Life In France Is Very Different To Life In The Uk

Literally thousands of Britons take up residence in France every year to savour the rich culture, the warmer weather and the glorious countryside. Maybe you too want to enjoy the casual, laid-back French lifestyle. Life in France can be great as long as you know a couple of things.

Firstly, you must accept that the language spoken in France is French. English is rarely spoken, so you will need to have a basic knowledge of the language. French people are extremely proud of their language and will expect you to communicate in their native tongue. Even if your knowledge is minimal, the French people will appreciate that you are trying. In time, you will soon improve your skills.

French culture is very different to the UK. For instance, it is not easy to make friends quickly. On the work front, etiquette is also different. You can't arrive at the office and blurt out 'Hi' to one and all. You must shake hands with all your colleagues and say 'Bonjour' to each one.

If you want to buy a property, make enquiries about a government grant. These are given if you meet with certain criteria. If you purchase an old property with the specific intention of renovation, you might qualify. Buying a property and converting it into a holiday home for rental would also be a qualification.

Grants are also given if the property will be used as business premises, or if you are prepared to turn it into an eco-friendly home. This would require you to install a solar heating system and make other changes. You can make application for a grant through various bodies.

When applying for a property grant, there are various bodies to approach. The first place to start will be the Prefecture or Mairie in your area. If you are applying for a home improvement grant, the property must be more than 20 years old. In addition, there must be proof that no other grants have been given on the property in the past 10 years. Also, you have to guarantee that you will reside on the property.

When it comes to bureaucracy in France, you will definitely have to learn how to be patient. Government officials require reams of paperwork for even the simplest of procedures. So, be prepared for lots of red tape and obstacles. You can do away with a lot of this if you deal with a British relocation agency before you move.

France has an excellent infrastructure. It has one of the best motorway and freeway networks in Europe. A high speed train will get you from Paris to Marseilles in just three hours. From Paris to Bruxelles, the trip is an hour and a half, and Paris to London is only a 2 and a half hour journey.

You will be able to take advantage of all the latest technology during your life in France. The telephone network is digital. There are three mobile phone networks, and high speed internet connections are readily available. Satellite television is accessible in most cities and towns.