Why We Left the USA (and moved to France)
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- Опубликовано: 11 май 2024
- This is our story, why we moved, where we're from, and sharing the ups & downs of moving to Europe from the USA
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We used this guide in planning our trip in November--wonderful, valuable information!
tdlr, why I moved to France? Because I love my wife. So cute.
We’re going to Paris for the Olympics could we meet with you two?
This video was excellent!! I've watched it 3 times. Would like to have known what kind of online business you had. What did Colleen do for a home business? How much was the average rent? How much was it to get a bin? I hope you do another one soon answering people's questions. Did you have family living close by? Was it easy for your son to make friends? Did your son appreciate and like the move? Does he tour a lot?
This is not intended to be rude but, I have to speak out because it's so apparent. Colleen seems like a very nice, adventurous person but, she does not look like she's from France at all. Meaning, she needs a huge makeover with her dress and hair. Is that the only top she owns? She wears it in every single video. She looks like a slob. Her hair looks horrible, she wears the same exact top for four years and clothes that do NOT compliment her figure at all. If she's going to be on camera, try not to look like a slob. I know this will be deleted but as her husband, you should let her read it because it's true.
Hope we can have meet in Paris next month amd have a photo with you two. My husband, my teenager and I your new followers. You are bith amazing and inspiring❤
Thanks for this video. My wife and I moved to France from Arizona 5 1/2 years ago, and we haven’t looked back. We’re out in Normandy, with easy access to Paris by train, and it has worked for us beautifully. Indeed, the physical planning and administrative tasks were, in retrospect, almost insurmountable, and yet, by simply tackling one thing at a time we somehow managed to make it. As you have found, the French people themselves have been incredibly helpful, patient, and kind, and that includes all of the fonctionnaires in the government offices. We are supremely grateful to the Republic of France and the people of France because we are truly at home here.
do either of you speak french fluently? or did you have to learn?
@@FreshGrey-pm4vw
I speak French fluently but most french speak English like us. Language is not an issue. I would recommend to visit Paris to enjoy the culture and the beautiful place that has to offer. No need to worry about language. People there are simple and kind and there is no violence of any kind but take time to learn and understand french people as they act different than Americans
@@Hippy2021 I visited Paris 20 yrs ago- I see things have changed a lot. It seems more open and people connect more. However as Colleen mentioned, she felt like an outsider not understanding her sons school teacher who didnt speak english. It does help when one person in a couple is fluent - for sure. Builds confidence and you can practice.
What kind of immigration permits are necessary?
Omg! My family and I live in Arizona! And it is our dream to move to Europe. Maybe France or Scotland. Was it really hard to make that move?
❤I was so lucky to run into Colleen and Antoine in Paris (near the palace) when they were shooting this episode last week. I ran towards them basically screaming 😂. I followed their advice on the metro card, dining options, and even places to shop and buy souvenirs. Now I’m back in Boston, with best memories of Paris. Thank you again for all your videos.
Will visit Paris again!
Wow lucky you
You were lucky!
I am from Homestead Florida and moved to Bordeaux 42 years ago ! I was single and in my twenties ! I never regreted this decision !
This was my favorite video of your guys', I didn't want it to end! I'm taking my parents to Paris on the 27th of this month, excited to be back for the 5th time with your guide! Thank you!!
I was almost 8 years old when we moved to Arkansas on January 8, 1998, for my dad's job. My mom had all these expectations from the TV shows that she'd watched, their honeymoon on the west coast. She knew basic English as she had studied it to become a secretary. But it hit her hard when she realized Arkansas wasn't really like the west coast, and sending your kids to school when all they ever knew was France, was not a piece of cake. She almost gave up when my younger sister who was 5 was just refusing everything. She was ready to give up her dream and go back to France. We were only expats for 4 years but we would go back every summer after that. I haven't been back since 2013 and I still feel like I've left a part of me behind. Even though I wouldn't want to live in the US anymore, and even if I was always 100% French, I still feel like part of me is American. And as I've grown older, I've come to realize all of the challenges my parents had to face moving across the pond in the late 90s with three young kids who didn't speak a word of English. It must've been hard, but what an experience! I still have vivid childhood memories. It feels like it was only yesterday.
Going to Arkansas would be severe culture shock for many Americans from big cities. I'm surprised you picked Arkansas. That's a plate that has beautiful nature sights and things to do in the country, but not if you are used to big city life.
I grew up in Arkansas. It is beautiful and there some wonderful people there. There is also Harrison and the mindset that's rooted there. It has no place in the world of decent people.
Being an American who loves ALL things French, I have watched a ton of RUclips videos about Paris and France. Honestly, this is by far the BEST video about moving 🇫🇷 to France that has ever been posted on RUclips! I appreciate Les Frenchies sharing their personal story with us in every detail. No wonder I subscribed to their incredible channel many months ago. The information is so honest and spot-on. Thank you Antoine and Colleen for your insights. Your channel is THE BOMB. 😊 Everyone needs to subscribe to your channel TODAY. Vive la France!
Colleen brought tears to my eyes when she spoke about feeling useless when meeting with your son's teachers. That strikes at a parent's core. What I admire about Colleen (and Antoine too-- after so many years and finding he identified as an American) is the willingness to completely change your life, immersed in a new culture. So hard to do--much easier to stay!
This is your best video, by far.
Thank you!
And please give my regards to Vincent ('my new friend in Paris'). After 30 years of visiting Europe, the St Germaine tour we enjoyed with him in December stands out as our BEST tour ever.
Thank you 🤗
Who is Vincent? Please give us info! We stay in St. Germaine when we’re there.
@@Monica68817 here are his tours lesfrenchiestravel.com/les-frenchies-food-tours-in-paris/
What I particularly loved is how the couple having left one country for another don't say bad words about the country thet left, as some people do sometimes. Merci !!!!!
This was so wonderful. I love that Colleen used her own experience in the school to reflect back on what it must be like for Hatian and Latino families in FLA. She brings so much heart to this project, I'm glad she decided to get in front of the camera. Thank you both!
Ms. Colleen is a darling !
❤ The love and respect you have for each other is really refreshing and beautiful ❤
Past summer my young kids (9 & 14) and I prepared our visit to Paris using your videos as a guide. My impression was that you had moved to Paris many years ago. This video shows you have only moved a few years ago! I am very impressed. You made our visit to Paris a success! Thank you and please keep making videos. You are making a difference.
You guys have no idea how awesome it is to hear your story and look through your photo album. After watching you for years! Knowing your backstory is truly wonderful. And I'm only three minutes in... Thank you for your vulnerability, Colleen. It's so important for us to understand the truth of moving to Paris. Amazing guys. I hope this is just part one.
Wow, thank you!
Now here is a channel I truly enjoy, I'm like you Collen, I love the French EVERYTHING, I don't like the 20-year-old influencers, I want to see the older, honest, mature realistic videos. I'm hooked! thank you both for this channel. Someday I will go.
It feels really good to have people explaining in very simple words what ''foreigners'' feel when going back home. I've been the black friend for everyone here in France, and when I go back home to the French indies (crazy to say that it is still France), I'm just the white cousin. Thank you so much.
As a parisian you make me falling in love again with the city where I live!!! It’s amazing!!!
But then, you get out and you get hitted by "Paris" life....its cool and sad at the same time. Don't get me wrong, France is beautiful and i love it!(i live in IdF 94) But boy.....there are soooo many rotten things, from the administration to the poorest people. Its feels like we are in future but stuck in past, having great ideas for revolutioning things without taking in to account the true real stage of society.
And to show you that i don't speak non sens, my small example is that my security number is still not defined after 3 months from deposit my documents and i keep getting asked to send documents that i already gave to them months ago :D....and i have maaany more.
Yeah, its cool to travel and visit...but by living you can discover the true face of the beast 😂.
@@AlinBiohazzard The past and its traditions are important to us ...With the past we live the present time .It can't be otherwise , the two notions are closely intertwined .Our past is obviously very different from yours. Stop looking at things from the wrong angle.Of course life is different in France , it can be very difficult to cope and adjust with the humdrum hurdles one may encounter .These can be overcome .Why don't you get to live here for some time , stay for six months , then you should be more to the point .
@@christianayme7316 i live in zone 94, and i was living in 93 for sometime....i think i know how its going around. Paris is not France, as every french will tell you! Paris is cool just for "some days" and beautiful in the eyes of people that are not living here( working, having childs, having business,etc), but when you live here (like me), well...things are very different and many need to be improved.(I can give you loads of example, but is not the right place here). Anyway, who want to know the truth will find it sooner or later and the "honeymoon" will start to become "sour and sometimes a bit sweet".
Don't get me wrong!
J'ai adoré l'annecdote sur le Conté fruité 😂 mais il faut dire que c'est un véritable exploit de revenir après tant d'années et retrouver ces automatismes. C'est aussi une énorme preuve d'amour d'avoir tout quitté pour la France chapeau monsieur. Votre dame a de la chance de vous avoir, on peut sentir l'amour et le respect qu'il y a entre vous. Quoi de mieux que de découvrir la France avec un bilingue français pour vous madame. Bonne chance à vous et bienvenue madame
This was so well done! I’m British-French and often wonder what it would be like to live their full time rather than just visit
This is exactly what people need to hear! Facts and real life experience! I love your channel and this solidified my respect for both of you. Thank you for your honesty.
Thank you for watching!
It takes great courage to move away from a place you've lived for 25+ years...or your whole life! Thanks for taking us on the journey.
It seems strange to find courage in doing what you say you want to do. And yet, it definitely took courage.
Oh man - "I ask a lot of stupid questions in perfect French" is an all time line; a genuine laugh out loud moment! Bravo for being unafraid to make mistakes and advocate for yourself. I too dream of moving to France, and each time I visit, I feel silly for either asking obvious questions or lack confidence because I fear my elementary french is not going to be good enough. But, it does not stop me from powering through! I think the level of uncomfortability I usually experience is good for growth and humility, and will abate in time. Thanks for this video!
you're very welcome!
@@LesFrenchiesTravel I'm the opposite, British, moved to France at a time books etc were too expensive to buy often, I had a moment re reading Jane Eyre, thinking "brook" what's a brook? Lol. Your fruité moment made me laugh, it's the taste, fruité :)
That is so wonderful of you to try such an effort as learning French language! Welcome to France, dear Colin, whenever you feel like coming back 🥰 And please feel free to know that even us, French speakers, are not always able to master this language all the way, most of the time.😅 So we’’ll learn on together!
Thank you for taking the romance out of moving to another country and for sharing how challenging it is. Thank you for keeping it real. I am a lifelong Michigan resident by choice. Best wishes.
Through it all, you've created another success -- that's what happens when a couple supports each other. Many happy returns in the new year!
Well said!!
What a beautiful story, and so well-told. I'm glad you moved to France and started this wonderful channel, which is going from strength to strength. My dream is to spend a couple of months in Paris each year. Fingers crossed the stars align for me one day, as they did for you. ❤
The interesting thing is that while the french tend to hate Paris, foreigners love it for some reason.
@@nox8730 Hello,
As a Frenchman born in Paris and of Parisian origin through my parents, grandparents, etc. (I'm 56 years old and I've lived in the south of France for ten years now), I think we can't say that the French don't like Paris.
This is a generalization that doesn't really make sense.
Paris isn't the most visited city in the world by chance.
It's Parisian life that's most frequently criticized, not the city itself.
But, it's often the same thing for all the megacities in the world.
Because life is completely different when you live in a "town," a medium-sized town, and a big city with a very large suburb.
We don't have the same priorities, the same way of life or thinking, the same opportunities. We build ourselves with what surrounds us. And this creates subcultures that stick to the general French culture that we all share nonetheless.
But, indeed, we sometimes see ourselves as iron dogs precisely because of these subcultures which undeniably shape us and make us different depending on where we come from.
I lived in Paris for more than forty years and I never got tired of this city, ever. Paris has always amazed me. And I have memories of it, certainly contrasting, but happy ones nonetheless.
It was rather the climate (weather) that ended up making me move.
On the other hand, what I've observed in forty years is that the tourists who have ended up taking the place of Parisians in Paris.
And this is precisely because of the enthusiasm that this magnificent capital represents for all those who come to visit and end up dreaming of settling there. This caused real estate prices to explode.
But how can we blame them when we know the French way of life and the magnificent architecture that surrounds us and these landscapes that change so much from one region to another? So much so that we sometimes have the feeling to change countries even though France is smaller than Texas! 😊
Peace, people. ☮😉
@@j-loosenfout67 Yes, that is pretty much it. If you are born in Paris (or any other city), you will most likely get used to it naturally and like the place. Not so much if you were born elsewhere. We all know that parisians love Paris, it is just that only them do. Paris is visited for good reasons indeed. But you just listed part of the reasons why those like me who were born elsewhere don't want to go there:
- Price of lodging.
- Too many people, too much stress.
- Those people oftentimes don't see you (big city conundrum: why?).
- Those who pee where they shouldn't (happens elsewhere, but Paris is something else).
- The metro (this metro depressed me for real).
- Big european city = traffic jams (and even with the (good) EU city policies, it is equal to: take that damn metro anyway).
- Crime rate, incivilities: foreign (northen african and eastern european) gangs that rob tourists (and others), and authorities do nothing to expell them from France. Despite them being there specifically to rob people, because Paris is one of the most visited place in the world. They know our politicans are all the same cowards ever since Daladier.
- A lot of what you get in Paris, you can get elsewhere, too. I live in a pretty random and inconspicuous french city, and at a 10 minute walk, there is the castle of King Henri IV, for example. There is no Louvres indeed, but well.
- Working in Paris is the least desired prospect for any french who were not born there. For obvious reasons.
I am a History freak, and so, this aspect of Paris really interests me. But will i go there again ? No. I spent two days there once, to visit someone. The place 'looked' nice. But it wasn't nice. We are different from you: we weren't born with a tie to this city that would make us yearn for it.
@@nox8730,
Don't take it badly, but when I read you, I realize you only consider perspectives from your point of view.
However, it’s not shared by everyone.
Indeed, today’s Paris may seem less safe than before.
But if you're a history buff, you know Paris was a much more dangerous cutthroat throughout its History than it is today.
It’s very recent; the relative security in Paris (or big cities and even in the countryside, except that today, we're over-informed, stuffed with news items) is not even a hundred years old, just like the same very recent relative insecurity barely fifteen years ago.
For years, I moved around Paris on a massive scale at all hours of the day and night. And, obviously, I’ve been bothered. Ultimately, it was rare compared to the numerous trips made in the capital.
I watch a lot of reaction videos about Paris. And I can tell you what you consider significant faults, which are often apparent qualities for those who live there (inside the city).
The metro, for example, is obviously an ordeal if you take it during rush hours. And I know what I’m talking about, knowing I worked for around ten years intramural, even though I came from the suburbs. I also went to school there (Technical High School) for two years, plus various internships and temporary jobs.
But apart from this forbidding aspect, it’s also the densest metro in the world (in terms of the number of stations).
It was designed from the start as the means of transport Parisians should always favor (intra-muros).
In fact, you can find a metro station less than 500m from home (most often, much less). And this, whatever your address in Paris, in addition to bus lines, boats, and other picturesque means of transport. It’s unique and undeniably practical, ultimately a luxury.
Most Parisians (intra-muros) use their vehicle very little.
*“A lot of what we find in Paris, we can also get elsewhere.”*
The answer is definitely nope.
For a lover of the arts, History, architecture, gastronomy, “heteroclism,” hidden gems, and outings, Paris is unique in France (grouping all these aspects in the same place and with so much density). It’s the largest city in France, the capital, and not just any town in History.
Moreover, you can’t judge a city as abundant as Paris by spending two days there. At best, this is a fanciful judgment; at worst, it is terse and lapidary.
Based on this observation, you can’t deny there’s an undeniable bias in your opinion. 😅
You base yourself on a feeling nourished by TV images, clichés, and gossip, but ultimately, tiny on your own familiarity with the place.
Two days isn’t an experience.
I have many friends from the provinces who came to settle in Paris for work and never left- or, like me, in their old days, because they were looking to reconnect with a certain tranquility and end their lives in more advantageous climates.
But, for most people, when you’re young, a city’s excitement and opulence is an asset, not a fault.
We can also move elsewhere often, go to the countryside, the sea (Normandy, or do the wine routes and others, for example) on a weekend.
You don’t have to confine yourself to the capital when you live there.
With my friends, that’s what we did in the end, and quite frankly, without much money.
Living in a place where you know all the tricks and good deals, and in a city like Paris and its surroundings, is a treat. But still, you have to want to search and, above all, to move.
That’s my point of view, anyway.
For this, like me, you have to be curious. Don’t be offended by the slightest annoyance; adventure is worth it! And, at this level, Paris and its surroundings (even a little distant) have nourished me handsomely. 😋😅
Have a pleasant day.
@@nox8730 I'd say I agree to you both. I'm born in Paris, lived 30 years in Paris, then moved to south France because I couldn't get with the everyday travel times.
I'd never want to go back to Paris. Last times I went to Paris, I couldn't stand the "smell" in the metro. So much pollution, dirt, noise, angry faces, ... I'm now a "young" retired, in a small south France village of 117 people, sorry 118 now with me, and so happy to be living far away from the Paris crowd.
But yes, "la ville Lumière" will ever be a wonderfull city to visit as a tourist, not many other places in the world are at this level of magnificence and beauty.
And Paris isn't France, it's only a very small part of what France is, and a very small part of the beauty of our country.
Paris isn't France. Tourists only visiting Paris know nothing about France. Even too many parisians know nothing about their own country.
So thoroughly enjoyed this video. Laughed at what Antoine said: “I asked so many stupid questions in perfect French.” Congrats to you and Colleen for living your dream, and sharing your ups and downs.
❤️🇫🇷Your love for each other and your beautiful marriage brought smiles. So much gratitude that you moved to Paris and you began filming and sharing your adventures with all of us! Thank you for being my Saturday joy, my quick trip to Paris via RUclips, Colleen and Antoine❤❤❤❤
So affirming to see that 183k subscribers resonate with real people, quality content and genuine feel good vibes. Let’s go 200k subscribers!
It was so enlightening to hear why you guys decided to move. I remember when I first found out you guys were going to France. You seemed so confident and to hear the other side is inspiring. We also made a move, not quite as far, so we can relate to a small extent. So proud of who you’ve become and what you guys have done. Can’t wait to see you. Brian just told me tonight he can’t wait to come out to Paris. Follow your dreams, I have been inspired by you guys and continue to be.
Thank you for sharing your story. As an American who decided to move to France a few years ago I have a special appreciation for not only your deeper motivations but also the highs and lows of your journey - especially having to do a lot of it during COVID.
Thanks for sharing your very personal experiences guys.
I’m visiting France for the 2nd time this November. 1st time was with my late husband & kids in 2017. This time solo. I’m feeling much more confident about my trip, thanks in part to your helpful videos.
Sorry I can’t commit to more, but here’s a coffee xx
Thank you so much! It's our pleasure to share our love of France. And we want everyone who visits to travel with confidence.
This was an amazing tale. I can feel how challenging it must have been and still is. Personally, I think I couldn't bare dealing with the burocracy so that is why I choose to be a tourist. And if I like the place, I visit again, and again. Like this month it will be my second visit to Paris within 2 years time. I am pretty aware it is not the same as being a resident but we live with what we can get. About this yt channel, your secret is your charisma! Both of you. Informative but also friendly. And the beautiful city you chose to live in helps quite a bit. Cheers from Rio, I'm a Brazilian who loves the world ( Florida e.g. I have been soooo many times!
bureaucracy
Love your story and the info and insight you provide is so real, personal and even touching! What a dream and we are so happy for your success!
I found y'all when I was planning my trip in 2022. It's been so much fun watching your videos since then. Thank you so much for what you do!!
Your story isn't only amazing but also inspiring 🙌 Merci d'avoir partagé 😇
J'adore le sourire de Colleen ! quelle belle aventure vous vivez, continuez ainsi car cela en vaut la peine et nous ravis à chacune de vos vidéos.
*Omg!!! I love this story! You guys always have the best tips about traveling (and now living) in France. I’m currently applying to jobs in Europe and definitely will be rewatching this video to get ideas about what issues/problems I need to consider when moving abroad.*
I love how well edited this is. Nice job, no fluff, just pure content. Thanks.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us! I really admire how you both faced the challenges of creating a new chapter of your lives together, with your son, in France. And thank you for sharing what you’ve learned along the way with us every week; I can’t wait to use your videos & my copy of the Paris Travel Guide later this year.
Merci beaucoup, Colleen & Antoine!
This was so interesting and I can relate on so many levels - we moved to the USA 28 years ago (from Ukraine) and had to go through pretty much the same hardships, the hardest was the language barrier, and it’s impossible to explain how it feels until you go through it yourself. I have so much respect for you guys and I’m so happy to know you found yourself - for you and for us!
The story behind the stories!
Thanks for lifting the veil on what brought you back to France and led you to start your excellent RUclips channel!
Et excellente année 2024 avec bientôt 200 000 (300 000, 400 000?) followers !
Thank you so much for this glimpse into your lives BF (Before France), and your honesty about your struggles. I love your authenticity and appreciate the work that goes into creating these videos.
I just ran across your channel today and what a gold mine! This is the most practical, enjoyable channel I've found re France. Not only do you provide valuable information, but you give everyone an up-close experience right along with you. Love it!
Such a lovely video. I moved to Buenos Aires once and i know how challenging a different language and culture can be.
It was difficult but it was an amazing experience i will cherish forever!
Greetings from Amsterdam ❤
Colleen and Antoine, you both are such a treasure for those who love traveling and especially for first time Paris visitors like moi. My fiance and I recently went to Paris and Strasbourg after Christmas (a last minute decision). I watched so many of your videos to help us prep for the trip. I have to say all your recommendations made our trip special specifically Chez Ferdinand Christine (best bouef bourguignon)! Keep making content and inspiring us Americans. Thank you! 💖
Thank you for sharing your story - and old photos - love it! I'm so glad that overall it was the best decision for you and you're thriving.
I'll tell you, I'm huge fan of Rick Steves and your channel is on par with his shows and information (well researched and entertaining). In fact, many people share your videos on forums to help plan their trips. Your videos have always been beautifully produced and informative. They're always fun to watch, too.
Keep doing what you're doing. Here's hoping whenever we return to Paris we'll bump into you!
Thank you for sharing your story with us! Your videos and advice are always so helpful because of your authenticity and we learned even more today. Love hearing the “why” behind your channel! Merci❤
I love you guys so much and love your story. Thank you for sharing everything. ❤
I love this!!!
The pandemic changed so many lives. My husband and I went from lifelong city dwellers to country people. Think Mennonite country.
Your videos are so refreshing. Too many North Americans have romantic ideas of moving to Europe, but when reality hits, they are shocked. It works for some, but it’s important, as Antoine says, to live there for at least 6 months and spend a winter.
It’s hard to believe that you have been living there for such a short time.
Can’t wait for next Saturday’s video. 👋🇨🇦
I love the essence of your channel, keep going, you were made for this!
This video compels me to come out of lurking mode and actually make a comment! This is a fantastic video, and thank you so much for sharing. I adore France and travel, and working for a French company allows me to go with some regularity, but I still rely heavily on your videos for perspective and recommendations. I also really appreciate Colleen's comments likening her experience with the school to families in the US from other backgrounds. Empathy is everything. Your best video, yet!
Thank you both for sharing and explaining your journey with us. It explains so much of how and why you did what you did. Keep showing us your 🇨🇵 adventures because life is what you make of it, and you both make it fun!
Thank you Todd.
❤Thank you both for sharing your very personal story and what your challenges were with us. You are my people!! Both of you are very likeable and a joy to watch because you are down to earth, funny and you understand the concerns and questions of a typical tourist. Your channel provides clear, thorough and valuable content that anyone visiting Paris would find helpful, whether it’s their first visit or not. I am hooked, keep the videos coming! ❤
Thank you!!!
What a beautifully told and relatable origin story. Best wishes for continued success. This is just the beginning.
What an amazing and heart warming story! So endearing and of course, as usual, helpful! Thank you so much for sharing it! ❤ I stumbled upon your channel when planning our 25th wedding anniversary. It was my first trip across the pond and my husband had not been to Europe since college. I watched every video you made and just ate it up. Everything was so incredibly helpful. I bought the guide too. Perfect! I will be forever grateful to you both! So glad you stepped in front of the camera Colleen!!!!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉Keep the videos coming!!!❤
Love you two! Thank you so much for sharing your incredible and informative story for someone from your generation who has job and family obligations to consider, rather than 20 and 30 year olds who have no family or careers to worry about! ❤
Thank you so much!
I don’t know why but your story made me cry, like several times. 😅 What an amazing story and I’m so happy you guys decided to share it. I never would have guessed that you have only been back in France for a few years. It goes to show it’s never too late to chase your dreams. What an inspiration you both are.
Same!
I love that you’re genuine about your experiences. What a blessing to move to France! ❤
You’re videos are the best! Definitely, nothing like other RUclips videos out there! I’ve been following your videos well over a year in preparation for a trip to Paris & Strasbourg. Thanks for helping make our trip run smoothly & memorable!🇨🇦
You guys are so inspiring! thank you for sharing your story with us ❤ and Antoine, I cannot agree more with you, your advise to anyone wanting to come and live in France is ON POINT! enduring winter + tax system its THE ultimate test...
Back in the early 1990s, our American family of four had the opportunity to live in St. Germaine-en-Laye for two years. It was without a doubt the best experience of our lives!
Working and going to school in a foreign country can be very difficult, but it changes your perspective in so many positive ways. As Colleen and Antoine explained, one of the benefits is that it gives you the chance to re-examine your personal identity. I especially appreciated Colleen sharing her struggles resulting from not knowing the language, as well as her empathy for new immigrants who face similar challenges here in the U.S.
Les Frenchies is a wonderful RUclips channel. My husband and are planning to be Paris for a week this coming December, and will definitely be watching future episodes for suggestions of new places to check out!
❤️❤️❤️
I agree. No one has an appreciation for what immigrants go through when they haven't gone through that themselves. I remind my more "right wing - send them back" friends of that all the time. It's not easy to leave everything you know behind and enter a new world with new rules and a new language. You literally are a fish out of water.
Did you/your children go to the Lycée International in Fourqueux ( now a suburb of St Germain en Laye)? It follows the French curriculum in French, but there are classes in your mother tongue, separated by language (Spanish, Greek, German, Japanese…) and taught by native teachers. In primary school, it is a morning and an afternoon a week, then in secondary, it is extra hours of literature and history/geography on top of the French program.
Yes! The Lycee was perfect a perfect fit our family. The boys were ages 9 and 11 when we arrived and spoke zero French. Most of their subjects at the LI were taught in French by French teachers, and only their English and Studies were taught by American teachers. A lot of our St. Germaine en Laye neighbors were also expats, so the kids were playing on a daily basis with not only French children but also Brits, Italians, Scandavanians, etc. It was amazing to see how quickly they picked up the language.
This video is wonderful.So vulnerable and such a beautiful story. Thank you for all your challenges, wins and sharing your information with us!
I admire your intestinal fortitude in making the big move. Your happiness in Paris is reflected in your videos.
I first visited Paris in the early 90's when I was in college. I fell in love with Paris immediately. 30 years later, my wife and I travel there often. I/we love your channel and have used some of your tips on our trips. This video is one of your best because we got to know you better. You answered a lot of questions for us. We hope to run into you on one of our trips. :-)
You guys are my favorite travel couple! Keep it up! :D
What a wonderful story! Thank you for sharing! Visited Paris in 2016 and it became my most favorite city in the world! Found you all on RUclips a couple of years ago and never miss a Saturday upload! Merci beaucoup!
I’ve seen many of your videos, but this is by far my favorite. Thank you for sharing your journey. Cheers!
I knew your return to France was recent, I was unaware how recent, fascinating story and congratulations on a successful transition!
Thank you
I agree with what others have said. This is one of my favorite videos you've done--and I truly TRULY love them all!
Your enthusiasm radiates throughout the video. Tyvm
I used you guys in planning for our French visit. I took copious notes of restaurants and hints on how to avoid pitfalls before we ever booked our trip. Being ex-South Floridians like yourselves, we figured we both spoke of the language of what we would like...and it worked. We loved our visit to France (a few days in Paris on own, then a cruise to La Havre, and then an extension in Normandie and Brettany. History combined with beauty and the people were the biggest surprise after years of listening to the "snobby Parisian" stereotypes. I am glad you feel the move was right for you. As another South Floridian, we made the move after retirement but to the mountains of North Carolina where there is beauty and a calmness that helps soothe the old I-95 and hurricane season nerves...but there is a getting used to the language problem here too, ya'll. Keep up the good work and enjoy!
This video could have gone on for hours and I still would have loved it. We've been following you guys since darn near the beginning when we were planning for our honeymoon. We're still pretty young, but dream of someday doing what you're doing and retiring in France. Thanks for all the great recommendations and for connecting us to the city we love but can't visit as often as we'd like.
You are very welcome!!
What an incredible & insightful & sweet story y'all have, thank you VERY much for sharing it!! 🙌
Fun Video to watch! Thank you for sharing your life (and France!) with us❤
I’m glad you all kept at sharing France. I’m looking forward to a 2025 visit. Skipping 2024 Olympic season.
I love your videos. I binge watched you guys before going to Paris for a week and it was big help. You present a real version of what it's like to experience Paris and not the "Emily in Paris" version.
Real, heartfelt advice from a wonderful couple that make such a difference❤❤
Mes frères, your story moved me to tears. Thank you for sharing such a personal story, to connect us to you.
I’m moving to Strasbourg from the US in a little over a week on a one year visa (to start). I’m braced for the challenges and hope it will be worth it. Thank you for sharing your challenges! ❤
strasbourg est une très très jolie ville, j'espère que vous vous y plairez.
What kind of heath insurance did you need to get your one year visa?
I LOVE this video so much. I am a Californian currently living in Sweden with my Swedish husband. We’ve been here for a month now. I can relate to almost everything you’ve said in the video. I heavily depend on my husband because I don’t speak Swedish. I feel completely useless 😢. The locals are nice to me and I don’t even know how to thank them. Thanks for this video is gives me so much hope ❤️
Just LEARN Svenska... I did it being from NL and dont even live there...MOOOVE.
This was excellent! And I just love getting to know you two more. Thank you for sharing with us♥️
I love your story! And I am VERY happy that you started this channel - it provided me with invaluable information when I was plotting my family's trip to France this past summer.
Quel plaisir de vous voir épanouis dans cette ville si spéciale ! J'espère un jour vous croiser dans la rue et vous témoigner toute mon affection. Vive la France, Vive Paris, Vive les Frenchies!
Love your channel, lots of great information. I am French from Bordeaux and am also a US citizen living in the US for 28 years. A video that might be useful to all considering moving to France, is a video regarding fiscal impact. As soon as one is a French resident (6+ months out of the year as a rule) you become taxable in France on your worldwide income. Most foreign people will be utterly shocked at the tax brackets % in France. And although there is a system of "non double" taxation, that doesn't mean you won't get taxed twice, just that SOME of the French tax to pay will be recognized by the US, and credited back. For example true income tax will be recognized by the US but not "social" taxes, which account for 17.2% of your taxes... It gets complicated... I would recommend never moving before having your US/France (or whatever country/France) tax scenario ran by a accountant specializing in international taxation. Happy travels!
Super useful information, thanks so much for posting that!
Especially as the US are one of two countries in the world to use citizenship based taxation, meaning that US citizens living abroad and paying taxes in their country of residence will still need to register and fill forms for the IRS, and the IRS'' requests are such that most french banks will not accept to open an account for US citizens as it would cost them too much to comply with those.
Such a phenomenal no-holes-barred presentation with honest, heartfelt observations and true tests of one's mettle. Très bien!
Allez, on y va✨
Good Video, I have feelings for France, My Mother was from France.
Glad to hear that
Thank you for sharing your deeply personal journey from South Florida to France. I watched you folks for months leading up to my solo 3 week trip last June to Paris and then to Provence. You gave me the confidence to tackle Paris. Throughout all your RUclips videos, I wondered why you had made this huge life shift, but your hints were few. As always, I appreciate your candor and professionalism. Merci beau coup ❣
You are both precious, honest, and adorable! I admire your strength in taking chances with life and where you choose to live it!
I've lived in 5 different countries, and I speak five languages. I lived in Paris, and I have uncles and cousins there. What I've learned is that the magic is in you not in places. No place will make you happy. It is the decision to be happy that makes the whole difference. You will be happy on a place where you will be able to make friends and get a sense of belonging. I noticed also that it makes a huge difference what you do in life and your income level. It makes a huge difference between living in France with a nice profession and high income and working as a clerk in a hotel. I joke that with money in your pocket many places are beautiful. I've met many French people in the US that loves the US. I have a French cousin in Las Vegas, and he loves it. I've met hundreds of European students in US universities and the majority would stay in the US if they could.
Very partial view .So hackneyed .I used to be hooked by America fifty years ago.
Not any more.This country is too far nowadays from what it really could be .
I yearn for the Land that came to our rescue twice and whose political leaders had
quite a stature.
Vive l'Europe ! Its past and its historical landmarks and the good life we have in France in comparison to so many countries steeped in prejudice ,war, hatred, gullibility ...
Yes, you'll be happy where you have a sense of belonging and make friends. However, how does the catagory "Friends and Family" rank in terms of needs?
As we get older, we usually are in contact with less friends. We worry more about schools, security, way of life, more vacation days to actually enjoy life, etc. Funny you talk about money - I believe that the poor in France acutally eat higher quality food than say, rich people in the US. I make less money in France than I could in the US and I will not move back to the US anytime soon.
Economic incentives and the business environment shapes society - how people treat each other, etc so even if we remove "friends and family" from the equation, we would still look at our situation and think - how many times my life has been threatened by someone, how much road rage I have to deal with to get somewhere. How many times was my property has been damaged by thieves? Does the food I eat make me sick? How am I treated at work?
All of these things really are dependent on the environment and a different country can change these factors in a very big way.
I completely see how young people would love the US. When you're young and carefree - so much optimisim - America changes so much and it can be exciting. But these huge economic swings, the finiancialization of everything and the lack of free time is suffocating and stress inducing. America loves these young folks because it uses them up, makes sure they have no money left to save for retirement because they bought into the marketing of trying to live like they're in a tv sitcom or hollywood film. Las Vegas for some people like myself - is a very terrible place to live. People are raising families while working nightshifts in hotels and casino's. That's not healthy or good for your kids. The whole economy is built around taking money from you and giving you nothing worthwhile back. The level of education is very low there. Las Vegas is an analogy for what America is - a huge casino with lights and enterntainment providing nothing real or long term in return - a spiritual wasteland exhibiting the worst of humanity.
Foreigners love the idea of America. Actually living there long term is a very different story. If you're rich and just hang out with rich people in gated communities enjoying the luxeries in life, it might not matter where you are too much because a luxury hotel in a crappy town is not too different than a luxury hotel in Paris or anywhere else.
@@christianayme7316 Greed, corruption and the fact that corporations are now more powerful than governments. Corporations control government and we're seeing the results of that in the US. Europe has a different version of something similar but for the everyday citizen, it's sill far, far better than the US in my opinion.
I'm also an American expat living in Paris and it's quite nice to hear other people's stories about moving to this wonderful country. Also, this 11:10 resonates with me so much. After having lived in France for more than 20 years, when I go back home, there are just certain American things I'm not used to and I also see it in people's eyes. When I'm in the USA, it's like I'm a foreigner who doesn't have a foreign accent. LOL
@@phillipbanes5484 I don't think I said things bother me. I believe I mentioned there are things that I'm no longer used to. For example: (not so) subtly being rushed to finish my meal at a restaurant by the wait staff or being approached every 10 seconds by sales staff in a store. Actually, those *are* things that bother me. LOL
@@phillipbanes5484 It's clear you just want to argue. Ok, you win. Happy?
@@phillipbanes5484 Whatever
If you don’t like misinformation, the. You may be better off staying off the internet
So glad RUclips recommended your channel. It takes a lot of courage to do what you did but you are living your dream 🌻✨️
You two are so inspiring. We used your guide for our trip to France last November your videos helped tremendously to prepare for our trip. We visited France in hopes to live there hopefully in the next 6 yrs. We will keep visiting for now. Thank you for your videos.
We're pleased to discover your channel and hear your story. We're both in our 60s and 3 years ago retired and sold up everything to move from Australia to Italy. We also lease a small apartment in France and now live between both countries. As Lucille Ball said " I'd rather regret the things I've done in life than regret the things I haven't done". We have no regrets whatsoever and can't see us ever moving back to Australia. Life is simply too short and then you're dead! 🙂
How wonderful I live in Sydney Australia and it’s my dream to live in Europe
It's funny the French would find him too direct. My experience has been that the French don't beat around the bush compared to Americans.
Your videos have been absolutely fantastic and valuable to me over the past year. I took my brother to France for the first time this past summer and I used your videos to gather up some great places to visit but also had to get around town. I went to college in France in the late 70's and have been back a few times for business since then but, as always, things change and I since I had not been back for about 10 years, so when I found your channel, I was thrilled since it gave me exactly what I wanted for my trip. It turned out that my brother entire family decided to join us for this trip and i'm so glad I had your content as a reference on so many topics. This particular vid is wonderful since I had been wondering how your life was spent (US vs France). All the best to you both and regardless of any travel plans, I'll keep watching your vids. Salut! :)
Great video! You complement each other so well. The love and humor you share is evident!
Welcome to Frankistan 🇫🇷🇫🇷🇩🇿🇩🇿❤
I lived 20 years in Paris... I do not miss the cost of living, taxes, pollution, rude people, gloomy weather, traffic jam, dirty streets, pickpockets...
We traveled a lot thinking there are better places in Europe we can move to, but quickly realized, we are good where we are. 😊
This was your best video, I wish it were longer. Keep bringing us more of your fun, interesting, inspiring and informative videos.
Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve watched so many of your videos before I went to Paris and just loved watching the two of you and really appreciated the information you share. It is nice seeing content created by adults lol. I had always wondered what your story was so I found it very interesting to hear the background. Keep up the good work!!!
as a french guy , i would say. I wish more americans here to com whereas africans. They re so many, that's a plegue .