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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Finding the Perfect Apartment in Nice: A Comprehensive Guide
Nice, the sun-drenched gem of the Côte d’Azur, is renowned for its turquoise sea, grand Belle Époque architecture, vibrant markets, and...
A New Life
Jul 30, 20253 min read
Property Viewing Itinerary: 3 Days in the Vendée
Target audience: UK/US buyers or other expats looking for property in Vendée Focus: Coast, countryside (bocage), and town settings 🏡 DAY...
A New Life
Jul 14, 20253 min read
The Vendée: France’s Atlantic Frontier of History, Nature, and Tradition
The Vendée is a department in western France, part of the Pays de la Loire region, with a long Atlantic coastline, rolling farmland,...
A New Life
Jul 14, 20255 min read
Why More Expats Are Moving to Occitanie in 2025
If you're thinking about starting a new life in France, you're not alone and you're certainly not the only one considering Occitanie....
A New Life
Jun 20, 20253 min read
3 day property buying trip to the Auvergne
🏡 3-Day Property Buying Trip Itinerary: Exploring Auvergne Whether you're dreaming of a rural retreat, a renovation project, or a...
A New Life
May 28, 20253 min read
3-Day House Hunting Itinerary: Southern, Northern and Central Brittany
Focus on: exploring character towns, coastal retreats, and affordable countryside homes. DAY 1: Northern Brittany – Dinan, Plouha &...
A New Life
May 21, 20252 min read
3-Day House Hunting Itinerary: Gers and surrounding areas
Ideal for: retirees, remote workers, and lifestyle buyers looking for charm, space, and affordability DAY 1: Arrive in Auch – Explore the...
A New Life
May 14, 20252 min read
5-Day House Hunting Itinerary: Vienne, Haute-Vienne & Creuse
With a focus on: Town life, countryside retreats, character homes, and renovation projects DAY 1: Arrival in Poitiers (Vienne) Morning:...
A New Life
May 7, 20253 min read
Living in Dordogne: Why So Many Expats Call It Home
If you're considering a move to France, you've probably heard of the Dordogne. Nestled in southwestern France, this picturesque region...
A New Life
Mar 14, 20252 min read
Living in Limoges: A hidden gem in the Heart of France
Tucked away in central-western France, Limoges is a city that’s often overlooked by those dreaming of a life in Provence or Paris — but...
A New Life
Mar 13, 20254 min read
Finding the perfect village for your family in Haute-Vienne
Finding the right village for your family in the stunning region of Haute-Vienne can be a fulfilling adventure.
A New Life
Jan 28, 20253 min read
Popular places for expats to buy property in Haute-Vienne, France
The Haute-Vienne is becoming a sought-after destination for expatriates seeking affordable properties.
Chris Summers
Nov 16, 20242 min read
How French weather differs by region: What expats should expect
While parts of France do deliver this idyllic weather, the reality is that the climate varies significantly depending on the region.
A New Life
Nov 13, 20243 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!
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