Well done for making the move to come to France. I came to live in France back in and it was just to learn French. I wanted a change in my life. I stayed for 2yrs, I left and I came back for good after 2yrs of living in North American. I've also lived in Strasbourg, Toulouse (twice !!), Paris and now I live just outside of Montpellier. I even gave up my American nationality and I became French not too long ago. It's troublesome to get through but it's worth it. Again, congrats for making that big step.

@@chorton53 hi, I'm inspired by your story. I have long wanted to study French in France and hopefully stay forever. Any tips, especially on getting a visa or a job?

OMG, it was as if I was listening to my own brain...! I am in tears... I have been thinking about doing this for a very long time, but I am stuck, job, house, etc.. I am a European living in the US for more than 20 years and I fell the same way you felt when you moved, specially the comment you made about the health care system ... thank you! 🤗🤗🤗 So inspiring...

Wow... you eloquently expressed what I thought in a video form ❤❤❤❤ thanks

I wrote a long reply...but deleted it. I just want to say to others..don't dream, just go and live the dream! All too soon you are too old and sick to move or enjoy life.

This is incredible!! Wow, Ireland!

If u don't mind..how old r u now?

@@inezyahya3433 I turned 69 at the end of January. I feel about 40 😉😉

Good for you.. Carmel.... Living in ireland

@@vickifenlon2235 Happy belated birthday..🙂

sounds so exciting. good luck to you

I too went to Canada about the same time and for political reasons. And was also deported back to the US. I ended up in Sandpoint, Idaho. Which at the time was awesome. After leaving Canada l felt like l was a prisoner of the USA. Mostly because l was poor. One of the stipulations of staying in Canada was you had to have over so much money, land, business, speak French fluently. You could marry, which l did and it was a huge mistake, we got into an argument and he didn't want to sponsor me, so l had to go. l'm 64 now and live in Maine with my ex-husband who has many mental and physical issues. Struggling again to survive as usual, in a place that from the brochures make you think it's awesome. But in reality, let's just say, winters can be quite the challenge. Many people talk like their from Boston. 😖 The bigger cities like Bangor and Waterville are not huge but you never really get to know people very well. It's like you're not there even though you are. I wanted to move to a sweet town like Sandpoint use to be but l haven't found it yet. If only l had studied my French a little harder! Just thought I'd say hello to another political rebel..🙋

How wonderful 🥰💖💙💚

That is so awesome! I kind of want to try that. I’m a proud Texan but our American society is failing.

That is a giant stepping stone.💝💝💝💝💝💝💝

Not true. For most people - it's fear. Especially, when you have family to support.

Same thing with me! Life is different for everyone!

Same thing with me! Especially if we have responsibilities! Life is different for each one of us.

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/o6p-ac-or9PRaIk.html

this also really resonated with me. I hate what I'm doing, the reason I went to college, but don't know how to NOT do what I've been doing for so many years.

I remember saying exactly that when I was an artist, photographer.

Exactly what happened to me

Thank you, Karen 💞He’s such a kind person and my best friend. I’m a big fan of his 😻

Yes, I believe making an enormous leap and complete change of lifestyle + leaving the USA - is "easier" accomplished with a partner ... 💖

brilliantly said, i also believe in the same. you can be happy at any place.

100% agree with you. It doesn't matter where we live, it can be achieved. says the laid back Aussie, me. 🙂

@@aashishthakur77 thank you 😊

@@Deb.-. 😀australia is dear to our hearts for sure

She's young and doesn't seem to have lived in many areas but speaks about the US as though it's the same everywhere. "Everything was a means to an end..." if that's what she chose. "Work is valued above everything else..." for some but not all Americans. Her view of us doesn't seem to be very informed or well rounded. My life and the lives of our family and friends isn't the way she portrays.

Brilliant! What a gift to have at 15!

@Liz H 😃

I had some French friends when I was young and found them to be good people, polite, friendly, jovial and helpful. At the time I was learning French and thought I would like to live in France, but the dream never came true. However, I have been to France once, namely to Paris. You know.... I liked French bread, many kinds of it ! J'aime la France ! (am Indonesian, 72 yrs)

My condolences for being French.

@@TeeGar why this agressive message ? Mind your bitterness, it’s bad for your health !

Reading this I felt so happy. It’s things like this that feed me. Living in the Netherlands, where spontaneity of social and meal time with friends is largely an utterly foreign concept, I’ve craved the long meals and losing track of time I’ve experienced elsewhere. For the past year or so my wife and I have had the feeling we would be moving to France around 2024. For a long time it wasn’t clear where, no place really spoke to us. We got the sense it would be a small town with an international outlook, surrounded by nature. A place people chose to move to, rather than mostly solely locals who’ve lived there forever. Then along came Fontainebleau, which is pretty well this, and so much more. Now it’s all starting to snap together :)

@@soleus333 😌☺️. I don’t know Fontainebleau ( I live in Bordeaux) but I’m sure you’ll find what you’re looking for there. Love your mindset 😉

Hello, For my part, being a pure 80s teenager (I was 20 in 1987), I think the "American dream" has fizzled out. When I was little, in the 1970s, there were only 3 TV channels in France. And since Wednesday is a day off for children in France, we so have the right to watch the film on Tuesday evening. And on the third channel, every Tuesday it was "western". Ditto on Sunday afternoon and Sunday evening, quite often it was American films that were scheduled. All the children of my generation grew up with the image of "cowboys and Indians". At the time everything that came from the USA was a dream for the French: the cars, the many films on the magnificent 60s in the United States, the campuses, route 66, music of course, Elvis Presley was not still dead, Jackson Five was going full blast, Marilyn Monroe was the star, James dean, the idol, etc. The French songs for the most part were covers "adapted" in French language. Artists such as "Cloclo", Johnny Hallyday, Eddy Mitchel, Dick Rivers, etc. spoke only of the USA. You only have to read the stage names they had chosen to realize this. To call oneself (Maurice) "Chevalier" was no longer a guarantee of success in France at that time. It was out of date. Those French artists even dressed USA, ate USA, lived USA. This was where we had to succeed. And then the 80s and 90s passed by there, the cold war started to seem ridiculous to us in France. The decisions of Reagan the cowboy president concerning the economy, this way that Americans had of talking only about money, success, etc. all the time; suddenly seemed very childish to us. The "American way of dream" was starting to really take a turn for the worse here. Today, I'm, and the majority of French people with me, completely cured of this inferiority complex vis-à-vis the Americans. This doesn't prevent us from respecting them, as well as their way of life, and of course without forgetting very long friendship unites both countries and even started before own birth of free America. But that doesn't mean much to us anymore, this ways of live where you live to work and success in business as if your live depended of it. I see around me that more and more people are tempted by a more rural way of life, a return to sources and respect for the time, the rhythm of the seasons and of life. Even if pardoxically, they've a lot of trouble letting go of smartphone. Despite everything, many try the adventure in France. I did everything to leave Paris and its suburbs and come and settle in the south (Perpignan). I still have about ten years to work before retirement. And I hope to enjoy it as long as possible after. Today, I think I'd hate living in America, really. It doesn't make me dream at all. Sometimes I've complaints about my small country. but it's like with my own family, it never lasts very long and it never takes away the love I have for it. Long live France. Friendly,

I feel you!!! We’re about the same age. Growing up watching all the Hollywood movies, living in America was the biggest dream of many people of our time. Today we would have chosen a different way to spend our precious youth if we had known the truth, but we were too naive and one track mind. Definitely go somewhere else to retire for sure:-) there is no dream here!!!

@@chenyeh9053 You've got it ...it's exactly that!

I'm French and moved to the US in 1990, I've lived more years in the US than in France. For the first time, because of Covid, I've been in France for months, since July, and I'm wondering, WTF was I thinking when I moved to the US 30 years ago???? I have to go back though, but not for too long.

Makes me think of the phrase, "The grass is always greener..."

I definitely think a slower, simpler life can be done in the U.S.! For sure! But I think the U.S. minimum wage/employer expectations and healthcare can make it more difficult to live slower for a lot of people depending on where you are. I've worked jobs in the U.S. (even in a small town in Virginia) where the bosses didn't want me - or even allow me -to take lunch breaks away from the computer. I had to be "on" all the time. I also had an office employer tell me when I started the job that 2 weeks vacation is allowed but ill-advised and most people there don't take the full 2 weeks. But most of my work experiences were in NYC and Virginia. So cool to hear that you have an Etsy shop and you're able to have the time to do what you enjoy!

Interesting yourexperience of work work work; I was thinking that maybe you attracted this craziness, I know it exists and is espoused, so you would seek an environment elsewhere that resonated with your values. And the beauty of France is amazing!

How lucky you're, having made your dreams come true! Yes, life is to be enjoyed but in reality human beings have to work hard to the point of finding it difficult to enjoy what has been earned. It's also my dream! But unfortunately it would be impossible for me to have it. I am already old, aged 72 yrs. Greetings from Jakarta from an old woman 🙂

@@helenawoods where in Virginia. If you were living up around the DC area, I can understand. That is a totally unrealistic part of the world.

You can still learn French now. Try duolingo 😊

Yes yes YES!! Preach it Greta! I love this. Pinning this comment because it deserves to be heard.

Yes to all of this!!! I even hear a lot of people actually complain about unions here and I don’t understand !!

@@subtropical1228 Yep that's what I was getting at! I see a lot of "Americans are strong, we don't need that crap, we don't need someone else to look after us" but they're looking after huge corporations and big business by allowing themselves to be exploited!

@@helenawoods omg thank you! I appreciate that, I was actually really scared that people would be angry about this ahahaha. But yeah, trust me, if companies and government here were allowed to exploit people, they would, but Aussies (and I know for a fact the French do too) kick up such a huge fuss when it happens that it keeps them in check. I'm a big believer in the power of the people :)) xoxo

min-wage is about to go up to $15.00 per hour in America. So things are starting to get better...

It will take time, but technology is just around the corner that will toss pharmeceuticals and current corrupt medical systems to the curb. I know , I am not guessing, nor hoping. The best IS yet to come

May I ask what city did you move to?

@@pandorapandora1816 We're next to Montpellier in the south of France.

Any advice for someone who would like to move to France??

Thank you :) We are on the same wavelength! I always love reading your sweet comments!

@@helenawoods , Hi Anna, I love your story. I just saw you videos it brought me to tears. I would love to come to visit France one day.

NYC is a big, concrete dump. Nothing else.

yes!!

Are you sure it‘s not you who creates the pressure?🙏🏻💕

@Elaine - I felt so deeply drawn to respond to your comment as, although I am not a mother myself, I truly feel there is no higher calling in this life than to be a mother (or parent). I was raised in a deeply toxic patriarchal environment where my mother’s efforts, care, creativity and general femininity were scoffed at, minimised and even ridiculed - like her life as a SAHM had no value. I now see this came from my father’s deep patriarchal conditioning, insecurity and mental unwellness. Conditioning that many unconsciously promulgate without thinking. I am sorry my mum went through this (as do so many), and although she too had her troubles, I’m grateful she did the best she knew how to do with what little (emotional) support she had. To me, nothing is more sacred and important than raising the next generation of humans with wisdom, love and true intelligent values and priorities. IMHO, ALL endeavours should be in support of this and if your husband has the kindness and wisdom to understand and support you all in this, all the better. In summary... Own it, lady!! And bless you on your sacred and what I’m sure is a deeply fulfilling path. 🙏🏼💗

aw thank you for your sweet words Milly! :)

@@helenawoods You're welcome 😊I love your channel ✨

@Milly Lou - You write very good English.

Oh my god! I am in the US and I want to move to France. I’m looking at graduate schools. I also have bipolar disorder. It’s made my bachelors take longer than I was hoping (and my grades were bad before I got diagnosed and medicated). I really hope they see my turnaround in my grades and let me in. I don’t know anyone else with bipolar and it’s nice to hear you’ve had a successful journey so far 😁 I have the same fear. I know I’m capable intellectually to fight amongst others in US work culture, but with the ebbs and flows of bipolar, I know I need a life that is more flexible and less stressful. I hope I can make the same journey to France as you someday soon. :)

@@pooploops oh I hope you can make it here! To be honest my journey wasn't the smoothest, I had failed 2 exams as well because of bipolar plus j took a couple of months after my graduation to decide on my course. That's when I chose France and came there in 2018. It was perfect except that I had a manic episode and I was hospitalised here and had to go back home. But I loved the country so much I decided to come back again next year after recovering so I came back in 2019 and successfully finished my graduate program. So you see it was quite a bit of a roller coaster ahhaa but to me you sound like you know your illness well and can manage it even better than me so I hope you do come here after the whole pandemic thing turns down a bit :)

Hey I’m an Indian too. I’m 19 y/o and live in Mumbai. I’m honestly stressed out by everything. How can I move to France or Italy for this type of living ?

@@howardlovesyouu Hey, you're still young which is great, so to move in France/Italy something that is non negotiable is knowing the local language. I'm still learning but I got lucky and found an English speaking job so I can manage. Normally however they ask for French language (fluent, not just basics) 90% of the time. Same for Italy, and most Italian students actually move to France because job opportunities are scarce in Italy. I think your first step would be to learn the language, preferably also speak with natives because learning French from Indian teachers is a no go, they speak really slowly and have heavy Indian accents. So it's kind of a waste of time and money because you won't understand the local French here if you're not used to the native accent and speed. I learnt French in France from the natives so my pronunciation and accent is closer to the French one. I still don't sound 100% French Ofcourse but atleast people understand me here and I can understand them easily, my Indian friends who didn't work on their accents have trouble tho. Long story short, language is super important for European countries. And you're 19 so you can easily reach a B1 or a B2 level before you do your masters! As far as jobs are concerned, in France there are lots of opportunities in tech.. I do product management for example but there are others as well. Then there are job opportunities in sales/marketing. If you want something more "sciency" with pure research focus or academic focus I'd suggest Germany. For business and technology, France is the best. Also, try understanding French culture etc. I totally winged it without any research and luckily it worked for me but I wouldn't suggest everyone to take a risk like that, so yes in the end, do your research both in terms of language, culture and job prospects. Also, try approaching your local "Campus France". They guide and counsel students who wish to move to France. Hope this helps. Cheers :)

@@Pumpkiwi47 thank you so much for this info didi. i really wish to move to europe but you know how restrictive indian parents are ...

Wow thank you Sandra!! Your words mean so much - so nice to connect with you kindred spirit! We value the same things 😊🦋

@@helenawoods thank you! You have the gift of comunication. I feel like you've been reading my mind, but comunicating what's there with more clarity. Bringing it to light. Thank you very much! ♥

THIS! I've been reading through the comments of both French people and Americans looking over the fence and seeing the grass as greener. But, as you say, it's about realizing we need a slower more nurtured pace of life, living from our hearts. ❤ Thank you for your comment.

Hello, are you in Holland?

I am American. My parents (long story) moved to Zarautz in the north of Spain in the 1970's. I was a teenager. Among many memories, I will never forget the pure magic of driving through the Pyrenees Mountains. And I will never forget the paella!

“People who... want to spend most of their time in nature with their dogs.” YES!!! THIS. IS. LIFE. 🙏🏼❤️

Good morning Katie! Aw thank you for your prayers that’s so kind of you! 💞I can be quite productive when I’m in a flow state and it’s fun to do! I love when inspiration comes knocking. 😍 oh Yes this is so beautiful, I resonate with all these words. We connect on the same things! 🙌🦋

Live your own life !!! So happy you are doing what you want :-)

Yes I hope there is a big shift! That is fabulous 🙏 Excited to watch 😻

The point is America’s pay up the nose for everything whilst other countries help there people. In America you will be homeless as soon as you can’t pay your bills. While in countries right next door in Mexico and Canadia offer healthcare, free education free internet at no cost. America just cannot compete. In American terms… America is not great.

Interesting life story!

Did the same thing three months back! Got my Portuguese citizenship and I've been trying to live slower in the time since. In many ways, life here is better.

Moi je sais que vous pouvez relever ce challenge🇫🇷💪

France. When I got divorced in 2006, I wanted to end everything. I thought before I take that drastic measure, I should go to Paris. If I still felt such despair in Paris, then I would end my life. I'm still here and still haven't gone to that beautiful city, but you've convinced me that once the world opens back up, I need to board that plane.

@@wickedartist1451 YES!

I did not move abroad but migrated inside my country. I left an island and moved to the continent. 😎

There is something about Edinburgh Scotland I feel drawn to.... I get what you absolutely mean in this video. I think so many people are unaware of the culture Americans are immersed in. It has some positives but some big negatives to..

I love Italy and felt at home when I visited there in 2018

Wow that is incredible Juliana! You’ve lived in so much of this beautiful world! So very inspiring. I will need to tell my husband this because he would live to teach ESL in lots of countries too. Thank you for sharing your kindness with me 💕 😊

I agree with you. Helena 's voice is beautiful. It's such a pleasure listening to her voice and thoughs!

Take responsibility for your life - YES! Love this. And resonate with it so much! Of course, quitting your jobs and moving abroad is an extreme case but I resonate with this so much. Stepping into ones own personal power, being disciplined and courageous to take risks - ah! I could go on and on - I need to make a video on this! Thank you for sharing your beautiful words with me Elena! 😊💞

Completely agree!

ahhh YES! I resonate with this so much! So beautifully said, Beverley!

Thank you Judy!

Exactly. It is not the USA..it is the cities.

thank you, beautifully said!

Wow it’s beyond beautiful in Switzerland! And the air so fresh! What a dream 😍 So nice to connect with you here Julia! 💞

Kansas is wonderful! I love the United States.

Love!! 💕💕✨

Aw this makes my heart so happy to read, Joe!! :)

@@helenawoods Ha I've had Sedona and the GC top on my list. Cali if they ever open up again. I need a map lol, get my (plans) set, is flying by the seat of ones pants a plan? Lol Always good to catch you lovely soul.

@@joepeponis869 I live in Tucson and visit Sedona every summer. It’s truly beautiful. If you have the chance, take the drive to Flagstaff 😊

@@wickedartist1451 I will absolutely cruse through when I'm out that way, So much beauty to see out in the Wild Wild West!

Yes, I have many similarities with you.

Ah love it John!! :) Thanks for sharing! I dream of moving to Italy too!! Italy and Portugal are my dream places to live!

@@helenawoods I'm currently learning Italian and I'm from Donna, TX Deep South Texas. Never felt connected here for some reason. What you said about our country is very true. Most Americans are caught up in keeping up with the Jones's.

@@johnmendoza5907 I feel the same. learning italian in Hawaii with the hopes of one day leaving this tiny, over crowded island. as nice as it can be sometimes, it’s too crowded for me

@@johnmendoza5907 Sounds good John, I am from Italy, living in Nashville TN. One of the good things about Italy is that you can live without a car, which seems to be one of the major expenses in the USA unless you live in a big city, but then housing will cost you more than a car. And the food in Italy is great!

@@helenawoods I moved to Portugal 25 years ago. Built my own cob house and have peace.

Sometimes you need to do a holiday first to make sure it is really what you want. 🙂

@@Deb.-. yes for sure. I’ve been through Europe and I felt at home there.

Hey Ms.La Traverse--it can be done. And age is just a number. That said, packing up and moving to another country does come with some logistical (and financial) challenges. In many countries, you have to enter through a points-based immigration system where you are required to have a certain number of points to apply to enter. You need a working visa and a sponsor for your job. You have to earn a certain salary so you don't be able to get 'benefits' (i.e., welfare). I would thoroughly research the country you are looking to move to and see what their government website says about moving, especially in this time of Covid. Now, all the very best to you and I hope you can make your dream a reality!!

Life is too short! 💞😻 thank you! 😊

Oh neat! 💞