France Made Simple

La Rentrée in France — What You Really Need to Know Aug 18, 2026 00:28:04 If you’re moving to France with children, already living here, or simply trying to understand what happens when the long summer holidays finally come to an end… this episode is for you.In this 30-minute episode of France Made Simple, I’m taking a proper look at La Rentrée — how the French school year actually works, when children go back, what happens in those first few days, and all the things th

No Filter France: The Reality of Expat Life After 20 Years Jul 28, 2026 00:34:12 This one’s a straight-up, no-filter Q&A. No polishing, no “France is perfect” fantasy, just me keeping it real!I’m answering your questions about what it’s actually like living here: financial woes, the weird social codes, the small-town dynamics, and the stuff people usually dodge because it’s awkward or not very Instagram friendly.I’m talking about the reality of certain expat pockets, the cliqu

What Moving to France Does to Your Mind: A Therapist’s View on Expat Life Jul 21, 2026 00:42:29 In this episode, I’m chatting with Julia a therapist who made the move to France three years ago—and hasn’t looked back, despite the inevitable challenges along the way…!This is a really honest insight into what it’s really like to rebuild both your life and career in a new country.Julia shares her personal journey of relocating to France including the realities of settling in, and how expectation

Moving to France? The Visa Mistakes That Get You Rejected Jul 15, 2026 00:41:09 Moving to France sounds straightforward—until your visa gets rejected!In this episode, I’m chatting to immigration guru (!), or immigration GP as he prefers to be known, Fabien from FAB FRENCH INSURANCE and we’re going through the most common mistakes that cause refusals, and more importantly, how to avoid them. From incomplete documentation to weak financial justification, small errors can have m

The Truth About Moving to France: Why Some People Thrive—and Others Want Out Jul 7, 2026 00:30:33 Every year, people move to France looking for a better lifestyle.Some absolutely love it. Others quietly (or sometimes, not so quietly!) regret the decision.So what makes the difference?In this episode, I break down the 5 small (but critical) mistakes that can completely shape your experience of living in France—from finances and paperwork to language and choosing the right place to live.Because

Your Best Life in France After 50: Staying Active, Social and Sane ! Jul 4, 2026 00:33:46 Moving to France after 50 can feel like the start of something wonderful… until it doesn’t.Behind the dream, there can be quieter challenges—loneliness, loss of routine, language barriers, and the unsettling feeling of having to rebuild a life from scratch.In this episode — Your Best Life in France After 50: Staying Active, Social and Sane — I take a clear-eyed look at what it really takes to stay

Baume du Mont: Building a Homegrown Brand in the Shadow of Mont-Saint-Michel Jun 30, 2026 00:23:57 What does it take to turn a simple idea into a product people genuinely rely on for recovery?In this week’s episode, I sit down with Ameline, the co-founder of Baume de Mont, a locally crafted cooling massage gel born near Mont-Saint-Michel. We talk about building a business from the ground up, the realities of launching in rural France, and how lifestyle, landscape, and love all shaped their jour

Making It Work in France: The Mindset You Actually Need Jun 23, 2026 00:29:57 Moving to France is often sold as a lifestyle upgrade—long lunches, beautiful villages, and a slower pace of life. And while all of that exists, the reality of building a life here is a bit more complex...In this episode, we’re taking off the rose (or should that be rosé !) tinted spectacles and looking at what it really takes to make a success of living in France long-term. Not just the logistics

Going Green In France… Jun 17, 2026 00:20:12 In this episode, we explore practical and realistic ways to make your French home more environmentally friendly, without losing its character or charm!From improving insulation in older properties to choosing sustainable materials, reducing energy consumption, and navigating eco-friendly upgrades in France, this episode breaks down what actually works. And of course, as ever I’m approaching this f

Walls Down? Renovating In France - A Reality Check! Jun 8, 2026 00:21:25 Taking down internal walls in a French property can transform your space—but it’s rarely straightforward. In this episode, we look at what’s really involved, from structural considerations to cleaning up the mess afterwards. And yes, that’s the worst part! A concise, practical reality check to help you plan smarter before you start swinging the hammer.

Creating Your Dream Kitchen in France: Style, Budget, and Reality! Jun 4, 2026 00:20:31 Designing a dream kitchen in a French home sounds idyllic—until you run into the realities of old stone walls, uneven floors, and workmen that move ant their own pace. In this episode, we break down what it actually takes to create a kitchen that works for modern life while respecting the character of a French property.From planning layouts and choosing materials to navigating French suppliers, ar

Being A Young American Mom In France! Jun 2, 2026 00:22:17 In this episode, I’m chatting to Ellen Hilton, a young American mum, who has made the leap across the Atlantic to start a completely new life in France. We talk candidly about the realities behind the Instagram version of expat life.She shares what surprised her most about raising a child in France, from cultural differences in pre-school and parenting styles to the practical challenges of healthc

Must-Have Apps for Life in France: Your Digital Survival Guide May 27, 2026 00:18:04 Navigating life in France is easier when you’ve got the right tools in your pocket. In this episode, we break down the most useful apps to have on your phone—from transport and banking to food delivery, healthcare, and everyday admin. Whether you’re a newcomer trying to decode the system or a long-term resident looking to streamline daily life, these apps can save you time, money, and frustration.

Living In France - It’s The Little Things! May 23, 2026 00:16:51 What is daily life really like in France? In this episode, we unpack the small but constant frictions of living in France—from confusing bureaucracy and slow administration to shop opening hours, strikes, customer service differences, and language barriers.If you’re an expat, planning a move to France, or already living here and wondering why everything feels just slightly harder than expected, th

Registering A Foreign Vehicle In France May 20, 2026 00:13:41 When it comes to importing and registering vehicles in France, urban myths abound. And if you listen to ‘Mike’ down the Dog & Duck or rather, le Chien & Canard, you are likely to come a cropper.But never fear, we’ve put together an episode all about just that. Listen in and make sure you are road legal in France.Enjoy!

The True Cost Of Living In France May 19, 2026 00:17:21 If you’re thinking about moving to France and wondering about the cost of living here, then this episode is a must. I’m chatting through the true cost of living here, from the obvious expenses and outgoings to the hidden ones that quietly drain your budget. Let me know what you have found to be more or less expensive than back home as well as those things you’d never budgeted for!

Top-Up Health Insurance in France: What You Actually Need To Know May 13, 2026 00:20:17 “100% covered” doesn’t always mean what you think in France. In this episode, we unpack the realities of top-up health insurance—how the system works alongside state healthcare, where gaps can catch you out, and how to choose cover that actually protects you. Straightforward, practical, and jargon-free.

Escape To France - Creating Your French Dream Home May 6, 2026 00:18:03 In this episode I’m taking a look at some of the highs and lows involved in building on an isolated plot. Lots of practical advice and some useful links and resources, plus, as always my “tell it like it is” approach to living and working here in France!Useful Vocabulary :Un terrain à bâtir - building plotUn terrain isolé - isolated plotLes règles de construction - rules determining what, in what

How To Make Money From Your French Property Apr 29, 2026 00:18:18 In this episode I’m looking at ways to get your property working for you and making some extra money; yes, we’re talking holiday rentals!There are numerous reasons why you might be thinking about renting out your French property and in this episode I run through some of the things you need to take into account before going down this road.Plus, there’s a whole load of practical advice on how to get

Buying At Auction In France Apr 23, 2026 00:16:23 In this episode I’m chatting about my first ever time at an auction in France, and covering what to do (and what not to do!) when you go to an auction in France. Buying at auction is a fabulous way to bag a bargain and find some unique decorative pieces for your house in France. It’s also a lot of fun! I hope you enjoy this episode and don’t forget to make sure you follow the France Made Simple po

Should You Run A Gite In France? Apr 17, 2026 00:13:30 In this second part, I continue chatting with Paul who is not only an accountant but also runs five gites here in France.We’re chatting about the financial, tax and practical aspects of running gites. With increasing numbers of people looking at gites as a way of generating or topping up income here in France, this episode is a must listen.It’s in two parts - “Can you run a gite?” And “Should you

Can You Run A Gite In France? Apr 17, 2026 00:13:43 In this episode I catch up with Paul who is not only an accountant but also runs five gites here in France.We’re chatting about the financial, tax and practical aspects of running gites. With increasing numbers of people looking at gites as a way of generating or topping up income here in France, this episode is a must listen.It’s in two parts - “Can you run a gite?” And “Should you run a gite?” -

Life In France - Random Questions And Answers! Apr 5, 2026 00:21:16 There’s a new episode out and it’s not an Easter special! Sorry - I didn’t think of that in time but I will be doing one about Easter in France - however right now, I’m about to sit down to a rather special Easter Sunday lunch, so you’ll have to wait for that one!In the meantime, here are my answers to some of the questions sent in by you lovely lot. Please keep sending your questions - I love ans

Buy In France With Confidence! Mar 30, 2026 00:28:01 Unlock the secrets to buying property in France without falling into common pitfalls! Paul Simper, a seasoned property finder, reveals why the French real estate market is so different—and how you can navigate it like a pro.Most buyers rely on UK or US-style expectations, but in France, the process is more structured and less familiar—yet far more predictable once you understand the rules. From sl

Let’s Take The Eurostar To Paris! Mar 27, 2026 00:18:11 Whether you’re travelling to and from France for business or pleasure, taking the train is a great way to get there. And back!People often think that flying is going to be the cheapest and quickest option but this isn’t necessarily so. And going by train is a much nicer and less stressful experience.In this episode we chat through all the things you need to know when taking the Eurostar and travel

How To Design An Outdoor Eating Space Mar 24, 2026 00:17:25 One of the best things about moving to France is having more time. And more outside space. Plus of course better weather…Put those three together and you’ll see why eating alfresco is such a big part of the French lifestyle. So in this episode I’m talking you through what you need to factor in when you are planning an outside cooking and eating space.Enjoy!

5 Reasons To Leave The UK Mar 20, 2026 00:18:14 Having spent a week ranting about living in France and having then spent a week in the UK(!), in this episode I’m sharing my thoughts on why you SHOULD move to France. If you want a clue, it’s because it is basically just quite a lot nicer here…Do you agree? Give it a listen and let me know what you think!

Thinking of Moving to France? 5 Things No One Tells You… Mar 16, 2026 00:18:00 Having spent the last week talking about all the things that wind me up about life in France (and yes, there are a few…), I thought it was time to redress the balance.Because the reality is, people don’t move to France by accident. There are some very specific reasons they choose it, and stick with it.In this episode, I’m sharing five of the real reasons people come to France, whether that’s for a

How To Get The Most Out Of A Property Show Mar 13, 2026 00:19:32 Every year thousands of people make the decision to move abroad and start a new life - hopefully in the sun! Although if you are actively looking to move somewhere wet and windy, that’s cool too😉And nine times out of ten that move involves a property purchase too.So how do you go about buying abroad?There are numerous ways to do this but one of the easiest and best is to visit an overseas property

Working In France - Another option… Mar 12, 2026 00:16:33 Finding a job in France is never simple. You can have qualifications up the ying yang, speak fluent French and still get passed over time and time again. Even the French find it tricky so chuck in being an “étrangère” and you’ve got a perfect storm.As a result huge numbers of expats decide to start their own business. But this isn’t for everyone.There’s another option though. How about if you coul

How To Have A Great Relationship With Your Property Agent! Mar 10, 2026 00:19:49 One of the things that comes up over and over again is people sharing their experiences of working with agents or realtors when they are buying a property in France.And as you can imagine, there’s no general consensus…People seem to either have really great or really bad experiences!In this episode I’m running through all the stuff you can do to ensure that you have a really good working relations

What’s Daily Life In France REALLY like?! Mar 3, 2026 00:23:24 In this episode I’m talking about daily life in France and revealing what it is really like. Is it one long round of sipping glasses of crisp white wine by the pool? Or is it one long battle with French administrative demands? Listen in and find out!Doctor Lib : https://www.doctolib.fr/You can support me here : buymeacoffee.com/francemadesimple

You’re Not Alone! Feb 27, 2026 00:24:44 In this episode I’m chatting to Olivia who is a musician and Gestalt therapist. What’s really interesting here is that she is both French and English and thus, not only totally bilingual but has a unique ‘foot in both camps’ perspective. Moving to and living in, another country isn’t always easy and very often these type of life changes throw up issues that we need to address. Olivia works both on

When You’re Sick In France… Feb 24, 2026 00:17:52 There’s an urban myth that the French are a nation of hypochondriacs and compared to us ‘stiff upper lip’ British, there’s certainly an element of truth in that.But is it them? Or is it having a system that actively encourages you to run to the doctor at the first sign of a snotty nose?Having been ill for the last week (and no, I haven’t been to the doctor!), I thought it was time to take a look a

Do You Want To Buy A Property In France? Feb 20, 2026 00:19:45 In this episode I’m catching up with my favourite estate agent, Sheelagh co-owner of Agence Newton, an estate agency that specialises in Brittany, Normandy, the Limousin and the Corrèze. Sheelagh covers the Normandy area and luckily she lives close enough for me to pop round and snaffle her chocolate biscuits. Listen in and find out what she’s been up to since we last spoke and what the French pro

How To Declutter! Feb 16, 2026 00:22:03 In this episode I’m looking at all the ways to get rid of your clutter. Whether you have stuff to donate, sell or just recycle, we’ve got the low down on how to go about decluttering in France. And here are some of the useful sites I mention in the podcast :Interencheres - https://www.interencheres.com/ (Be careful - it’s addictive!)Donnons - https://donnons.org/ (Ditto!)Vide greniers etc - https:

Cooking For The French! Feb 13, 2026 00:12:43 And here’s part two ! I’m continuing the conversation with superstar chef Lucy about the challenge of cooking French recipes for a French clientele. I loved recording this episode and hope you enjoy it as much as I did! You can get in touch with Lucy via her website http://www.simperskitchen.co.uk/ and follow her on instagram - @simperskitchen

Catering Made Simple! Feb 10, 2026 00:16:37 In this first episode which is part of a two part interview, I catch up with British chef Lucy Simper who is managing to wow the French with her cooking. No mean achievement I think you’ll agree!Lucy caters for groups, weddings, dinner parties and just about anything else you can think of. You can check out her website here http://www.simperskitchen.co.uk/ or find her on instagram where she’s @sim

How To Speak French - Fast! Feb 6, 2026 00:20:57 One of the things that comes up time and time again when I’m chatting to people about moving to France or even just visiting, is speaking the language. You can’t really make the most of everything that France has to offer unless you speak French but becoming fluent can be a challenge. Immersion is one of the best ways to develop your confidence and your vocabulary - fast!But finding well run and i

Thinking of Moving to France? 5 Real Reasons People Do It! Feb 3, 2026 00:13:05 In this episode I’m talking about 5 reasons why you need to move to France. Although I actually ended up with seven - without even trying too hard!If you are thinking about moving to France or even just planning a holiday here, hopefully, this short episode will enthuse and inspire you.As always please keep your suggestions and comments coming. I love getting your feedback!

Three Top Tips For A Painless French Tax Return! Jan 29, 2026 00:32:32 In this episode I’m talking to Paul Robson, a France based UK chartered accountant who understands both systems. And…can explain what to do and not what to do in an idiot proof manner. Which is exactly what I need when it comes to anything related to money and finances!Hopefully it will prove helpful to lots of you lot too.You can get in touch with Paul directly via email advice@houxservices.fr or

All About Me! Jan 23, 2026 00:10:12 I hope you enjoy this short episode. It’s by popular request so to speak…!Plus, I thought it was probably about time that I gave you, my lovely listeners, a bit of background and explain why I podcast about life in France.I really hope that you all enjoy listening and do keep sending your questions in. I absolutely love getting them.Have a lovely weekend everybody!Cat x

How To Complete A French Tax Return - Painlessly! Jan 19, 2026 00:20:01 In this episode we’re talking about how to go about your French tax return. And honestly, it’s really not that bad!First off - here’s the link to the FREE tickets for the French Property show this weekendThen here are the useful links I mention in the show :Here’s the link that shows WHEN you need to file - https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/simulateur/calcul/DeclarationImpotsHere’s the simulator

The Stress Free Way To Buy In France Jan 16, 2026 00:27:56 Buying a property in France can be a minefield and stressful to boot. Apart from anything else, the system is simply not the same and this can be hugely frustrating. This is especially true if you come to it from a North American perspective and trying to persuade a seller to accept your hard earned cash can seem like an uphill battle. And that’s if you’ve even got past the “incompetent agent” sta

Bon Appétit Jan 13, 2026 00:16:04 In this episode we’re looking at all the different options you have when eating out in France. From the humble ‘menu du jour’ to Michelin starred restaurants, France has something for everyone and every budget!Listen in and make sure you get the most out of your French dining experience.Here are the sites I mention in the podcast:Les Routiers https://www.relais-routiers.com/Flunch https://www.flu

How To Make The Most Of 2026 Jan 7, 2026 00:11:06 I thought it would be nice to start the New Year with a bit of positivity! This mini episode is my personal take on what you need to do to get the most out of your time in France.The advice applies whether you’ve been here for ages, have recently landed or are simply toying with the idea. And actually it applies even if you have no intention of moving to France! 😂And… I’m also talking about the am

The Christmas Quiz! Dec 23, 2025 00:15:16 To get you into the Christmas spirit I’ve devised a little Christmas quiz, so that you can see just how French you have become!Enjoy and bonnes fêtes to one and all!

Welcome To Survive France! Dec 17, 2025 00:04:32 A very short video where I explain a bit about the Survive France website and reveal what it can do for you!

What Do The French Really Talk About?! Dec 14, 2025 00:13:19 The French are well known for their love of debate and discussion!And in this episode I’m talking about the subjects they love to discuss. And no, it’s not just food - although obviously that is a major topic1Give it a listen and tell me which are the ‘hot topics’ that you’ve noticed coming up time and time again?

Renovation Checklist Dec 10, 2025 00:17:55 In this episode we run through everything that you need to put onto your “Renovation Checklist”!Making a list like this when you’re viewing a property and before you sign on the dotted line, will help avoid making an expensive mistake. Or at least, give you an informed idea of what you’re letting yourself in for!I’m also talking about the French Property Exhibition being held in London at the end

Keep Your Renovation Costs Under Comtrol! Dec 4, 2025 00:21:29 Renovating in France can be super stressful and spiralling costs only add to that stress.In this episode we look at ways to keep a handle on your budget and make sure that you know what you are in for (in terms of cost at least!) before work begins.Joking aside, making sure that you don’t blow the budget simply because you have forgotten about a key element (and it can happen, trust me…), is somet

Who To Avoid When You Move To France… Nov 28, 2025 00:17:32 The episode is a short one but I’m covering an important subject for anyone thinking about moving to France. And if you’re already here you will know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!I’m talking about, for want of a better word, charlatans. That group of people who move over here and try to make a living from exploiting others - listen in so you know what, or who (!) to avoid.

Clipperty Clop! Nov 23, 2025 00:34:31 This one is by popular request and I was delighted to be asked to talk about one of my favourite subjects - horses!Now I know not everyone moving to France will be planning to keep horses but a lot of people might be planning some type of small scale (or otherwise) agricultural activity and lots of the stuff I cover will apply.As I mention in the podcast - this is very much an overview (as always!

Passing Through Nov 19, 2025 00:31:25 In this episode I’m chatting to writer and film director Dave Hall about his first feature film, Passing Through; an English-language family drama shot in and around the town of Agde in Languedoc. It tells the story of an Australian couple who have just moved there to start a new life together. It's just been released on Prime Video in the UK, after winning awards at various festivals and is

How To Get Stuff Moved Into France! Nov 11, 2025 00:15:22 The most complicated part of moving your stuff here used to be packing the boxes and making sure they were all labelled correctly.Not any more!Thanks to changing regulations there are all sorts of hoops to jump through.But fear not! Here at France Made Simple we’ve got you covered. Listen in and you’ll find out how Moving To France Made Simple actually works 😉I really hope this is helpful and if a

Ten Ways To Keep Outgoings Under Control Nov 9, 2025 00:25:48 If you’re in France you’ve probably noticed that the cost of living seems to be on a permanent upwards trend 😢And if like me, you’re struggling on a low income, you’re probably always looking for ways to trim your outgoings.Sadly I don’t have a magic wand or even a failsafe solution but, I do have a lot of experience of living cheaply but well. After all, life is for living and there’s nothing mor

How To Live Cheaply And Sustainably In France Nov 7, 2025 00:30:10 These days many of the people who are moving to France do so hoping to make a big lifestyle shift. And very often, this involves some level of sustainable and even, off-grid living. You can do this simply and cheaply and you don’t have to go the whole hog. Making just a few small changes to the way you live and consume can have a big impact on your quality of life. and your budget!In this episode

The One Where I Try To Understand French Inheritance Planning… Oct 29, 2025 00:19:52 In this episode I catch up with Tom Marron from Blevins Franks who explains (in words of one syllable, so perfect for someone like me…!) how French inheritance laws differ.And what you need to know and eventually do, so that you don’t get caught out. And of course, so that no one pays any more tax than they need to!If you’re moving to France, planning to move to France or already living in France,

Bonus 2 - Where To Live In France Oct 24, 2025 00:11:01 In this short bonus episode I talk about the various places that I’ve lived in during my 23 years in France. The subject of where to live comes up over and over again and there’s no one definitive answer. Everyone’s different and everyone’s needs, wants and requirements are different. But…listening to others and learning from their experiences is a key part of the journey.Here’s my outtake on what

Bonus 1 Oct 22, 2025 00:07:46 The very first episode in a new ‘Behind The Scenes’ bonus series which will be available to subscribers only. But as I’m feeling generous today I’m putting this out here for all of you lovely listeners to enjoy!Please do keep your questions coming. I love getting them and it’s always really fun answering them 😊

Are The French Dirty?! Oct 15, 2025 00:13:50 In this episode I am taking a (light hearted!) look at that Great British Stereotype - the unwashed French…Joking aside, there are differences and I’m always intrigued by cultural differences. And of course, when it comes to things like politeness, child rearing or let alone, personal hygiene, we always believe that ‘our’ way is the ‘right’ way.Listen in and don’t hesitate to let me know what you

French Nationality - All You Need To Know Oct 11, 2025 00:20:31 In this episode I’m talking about all the things you need to do to apply for French nationality.And of course, having made some very rookie errors myself during the process, I’ll also reveal what NOT to do!And here’s the really useful link which tells you exactly what you need to provide in terms of paperwork :https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/N111

Talking Trash… Oct 1, 2025 00:16:01 Looking back on my first trip to a French déchèterie or le dump (j’adore le franglais) - it was apocalyptic. Think smouldering fires and piles of rubbish. Thankfully, things have moved on! This episode looks at all you need to know when going to le dump!And here’s a useful link from the French government site to find out more : https://www.notre-environnement.gouv.fr/

The One Where I Finally Understand Savings Schemes Sep 25, 2025 00:21:15 This week I catch up with George Symes from SJB - my tame pensions and investments advisor- who answers all your questions about pensions and investments in France. Not only does he really know his onions when it comes to all things pensions and savings, but he also explains stuff in an idiot prof manner..Which is what this idiot needs. Listen in to find out why an assurance vie is like a Taco…You

Are The French Rude…?! Sep 13, 2025 00:21:32 In this episode of the France Made Simple podcast, we tackle the age-old question: Are the French rude? Join us as we explore cultural differences and perceptions, from the importance of saying bonjour to the nuances of French social etiquette. Discover why what might seem rude to some is simply a cultural norm in France. Whether you're living in France or considering a move, this episode offe

Do You Need To Be Cured?! Sep 8, 2025 00:20:32 The French have long had a love affair with “Taking The Waters” and in this episode we look at what going for ‘La cure’ involves. And more importantly, how you can access this wonderfully relaxing and restorative health break at minimal or even no cost. You can find out about all the requirements and the illnesses covered here https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F751 - make sure y

Is Living In France Expensive? Sep 3, 2025 00:19:18 In this episode of the France Made Simple podcast, we dive into the complexities of living expenses in France. From the rising costs of everyday essentials to the surprising affordability of insurance and childcare, we explore how to navigate the financial landscape. Whether you're considering a move or simply curious, join us for insights and tips on managing your budget effectively in France

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Life In France! Aug 28, 2025 00:13:53 This week I’m on holiday in Brittany - which is STUNNING and well worth a visit btw - and it’s very wild and windy this week! The latest episode is just a short one (due to the lack of wifi in our gite!) but it’s heartfelt. If you’re thinking about moving here or have already done so, this one will resonate because it’s all about how to get the most out of your life in France. Sometimes this is ea

Coast Or Countryside? Aug 22, 2025 00:24:03 Whether it’s better to move to the seaside or a bit further inland can be a tricky question to answer when you’re thinking about buying a property in France! In this episode we look at the pros and cons of both and get insider info from people who have bought in both places.Listen in and make sure you make the right choice for you!

How To Live Cheaply In France Aug 18, 2025 00:19:29 In this episode we look at how you can reduce your outgoings and expenditure in France. If you’re like me and reel in shock at the almost daily price increases when you go shopping, you’re probably looking at ways to trim your expenses. Well, look no further! Listen in for some money saving tips and learn how to free up some cash and make your hard earned euros go a little bit further.

Green Beans From Hell… Aug 13, 2025 00:10:05 Today I’m talking about (or rather, banging on about…!) the cultural differences between the British and the French when it comes to talking about food.It’s virtually a religion here. And I’m a bit of an atheist…Listen in and prepare yourself for what life in France really entails!

Accessing Benefits In France - Part 2 Aug 7, 2025 00:19:45 In this episode we look at all the benefits available to people of working age in France - from RSA (unemployment benefit equivalent) to top up healthcare assistance. Listen in and see what might apply to your personal circumstances.

How To Access Benefits In France Aug 5, 2025 00:21:46 If you are living in France and are on a low income, help is available. Whether you have children, are working or not, are facing temporary difficulties or need help making ends meet, the French social security system is designed to help. Listen in to the first episode of this three part series to find out what you might be entitled to.

How To Navigate The French School System Jul 23, 2025 00:21:03 I’ve spent over 22 years here and put three kids through the French system . I’ve sent them off to pre-school with spare nappies and slippers and applied for grants for Masters degrees. And made oodles of mistakes along the way! Listen in so you don’t have to make the same ones!

Ten Reasons To Date A Frenchman Jul 16, 2025 00:21:47 Drawing on my not ever so extensive experience of dating Frenchmen (two to be precise!), I share my personal insight on why this is a great idea! You can decide for yourself whether it is informative or amusing…

Three Issues You WILL face in France - And How To Overcome Them! Jul 9, 2025 00:23:04 We look at the three most common problems faced by English speakers relocating to France and explain how to get around them.

La Manche - And Why You Need To Visit! Jul 4, 2025 00:25:17 We take a look at just some of the benefits La Manche has to offer visitors and residents alike. If you’re thinking about moving to Normandy or even just visiting, this episode is sure to inspire!

Top Tips To Simplify Life In France Jun 18, 2025 00:18:52 Living in France can be both fabulous and frustrating! And sometimes it seems like half the battle is simply finding the time to get everything done! So here are my (personal) life hacks which will hopefully allow you to free up some time and spend that time doing the stuff that you enjoy doing, rather than the stuff you have to do!

All You Need To Know About Apéro Time In France! Jun 9, 2025 00:16:42 It’s really important to get your social etiquette right in France and this is especially true when it comes to eating and drinking. In this episode I talk you through the do’s and don’ts of apéro hour; what to take, how to behave and when to leave. This is a short episode but it’s something that’s absolutely key to life in France so make sure you give it a listen!

The One Where I Eat Myself Silly in Brittany Jun 2, 2025 00:14:03 We catch up with long time SF member and podcast fan Nick Ord who tells us why he decided to change career and open a hotel and restaurant in Dinan. And…there’s a special discount for listeners!

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