Over a year ago now my partner and I sat down and decided that we wanted to move abroad. Being from New Zealand travelling is expensive and time-consuming. We wanted to be able to explore new cultures and languages and settled on Europe. But where in Europe? We wanted to ski in the winter and be by the coast in the summer and we needed to be able to speak the language. My partner speaks French and after much deliberation, we decided on a year of expat life in France.
Living as an expat in France has been a journey filled with new experiences, challenges, and immense personal growth. We have lived in the Alps and we have explored the French Riviera. After living here for 6 months here are seven things I absolutely love about my expat life in France.
The Cuisine: Gastronomic Heaven
French cuisine is world-renowned, and living here means I get to enjoy it daily. From flaky croissants at breakfast to gourmet dinners like tartiflette or bouillabaisse, every meal is a treat for the taste buds. The local markets are brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked bread. Food isn’t just about sustenance here; it’s an art form, a social event, and a deep-rooted tradition.
I do want to talk about bread quickly as well. There is a French Bread Law. According to this law, traditional baguettes must be baked on the premises where they are sold and can only include four ingredients: wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. Additionally, they cannot be frozen at any point or contain any additives or preservatives, which means they typically go stale within 24 hours.
The Nature: Incredible Scenes Everywhere
France’s landscapes are incredibly diverse and breathtakingly beautiful. From the lavender fields of Provence to the rugged coastline of Brittany, and the majestic Alps to the serene vineyards of Bordeaux, there’s always a new vista to explore. Weekend trips often feel like stepping into a postcard, with charming villages, historical castles, and stunning natural scenery at every turn.
So far we have explored the French Alps, the French Riviera, Lyon and Occitanie. We have loved each area we have visited as they all offer something unique and visually beautiful.
The Proximity to Other European Destinations: Travel Opportunities
One of the perks of living in France is its central location in Europe. Whether it’s a weekend trip to Italy or a train ride to Germany, being in France opens up a world of travel possibilities. This is one of the top reasons why I love expat life in France.
This proximity to other European destinations, new cultures, food and languages is something we New Zealanders are not used to. This year alone we have been to Switzerland, Italy, Greece, Spain and the UK and most of these countries we drove to. France is a great hub for European travel.
The Public Transport: Efficient and Far-Reaching
France has an extensive and efficient public transport network. Whether it’s the high-speed TGV trains connecting major cities, the metro systems in Paris and other large cities, or the reliable regional bus services, getting around is convenient and affordable. This makes exploring the country, as well as daily commuting, much easier and more enjoyable.
In the French Alps, we had free transportation included in our ski pass and when visiting other cities we used a combination of buses and trains to get us to our next destinations. My only trip would be to book in advance as last-minute bookings for long trips can be pricey.
The Community Spirit: Welcoming and Inclusive
As an expat, it can be daunting to build a new social circle. However, I’ve found the French to be welcoming and inclusive. Many towns and neighbourhoods have a strong sense of community, with local events, festivals, and markets providing ample opportunities to connect with others. With the language barrier making French friends can be a bit more challenging however most are extremely receptive when you try and speak French with them.
I met some wonderful friends while working in a restaurant in the Alps, they also spoke great English and were willing to help me daily with the French. There are also many expat communities in France where you can connect with people.
The Work-Life Balance: Living, Not Just Existing
One of the most striking aspects of life in France is the emphasis on work-life balance. The French prioritize quality of life. Generous vacation time, long lunch breaks, and a strong focus on family and leisure. Sundays are sacred, often spent with loved ones over leisurely meals. This approach to life fosters a healthier, more relaxed lifestyle.
You will find places closed on Sunday afternoons and during lunch hours most days and French people take long breaks and enjoy their meals. There is a law in France prohibiting employees from eating their lunch at their desks.
The Language: A Melodic Challenge
French is a beautiful language, often described as the language of love. Although learning it can be challenging, it’s immensely rewarding and some understanding is essential to survive France. Each conversation is an opportunity to practice and improve. The locals appreciate when you make an effort to speak their language. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of finally mastering a tricky phrase or understanding a joke in French.
Expat life in France does come with challenges, but the right mindset can open you up to the most wonderful experiences. From the exquisite food and stunning landscapes to the rich culture and welcoming community, there are countless reasons to fall in love with this country. Each day offers a new opportunity to learn, grow, and appreciate the beauty of life in France. If you’re considering a move here, my advice is simple: embrace the adventure, learn some of the languages before you arrive and be patient with yourself. If you want to learn more about living in France pros and cons check out my blog post here.