Hi, we (me, my hubby, 2yr old and cat) have also just moved to the Vendee. We are renting in the Challans area, but are looking for property / land like everyone else! We have found the people up here - both French and English to be much friendlier than the area we rented last - near Ruffec, Charente - sorry Charentaise! Perhaps its something to do with them being friendly northeners????? If anyone wants to chat/meet and talk about the fun of relocation, just give us a shout. We are willing to host a kiddy/playgroup chat session at our place, so let us know. Anyone who is also looking into aspects of self build over here, we can compare notes. This area seems to offer so much: sea, beaches, ports, shops, lovely countryside inland and we have only just scratched the surface!