If moving to France on a whim sounds reckless, perhaps it is. However, I’ve learned that if you obsess about a decision, eventually, time runs out. You don’t need all the answers to startโjust the courage to take the first step. That’s where the adventure begins!
The Day Uzรจs Stole My Heart
Picture Uzรจs on a bright Saturday morning in June just over a decade ago. The weekly market was in full swing, with vendors lining the narrow streets and locals maneuvering through the crowd. There were colorful stalls everywhere with saucissons, nougat, and honey so fragrant it practically spoke: “Taste me.” In the center of it all was the Place aux Herbes.ย It was as if I had walked into the pages of a storybookโalive with the scents of lavender. The sound of water from the fountain was the finishing touch. That was the day Uzรจs got under my skin, and I promised myself, “I’ll be back.”
A Celebratory Journey
A year later, I returned to Uzรจs. This time, it was a gift to myselfโa six-week adventure to celebrate my retirement. I had a modest budget and a lot of determination. My journey would begin and end in Barcelona, but Uzรจs was the centerpiece.
The Path Unfolds
With a bit of help from Airbnb, I found a cozy apartment inย Uzรจs‘ historic center. The dates were set, and the rest of my itinerary began to fall into place, creating what would ultimately be a life-changing experience.
Why I Moved to France
Whenever people ask why I moved to France, I answer simply: “Because I could.” But, of course, it was more than that. I was divorced, my children were grown and self-sufficient, and I had done the math on what life in France might cost. The move felt like the right choice, and I was ready for an adventure.
Letting Go and Lightening Up
Leaving the States wasn’t without its challenges. Downsizing was no small task after years of accumulating things. But as I sold, donated, and stored what I could. I found freedom inย shedding all that “stuff.”
Living Affordably in France
It’s no secret that living costs in France, especially in smaller towns, can be more affordable than in the U.S. I rented an unfurnished apartment across from the Duchรจ andย had fun finding second-hand treasures to make it my own. Rent and utilities were less than I paid back home; grocery costs were comparable. And the healthcare? Don’t get me started โit’s incredible.
An Enchanted Life
These days, I often pinch myselfโI live in France. My daily life has a rhythm now. I walk to the corner greengrocer, exchange greetings with my neighbors, and linger over coffee at my favorite cafes. On Saturdays, friends gather for aperos in a courtyard, and on weekends, I can choose from exploring local markets, brocantes, beaches, and hidden villages. It’s not a perfect life, but it’s mineโand I’m grateful for every moment.
Why Not?
So, when people ask why I moved to France, I flip it around and say, “Why not?” The real question is, if there’s a dream in your heart, what’s stopping you from chasing it? Sometimes, all it takes is courage and the willingness to say, “Yes, I can.”
13 Responses
I so admire you Deborah! Yours is a wonderful story on moving to France alone!
Itโs been a life changing few years, thatโs for sure. Iโm glad I did it when I did. I miss my family, but absence does make being together so important. Thank you for following the blog, Joan. Keep in touch!
Thank you for your inspiration to women who have always wanted to travel or live in another country, but havenโt yet gained the confidence to explore their dream. I always wanted to retire to Mexico, and I took the big steps forward 7 years ago. I absolutely love my life in Guadalajara!
Omg! Iโll be in Guadalajara in February for my sonโs wedding! I donโt know Mexico at all, but I plan to spend more time there. Letโs stay in touch so you can tell about your new life. Best wishes!
Thanks for sharing I went to Montpelier last month with the hope it would be where I might retire to . I thought is it possible ? I think it is now !
So glad to hear youโre encouraged! Be sure to look up Renestance on Montpelier for their help. Iโm here, too! Please stay in touch and share your journey. Bonne chance!
I had the absolute joy of owning my own home near uzes for nearly 25 years but after my husband died I just was too sad going there. I had to sell. I weep over the loss now. Youโve made me question if I made the right decision!! Iโm so pleased you made your decision and are happy in my special place. โค๏ธ
Oh, Elenor. I wish I could say something to make you feel better about missing Uzรฉs. And I can! Hopefully, you can still visit. Even a short time here is a gift. Let me know if you have a chance to come this way. And thank you for reading with me. If you have something you particularly want me to check out for you, just send a note. Bonne Journee!
Deborah
This sounds incredible! Iโm glad you have made such a wonderful adjustment to living in France!
I love every minute of my time in France. Missing the Memories Tours, however. Hope you’ll come this way so we can visit again. Thanks so much for following my blog and for your notes. Merdi!
I love every minute of my time in France. Missing the Memories Tours, however. Hope youโll come this way so we can visit again. Thanks so much for following my blog and for your notes. Merdi!
Hello, I just happened upon your blog. I have wanted to travel as long as I can remember. Now my desire to live abroad has really deepened. France is beautiful, I can see myself there. I’m disabled and curious to know how accessible France is in general.
Thank you
Sheila, Iโm so happy to hear from you. I imagine sometimes when Iโm in a museum or on a beautiful roadway in France how much I want to describe the experience for those who may not be able to see it for themselves. It sounds like you are thinking very positively about traveling and Iโm thrilled. Admittedly, I know very little about the offerings in France, but I did find this interesting article.https://www.france.fr/en/article/Traveling-around-france-disability/#planning-your-stay-3 Perhaps you can find some helpful information. It sounds do-able! Please stay in touch and let me know your progress. Thanks for reaching out.