Living in France: the Pros and Cons!

Summary: An introductory guide to the main aspects of living in France – both good and bad – for would be expatriates

So, the summer holidays are over, the kids are back at school and while the likes of the ShelterOffshore team are still basking in balmy Mediterranean sunshine (sorry to rub it in) you’re maybe stuck back at the office with autumn a very obvious reality in the front of your mind.  So let me guess, you’re thinking that maybe the Great British winter isn’t something you really want to have to get through and that maybe you should up sticks and move abroad?

Well, one of the most popular overseas destinations for Brits seeking a new nation to call home is of course France…if you’re contemplating living in France here’s a list of pros and cons to wade through to see whether you could embrace the French way of life and make a break for the sun before winter sets in!

Living in France – The Pros

France is a very easy country to get to from the UK.  You can go by plane, train, automobile and boat and what’s more, because there is such stiff carrier competition, prices remain affordable year round with some of the cheapest prices achievable thanks to the low cost airlines which will take you to pretty much any region or major city in France in an hour or ninety minutes tops.

The accessibility of France is a strong draw for many – especially those who retain close family or work ties with the UK.

Property prices and the cost of living are far and away more affordable in France – sure, you could buy a mansion in Montpelier or a pied-à-terre in Paris and spend more than you would in most UK locations, but in the vast majority of France you can buy much more in terms of real estate than you can get for a similar budget anywhere in the UK.

The cost of living is much lower especially when you embrace the French way of life and shop at local small outlets and eat the produce which is currently in season.  And on top of this, the way of life in France is so much more healthy – it’s more laid back, greater emphasis is placed on enjoying life rather than just working to pay off the mortgage, and if you move to southern France then the weather is just fantastic which means you spend more time outside and that’s also a good thing for the heart and the soul!

There are just so many fantastic regions in France all offering something unique and special – so no matter what type of geography, climate, view or lifestyle you’re seeking you’ll be able to find the place for you and your family in France.

Living in France – The Cons

If you’re looking for a country to retire to then France is fantastic for the above mentioned reasons but there are very few purpose built retirement communities in France and if you want that level of personal security as well as likeminded social contact, you may not find what you’re seeking in France.

The legalities associated with buying property in France are complex, and what’s more, inheritance laws in France differ greatly from British law and it’s essential anyone with assets in France apprises themselves of the differences and protects their interests and those of their successors.

To truly embrace the French way of life and get the very most out of living in France you will have to learn French as well!  For some this is a challenge for others it’s a hurdle!

And finally, healthcare in France is expensive – depending on your status you may be entitled to free basic medical attention but if you require anything more comprehensive or if you’re going to be living in France full time, it often pays to get expatriate health insurance in place for you and your family.

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