French Living
Living in France is about more than scenery; it’s about finding a rhythm. This section covers daily life, from chats at the boulangerie to going to the mairie. We share stories about the joy of settling in beautiful France.
Christmas Quirks in France
Beth, our resident expert and storyteller from the picturesque Tarn-et-Garonne, takes us on a festive journey through some of the delightful Christmas traditions in the heart of southwest France . From unexpected culinary…
The Carnet de Santé: Our Guide for Expat Families in France
If you’re an expat family moving to France with young children or planning to have kids there later, you may want to learn about the “ carnet de santé ”, a unique French health record booklet. This…
Discovering the Canal Du Midi
This month, Beth invites us on a leisurely stroll along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the heart of southwest France. Join her and her four-legged friends as she explores the enchanting…
Fête Fever in Rural Occitanie
In her latest article, Beth shares a fun-filled real-life experience at a local end-of-summer and post-harvest party in her peaceful corner of Occitanie . These traditional village parties are attended by many locals…
Staying Cool During the Heatwave, called Canicule
Last summer, we published an article with tips and advice on dealing with the hot weather in Southern France. As expats in this region know, heat waves are becoming more frequent due to global warming. To gain real-life…
How to Play Pétanque: Our Comprehensive Guide
If you love France as we do , chances are you have been introduced to pétanque or witnessed locals playing boules under trees in the square of a beau village or an improvised boulodrome on a summer barbecue…
Province vs Provence, What is the Difference?
When discussing French geography and administrative divisions, it's essential to differentiate between " province " and " Provence ." The term " province " refers to historical regions before the French Revolution, whereas…
Sunflowers Fields Forever
In her latest article, Beth shares insights and information about the beautiful sunflower fields in the southwest areas of beautiful France . You might be familiar with the images of sun-drenched, yellow countryside…
France, the Country of a Thousand Cheeses
Few countries can compete with France 's sheer diversity and depth of tradition when it comes to cheese, or should we say, “ fromage ”. Often referred to as "the country of a thousand cheeses," France boasts…
Coastal Treasures of the Gouf
Welcome back to our guest blog series! In this article, we're excited to follow Beth, Jack, and their furry friends as they embark on an early pre-summer adventure to explore Gouf de Capbreton on the southwest coast of France…
Expresso vs Espresso: The French Love for Coffee
Coffee culture in France is a tradition woven into the fabric of most people's social lives and daily routines. From the paved streets of Paris to the quaint villages and offices around the various French regions , the aroma…
La Fête des Voisins is Back!
The 25th season of La Fête des Voisins will start on Friday, May 29, 2026, all over beautiful France and other European countries. This friendly annual event is the perfect remedy for the current gloom and the…
Going Medieval in a Beau Village of Tarn and Garonne
Here is the monthly story from Beth and friends enjoying living and exploring the many beaux villages de la Belle France in the heart of Occitanie. This week, we follow her adventures in the medieval village of Lauzerte…
Our Comprehensive Guide to Auto Insurance in France
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to car insurance in France. If you're a car owner driving in France, it's essential to protect your vehicle and liability with the right insurance coverage, which is legally required.…
What Is a Livret de Famille Booklet in France?
The Livret de Famille is an essential document for French citizens and their families living in France ; it is more than just a document. The Livret de Famille , translated as "family booklet”, is a formal record of…
The Charming and Lucky French Tradition of Muguet
May 1st is a special bank holiday day in France; it's Labour Day " La Fête du Travail " and the traditional " La Fête du Muguet " or the Lily of the Valley Day. This charming French tradition dates back to the…
Enjoying Spring and Outdoor Living in Southwest France
Here is the latest read from Beth, Jack and friends enjoying living and spring in the heart of Occitanie , southwest France. "April Fool’s Day, celebrated on the first day of the month, is brilliant for practical jokers.…
Dancing with the Winds of Provence in southern France
France's beauty is deeply connected to the sea, and its winds play an essential role in shaping its soul and character. The legendary Tramontane and the Mistral stand out among these winds for their ferocity and mischievousness.…
Is French Pet Insurance a Must-Have for Animal Owners?
There seems to be a lack of information about insuring pets for owners living in France . As a rule, all cats and dogs require ID and vaccination. While pet insurance is available, it is less common in France than…
Guide to Home Staging in Style
Are you planning to sell your property in France in today's uncertain and competitive market? Despite the continued strong interest in France, it can be challenging to stand out among similar listings. Aiming to improve…
French Passport Ranked World's Most Powerful
The term "passport" dates back to the 15th century, when it was first introduced in France . The word "passport" has its roots in the French language, where it is referred to as " passeport ", which literally translates…
Our Essential Guide to Finding and Buying a Car in France
So, you're ready to hit the open road and explore France in style – French style! However, buying a car as a foreigner or expat living in France can be challenging, especially if you’ve recently arrived and are…
Digital Cohesion Broadband Internet Cable Support
When potential and future buyers enquire about a property, some of the most common questions we receive are about mobile phone plans and the type of internet service available. Nowadays, fast and reliable internet access…
Ski Holidays and Family Winter Fun in the French Pyrénées
Thank you, Beth, for your New Year wishes and your latest contribution, this time all about ski fun and winter activities in the Pyrénées in this glorious corner of beautiful France . "I hope you’ve…
Advice and Equipment for Winter Driving in France
With winter in full swing, the freshly snow-covered Alps become a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts. Ski resorts in certain areas decided to open earlier this season, offering visitors an extended winter.…
Harvest Season Delights: Indulge in Flavours of Occitanie
Here is the latest write-up from Beth in Occitanie , who shares a few heart-warming autumnal dishes and traditions, with a couple of secret tips from her yoga friends, Martine and Arlette. “It’s November,…
Do Children Celebrate Halloween in France?
This month, Beth shares her scary Halloween stories, but do children really celebrate Halloween in France? Or is it just a great opportunity reserved for Americans , the young at heart, and naughty adults to have a…
Guide to Health Insurance for Long Stay Visas in France
Starting a new life in France is an exciting prospect, but many aspects require careful consideration for individuals and families who want to make the move and enjoy the good life in the country. In this guide, we provide…
Unwind and Indulge by the Ocean in Stunning Capbreton
This month, Beth and her furry friends go on a late holiday and relax by the waves of the ocean in stunning Capbreton, the Jewel of the Landes, in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, in southwest France. “ Les grandes vacances are…
Harvest, Moissons and Vendanges in Occitanie
Here is the latest contribution from Beth in Occitanie , who will soon be preparing her secateurs for what is one of the most exciting (and tiresome) times of the year in all corners of France. We often talk about…
Guide to School and Public Bank Holiday Dates in France
French schools have five holidays during the year: All Saints' Day, Christmas, winter break, Easter (spring holiday) and summer holiday in early July. These breaks are usually two weeks long, except for summer holidays,…
Our Refreshing Tips to Deal with the Hot Weather
Heatwaves are becoming longer, earlier and more frequent in recent years due to global warming. French families, expats and businesses are having to adapt to this new trend which is predicted to become the new normal. In…
Bird Watching and their Names
Here is the latest contribution from Beth in the heart of rural France . This month, she explores the local wildlife, specifically watching the many different birds at this active time of year and learning some of their…
Three Click Cancellation of a French Insurance Policy
Since June 2023, online termination of French insurance contracts that can be concluded electronically will be possible in just 3 clicks. This regulation aims to promote competition and facilitate the termination/cancellation…
Your Escape to Bright Sunshine
Southern France has long been a dream destination for people seeking a beautiful place to call home. With its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and warm climate , it's no wonder that so many people aspire to own…
France Admin Services
We recently wrote about French bureaucracy and the various government offices for different services in France . Beth, in rural southwest Occitanie, admitted that tackling the administrative system can be baffling for expats.…