Living in France Articles

French Embassy London

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

�Address of the French Embassy:

French Embassy
58 Knightsbridge
London SW1X 7JT

Telephone: 0207 073 1000
Closest tube: Knightsbridge

For Visas and other official papers ...

Google France

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Google France Servers

Google has many search servers across the world. If you do a search in one country, you will not get the same results in another country.

To illustrate as an example - say we are searching for "French Properties" in the UK (these are the google.co.uk servers), then for 1st for French Property was the top result (excluding the Paid search results). But if the repat the same search on the Google French servers (google.fr) then the results are different! 1st for French property is the fourth result. ...

6 ways to assess the value of your home

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

�Some may think that selling their house is a simple process that does�n't require too much effort on their part, but this is not the case for most situations. Finding the right price takes some time and effort, both on the part of the seller and the estate agent that they hire. If you're at a loss as to where to start and are thinking to yourself, "how on earth am I going to sell �my house?" Here are a few tips to help you get started.
French property for sale in a village!

The Sunday Times published its list of ten villages in August 2011 .... you may not agree!

Top ...

Celebrity Spotting on the Cote d'Azur

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Many celebrities, such as Elton John and Brigitte Bardot, have homes on the Cote d�Azur. Officially, the C�te d�Azur is home to 163 nationalities with 83, 962 foreign residents, although estimates of the number of non-French nationals living in the area are often much higher.

The area was frequented by the likes of Coco Chanel, David Niven, Isadora Duncan, F Scott Fitzgerald, Aldous Huxley, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, and now may be one of the world�s best places to live?

Celebrity Homes on the ...

Ferries from Poole to St Malo

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks to the ferries from Poole to St Malo, Saint Malo is one of the most visited of Brittany and attract 200 000 tourists in summer, coming for most part of England.

Saint-Malo, is a municipality of metropolitan France, situated in Brittany, in the department of Ille-et-Vilaine. The sea resort was known for its enclosed city and it is reported that Saint Malo is classified as the number one of their favorite destinations for Europeans in France. Rich in a maritime history, it remains an important port and an ...

French Toast for Breakfast

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 +0000

We all love French bread! No visit to France is complete without a visit to the village bakery for fresh warm baguettes or local rustic breads. Not good for the carbs however! What else can you do with the left over bread? Why try some French toast ...

French Toast Ingredients

4 eggs
1 teaspoon sugar, optional
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
10 to 12 slices white bread or baguette slices

Moving to France

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Moving to France: Experience

So what is our experience of moving to France? We work in an area as an Immobilier (estate agent) that includes the northern Lot et Garonne, South Dordogne and Eastern Gironde. Bergerac is 30 minutes (and less) from Eymet and Miramont and Bordeaux is less than an hour and a half. Eymet is a very touristy town and very beautiful, and just at the gateway to the Dordogne which is a very popular holiday location with the Brits, French and other Europeans. Bordeaux, is a superb city � full of architectural and historical interest and superb for ...

Long Term Rentals in France

Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 +0000

If you have ever dreamed of spending some more time in France, something more than a standard two week summer holiday, then please read on about Long term rentals in France.

'Rent a place in France' are specialists in the marketing of properties for winter lets and long term rentals in France, for periods of one month and more. Many of our clients are looking to purchase property in France but given the current financial climate prefer to rent first. We also see a good number of longer term ...

Rail Travel in France

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +0000

�With its diverse landscapes, world-famous cuisine and vibrant cities, France is the perfect country to explore by train. The railway networks are convenient and efficient and the trains spacious and comfortable. Train travel allows passengers to concentrate on admiring the ever-changing scenery from the comfort of their carriage. For those in the south of Britain, it is often quicker to reach France than other parts of the UK, making it the perfect destination for a low-cost break. It is now also possible to buy through tickets from over 100 other UK towns and cities via London to Paris, making it ...

Learn to Speak French

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

So you want to learn to speak French? Languages, unfortunately, take awhile to learn. The best way to learn is to experiment, make mistakes, and talk French as frequently as possible. Being completely immersed in French and speaking/hearing it all day will make learning French easier.

Watching movies in French should help. Get friends to speak to you in French on a regular basis, you will learn faster.

Of course, the best way would be to visit France ...

Free France wifi and other wifi resources

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0000

What is France wifi and how does it works?
France Wifi is a method of acessing the Internet wirelessly in France. In order to acess wifi, you have to have a router hooked up to your internet connection. If you have a built in card on your pc or mac, then the computer will automatically find the signal that is being transmitted from the router. If you don't have a built in card, most french wifi carriers sell cards or you can get a USB dongle.

How to connect to wifi?

French Breakfast: What do French people eat

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Its history begins in the XVIIIth century when the custom of drinking coffee and coffee with milk served with toast, spread into the cities. The Fre�nch term petit d�jeuner was coined at the end of the nineteenth century when the current three meals pattern was set up. �

As a whole, breakfasts are not a huge affair in France. Traditionally french breakfast is called as Le petit d�jeuner - ...

Popular Driving Trips in France

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

��With up to eighty million tourists a year, France is officially the world�s most visited country - and by a wide margin. The country offers an enormous number of cultural opportunities and historic attractions, combined with the high quality of life enjoyed by its citizens and by those who frequent it. It�s no wonder that France is said to be one of the most pleasurable countries to drive in, with advanced road networks and magnificent scenery. The topography of this country is highly varied: ranging from the low lying valleys of the north and west - where the straight Roman ...

The Effects of Financial Crisis in France

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0000

There is a common misconception when it comes to the economic stability of every developed country. For many, they believe that developed or the so-called First World nations such as France, which is more popular because of it being a member of the European Union, are not affected by the global financial crisis. The effects of the financial crisis are very stark in the Third World and Second World countries, but in the more advanced nations, is there an economic crisis?

...

Coupe du monde de la Patisserie: the World Pastry Cup Festival

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:00 +0000

If you've ever had an authentic French pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant), you can appreciate the skill and craftsmanship it takes to create the world's most delicious pastries, every day! Freshness, flavor and texture are incredibly important in this art and tradition. It�s a known fact that the French are masters at the art of pastry making and therefore only fitting that the Pastry Cup is held in Lyon, France.

Celebrating its 20^th anniversary this year (2009), the World Pastry Cup, is one of the most ...

Celebrate Bastille Day in Paris

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Nothing is more thrilling than experiencing the fun and excitement of a foreign country�s national holiday. You really get to feel the uniqueness of a place by participating in its special celebrations. One of the most exciting celebrations is Bastille Day in Paris.

Every year, on July 14, France commemorates the start of the French revolution in 1789. Though it occurred more than 200 years ago, the energy that you can feel from the day�s celebration is as if the revolution occurred just a few years ago. That revolution gave the people of France power ...

Seeing the South of France by French Motorail

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Traveling to the south of France is a must for any French holiday. The only problem is that if you�re short on time, it may not be a realistic option. Driving by car can take days, and if you choose to take a train, you�ll still have to rent a car to get around the picturesque southern part of the country. One option does exist, though, where you can have the best of both worlds - a high-speed train ride and your own private car. Enter the French Motorail.

The French Motorail is basically ...

Eurotunnel - a Quick 35-Minute Journey

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Long gone are the days when travel from the U.K. to France took an inconveniently long time. With the advent of the Eurotunnel, travel is both convenient and quick, making France an easy travel destination at anytime of the year. In fact, more and more British people are making France the destination of choice for either work or leisure.

What is the Eurotunnel?
The Eurotunnel is a train service that transports both cars and their owners under the English Channel. ...

Typical French Meals

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0000

French Meals

To become really familiar with French culture, you�ll need to understand what French people normally eat at mealtimes (as well as their eating habits), whether you plan to eat out at a restaurant or invite some locals to your place for a meal. Only then will you truly feel part of the landscape.

Breakfast
French people love their croissants at just about every french breakfast meal. Whether you choose the fanciest restaurant or the most inexpensive ...

Driving Safely in France

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Besides good wine, France is also known for its somewhat reckless drivers. Compared to driving in Great Britain, when you drive or hire a car in France, it can be a bit of an experience. To ensure your driving experience is as pleasant (and safe) as possible, we�ve listed some of the main French driving rules that can help you drive defensively in this most colorful country.

Drive on the right side of the road
Contrary to British driving, French drivers drive on the right side of the road. It might take ...

Tour de France: The Greatest Race Around

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Even if you�ve never visited France before or never watched a cycling competition in your life, you�ve probably still heard about the famous Tour de France. Tour de France is perhaps the most popular cycling competition in the world, which takes place on an annual basis throughout France in various topographic settings (mountainous ranges to flatlands). Every year the thrill and excitement of the race penetrates throughout France and Europe, and even to the coasts of North America and beyond.

History of the race
The first Tour de France started over ...

International Schools in France

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

International Schools in France:

Aix en Provence
International Bilingual School of Provence

Bailly
Lyc�e International Montessori

Bordeaux
Bordeaux International

Caluire
Lyc�e Ombrosa

Cannes
Sophia-Antipolis

Fontainebleau

Renting a Property in France

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Renting a property in France is much like renting a property anywhere else in the world, but differences do exist. As long as you�re aware of those nuances, you should be fine. The web is a great resource for researching those differences, as well local French real estate agents who can inform you of local real estate practices. To help you get started with your research, we�ve listed some of the main rental practices in the country.

Rental period
Unlike some other countries around the world, France has a minimum three- year rental ...

Make your Money go Further

Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Instead of waiting until you arrive at the airport, having the inconvenience of queuing plus the added cost of getting charged between 6-10% on the exchange rate, HiFX Travel Money Online will make your money go further.

Order your travel money online with HiFX and you will not only receive excellent exchange rates but your cash or travellers cheques will be delivered direct to your door free of charge* saving you both time and money. ...

French Public Holidays

Wed, 26 Dec 2007 00:00:00 +0000

The following is a list of the Public Holidays / Bank Holidays in France:

� 1st January - New Year's Day

� Good Friday

� Easter Sunday

� Easter Monday

� Ascension Day

� Whit Sunday/Pentacost
...

French Universities: ooh la la off to University I go!

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Off to University I go .... here is our quick guide to Universities in France. They are arranged by French Region with all contact information. Just like the French education system, the universities are renowned for their high educational standards.

French Universities by Region

There are Universities and Poly-techniques in every region of France. The regions are sorted in alphabetical order:-

ALSACE

Mulhouse

UNIVERSIT� DE HAUTE-ALSACE : MULHOUSE ...

Use Your British Electrical Appliances In France

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Moving to France is costly enough without having to replace all of your electrical appliances. The good news is that you can use your British electrical appliances in France, in most cases without worrying about the different voltage.

Electrical Supply in France
France, like most of our continental cousins, uses 220-230v at 50Hz, which is very similar to the UK's 230-240v at 50Hz, and since most electrical items are rated at 220-240v you can be reasonably certain your British appliances will work in France. If you happen to have an older ...

Health Care in France, What to Expect

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Health care in France is broadly comparable to any industrialised economy, incorporating both a public and private health care system. Funding for health is sourced from a combination of social security levies on income for all salary and wage earners, and self employed artisans, along with supplemental insurance premiums to private insurance providers. Government health policy is similar to the UK in terms of promoting healthier lifestyles, and combating major diseases.

The French Health Care System
French residents are free to choose the doctor or specialist they wish to consult according to ...

French Residential Water Connection, Supply and Usage

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Moving to France may be the most exciting event in your life, and in this article we explain how to arrange your French water connection, possible problems you'll encounter with mains pressure and water quality, and how to deal with these, and finally, when to expect water restrictions.

Local Water Supply
The water rights in France are owned by local communes, and most is outsource to private corporations that maintain the water networks, provide billing, and develop infrastructure in consultation with the commune. Water ...

Good News Bad News on French Property

Mon, 03 Sep 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Do you want to hear the good news first or the bad news?

Good News - President Sarkozy has introduced some new measures. So the good news - three significant changes. On IHT (Inheritance Tax): There is an exemption for husband and wife, and the exemption has increased to 150,000 euros for each child.

French Wealth Tax

On the dreaded Wealth Tax, there have been significant changes. First you are assessed on 70% of the value of your assets, and the starting asset value has increased to 760,000 euros. So no wealth tax would be due on properties up to 1 million euros. ...

Language 'important' when buying French property

Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you are hunting for Normandy property for sale or that perfect holiday home in Provence, it is recommended that before you make the move you get to grips with the language.

Make life easier by learning lingo

French is, for many people, the first and only language they have ever been taught but people who are hoping to buy property across the Channel would do well to take up a refresher course.

Elie Barbeau, office manager at Association Integration, said that although most big property companies have English-speaking staff, it makes life much easier if buyers have at least ...

Young Brits opting to buy abroad

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Although for many Brits retiring to France has been a lifelong dream, it seems that young people are also being attracted by the country's unique charm.

Figures show that it is not just the older generation who are thinking of purchasing property abroad but more and more young professionals who are hoping to bag themselves a bargain.

Young and old heading to France

A survey by Bank of Scotland International has revealed that three in ten workers under the age of 25 have considered moving abroad with France still remaining one of the most popular European destinations for Britons.

The ...

Ferry offsetting for green Brits

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are thinking of retiring to France but are concerned about the impact that travelling back to the UK to see family and friends may have on the environment, fear not.

It seems that the UK and France's dedication to staying green is here to stay - with those crossing the Channel now being given the opportunity to offset their ferry travel.

Retiring to France can be a stressful experience but now one thing you don't need to be concerned about is your carbon footprint after a new initiative by FerryGreen.com.

Go green in France

Already, travelling to ...

Minimal costs of buying from new developments

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0000

One of the bonuses about buying new property or off plan in France are that the costs are minimal, mainly because each home must be built, by law, to a certain standard.

However, as with any new purchases, be they old farmhouses or new developments, you will need to put some money away to cover the basics.

Once you have moved into your property it is recommended that before anything else, you get in touch with all the different companies and services which you will use to ensure they have your details on their records.

For those who ...

Opting for new developments in France

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Anyone who is thinking of moving abroad is advised to consider opting for a property in one of a number of new developments in France.

Although for some people, the whole idea of moving to France is to renovate an old chateau or farmhouse, for others, this sounds like far too much work.

And for those people, it may be best to purchase a home in a new development which are often easier to maintain and can keep costs lower.

Advantages of new builds

One obvious benefit of a newly built French property is that you can move in straight ...

Tips on retiring to France

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Although many senior citizens dream of retiring to France it can be a daunting prospect for anyone who is leaving their family and friends.

But there are plenty of advantages of heading overseas for older people, which in many ways outweigh the worries of pensions, taxes and other legal or financial concerns.

Retiring to France doesn't have to be an uphill struggle and there are plenty of ways to ensure that the big move is an easy one.

Prepare your French pension

Anyone who is planning to retire to France permanently is advised to inform the Pension Service ...

French leasebacks

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:00:00 +0000

There are so many options as to the type of French property an investor can buy that they often get distracted from the potential gains they could make by considering opting for a leaseback scheme.

French leaseback allows investors to buy a freehold property in a region of their choice and receive a guaranteed rental income from it.

Explanation of French Leaseback

The properties are generally located in tourist spots to accommodate visitors to France on a short term basis and are run by property management firms who you 'lease back' your property to.

This allows investors to own a property ...

Setting up the internet in France

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

For many who have purchased their dream French property and are starting to settle in, one of their top priorities will be getting on the web.

As well as being useful for keeping in touch with friends and family via VoIP and emailing, the internet is often vital for businesses and those with children as an educational tool.

For many families and retirees, the thought of having to set up an internet connection can be a daunting one in the UK let alone in France but the process does not have to be as much of a struggle as some ...

French taxation issues

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Moving to France can be a daunting prospect, with extra costs, legal issues and financial concerns all playing a role in increasing the stress levels of those involved.

But working your way around financial issues does not have to be as difficult as it can first seem and those who are buying French property would do well to seek the advice of an accountant or other financial expert.

French wealth tax

One important tax to take into account when buying Brittany property for sale or a holiday home in Provence is wealth tax.

This ...

French mobile phones

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are thinking of moving abroad with the intention of working or starting up a new business then having a mobile phone is essential.

Whether you plan on retiring to France or set up a bed and breakfast, keeping in touch with family, friends and clients is a must.

Although it is advisable to also get a landline in your new French property, a mobile can give you more flexibility and allow you to be contactable by the same number even if you are travelling back and forth from the UK.

Phone companies in France

For those ...

Gas and electricity in France

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

You may have bought your perfect Brittany property for sale, but as with any household ownership, it is important to remember the added costs of maintaining it.

People who have bought French property however, have little to fear, as utility charges in the country are generally cheaper than in the UK.

Most home utilities are state run, which often makes the process of payment easier and more efficient.

Getting to grips with the bills

For most French property, electricity is supplied by EDF, or Electricite de France, through a series of nuclear reactors and hydroelectric plants, ...

Water supply in France

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are considering buying French property you may have more on your mind than water pressure, but anyone making a big investment must ensure they are up to speed on practical issues, including water and electricity.

The French benefit from relatively high pressure when it comes to their water supply, but unlike the UK, French properties do not have an internal water storage tank with a ball valve.

Instead, water pressure must be regulated by a pressure reducing valve which is placed on a meter pit outside the actual property.

Limescale in French water

Limescale build up can be a major ...

Train speeds up French property hunt

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Heading across France to find Dordogne properties for sale or that perfect cottage in Provence has just got that bit easier.

Driving through France from the UK just to go house hunting can be a tiring undertaking but the opening of a new high speed train could make all the difference.

Railways make France more accessible

The service between Paris and eastern French cities will not only cut down on travel times but will offer a much wider range of destinations for Brits hoping to buy French property.

Cities which are now accessible via the new Train a Grande Vitesse(TGV) ...

Overseas retirees 'must consider costs'

Thu, 07 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

France is the ideal place for anyone thinking of retiring overseas but experts warn that as with any move away, it is important that roundtrip transaction costs are taken into account.

Experts are urging retirees to ensure they are up to speed on any legal issues, taxes or costs which may arise, after a report revealed that some European countries demand higher transaction fees than others.

Russia and Bulgaria have high transaction costs

This, according to the Global Property Guide, can make retiring abroad more expensive than it may initially appear.

The report cites countries such as Russia and Bulgaria as being particularly costly, ...

Leaving a will in France

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Most people who move to France are looking forward to having a long and prosperous life enjoying the sunshine and healthy food the country has on offer.

But whether you are retiring to France, looking at foreign investment in France or trying to find watermills for sale it is vital that you have all your legal documents in order and particularly your will.

French wills versus UK wills

Since the 1960s, any will is deemed valid as long as it has been drafted in accordance with the laws of the country where the deceased either signed it, lived or had citizenship.

This ...

French gites

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

For many, moving to France is not just to retire or for a few years in the sunshine but to start a whole new life somewhere else.

Many families dream of starting up a small business on arrival be it a gite, bed and breakfast or cafe, all of which can be very successful if the right steps are taken.

Making a living in France

Those who are considering taking on a gite are advised to think very carefully about practical issues such as the cost and time needed for planning permission or how much work is involved in ...

Insurance in France

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 +0000

French law states that anyone living in the country must get insurance for their home, their car, for civil liability and any children who will be attending school.

All this paperwork can seem a daunting prospect but it is vital that any new resident complies with the French insurance rules.

Similarly to the UK, anyone who has bought a house in France must get home insurance and this must be ready before they move in.

Insuring your French property

Insuring your property must include cover for damage through fire or water as well as potential risks such as leaks or ...

Banking in France

Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you are retiring to France, looking for rural properties for sale, or thinking of making a living in France, it is vital that you get to grips with the banking system.

Although paying for goods with a credit card is just as easy as in the UK, as a French resident and especially if you are getting wages or a pension, you will soon be needing to set up a bank account.

Getting a French bank account

Getting a French bank account it is also necessary in order to get basic utility services such as water and electricity ...

Legal marriage issues in France

Wed, 30 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Thousands of Brits head across the English Channel each year, many of whom have already or are hoping to start a family.

Despite this, it is important to be prepared for the possible eventuality of a marriage breakdown and the differenced between the legal system in France and the UK.

According to UK government statistics around 35 per cent of marriages end in divorce and although the stresses of a union can often be taken away with a move abroad, it is best to be prepared for the possibility.

Obtaining a divorce

As a resident of the EU, anyone living in ...

Pensions in France

Wed, 30 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Hundreds of Brits choose to retire to France each year thanks to the sunny climate and impressive healthcare system.

But many are left with concerns about their pensions and what kind of affect the move will have on the money they receive during retirement.

For most people who retire and become French tax residents, their pension will be taxed according to the French progressive scale rates of income tax, which can range from 0 per cent to 40 per cent.

As well as income tax, those living in France also pay a social charge of 7.1 per cent on their ...

Dentists in France

Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Families who are starting to settle into life in France will no doubt quickly begin to think about healthcare, with the local dentists being a top priority.

There are plenty of these to choose from with around 39,000 dentists practising in France, but it is important to pick a professional practitioner.

French Dental Association

Most of these are members of the French Dental Association which provides its members with information about all developments in the field of oral health and is renowned for introducing new approaches and initiatives within the dental profession.

Although most dentists will have a firm grip of English, ...

TV licences in France

Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Just as they do in the UK, people who are living in France or thinking of moving to France will also need to think about getting a licence if they are planning to watch TV.

Whether you are looking at French farms for sale or considering taking out a buy to let mortgage on a villa, it is important that you prioritise getting a valid TV licence.

Licence important whether signal or not

In a similar way to that of the UK, a licence must be paid for in France if you have a TV regardless of whether you ...

New flight launched from Edinburgh to France

Wed, 23 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Scottish investors look set to find it even easier to find that perfect French property after low cost airline easyJet announced it would be launching daily flights from Edinburgh to Paris.

From September 1st, holidaymakers heading to their French cottage and investors looking for farmhouses for sale will be able to do so with ease and at a cheaper rate.

The launch is also good news for anyone who is thinking of buying property in France but also keen to head back to Scotland on a regular basis for business or to visit friends and family.

Cheaper flights to Paris

Currently, ...

French tourism booming in Nice

Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

There are few who come away from visiting the stunning city of Nice in the south of France who can say it did not have plenty to offer visitors.

Located on the Cote d'Azur, Nice has long been popular with tourists who head there to enjoy the warm Mediterranean climate and welcoming locals.

Those who are unconvinced by the heat are usually impressed by Nice's stunning flower market, lengthy coastline, great shopping and ample pastry and cake shops.

Visitors flock for summer of music

The city welcomes tourists all year round but one of its more popular times of year is the ...

French railway heads to Strasbourg

Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Travelling through France just got that bit easier with the announcement that the country's high speed railway will soon include the city of Strasbourg.

From June 10th the TGV will stop off in the Alsace region en route from Paris, allowing people with holiday homes in France the opportunity to see even more of the country.

The move will see the normal journey time cut by up to two hours 20 minutes and looks set to see thousands more people heading across the country each year.

Strasbourg and beyond

For those who want to go a little further afield, Strasbourg, which is ...

Cannes gets French tourism booming

Mon, 14 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

France receives more visitors each year than any other country in the world and its booming tourist industry is even more pronounced by the annual Cannes Film Festival.

This year, the world famous event will be celebrating its 60th birthday and welcoming some of the most glamorous stars in the world.

World's glitterati head into town

Hundreds of actors, producers, directors and tourists are expected to head to the south of France from May 16th to 27th to get a taste of the good life, with dozens of yachts moored in the harbour and the world's glitterati descending on ...

Sunny scheme launched for French businesses

Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are thinking of heading to a sunnier climate to start a new life, a scheme which has just been launched in France may give you a helping hand.

People who are thinking of starting up a business such as a bed and breakfast or Gites may benefit from the project launched this week by France's national weather service.

The scheme is aimed at letting companies know when there will be big changes in the weather so that they can prepare for the eventuality of a heatwave or cold patch.

Scheme good news for tourism industry

This is good news ...

Investors could benefit from new French president

Wed, 09 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

It's hard to ignore France's current political situation with a new president set to bring about many changes.

But UK investors considering purchasing buy to let properties or holiday homes in France are no doubt wanting to know how it will effect them.

President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to focus hard on the nation's economy over the next few months alongside his soon to be appointed prime minister.

Sarkozy could bring changes for investors

A boost in the economy is always likely to be a good thing for investors as it is can lead to an increase in tourism and ...

Elections 'could improve French economy'

Fri, 04 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you are buying property in France, heading there on holiday or considering whether to invest, few can ignore the country's presidential elections.

And it seems that despite the media frenzy surrounding the possible result, a new president could, according to one expert, hail a new era in the country.

Economist predicts good things for French investment

James Macmillan, head of European equities at BlackRock Merrill Lynch Investment Managers has revealed that the result could mean good things for investors and could encourage the "entrepreneurial spirit" of the country.

According to the economist, the current situation sees employers with huge pressures but ...

Taking pets to France

Wed, 02 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

So you have bought that perfect French holiday home and are planning to head down there as much as you can. But what about bringing along the pets?

With the introduction of pet passports in 2000 more than 350,000 people have now decided that their holiday would not be complete without their pampered pooch.

France welcomes furry friends

Travelling with our furry friends is certainly getting easier, but according to insurance firm Saga, there are still some holidaymakers who struggle to get their heads around the system.

Those who are planning to take a break in their new French cottage are ...

Learning French when buying property

Tue, 01 May 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are thinking of buying a chateau, investing in a French farm or simply wanting a holiday home it is recommended that you attain at least some grasp of the language.

And it seems that although we don't have the best reputation for bothering with our neighbouring tongue, 49 per cent of Brits with property abroad claim to be able to speak the lingo.

The recent study conducted by holidaylettings.co.uk also found that 22 per cent already knew the language before purchasing abroad while 27 per cent picked it up along the way.

French language for property investors

So the idea ...

Travel to France without ditching technology

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are thinking of moving to France but are worried that you may not be able to keep in touch with your friends and family back in Blighty at the same time, listen up.

It seems that the French are more up on using the latest technology when it comes to staying in contact than most Brits.

Despite the availability of cheap phone calls over the internet, people in the UK are still well behind France when it comes to actually making use of it.

Stay in touch even with a French mortgage

Speaking to the Observer, Kerry Ritz, managing ...

Obtaining a visa when buying French property

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:00:00 +0000

As a US citizen hoping to live part of the year in France, the thought of all that paperwork can seem overwhelming. But obtaining a visa to get to France is often easier than people think.

For those heading in from the US for less than 90 days it is not necessary to obtain a visa, but those planning a longer trip will have to apply.

To do this, you will need a signed passport which remains valid three months after the last planned day of stay in France, as well as three photocopies for the consulate to keep hold of. ...

Feel secure with your French benefits knowledge

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

All those who have moved and are working in France are expected to contribute to the country's social security system.

The system allows for everyone who is living in the country to benefit regardless of age, nationality or job status.

A number of critics have cited the system as being somewhat complex, particularly in terms of trying to start up a new firm if you have arrived into the country.

It is currently divided into three parts, including health, family and retirement which all have different structures and ways of working.

In terms of health, the system provides a large amount of ...

Pick up the lingo when moving to France

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you've always wanted to buy your own property in France, you're in good company - last year our closest European neighbour was the most popular place to invest in.

But despite the large number of English speakers in France, there will still be many situations where speaking the local language will come in handy.

You have found your dream home in hills of Provence or among the coastal charms of southern city Montpellier, but communicating with local real estate vendors and solicitors is made easier with a basic knowledge of French.

You can start gaining a working knowledge of all things Francais ...

Keep up with UK TV in France

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

You and your family may be settling in well to your new French property but you will probably still want to keep up to date with what is going on back in the UK.

In order to receive British TV in France it is necessary to get your hands on a satellite receiver and dish. Although Freeview and OnDigital are available, the signal is only reliable very close to the English channel.

The most commonly purchased devices are Sky Digiboxes which are fast, reliable and usually good quality.

Channels such as BBC Radio and several news channels like CNN, Sky News and ...

Don't drown in a sea of water bills

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

One thing which you probably won't miss when you buy a property in France is the ever increasing hosepipe bans which England has been experiencing of late.

But as can be expected, being efficient with water and getting up to speed on the best way to pay your bills is as important in France as anywhere else.

Water is supplied to your tap by several different companies in France which include Generale des Eaux, Ondeo, Groupe Ruas and Saur.

Residents who are moving to their new property in France are advised to contact their local firm as soon as possible to ensure ...

Flying to and from France just got cheaper

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Those who have recently bought property in France will be pleased to hear that it has just got that bit easier and cheaper to visit family and friends in Blighty.

Paris based airline Air France has made travel to and from the continent and further abroad less of a chore by dropping long haul levies by seven euros (4.6 pounds).

The changes came into effect on February 3rd and will see surcharges on transcontinental flights go down by one euro to 21 euros.

Long haul trips are five euros cheaper per sector, reducing the charge to 33 euros.

Air France cited the ...

Get up to speed on buying a French car

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

So you've got you hands on that perfect French property but how will you enjoy the country without the proper transportation?

Buying a car in France doesn't have to be a chore, in fact, although prices are more similar to those in the UK than they used to be, you are still more likely to get a better deal with a French car.

Automatics are rare in France which makes them more difficult to get fixed and less likely to retain their value.

Also, used car firms are not as widely available as they are in the UK with most people preferring ...

Back on the road with French car insurance

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

You may have purchased the perfect French property but attention also needs to be paid to your car.

All vehicles in France must be insured whether they are used regularly or not and once you have taken out a policy, you will be handed a certificate which must be displayed in your window.

This will prove the validity of your insurance policy and must be on show at all times in accordance with French law.

Drivers are advised never to leave insurance documents or registration details in the glove compartment even though they are required to have them to hand at all times.

This ...

Get down to business in France

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 +0000

For many people currently living in the UK France appears to be the obvious choice when thinking of starting up a business.

Be it a restaurant, a bed and breakfast, a hotel or a travel agency, France's proximity and excellent transport links with the UK make it the ideal market to set up shop.

There are however a number of differences between the way businesses work in both countries and it is important to keep these in mind.

Perhaps most important is to do your research on whether your business idea will work and how many similar kinds of firm already exist in ...

Grow old in France without pension worries

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

If you are considering buying that perfect French home to retire to it is good to know that your pension will still be easily accessible.

Anyone who is four months away from UK State Pension age can request a forecast from the Pension Service which will tell you what you can expect to receive.

This will include the amount of State Pension you have earned already in the UK what you might earn before you reach State Pension age. However, this forecast will not include any insurance contributions which you may have been paid in France.

Pension Forecasts for overseas customers are ...

Start building a life in France

Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Renovating or expanding your French property is the ideal way to complete your dream home but keep in mind that like in the UK, there are legal requirements.

As with any private contract is it is the responsibility of the person planning the building work, who must comply with the Normes Francaises (NF) which is the equivalent of the British Standard.

A code of practice, known in France as the 'Documents Techniques Unifies', must also be abided by, which give the rules for the design and construction of any building.

Those carrying out the construction must be insured regardless of what building ...

French employment doesn't have to be hard work

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Finding work after buying your French property doesn't have to be a struggle but most firms will expect you to have done your homework before turning up for an interview.

France has a relatively high unemployment rate but there are still a number of sectors which are desperate for staff, especially for those who can speak both languages.

More specifically, workers in telecommunications, hotels and restaurants are particularly in demand plus administrational staff such as secretaries and accountants.

English teachers are also needed across the country as well as personnel in the building industry.

Ideally you should have a good grasp of the ...

Pet passport for pampered pooches

Fri, 26 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

You may have finally got your hands on that perfect French property but getting the beloved family pets out there may prove a struggle unless you get to grips with the rules.

The EU has recently introduced new laws for the importation of domestic animals and since 2004 there are three main conditions which must be met.

For any cat, dog, ferret or carnivorous mammal, owners must provide identification for their pet, be this a clearly readable tattoo or microchip under the skin.

A valid vaccination against rabies must also be carried out which includes the first injection and boosters. These will ...

On the road to a new life in France

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Once you've bought your new French property the last thing you'll want to do is leave it. But just in case you get the urge for a drive through the countryside, here are some tips to make sure you're up to speed on the rules of the road.

Roads are mostly in pretty good condition and even in the major cities there is little congestion to get you stressed.

Most towns and cities are linked by toll roads which will require you to pay a small fee to pass though and all of these have convenient service stations and food halls ...

Take some lessons in French schooling

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Before settling in to your new French property it may be an idea to get up to speed on the country's education system and what schools may best suit your kids.

French state education is well-funded and standards at schools are generally high in comparison to other European countries.

Around 13 million youngsters are currently attending state schools with a curriculum which is, in the most part, consistent across the whole country.

Most children who are of a similar age will be studying the same topics and using the same books at the same time regardless of where they are located.

Some ...

Make living in France a healthy decision

Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:00 +0000

One of the most important things to keep in mind when living in France is understanding the country's health system, which could prove vital in keeping you and your family free from illness.

The French healthcare service is widely regarded as being one of the best in the world and provides a large number of GPs and specialists.

France's social security system taxes employees 20 per cent of their salary, a large portion of which is put towards public healthcare.

Every legal resident of the country has access to medical treatment under the law of universal coverage called la Couverture maladie ...