'It annoyed me!' Expats in France share what they had to get used to after moving - but they now love it

It is common to face challenges in a new country, especially when getting used to the different ways locals do things.

Expats who moved to the south of France spoke about their love for the country - which is why they have stayed for more than 20 years.

However, they struggled to get used to a slower pace of life, particularly when grocery shopping.

"One thing that annoyed me - that I like a lot now - was when I first arrived and went to do my grocery shopping," they said on YouTube channel Riviera Go!.

"I would get in line and put my groceries on the belt and be in a hurry... the cashier would... take all the time in the world."

The expats, who moved from Germany, were used to getting in and out quickly when doing their weekly shop but this is not how things were done where they moved.

While the expats found it annoying to begin with, they said they now enjoy the slower shopping process.

They continued: "I really realised soon, don't rush and take your time. You won't be all sweaty and stressed when you come out of the grocery store.

"You'll be relaxed because you had a nice chat at the cash desk." She explained it was "something you have to get used to".

The expats stressed there are many scenarios when you will need to "be patient" living in France as things are generally done at a slower pace.

"Queuing is a big thing in France. You queue with passion." They added, "not everyone enjoys it".

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This comes as a travel expert revealed the four regions in France attracting British retirees.

This is due to their lower living costs and idyllic climate conditions, perfect for those who have retired.

Seasoned travellers shared Dordogne, Charente, Mayenne and Deux-Sèvres as some of the most attractive regions to British expats. Americans are more likely to head to the south east of France, he claimed.