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From New Arrival to Estate Agent: Sophie’s Life in France
In this episode of Real Life Stories, we sit down with Sophie, who moved to the Ruffec area of the Charente around 20 years ago and quickly immersed herself in French family life — never looking back since. 🇫🇷 Sophie shares her journey to France, what inspired the move, and how life evolved once she settled into the French countryside. In this episode, we talk about: Her early days adapting to life in France What she loves most about living in the French countryside What
A New Life
May 291 min read
Shipping Belongings to France: Cost Guide
If you are planning a move to France, one of the biggest practical questions is how much it costs to ship your belongings. Whether you are relocating permanently, buying a second home, or downsizing for a new life in the French countryside, understanding removal costs is essential for planning your budget. Shipping household goods to France can vary widely in price depending on how much you are moving, where you are moving from, and the level of service you choose. This guide
A New Life
May 254 min read
House Hunting in France Begins! Steve & Donna’s Big Trip | Real Life Stories
We’re back catching up with Steve & Donna as their move to France journey reaches a huge milestone — they’re finally in France and the house hunting has officially begun! 🇫🇷🏡 After months of planning and preparation, they’re now spending time viewing properties, exploring different areas, and searching for that dream home. They’ve already seen a few strong contenders… but the big question is: 👉 If they find the right property on this trip, will they put in an offer? Steve
A New Life
May 121 min read
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving to France After Brexit
Moving to France has always been a popular dream. Since Brexit, the process has become a little more complex, but it is still very much achievable with the right preparation. The key is understanding the steps, the paperwork, and the timelines involved so you can plan your move with confidence. Here’s a clear, practical guide to help you navigate the process from start to finish. Step 1: Decide How Long You Want to Stay The first thing to establish is whether you are planning
A New Life
Apr 294 min read
Next Stop France: Steve & Donna Prepare for Their Viewing Trip
In this episode of Real Life Stories, Phil catches up with Steve and Donna to see how their journey to France is progressing. Now well underway with their plans, Steve and Donna share where they currently are in the process and what they’re most excited about as they prepare for their upcoming viewing trip to France at the end of April. We talk about: How their plans have progressed since we last saw them What they’re hoping to achieve on their viewing trip What they’re most
A New Life
Apr 141 min read
Crossing to France: Where the Journey Becomes Part of the Dream
There’s a moment, somewhere between departure and arrival, when the idea of France stops being a plan and starts to feel real. It might be standing on the deck of a ferry as the White Cliffs of Dover fade into the distance, the wind carrying that unmistakable sense of leaving something behind. Or it might be the quiet hum of a train deep beneath the Channel, knowing that in just a few minutes, you’ll emerge into a different country, a different rhythm, a different way of life
A New Life
Mar 187 min read
Visualising Your Move to France
In this blog Founder of A New Life in France, Phil Coley, brings a very interesting subject which comes from his background in sports psychology. Moving to France, even beginning to start the journey is an emotional rollercoaster. Moving in your own country and even in your own town can be challenging when buying a property, so amplify that tenfold when trying to navigate a new country, a new language, new rules and paperwork galore! This article looks at visualisation an
A New Life
Feb 185 min read
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
Jan 144 min read
France’s New EES Border Controls: What Changes from 12 October 2025 (and how to prepare)
From Sunday 12 October 2025 , France (along with the rest of the Schengen area) begins rolling out the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) ....
A New Life
Aug 20, 20253 min read
Moving to France Seminar Program
Our latest Moving to France Seminar Program is already well underway and you have the chance to take part. This year we are producing a...
A New Life
Jun 11, 20251 min read
Should I Move to France?
Moving to France is a dream for many, whether it's the allure of French culture, the beautiful landscapes, or the relaxed pace of life....
A New Life
Jun 1, 20252 min read
What I Wish I Knew Before Moving to France 🇫🇷
by Simon Fletcher | Moved to France in March 2022 Moving to France was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made—but let me tell you,...
A New Life
Feb 26, 20253 min read
How Does the EU’s 90/180-Day Rule Work?
If you’re a non-EU citizen planning to spend time in Europe, you’ve probably heard about the 90/180-day rule . It’s a crucial regulation...
A New Life
Feb 21, 20253 min read
Navigating French Bureaucracy: Tips for a Smooth Transition
Moving to France can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with a daunting challenge—navigating French bureaucracy!
A New Life
Oct 8, 20244 min read
Navigating French Bureaucracy: A Guide for Expats Moving to France
One of the biggest challenges expats face when moving to France is navigating the country's complex bureaucracy. This quick guide can help.
Chase Buchanan
Oct 2, 20243 min read
10 Essential Tips for Expats Moving to France: How to Make Your Transition Smooth
10 Essential Tips for Expats Moving to France: How to Make Your Transition Smooth
A New Life
Sep 28, 20244 min read
Why Moving to France is Easier Than You Think: Debunking Common Myths
Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with a fair share of fears and misconceptions.
A New Life
Sep 12, 20247 min read
How Brexit has affected Brits moving to France: The New Rules Explained
You might be wondering how Brexit has changed things..
A New Life
Aug 10, 20246 min read
Top 10 Things You Need to Know About Moving to France
Moving to France is a dream for many, with its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
Chase Buchanan
Jul 27, 20243 min read
Moving to France: 10 Essential Tips for a Smooth Transition
So, you've decided to take the plunge and move to France—bravo!
But, like any big move, it comes with its own set of challenges!!
A New Life
Jul 12, 20244 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
TOP 4 POSTS:
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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