Becoming an Ex-Pat in the South of France
For those looking to start a new life abroad the language barrier can often be one of the hardest aspects of becoming an expat to overcome. Unlike many cultures, the French work simply to pay for the good things in life. The book Talk to the Snail: Ten Commandments for Understanding the French, Stephen Clarke provides a funny guide to life in France and the strange eccentricities they have that is a must for anyone thinking of living abroad. You would also be well advised to check out the many online forums and websites aimed at the expat community.
For those thinking of making a new start in the south of france will find there are many advantages to choosing the french riviera or the Cote d'Azur as their new home. The region is, essentially, the cross-roads to everywhere. Long a destination for the wealthy and famous, half the world's leisure yacht fleet is docked there every summer and events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix draw visitors from around the world.
The French Riviera has a very cosmopolitan atmosphere. It oozes culture everywhere you look from the beautiful architecture, the museums, theatres and art galleries not to mention the busy calendar of festivals, concerts and events. At lively weekly markets, in the designer shops that line the Croisette in Cannes, in the casinos of Monaco, or the vineyards of the Cote de provence, locals, expats, and visitors on holidays meet and mingle with ease.
With such an active calendar and social scene for many expats it certainly helps to ease the transition into their new life abroad. Although when it comes down to finding a home it is important that you work with a professional property agent who can help, advise and guide you through the French legal process and property market.
Many estate agents not only help guide clients through the path towards buying their new home but also help them though other formalities such as opening bank accounts etc. France has a labyrinth of different legalities and requirements that expats need to meet and navigate their way through. Your property agent will be able to advise you on those which you need to be most aware of.
No matter how stressful or complex the French system may seem at times the key thing to remember is that as an expat you're going to be getting far more than a new home. You'll be buying into a whole new way of life. Clean, fresh air, a warmer Mediterranean climate and a slower pace of life.
Looking to make a move to the French Riviera or invest In French Property. Why not discover some of the secrets to successful property investment and luxury villa rentals.
