SETTING up in a new town can be daunting enough, but throw in a different language and a new culture and for some it can be a real problem.
So getting some helpful advice from people who already live in the town or village could be a real help.
The Accueil des Villes Francaises (AVF) is an association that can help smooth a move to a new area, and they offer support to all comers.
IF you buy an older property in France there is a good chance that it has some unique architectural characteristics.
However, this can sometimes cause problems when you are looking to do some work and are keen to keep it in context with the rest of the building.
A good way of ensuring your plans are in keeping with the existing property is to contact the departmental representatives of the Maisons Paysannes de France.
THIS morning saw the first real frost across the fields of Villefranche du Pergigord, the grass and bushes glistening in the sunshine.
ARRANGING a French will for your property and belongings in France is not only a good idea, it is likely to save you some money.
Relying upon a will made in the UK may produce a lot more work for your legal representatives and cause problems regarding the payment of any taxes due.
IT is important for most people to know just how much electricity is going to cost them in France, even if it is just their holiday home and therefore rarely used, writes Dave Lord.
BUYING a home in France is an exciting business, but for every smooth transaction there is often a tale of woe as unforeseen problems strike.
UK based law firm Grace & Co has supplied a list of key points to consider when buying abroad, saying it is important that people prepare correctly.
When buying property in the UK, arranging proper finance, instructing a surveyor and consulting an independent solicitor are par for the course.
IF your holiday home website needs a bit of a makeover then there are some very simple steps you can take to make sure it sparkles.
Even if you entrust the updating of your site to someone else just make sure that they follow these rules so you get more ‘bang for your buck’.
The main function of your site should be to create a welcoming feel, build a sense of trust and make it easy to book your place for a holiday.
WHAT to do with a room full of walnuts, drying out waiting for market, is just one of the challenges facing Philip Voice.
He and his wife Donna, and two children sold up in the UK, packed up their belongings, brought over their pet dog Hector, and moved to France two weeks ago.
THERE’S nothing like a bottle of champagne to add a bit of sparkle to an occasion, but which variety to pick and how much to pay can be a real problem.
So here is a look at choosing good champagne from Jon Catt, who holds a French Regional Guides qualification for the Champagne Ardennes region. He writes…
THE attraction of buying an older property lies in the atmosphere that time brings to a farmhouse or watermill for example.
However, time can also bring many challenges and jobs that draw on hard earned cash so it is worth looking into any financial help that may be available.