Jo & Rich

People wait in line for a good two hours, at the airport, to claim back the TVA.

I remember the high sales taxes while in Paris. In the USA, the taxes vary from one state to the other but still a lot cheaper than France and Quebec. A big minus for us is the US $ versus the Euro $

I'm not sure about the immigrations laws in Canada. If it's like the US, a doctor, lawyer, etc. can easily enter the country, the "rest of them" not so much. Tho here in the USA, millions of Mexicans, Hondurans and other places from the South have crossed (and still crossing) the border and the US government isn't really doing anything about it. A few are being deported but more are entering everyday.  California's health and school systems are greatly suffering because of that.  In Quebec, my mother told me that to see a doctor, the wait is approximately 8 months. Minor surgeries like tonsils removal can take up to two years. My hometown, near Montreal, Quebec, is also an option that we are looking into tho the sale taxes is 15% and the winters are long.

Sprogster, no worry, I know the grass is never greener, it just looks that way. One has to carefully consider all the variables when thinking of moving.  In my first post, I mentioned that tourism isn't immigration and I believe it.  It's easy to see the fun side of place when visiting but it all changes when living there.  Right now we are considering all of our options, gathering information. I appreciate all the posts and information.

Norman, Canada also have "free" healthcare and after being abused for so long, it's now a nightmare.

It makes a lot of sense. Healthcare can get expensive pretty fast.

Hi,   You are correct, I'm from Quebec and don't have French nationality. Thanks for all the useful information, especially about the medical insurance.  Tourism and immigration are NOT the same  LOL I realize it won't be easy but with the right preparation, it's feasible.

My name is Jo.  My husband and I are currently looking into moving to France once he retires. We are not sure where yet but we do like walking, biking, a bit of hiking. I love gardening and watching birds and butterflies. I can no longer tolerate hot summers so a good part of Provence won't work for me. We plan on taking several vacations to explore some areas that we think would work for us.  I'm French Canadian so at least the language won't be an issue but my hubby is American.  Suggestions are greatly appreciated.