I get asked this a lot, and it isn’t an easy answer. After having made the move, I understand now that it has to do with where I find myself in life, a bit footloose and with definable available time in front of me.
Of course, it IS France, with all its intriguing art, architecture, and culture. And I’m in the South where it doesn’t get all that cold in the winter. And I really love the sound of the language. But it is mainly just the lure of travel no matter where you go, that experience of seeing something you have never seen before around every corner. Of course, it is all still very new to me, so, talk to me in a year and let’s see how it is.
So, yes, this all started in 2016, when Trump was elected the first time. I realized that my thinking was not in line with a great portion of the American population. That is when the seed was sown. But that did not turn out to be the deciding factor. And I do think becoming a grass-roots activist for change would be a more courageous move than leaving the country. Today, 100 or so days into the second time around, I, like so many of my friends, am embarrassed and saddened by the current leadership of the United States.
The deciding factor for me turned out to be financial. I can stretch my savings further here than in the U.S. Living in France is not cheap. But the cost of buying or renting where I am is considerably less than in my beautiful hometown in Western North Carolina. The national healthcare system and the cost of healthcare in general are far more affordable, and the care is excellent. I can live a full and convenient life without owning a car.
But the costs of food, entertainment, restaurants, household goods, etc. are very similar to the U.S.
All of that said, there are beaucoup reasons NOT to make a move like this, but that is a whole other conversation!