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© Catharine Sceats
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France Made Simple explains everything you need to know to create a new life there for you and your family. Host Catharine Higginson draws on her personal experience gained from over 20 years of living and working in France and shares insight from specialist guests tackling subjects such as inheritance planning, property purchase and renovation, visas and insurance.
81 Episodes
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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…You can book a FREE consultation with George here : https://calendly.com/george-symes-sjb-global/sjb-global-cross-border-financial-adviser-spa-clone
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 offers insights into embracing and understanding these cultural quirks. Tune in for a “thoughtful discussion that challenges stereotypes and encourages cultural appreciation” - alternatively, it might just make you laugh!
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 you listen in and hopefully it will inspire you to go for a ‘cure’ too!
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.Useful links:https://www.hellowatt.fr/comparateur-fournisseurs-electricite-gaz/https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/R43794https://comparateur.energie-info.fr/compte/profil
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 easier said than done and there’s no magic solution but hopefully my thoughts on the subject will help. You can also laugh at my mad windswept hairdo…
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!
We catch up with long time SF member and podcast fan Nick Ord who tells us why he decided to change career and open a hotel and restaurant in Dinan. And…there’s a special discount for listeners!
If you’re looking to buy a property in France, the viewing process can be daunting. You need to be aware of all the potential problems you might encounter and know the right questions to ask. But never fear, we are here to guide you through the process! This episode is the second part of our “All you need to know” when you’re buying in France. So if you’re buying, or even just at the ‘thinking about it’ stage, give it a listen and feel free tous end us any questions too!
Many of you who want to move to France also need to earn a living, and running a gite or even a gite complex, can be an ideal way to do this. Listen in to the latest episode and find out exactly how to go about this and how to find the perfect property for your rental project!
One of the (many!) things that you need to be prepared for when moving to France is the cultural divide that exists between France and Anglo-Saxon countries. It’s not necessarily a bad thing ; just something to be aware of. In this episode I run through some of the many differences. Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts too!
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