Cyn

Dear Monaco: I've been reviewing several postings on this site, as I am planning to move to France also. I have been applying for employment with US companies that have offices there, and we'll see what happens with that. I love the idea of retiring there, as I am tired of this fast paced life here in the US. I live just outside of Washington DC, and have wanted to move to France all of my life. I do speak the language, although not fluently, but having studied it all of my life, I am sure fluency will come in short order once I move. My daughter just entered college and I am single, so I have nothing but "things - house, car, rat race to make more $$$, etc" keeping me here. I read with great interest your observation about how difficult it is to be self employed or employed in France. I have come across a few good internet based supported business in France, but don't know how successful they are. I've inquired and hopefully the owners will share some of the highlights of their success. Perhaps my move will have to be part of a retirement plan who knows, but I still would like to become immersed in the culture with something to do, thus the employment approach. Thanks for sharing, I shall keep my progress posted here.

Dear Athene: I read your post with great joy, realism, and enthusiasm. I too am planning to move to France, it is something I've wanted to do all of my life. My daughter has just entered college and lives in New York. She plans to study abroad in London next year, and I figure I can see her easily when she is studying abroad. All of my concerns about being away from family you really put into perspective to me, but I love your line about not "living in someone's pocket". Everyone has their own lives, and all of my family would love to spend a holiday in France, they all talk about it, and with me being there, they can. I am have been a single parent for 18 years, and now it's my turn to explore the world again, who knows maybe I won't be single forever after the move! OOh lalal! Thank you for being so honest in your assessment of moving, even though you are a lot closer to your original home in the UK than I would be from the US. I still look at this as an adventure that I've waited my whole life to take. Thanks agaiin!

Dear Crevette: I was browsing the posts here, and I like Dreamer am planning to move to France. However, I will only be in France  when I get employment from a Paris based company. When a company relocates an employee, is it still as difficult as you say to secure a lease on an apartment? I don't imagine that an employer would guarantee the lease or do they? There must be some arrangements for expats that work as foreign nationals. Pls advise. Thanks.