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Moving to France: What to Think About Before You Go
A practical guide with a complete checklist for planning your move Moving to France is an exciting life decision. Whether you’re drawn by the lifestyle, climate, culture, food, healthcare, or the chance to own property, a successful move depends on careful planning well before you arrive. This guide is designed to be both informative and practical . You can read it as an overview of the key considerations—and use the checklists as a working document to track your progress
A New Life
2 days ago4 min read
The Night Teddy Took a Helicopter Ride
Whether or not you've had the 'misfortune' to need them, we all know how fantastic the Pompiers and SAMU staff are. When you do need them though you realise that 'fantastic' is not really an adequate-enough superlative to describe them. On Saturday night we needed them. Calling '15' isn't something I (Kirsti) undertake lightly. 'What if I'm wasting someone's time?'. 'What if it's not really an emergency?'. 'What if I'm preventing someone from using the service who IS in more
Phil & Kirsti
Dec 15, 20254 min read
Christmas Markets in France
A Winter Tradition of Light, Warmth & Timeless Magic Every winter, as the nights draw in and the first frosts dust the rooftops, France transforms into a country of glowing chalets, spiced aromas, and festive bustle. Christmas markets— les marchés de Noël —are now synonymous with the French holiday season. But behind the mulled wine and twinkling lights lies a tradition steeped in centuries of history, regional pride, and a deep cultural love for craftsmanship and convivialit
A New Life
Dec 10, 20255 min read
Tarn-et-Garonne (82): Where Rivers, Hilltop Villages and Southern Light Shape Everyday Life
In the heart of southwest France, Tarn-et-Garonne unfolds gently—an unhurried land of orchards, rolling limestone hills, river valleys and rosy-bricked towns where the pace of life feels unmistakably southern. It’s a comparatively small department, but full of colour and charm: Romanesque masterpieces, lively markets, deep agricultural roots, and a warm climate that sees fruit blossom early and the shade of plane trees welcomed from spring onwards. For many expats and French
A New Life
Dec 10, 20254 min read
Trees, Traditions and a Touch of Christmas Magic
Christmas is well and truly here and the little ones were desperate for the tree to go up, which it did at the start of December. Christmas is super special for us as a family and when Christmas Day finally arrives we are ready for family time together. We got our tree up and then our annual walk around the fields and through the woods gathering holly, pine cones and lots of greenery to decorate the house. We have greenery everywhere within the house including our candelabra
Phil & Kirsti
Dec 8, 20252 min read
Getting Internet in France: What to Expect in Cities, Towns & Rural Areas
When you move to France—whether to a Paris apartment, a peaceful village in Dordogne, or a farmhouse deep in the countryside—one of the first practical questions you’ll face is: How do I get reliable internet? France is well connected compared with many European countries, with one of the fastest fibre-optic rollouts in the EU. But the experience can vary dramatically depending on where you live. From ultra-fast fibre in cities to creative solutions like 4G routers and Starli
A New Life
Dec 3, 20254 min read
Corrèze – The Timeless Heart of Rural France
Corrèze (19) sits quietly at the edge of the Massif Central, a department where the rhythms of rural France move a little slower, the hills roll a little softer, and everyday life feels wonderfully grounded. It’s a place that blends deep history, postcard-worthy villages, forested valleys, and a strong sense of community - making it one of the most underrated yet rewarding corners of France to visit or call home. At first glance, Corrèze seems modest, with no large metropolis
A New Life
Dec 3, 20254 min read
Baking, Building and Battling Winter Bugs
A varied week in the last 7 days, a mix of work, work and work at home plus poorly little ones. The weekend started with fun things like icing the Christmas cake, the cake made by a friend has been in the cupboard for a month or so just waiting to be finished. Lici and Ted really enjoyed this and getting the cake finished. There was also some cookie making to be done and who doesn’t love licking out the bowl. Kirsti was busy doing some plumbing and electrical work in the kitc
Phil & Kirsti
Nov 28, 20252 min read
The Var: Provence’s Sun-Drenched Heart of Coast, Countryside & Easy Living
The Var (83) is one of those rare places in France that feels instantly familiar, even to newcomers. Perhaps it’s the golden light that spills across the vineyards, the fragrance of pine and wild herbs drifting through the hills, or the long sweep of Mediterranean coastline that makes every corner feel like a holiday. Sitting between the glamour of the Côte d’Azur and the rustic charm of inland Provence, the Var manages to be both wonderfully diverse and effortlessly liveable
A New Life
Nov 25, 20254 min read
A Sprinkle of Snow and a Whole Lot of DIY!
The snow arrived late yesterday, although Lici's school is only 25 minutes away it was lovely sunshine there and Lici enjoyed the playpark and snowfall at home. Lici was so excited to see snow and was straight outside playing in it, we don’t get that much snow where we live so it is always a treat. We got the chance to make a snow family, albeit miniature ones! As we write this reflection of our past week, there is still a light covering on the ground with a little more forec
Phil & Kirsti
Nov 21, 20252 min read
Bin Collection & Déchèteries in France: How Waste Disposal Really Works
Moving to France comes with many charming discoveries — village markets, quiet mornings, long lunches — and then a few practical realities. One of the most important (and often most confusing) day-to-day systems to understand is how bin collection and waste disposal works . France takes recycling and waste management seriously, but the rules differ from one region to another, and newcomers often find themselves wondering: When do the bins go out? Why are there no wheelie bins
A New Life
Nov 19, 20254 min read
Gers: France’s Secret Slow-Living Heartland
Nestled in the sun-kissed landscapes of southwest France, the Gers (32) is a department that quietly captures the hearts of those who discover it. This is Gascony — a land of rolling horizons, golden sunflower fields, bastide villages perched on gentle hills, and a rhythm of life that invites you to breathe a little deeper. For many expats, the Gers is that rare place where tranquillity and richness coexist: peaceful, deeply French, yet wonderfully welcoming. The Gers feels
A New Life
Nov 19, 20254 min read
Bathroom Builds, Bacon Rolls and Busy Days in France
We love the big skies here in France and through the year we are treated to some wonderful sunrises and sunsets, just like this sunrise earlier in the week. The weather this week has been unusually warm, with the temperature in the early 20s. It has meant the children have had lots of time outside running around after the chickens, or running away from the geese. The geese should hopefully return to laying soon, you can’t beat a goose egg for breakfast! When we first purchase
Phil & Kirsti
Nov 14, 20252 min read
A look at skiing in France - A full guide
🏔️ The History of Skiing in France Skiing in France has deep roots that blend tradition, innovation, and a touch of Alpine romance. What began as a practical means of winter travel evolved into a national passion and a cornerstone of France’s mountain culture. Early Beginnings The origins of skiing in France trace back to the late 19th century , when Scandinavian influences reached the French Alps. Norwegian officers stationed in the Jura mountains introduced wooden skis as
A New Life
Nov 12, 20256 min read
The Weather in France – A Country of Contrasts
France is blessed with an extraordinary variety of climates, making it one of Europe’s most geographically and meteorologically diverse countries. From the sun-baked shores of Provence to the misty Atlantic coast and the snow-capped Alps, the weather can change dramatically from one region to another. Understanding these regional variations helps not only with planning your move, but also with choosing the lifestyle that best suits you. 🇫🇷 The Four Main Climate Zones 1. Oce
A New Life
Nov 12, 20253 min read
Discovering the Creuse: France’s Secret Green Heart
Tucked away in the heart of central France, the Creuse is a department that quietly captures the essence of rural charm and slow living. With its rolling pastures, tranquil lakes, and timeless stone villages, the Creuse feels like stepping back to a France that many thought had vanished. It is one of the least populated departments in the country, and that’s precisely its magic — life here moves at its own gentle rhythm, shaped by nature, community, and a sense of authenticit
A New Life
Nov 11, 20253 min read
Our French Week: Sweets, Sawdust and Small Victories
Another busy week for us, starting with Halloween to end the school half term. Halloween is not as big a thing as it is in say the UK or US, but it is starting to be a thing. This was the first year we embraced it in our hamlet and Lici (4) wanted to do it and now gets what it is about, well sort of – you knock on a neighbour`s door and they give you sweets if you are dressed up….Ted (2) just followed what his sister did. It was a really lovely time with both children dressed
Phil & Kirsti
Nov 7, 20253 min read
Discovering Deux-Sèvres – Tranquil Heart of Western France
Set between Poitou and the Vendée, Deux-Sèvres is a department that embodies quiet charm and understated beauty. Named after the two rivers that cross it — the Sèvre Nantaise and Sèvre Niortaise — this is a land of gently rolling countryside, stone villages, and a warm, rural rhythm that draws many expats seeking authenticity without isolation. The Landscape and Lifestyle Deux-Sèvres offers a perfect blend of open fields, wooded valleys, and waterways. The northern plains swe
A New Life
Nov 5, 20253 min read
From sandcastles to chainsaws: Just another week with the Coley's!
The last week saw us head to the coast, about a 3 hour drive away. We went to Les Sables-d'Olonne on the Atlantic coast and we could see why it was so popular with the French, not just those living there but the many French that visit over the year, especially in the summer. The beach there is a lovely sandy beach that sweeps around the bay. There are two main beaches either side of the famous port, made famous by the Vendeé Globe, around the world sailing racing. There has
Phil & Kirsti
Oct 31, 20253 min read
Understanding the Taxe d’Habitation in France
The Taxe d’Habitation is one of France’s local property taxes, traditionally paid each year by the person occupying a home on January 1st — whether they were the owner, tenant, or living rent-free. Its purpose was to help fund local services such as waste collection, public transport, and community facilities. However, this tax has undergone a major reform. Since 2023, most main residences are now exempt , meaning homeowners who live full-time in their property no longer pa
A New Life
Oct 28, 20252 min read
Obtaining a SIRET number
Demystifying the Process: Obtaining a SIRET Number in France to Start Your Business Starting a business in France is an exciting...
A New Life
Key difference between estate agents in France compared to UK
The big difference between UK and France is most agents in France are self-employed. Commission only self-employed estate agents. And...
Chris Summers
Step one in your journey to France
Embarking on Your French Adventure Congratulations on taking the exciting decision to move to France! Whether you're drawn to the...
A New Life
Exploring the charms of Bellac
A Guide to Life in this Quaint French Town Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Limousin region, Bellac beckons with its idyllic...
A New Life
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Discover the latest insights and inspirations from our top posts on the New Life Blog! Explore a wealth of valuable information and engaging narratives that illuminate the journey to a new life in France. From practical tips to inspiring stories, our top posts offer a comprehensive guide to navigating the joys and challenges of relocation.
Are you considering a move to France and not sure where to start?
Welcome to the New Life in France blog, your go-to destination for a wealth of insights, stories, and practical guides to living your best life in France. Regularly updated with contributions from collaborators, experts, and real-life experiences on the ground, our blog offers a comprehensive resource for anyone considering or embarking on the journey of relocation. From simple how-tos to in-depth guides covering everything from finding a home and navigating the French rental market to starting a business and embracing the local culture, we've got you covered.
Have a topic in mind that we haven't covered yet? Drop us an email, and we'll work on bringing you the information you need. Join us as we explore the diverse facets of life in France and discover the possibilities that await you in your new adventure!
A NEW LIFE IN FRANCE
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