France Made Simple

The most complicated part of moving your stuff here used to be packing the boxes and making sure they were all labelled correctly. Not any more! Thanks to changing regulations there are all sorts of hoops to jump through. But fear not! Here at France Made Simple we’ve got you covered. Listen in and you’ll find out how Moving To France Made Simple actually works 😉I really hope this is helpful and...

If you’re in France you’ve probably noticed that the cost of living seems to be on a permanent upwards trend 😢And if like me, you’re struggling on a low income, you’re probably always looking for ways to trim your outgoings. Sadly I don’t have a magic wand or even a failsafe solution but, I do have a lot of experience of living cheaply but well. After all, life is for living and there’s nothing m...

These days many of the people who are moving to France do so hoping to make a big lifestyle shift. And very often, this involves some level of sustainable and even, off-grid living. You can do this simply and cheaply and you don’t have to go the whole hog. Making just a few small changes to the way you live and consume can have a big impact on your quality of life. and your budget! In this episode...

In this episode I catch up with Tom Marron from Blevins Franks who explains (in words of one syllable, so perfect for someone like me…!) how French inheritance laws differ. And what you need to know and eventually do, so that you don’t get caught out. And of course, so that no one pays any more tax than they need to! If you’re moving to France, planning to move to France or already living in Franc...

In this short bonus episode I talk about the various places that I’ve lived in during my 23 years in France. The subject of where to live comes up over and over again and there’s no one definitive answer. Everyone’s different and everyone’s needs, wants and requirements are different. But…listening to others and learning from their experiences is a key part of the journey. Here’s my outtake on wha...

The very first episode in a new ‘Behind The Scenes’ bonus series which will be available to subscribers only. But as I’m feeling generous today I’m putting this out here for all of you lovely listeners to enjoy! Please do keep your questions coming. I love getting them and it’s always really fun answering them 😊

In this episode I am taking a (light hearted!) look at that Great British Stereotype - the unwashed French…Joking aside, there are differences and I’m always intrigued by cultural differences. And of course, when it comes to things like politeness, child rearing or let alone, personal hygiene, we always believe that ‘our’ way is the ‘right’ way. Listen in and don’t hesitate to let me know what you...

In this episode I’m talking about all the things you need to do to apply for French nationality. And of course, having made some very rookie errors myself during the process, I’ll also reveal what NOT to do! And here’s the really useful link which tells you exactly what you need to provide in terms of paperwork : https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/N111

Looking back on my first trip to a French  déchèterie  or le dump (j’adore le franglais) - it was apocalyptic. Think smouldering fires and piles of rubbish. Thankfully, things have moved on! This episode looks at all you need to know when going to le dump! And here’s a useful link from the French government site to find out more : https://www.notre-environnement.gouv.fr/

This week I catch up with George Symes from SJB - my tame pensions and investments advisor- who answers all your questions about pensions and investments in France. Not only does he really know his onions when it comes to all things pensions and savings, but he also explains stuff in an idiot prof manner..Which is what this idiot needs. Listen in to find out why an assurance vie is like a Taco… Yo...

In this episode of the France Made Simple podcast, we tackle the age-old question: Are the French rude? Join us as we explore cultural differences and perceptions, from the importance of saying bonjour to the nuances of French social etiquette. Discover why what might seem rude to some is simply a cultural norm in France. Whether you're living in France or considering a move, this episode offe...

The French have long had a love affair with “Taking The Waters” and in this episode we look at what going for ‘La cure’ involves. And more importantly, how you can access this wonderfully relaxing and restorative health break at minimal or even no cost. You can find out about all the requirements and the illnesses covered here  https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F751  - make sure...

In this episode of the France Made Simple podcast, we dive into the complexities of living expenses in France. From the rising costs of everyday essentials to the surprising affordability of insurance and childcare, we explore how to navigate the financial landscape. Whether you're considering a move or simply curious, join us for insights and tips on managing your budget effectively in France...

This week I’m on holiday in Brittany - which is STUNNING and well worth a visit btw - and it’s very wild and windy this week! The latest episode is just a short one (due to the lack of wifi in our gite!) but it’s heartfelt. If you’re thinking about moving here or have already done so, this one will resonate because it’s all about how to get the most out of your life in France. Sometimes this is ea...

Whether it’s better to move to the seaside or a bit further inland can be a tricky question to answer when you’re thinking about buying a property in France! In this episode we look at the pros and cons of both and get insider info from people who have bought in both places. Listen in and make sure you make the right choice for you!

In this episode we look at how you can reduce your outgoings and expenditure in France. If you’re like me and reel in shock at the almost daily price increases when you go shopping, you’re probably looking at ways to trim your expenses. Well, look no further! Listen in for some money saving tips and learn how to free up some cash and make your hard earned euros go a little bit further.

Today I’m talking about (or rather, banging on about…!) the cultural differences between the British and the French when it comes to talking about food. It’s virtually a religion here. And I’m a bit of an atheist… Listen in and prepare yourself for what life in France really entails!

In this episode we look at all the benefits available to people of working age in France - from RSA (unemployment benefit equivalent) to top up healthcare assistance. Listen in and see what might apply to your personal circumstances.

If you are living in France and are on a low income, help is available. Whether you have children, are working or not, are facing temporary difficulties or need help making ends meet, the French social security system is designed to help. Listen in to the first episode of this three part series to find out what you might be entitled to.

I’ve spent over 22 years here and put three kids through the French system . I’ve sent them off to pre-school with spare nappies and slippers and applied for grants for Masters degrees. And made oodles of mistakes along the way! Listen in so you don’t have to make the same ones!

Drawing on my not ever so extensive experience of dating Frenchmen (two to be precise!), I share my personal insight on why this is a great idea! You can decide for yourself whether it is informative or amusing…

We look at the three most common problems faced by English speakers relocating to France and explain how to get around them.

We take a look at just some of the benefits La Manche has to offer visitors and residents alike. If you’re thinking about moving to Normandy or even just visiting, this episode is sure to inspire!

Living in France can be both fabulous and frustrating! And sometimes it seems like half the battle is simply finding the time to get everything done! So here are my (personal) life hacks which will hopefully allow you to free up some time and spend that time doing the stuff that you enjoy doing, rather than the stuff you have to do!

It’s really important to get your social etiquette right in France and this is especially true when it comes to eating and drinking. In this episode I talk you through the do’s and don’ts of apéro hour; what to take, how to behave and when to leave. This is a short episode but it’s something that’s absolutely key to life in France so make sure you give it a listen!