Four regions in France attracting British retirees with their lower living costs and idyllic climate conditions
Britanny is conveniently located for British expats
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Retirement is a time when a slower pace of life and practicality take precedence over social opportunities.
These factors put France at the top of the list of best European destinations for British retirees, as the nation ticks most factors on an expat's wishlist.
No two cities in France are the same, however, so expats are advised to do their research before moving across the Channel.
Seasoned travellers Warren and Julie, who moved to Europe from the US, recently offered valuable information about where expats are going in France.
Many British expats live in the Dordogne region in France
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They invited a relocation expert named Fabien on their YouTube channel to discuss the best spots based on climate conditions and costs of living.
He shared that while Americans tend to head towards the South East of France, Britons are typically more attracted to the Western stretch of the country and the South West region.
More specifically, he named Dordogne, Charente, Mayenne and Deux-Sèvres as some of the most attractive regions to British expats.
"It’s funny because these days, particularly in the past couple of years, the more expats come to one area, the more the prices tend to increase there," noted Fabien.
"So they tend to turn to different places like Deux-Sèvres and Mayenne. They tend to go to these places probably because of the price tag.
"The proximity of the tunnel under the English Channel is definitely one of the main factors that attract Britons to the northwestern coast of France.
"There are tonnes of Ferries that can go to Britain too from the UK, and from Ireland. There is also the Mt St Michel, one of the French wonders."
Fortunately, getting around France is very easy, making it possible for seniors to take up residence in communities off the beaten track.
Research published earlier this month suggested Britons secretly admire their neighbours across the Channel.
A spokesperson for OnePoll.com, who conducted the survey, said Britons commend the French way of life, characterised by a balance between work, and leisure.
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Charente is growing in popularity among British expats
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"When it comes to food, meals are a time to savour and enjoy, rather than to rush, and the French take pride in what they eat, right down to the presentation," they noted.
While the eating habits of the British and French both have their unique characteristics, they also reflect broader cultural values.
"The British tend to value hearty, comforting meals, whereas the French place a high value on culinary tradition, quality ingredients and the social aspect of dining," said the spokesperson.
"However, regardless of culture, food is a great leveller as it’s more than just food on a plate - it’s shared experience and memory-making, which unites us all across diverse influences and ever-changing culinary trends."
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