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Saturday, September 25, 2010

Retiring in France, 2nd Edition

Retiring in France, 2nd EditionThe second, completely revised edition of our best-selling guide to retiring in France. Whether you're planning to retire to France permanently or just for part of the year, Retiring in France contains essential information about the best places to live; local services and amenities; the weather; buying or renting a home; the cost of living; health services; getting to France and getting around; learning French; and much, much more. Now printed in full color.

Price: $22.95


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Mommy, Are We French Yet?: Tales of an American Family Living in France

Mommy, Are We French Yet?: Tales of an American Family Living in FranceWith bravado, good humor, and just a smattering of French, a dauntless American family begins a year-long adventure living and absorbing the local culture, customers, and language in the South of France. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live in another country for a year with your children, you will discovered in this book that it is no an insurmountable task, but it's made doubly rewarding when day-to-day chores and challenges are approached with humor. Shawn Underwood moved her family, her husband and three kids, along with her sister's family to the South of France to experience first-hand the joys and frustrations of living broad. ----------- Shawn's tips for travelers living abroad: 1. Leave all expensive and showy jewelry at home. 2. Represent the U.S. in a positive way. Be courteous, polite, and respectful of local customs and traditions as you encounter them. 3. Study the language of the country you are planning to visit. 4. Pack wash-and-wear clothing only. Buy whatever else you need when you get there. 5. Always have a set of earplugs handy for the plane, noisy hotel, or snoring spouse. 6. Eat half as much as you would like. Walk! Take advantge of the Eurail System.

Price: $14.95


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Removals in France


It is easy to see why more and more people choose to start a new life by moving to France. Many people fall in love with the County they have visited because of the breathtaking landscape, architecture and culture. France is often referred to as one of the "houses of power ' of the European Union.

The largest city and the capital is Paris. This is probably the most expensive part of France to live in. The city has invaded and were ransacked several times in its history, but today I think. It is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world with so many beautiful attractions. You need a good week to round and see everything.Art lovers will enjoy the Museum of Louvre, such as the famous Mona Lisa, and many other famous paintings and sculptures. Architectural of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame are to be seen such as the Champs Elyesee.

Planning is needed when moving to France moving anywhere else. When it comes to the infamous paper work is very important not send photocopies only sent the original documents.Originals must be stored safely and securely.If you're not on citizens of the European Union should apply for a French visa and know what I need ...There are 3 main types of visa:

o student visa
o Visa Long stay
o Work permit visa (2 types of authorizations; temporary secondment and complete a work permit)

Each one of the endorsements have slightly different rules, so that it would be good to talk about an immigration officer to find out what type you will need and how to go about obtaining an

Move to any country where it is spoken in a different language is very difficult, unless you are willing to learn the language.The locals will respect you more if you speak French as seriously take pride in their own language; there are a number of French schools which offer courses for foreigners.

The best way to get information about France, by car, but be warned.Most of the French lead very erratically. If you plan on taking your car to France, then can be done but it is very difficult, as should conform to the French restrictions. to learn what documents you will need you should contact your local office, DRIRE) Diurction Régionale de l'industrie, de la Recherche et de l'environnement). I will then send you a list of the documents you will require. some of the documents you will need is

o Manufacturers certificate of conformity or Attestation de Conformite.
o proof of origin.car from.A receipt or Bill of sale may be used for this purpose.
o VAT evidence.
o Write documents.
o Proof of identity and residence in France.
o request form.

Get all this in order to be fine, but remember the French unit on the right side of the road; the best bet is to sell the British your car before you go and buy a car from a French dealer in France.

Here are some things to consider when planning on a move to France, but there is a lot more is really worthwhile to do lots of research before you go for the British. Speaking expats would be better to do with experience of a movement in France is obvioulsy the sensible thing to do; you can find many different sites and blogs that English people have written about the experience of living in France.








Carolyn is the webmaster of Over International, specialists in departmental France, removals in Portugal and removals to Spain.


The French also live abroad


A recent survey by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has about 1.5 million French living abroad and registered with the French Consulate.

However, as the registration is not compulsory, with the Consulate, officials estimate that the actual rate of those who live abroad is approximately 2 million.

The census showed that the most popular destination of choice is Switzerland (138,349), followed by the USA (117,076) and the United Kingdom (112,660).

If you are not registered with consulates are added, then officials estimate the number of French expats living in the UK around 250000 (potentially similar number also live in the United States).

This shape is similar to the number of British expats are believed to live in France, despite the fact that if you add a second homes, then the total number of persons from the United Kingdom held a property in France is expected between 350,000 and 500,000.

The figures for Switzerland, and Germany (106,842), reflecting the large number of French cross border workers and owners of companies that have chosen to live in neighbouring countries, in particular tax reasons.

Other popular travel destinations for French Belgium (90,588), Spain (82,050), Canada (68,075), Morocco (36,818) and China (22,231).
French in London

The census showed that around 60% of French people lived in the UK within Greater London, with the majority aged between 25 and 40 years, confirming the generally held view that most French are in the United Kingdom to work, not to retire!

Indeed, in South West London is often referred to by the French as le quartier français de 6Ay, containing and homes for many hundreds of French families, the French Embassy, a French Institute and a wide range of French food shops and bistros.

There is also a large French Lycée attended approximately 3,000 French students, while elsewhere in the South and West London, there are many French schools maternity and a primary school.

The census showed that the number of French living abroad had increased by 7.6% for the previous year, and over the past ten years had risen by an average of 3.6%.

Although the countries of Asia and the Middle East accounted for only 8.5% and 6.6%, respectively, of those who live abroad, these countries also showed growth of 10% and 12.6% from last year.








Learn more at http://www.french-property.com/.


What to expect at retirement in France


Before you decide on retiring in France, you must understand some aspects of French life that will surely affect your stay in the country. The most important of these is the tax system could affect your income during your stay. The French authorities will determine your paid taxes as they need to take into account what you can pay in your country. French residents are taxed according to the world income and assessments made on the basis of the four tax brackets. As retired, only 90% of your income is taxable and the other exempt. You can also find ways to reduce your tax bracket when you select the retiring in France.

The climate in the country vary from region to region of the country. The South of France, which are Nice and Cannes, has a Mediterranean climate, with immaculate beaches and large regional cooking. As for the North and North-West of France, there are mild winters, hot summers and abundant rain.The Central and Eastern regions of France have a long and cold winters with hot summer months with rain and storms that occurred between the seasons. these areas provide many choosing on retiring in France, the collection of how to spend their golden years.

The health care system in the country shall be deemed to be the best one in the world. The system is Government subsidized with medical services costing much less compared to the cost of medical care.Patients covered by the French healthcare system can choose health professionals and up to 85% account, medical expenses are paid by the State; all citizens of the country, including those retiring with France, consult a doctor and to receive urgent medical care. Since the system pays for 85% of the cost of healthcare, health insurance in the country is used to cover the balance of health care.

People retiring France can enjoy ownership of immovable property in France.This has made the purchase of real estate in France between the most profitable in the world; this is also affect the cost of living in the country, as many have benefited from the sale of the property.To live comfortably as a retiree, it is better to understand the cost of RENTING property, food and meals, health insurance, transportation, amusement and recreation, shopping and other incidental costs.You must also factor in the cost of utilities, communication and other expenses to enjoy fully the beauty and the greatness of France.

Before you decide on retiring in France, you must understand fully the French lifestyle. as recommended by the Expat Forum, "to live in extremely well in France if you have the money. The cost of living is higher in Paris and lower in rural areas '.








This article has been provided by Jose Marc Castro, the program processing when Expat forum.com-the primary online community for expats site also provides information and advice on topics such as Retiring in France.


Friday, September 24, 2010

How to open a bank account in France-a few tips


The process of opening a bank account in France is quite simple and only need to bring the following documents with you:

-A proof of identity, such as a passport or a national Gazette TAYToTITAS
-The proof of your address, such as water and electricity bills, or contract your housing

Once your account is opened, you will be given a debit card which is usually called "carte bancaire" or "carte bleue" and a book.

Your first French carte bleue will cost about 30. In France, I always asked for payments and withdrawals worksheets with your chip and PIN pin code.Also, it should be noted that some stores require a minimum amount, usually around 8, for payments by card doesn't quite the same as in the UK: the amounts money spent may be deducted from your account immediately or at the end of the month, depending on what you have with your bank. A signature will always be required for payments over 1, 500. The "carte bleue" I better assets when living abroad, as you can use it to pay for almost all.A very large majority of shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas, highways, online stores, etc accepts payment card.

Payment cheque is widespread in France.However, store owners may ask for a proof of identity will take a few days between the day you sign the cheque and in fact when the amount is debited from your account; it is very important to note that in France, it is illegal to try to pay, using a cheque with a balance between adequate account. why some stores refuse systematically each cheque payment.If you write a cheque, you may encounter a "bancaire of deterrence, which prevents you from writing a check and use a credit card, until the situation has been regularised. why you should always make sure you can cover your requirements.

When you open a bank account in France, it is also important to choose which type of account you want to do better.

A "compte courant", French for current account, it is a very active account which allows immediate cash withdrawal at any time, and is used for joint operations between the Bank and the customer.

A "livret sur compte" or "Livret A" is no longer used in France. savings account is not used for day-to-day operations, but with the performance of interests.








French property Sextant is a network of over 100 real estate agents in France offer a selection of 6000 French property for sale.


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Speak the Culture: France: Be Fluent in French Life and Culture

A guidebook can show you where to go, a phrase-book what to say when you get there. Only Speak the Culture: France will lead you to the nation’s soul. This easy-to-use cultural companion reflects what it means to have grown up with Camus, Cézanne, De Gaulle and Bardot; it captures the spirit of France and delves deep into the Gallic psyche.

Through exploring the people, the movements and the lifestyles that have shaped the French experience, you will come to an intimate understanding of France and the French.

There are many travel guides and manuals on living in France. Speak the Culture: France is different: a superbly designed, informed and entertaining insight into French life and culture and who the French really are.

Recommended by the Institut français du Royaume-Uni, the Official French Government Centre of Language and Culture in the UK

For new residents, business travellers, holidaymakers, students and lovers of France everywhere, Speak the Culture: France is an engaging companion and guide to an enviably rich civilization at the heart of Europe.

Excerpt
“It would be wrong to imagine that your average Frenchwoman just pops into Chanel on the Rue du Faubourg-St-Honoré whenever she needs a new bag, cardy or fragrance. While a significant minority do indulge in ready-to-wear lines produced by designer labels, most are happy with less brand-conscious garments. Small boutiques and historic department stores like Le Bon Marché and Les Galeries Lafayette sell the big brands, but many French are happy to buy anonymous clothes at knockdown prices in chain stores like Tati, or even in the hypermarket.”

Price: $24.95


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Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Where to find Cheap properties for sale in France


In the Basque country and beyond

With direct, low-cost flights to Biarritz and Pau (plus Bilbao, Spanish border), the County of Pyrénées-Atlantiques is accomplished easily by the United Kingdom. most visitors are familiar with bourgeois Biarritz and the chic, art deco architecture, but apart from the cosmopolitan city is a less densely populated landscape of the Coast Palm-fringed, rolling green countryside, white water rivers, forests and mountain peaks, where the thermometer seldom dips below six degrees Celsius.

In the North of the County, in the region of pine forests and vast Landes includes, deserted beaches, one of France's less densely populated areas is perfect for property hunters very unspoiled landscapes. "Property for sale of coast will always command high prices, but head half an hour there are huge domestic and agricultural land from EUR550, 000, "says Julia Troccaz after Biarritz."(F) traditionally housed farmsteads of Basque both family and animals, so that this kind of ownership comes with huge amounts of living space, villages such as Sare, Ascain and Espelette is attractive, and even relatively close to the Atlantic. "

Farms, they must be renovated cost from EUR300 000 (£ 240,000), but remember to factor in the work required for the performance of the accommodation, equipment and work have expensive this Troccaz, which suggests that the best buys to be had in the Landes is directly inland from the popular resorts of Hossegor, Capbreton: "values of the property for sale in Landes is lower by around Biarritz, because more areas are available, access is still very good, you can be 15 minutes, home, but only 20 minutes from the airport of Biarritz, five minutes from the motorway and 25 minutes from the St-Jean-de-Luz."

Budget from EUR500, 000 (£ 397,000) for cluster Landaise renovated, with 6,000 square metres of land.

Lozere-the less

Down to the shores of the Mediterranean, the region of Languedoc-Roussillon region is composed of five departments, whose single-Lozère-has no coastline.This hilly, locked land region of the long, winding roads has low visitor numbers and a profile in even lower, particularly when it comes to British property buyers (figures released last year as the French are sorted Lozère département with the lowest number of overseas-owners, given the presence of Johnny Foreigner as "minor.")

This genuine French is also very quiet: French news magazine L'Express and the investigation of the 2007 "best places to Live in France" voted Lozère ideal retirement destination, by obtaining its unspoilt scenery, quiet streets, and low levels of pollution and crime features a small population (about 73,500 which 14 people per square metre), and certainly not a large part of the cultural infrastructure (the region ranked 94th out of 96 on this particular point), but certainly Lozère well suited to those seeking a quiet, safe and property for sale in Lozère comes cheap.

Research L'Express classifies Lozère region seventh as less expensive to buy property.

Alex Charles Crème de Languedoc comments: "you won't be able to find a great opportunity for capital growth and rental potential, but the Lozère property market offers great value and its properties, manufactured stone is perfect for self-sufficient types with the necessary technical know-how.Your money will go further here than in busy areas of the southern Gard and Hérault Languedoc.A budget of EUR242 000 (£ 192,000) buys a two-bedroom stone property set in 1.5 acres [over half a hectare] of land in the Cévennes National Park, which would be ideal for lovers of nature, or twice the value we sell a huge five-bedroom, renovated farm with outbuildings, a acre [almost half hectare] the territory near the village of Florac. "

Cognac-tipped to increase

In and around the Undulating countryside Charente sits and forests in the region of Western France Poitou-Charentes and recently has been the projector for two reasons.

Firstly, some of the most famous spirits of the world are produced of Charente city of Cognac, and this valuable sales reached a new historic tipple high in 2007 with the business flourishes, the cherry on the cake for the locals were opened in the spring of this year, the new Angkoylemis-Cognac airport with direct flights to London Stansted.

"Is bound to have a positive effect on the market of property in and around Cognac and Jarnac," says Graham Downie, an actor search properties tips in this section of Western France cast. "There are several reasons which make the Cognac region is worth a look: has a very convenient location within striking distance of four airports, and only five and a half hours by train from London, industry cognac makes popular with tourists, who come to visit Rémy Martin, Hennessy, Martell and Courvoisier, which means that they are lively, and a thriving local economy makes good news for property owners and investors alike rich region. "

The information was released in June of 2008 show that of the nine regions that make up Poitou-Charentes, property for sale in Charente is now priced housing in plain and traditional stone properties will appeal to buyers of the property with a tendency for the property. in accordance with Downie, a two-bedroom apartment townhouse within five minutes walk from the central square of Cognac can be collected for around EUR120, 000 (£ 95,000), while the EUR200, 000 (£ 159,000) bags a three-bedroom property stone in a nearby village, with a small garden and easy access to shops and restaurants for an imposing four-to six-bedroom property with a swimming pool, walled garden and vineyard views (kind of coveted by many UK property buyers), allow EUR300 000-EUR450, 000 (£ 240,000 for £ 355,000), in the lively market town of Jarnac (home for the home of Courvoisier), a three-bedroom property in immaculate condition, with the pool and garden, selling for just below EUR400, 000 (£ 318,000).








Louise Taylor for Homes Overseas-Properties for sale in France of, information about buying property in France, property investment advice and international news.

Property international experts since 1965.