robinzaleski5]

I have been following your journey since you began. Fortuitously, KZbin suggested your very first video to me the week it came out, so I have enjoyed being along for the ride in almost real-time. You're living my dream, and I hope someday to be your fellow compatriote. À la prochaine!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much! :)

[@kfx216]

I'm searching for the right place in France to buy a cheap fixer upper within 2 hours by train to Paris Would love to know more about where you're located and how much you spent. Very inspiring!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! 🙏

[@MariaSo56]

I am currently evaluating moving to another country (CZ) and am a bit afraid of taking the risk, this is actually the perfect time to watch this video sincw so many things can be applied to making big decisions and then actually living them - thank you so much for your perspective and insights! - Maria

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

🙏😁❤️

[@sabrinahandsome8278]

I went to Prague in November and I've been thinking about CZ almost everyday since. Last week I was looking up apartments 😂. I can totally see why you would consider moving to that beautiful country.

[@MariaSo56]

@@sabrinahandsome8278 what a coincidence! I will most likely actually move to Prague sometime this year :)

[@sscott4028]

Would love to see an updated home tour. I’m sure your home is beautiful ❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Very soon!

[@clarissahallowell5436]

I have been watching your videos for a while now. I love that you and your wife are in your 50’s as I am as well. I would love to see a video on what you’re doing for health insurance in France and how navigating the health system over there is going for you. Merci Beaucoup.🙏

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Might dive deeper into that someday. Or perhaps my wife on her channel? Thanks so much for your support! 🙏😁

[@Sonorus52]

Glad for you that it's working out so well. We've lived in Europe some 14 years, presently in France. Our experiences have been similar, but I'd note we have not had much in the way of poor customer service experiences, particularly with tradesmen. Without exception we have been impressed by the skill and care taken in work we've commissioned, as well as the value for money. You didn't mention bureaucratic integration--registering with Assurance Maladie, driving licences, establishing banking, preparing to file taxes (I assume that working from home you'll be paying French income tax), etc. How's that unfolding for you ?

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Don’t ask 😩

[@janiebratt8826]

Thank you for your wise words. We live in the country at the base of Mt. Hood and have a small cherry orchard that provides us plenty of time to travel. We will spend a month in France this year tracking the Tour de France route. Life is good!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice!

[@dollimelaine]

The french know how to live. It is the only place where I feel at home and I have lived in many countries. I am originally from California, where I am at the moment in a small town. The pressure and vibe is pretty much survival level. In the summer I will be in England and then to France. Thanks for your video*

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks for sharing. Best of luck to you!

[@Ella-zj2ur]

Very happy to know you've both found your home in every sense! We spent a month in Strasbourg a couple of years ago and found the people to be lovely. In Paris, as well, if you don't speak French but at least greet people in French--and better yet, ask if they speak English in French--responses can be overwhelmingly positive. 🇫🇷

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Indeed 😁

[@miamoudilou]

such beautiful videosss

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you!! 😁

[@Cristina-fq4jr]

Europe is the best. Been living in other different continents and I always missed our way of leaving while I was abroad. Happy you feel at home in France!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

😁

[@bibibachmd9995]

Thank you for a very good video. I love France and spend a few months on the Med near Nice. Very safe and I can walk around at anytime of day or night unlike most places in the USA. Love the French people!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

It’s an amazing country. With its own problems, like anywhere else, but truly an incredible place.

[@denisewalsh6586]

There are some dangerous sections of Nice .you still need to be vigilant

[@bibibachmd9995]

@@denisewalsh6586 Agree. Must be careful in Nice. Beaulieu Sur Mer and Cap Ferret are safe but you are right.

[@oodlesofpoodles6382]

I love that you and Cecilia are always so open. And not politically correct. You say what's on your mind. I never have to guess or try to read between the lines. And if you have made an incorrect assumption, you just own it. You are both pretty open and honest about most things. The video is so well put together with the story. We have been to France a number of times. Not all of the experiences were great like the time the cab driver threw my change at me and yelled. But then he wasn't French. God knows where he was from. I'm always too friendly and outgoing. That isn't appreciated there. A great book is entitled French or Foe. Sadly, I read it after the trip. I'm glad you like it there. Relocating and learning how to live somewhere is hard. Especially if you don't like a place.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you for your lovely words. We wouldn’t have it any other way. 😁

[@alexandral6273]

Bonjour, 😊 as a french person I find your point of view very interesting. A long time ago, I lived the same thing as you, but on the opposite side. 😁 In 1991, at 19 years old I left France and spent 10 years in Westchester County (near NYC). I absolutely LOVED IT !!! 😜🥳💖 It takes a lot of courage to decide de change our lives so drastically, but it's awesome and so enriching ! Some days seem easy and some are complicated because everything is so different, but at the end we grow with all of it and we become very open minded and tolerant people. There are good and bad things everywhere, but might not be good for someone may be awesome for someone else just because we are different persons. I came back to France in 2001 (just before the awful terrorists attacks in the US). It's true that in France the quality of life is a treasure. French people "fight" all the time against the government in order to keep this quality, this is why we often go on strikes. Right now, farmers from all over the country are very angry. I don't know how the tracking system is in the US for deliveries, but I feel that in France, we always have a tracking number to follow our packages ... I would be curious to talk to you about this topic or others here or in private (Messenger or WhatsApp) if you are ok with it ... 😊Personally, after being back to France 23 years ago, I think half of my heart will always be in the US while the other half is in France. 💖💖 I wish you both a wonderful day !

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. 🙏

[@denisewalsh6586]

When you say the quality of life in France is a treasure..can you give me specifics. It sounds like you really enjoyed the quality of life in Westchester County also?

[@denisewalsh6586]

The US post offices will give you a tracking number and website, to track your packages..its on the receipt you get.

[@alexandral6273]

@@denisewalsh6586 Hi Denise. In France people working habits offers people more time to enjoy everyday life and everything is made to encourage people to spend more quality time enjoying life. I remember (back in the 90’s) working VERY LONG hours … In average, how many hours Americans work in a week theses days ?

[@denisewalsh6586]

@@alexandral6273 well, it's typically 9 am to 5 pm , Monday to Friday, paid holidays and vacation time is 2 to 4 weeks depending how long you are with the company, I am only talking about insurance companies that I worked for here in NYC. I can't say for other companies ..some companies may expect you to work until 6 pm because often there is more work..sometimes I would work until 6 pm because of the workload.

[@christinetedesco8980]

I love these videos of your experiences in France and having landed in a beautiful house in a quaint village. Having lived in Italy for a year and a half, my husband and I experienced their culture and their love of the sun, their children and the food. We were never sure of the order of importance of these 3 things but it did not matter. We could see it everywhere and it was such a contrast to the US. We love living vicariously thru your experiences. Thanks for sharing!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much. And you made me laugh with the order of importance… Haha.

[@polosma77]

Actually, the long afternoon breaks make sense, as long as you push the hours to close later. I live in a US suburb, and many places like coffee shops and other stores close at 5pm sharp. especially after Covid. It would be nice to have some shops open after hours, otherwise everybody working normal hours wouldn't be able to enjoy them. Many suburbs are like ghost town after hours.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Indeed. It would make sense to adopt everywhere.

[@midwestlakelife]

This is so beautiful. I'm not planning on moving, but I am looking to change my life in different ways. I'm afraid. Fear is leading to some procrastination. Hearing your message also applies to smaller changes and dreams. Thank you.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

It does. Smaller leaps count too. I encourage you to practice being more daring! 🙏❤️

[@GenXvoyager]

Couldn’t agree more with your assessment of life in the US no longer resonating. Heading to France for early research this summer. My biggest task is to convince my German husband to embrace the French way of life. The two of you continue to inspire us.

[@noreenn6976]

How about Germany?

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you, and best of luck to you!

[@publicminx]

@GenXvoyager: no surprise. Germany is better than France (unless you have very specific/personal reasons). He likely dont want downgrade ;) ...

[@vzmax]

And yet the German say: "Leben wie Gott in Frankreich" That said, we do not need more foreigners in France.

[@marieb3089]

Spot on pronunciation!! Bonne chance , je vous souhaite le meilleur dans votre découverte de ce qu'est la France :) I was born there but left it long time ago around 1998, your videos help me continue my own journey discovering what it is to be a complete stranger in a country I knew nothing about.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Merci 🙏

[@glennmartin346]

One of your best yet! Simple, informative, and beautifully illustrated. We have plans to sell a casa in both Italy and Merida Mexico, then we'll be France bound for a new life

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! How did you guys make out?

[@berbersissi]

Thank you for your videos. I love the way you love my beautiful country. Enjoy your life in France -all the best from a French woman living in England but missing France so very much

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you 🙏😁

[@robelliot3511]

Couldn’t agree more. Like you, we sold it all and left the West Coast NA for France il y a 7 mois. Still adjusting with the ups and downs of expat life but continue to believe that life is more enriching with the highs and lows vs the flat line in the middle which is regular life back home. À bientôt!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Great to hear. All the best to you guys!

[@anahitamosallai528]

Aloha from Maui! Been following you for a while....Lots of love to you and your boys. I truly look forward to watching your videos.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you!! 🙏

[@ziggy33399]

What about health there? Or healthcare? Your video is a real treat & im grateful for your time and excellent information . Thank you. Merci.❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much. Yes, healthcare has been quite a thing. Currently grappling with it. :(

[@redsidis]

Also interested to hear about the healthcare. We were recently in Bayeux when my husband got sick (the flu ) and we were able to get in a see a doctor and get him treated within 2 days. Total cost withouth insurance 28 euros. Wondering if that was an anomoly or typical. @@BeneaththeSurfaceYT

[@dualcit007]

Your videos, and commitment to showing the good and the more challenging, are so enjoyable to watch. Thank you for sharing your journey. I moved from the USA to The Netherlands almost 30 years ago and have now been here as long as I was there. Both still feel like home, however I’m absolutely certain my quality of life and work life balance are better here than there.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you so much for your lovely words. Yes, nothing like the European way!

[@paulyandle6081]

Thank you loads for your perspective. I shoulda been born in France, not the US, as France has always felt like my home. Even when hitch hiking on some desolation road back in the 70's. My property in 17 is 90% complete, after 5 years of 3 week stints several times a year to work with amazing tradesmen. Have my res visa; all set there. Selling out here completely with expectation of being there for good this Spring. So many positives I could add about France, the French, their social support system, their superb health system, the transportation network. And no damn pharma ads on tv ! Yes, the tax rates are higher, but you get what you pay for there, unlike here. Americans are isolated by geography, by politics, by an economic system that promotes a crazy work ethic, and by the deluded idea that We're Number 1!! The French are not just French; they are also Europeans, members of something larger organized to promote peace and prosperity for all. I could go on and on, including some current negatives, but taken as a whole..... Looking forward to your next vid. Many Thanks !

[@RaySqw785]

Bravo et merci, très touchant

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you and good luck! 🙏😁

[@JakobKhatup]

So happy to see you finally enjoying life:) Thank you for posting:)

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

😁

[@kailiasage]

Your videos are always so visually pleasing. It’s so cool to see you use your producing and videography skills on this channel. A lot of reasons you mentioned in this video resonate with my need to also leave the US. A work life balance lends to other areas of my life also improving and now that’s my goal.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice. Thank you so much for your kind words and wishing you all the best!

[@RyanLudlow]

Thank you for sharing your stories and experiences! I appreciate the effort you put in to produce these amazing videos and to tell real personal stories. Keep up the great work. ❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thanks!! 🙏

[@Richard.HistoryLit]

Work life balance is not just France. It is the whole EU including England.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

I feel England and the US are very similar. Would love to hear more about how you view it.

[@asiatravels007]

Absolute nonsense! I'm from the UK now living in Asia and the UK has a slave work culture just like America and many other countries. Work all hours of the day for a pittance just to keep a roof over your head and rip off food and utilities prices. Brits are leaving by the hundreds of thousands every year including me while importing the 4th world. I'll never go back! 👍

[@jyc313]

England feels very similar to US, and I've worked in the UK for years before relocating. The most obvious differences are felt in France, Spain, and Italy. To a degree, also Germany and parts of northern Europe.

[@bsmith6646]

England definitely has a better work life balance having worked in both countries. The lack of US holiday pay still blows my mind

[@jonas.zehnder]

I partly agree. It‘s more of a southern european thing. France, Italy, Spain and Greece. Being italian and having visited these countries I definitely discovered a similar pattern.

[@equiknox14]

I so enjoy your videos...interesting, thoughtful, visually clean and informative. Its my virtual escape!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Nice! So happy to hear! 😁

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

Actually, it's not impossible to imagine - but the finances don't always align. I enjoy following the journey you two are sharing. Word from Lake Oswego? Our last snow storm destroyed so many trees - it's was scary and dangerous. Cheers

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

I’m so sorry to hear. 🙁

[@emmanuellecas4124]

J' adore vos vidéos, so good !

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Merci ! 🙏

[@Deliciouslyvibrant]

Aww loved that you ended in French too! Je suis totalement d’accord! One must take leaps of Faith when it feels aligned despite initial fears. It always leads to rich and amazing life experiences. It was the case for me every.single.time (moving from Europe to Canada, then Australia and now back in Europe but in another country I would have NEVER considered and where I feel at home now: Spain 🇪🇸). Merci de toujours partager de si belles vidéos avec nous. They’re always so insightful 💫😇👍🏽

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Merci beaucoup ! 🙏

[@natividadsalomeeramosvasco-f8s]

Very grateful;for your information.I remeber you trying to male it in Portugal as well.Happy February and New Year 2024😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

😁

[@kimmcmahon9682]

I am so envious. May you continue to grow and enjoy this journey. Would love an updated tour of your house. You two have such lovely taste. Keep up the good work❤

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Thank you! More on the house soon, promise (we have some big news coming).

[@michellenokken2597]

I so much enjoy your videos. I had a similar occurrence where the work life and Montreal were no longer serving me. The move to small town Atlantic Canada has been a positive move.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Excellent!

[@walideg5304]

I think people like you are a perfect match for countries like France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Morocco ... Mediterranean countries. Excellent food. Rich history. Nice and relaxed people. You are in the perfect region of the world, to enjoy what you like, and aligned with your values.

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

Indeed!

[@iceangel1701d]

Couldn't agree more! We're trying to move to the country and it's been a challange but such a learning time for us too. Bon chance!

[@BeneaththeSurfaceYT]

You too!