If you’re an American dreaming of moving to France, this note is for you. It’s a reflection from someone who stumbled into something unexpected to discover: sometimes, the most beautiful detours lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.
France and I had crossed paths before. I’d visited more than once over the years, but I never considered living here. But one trip, when I was close to retirement, I discovered the town of Uzès, and something shifted. This time, France felt different. It didn’t just charm me—it claimed me.
Two years later, I moved to Uzés.
Was it a leap? Absolutely. Was it terrifying? A little. But more than anything, it felt right. Like I was finally listening to that voice inside that had been saying, “What if this is the place?”
If you’re an American dreaming of France, consider this your gentle nudge. I understand the questions in your head: Is it too late? Too complicated? Am I being impractical? But what if it’s not impractical—what if it’s possible?
You don’t have to move tomorrow. Just take the first step. Plan a longer stay. Explore the corners of France that speak to you. Rent a cottage. Learn a few phrases. Talk to expats and locals. Let the idea breathe a little. You may be surprised how many doors begin to open when you simply say “yes” to the dream.
France has a rhythm all its own. Life here invites you to slow down, to appreciate. You start noticing the small things—the smell of jasmine along the walkways, the golden light on a cobblestone street in the late afternoon, or the feeling of being exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Of course, it’s not always postcard-perfect. There are hurdles. French bureaucracy has a reputation for a reason, and the language can certainly trip you up. But those are part of the adventure. The tradeoff? A life that’s fuller, slower, and deeply rich in the things that matter.
The truth is, moving to France doesn’t just change your address—it changes your outlook. It invites you to rediscover yourself, to live more intentionally, and to embrace life’s surprises.
So, from someone who took that unexpected detour and never looked back: trust the pull of your dream. Let it lead you somewhere beautiful.
Because maybe, just maybe… France is where your heart is. Where you’re meant to stay.
12 Responses
Well said!
Thank you, Paula. You know the feeling, for sure. See you in June! (Not soon enough!)🌈🌈
If I had no children would have done it already -lol Have visited Uzes 5 times and stayed a month one time. Love the beauty of this village and country side, which have inspired many paintings I have done. It is our happy place our family and friends have traveled with us there. I admire your guts for making the leap and for your beautiful writings about many towns all over France. Your writings have inspired travel for many and have allowed the discovery of the beauty of French, culture, history and its people,
People will ask, where do you live? That depends on the time of year…Minnesota, England, and France. My heart is happiest in those three very different places, so I listen to my heart and divide the year between them. I am forever grateful to have the good health and a like-minded partner to make this dream lifestyle a reality.
Hurry home, you are missed!
I can’t wait! So glad I can keep up through FB. See you in June! Hugs
I’m here with a 12 month visa and I already know this is my forever home.. love everything about it. The people, the language, the pace of life. It’s how live should be!
I know how you feel! I’m visiting in the States now and, except for my family here, I can’t wait to return to France. Be sure to check out some of the blog posts about places to visit now that you’re here. Best wishes… and stay in touch!
I would like to know more about living in France. I speak a little and need to learn more and would perhaps if living there.
FiI am curious about their requirements to.
Will, I recommend to all who ask that they reach out through some of the English speakers’ expat group sites on Facebook. The members are very helpful about all aspects of moving and settling in France. I leaned on Renestance through my whole moving and settling years in France. They can help you with housing, and with relocating — visas, etc. Couldn’t have do it without them. If you have some other questions, don’t hesitate to ask and I will help try to direct you to someone you can trust. Best wishes!
Can you live in a town that is in the middle of nowhere? I’m still looking for a place to rent but I need to be close to a train station and not longer than 1:30 h away from Paris by train
Uzès is about 3.5 hours from Paris by train, and 45 minutes to the nearest train station. Not ideal for you. I’d suggest that if you’re on Facebook, you join some of the English-speakers’ groups for people who are looking to move to France. They are a great help. Some are currently living in France and have information about available housing. If you’d like some help by a professional team that can help you with “all things French,” contact Renestance. I worked with them for 10 years until I now have a 10=year visa. Best of luck. Stay in touch!