Sophie W. Says: I’ve always dreamed of one day owning my own château in France. Is that something that’s possible, or just pie in the sky? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Writes: There’s something undeniably romantic about having the keys to your own French château. The word château takes in a whole range of Read more...: Is it Possible to Own a French Château?
June R. Says: My fiancé and I would love to get married in France. What do we need to do? Can the U.S. embassy help or would it need to be a priest? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hi June, Congratulations on your marriage plans! If you plan to get married in France, Read more...: How Can We Get Married in France?
Julie K. Says: We’re planning to rent an apartment for six months in Paris. Do you have any advice? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hi Julie, Finding an apartment in Paris can be a daunting task, but the advent of short- and mid-term rentals, plus the wide reach of the internet, has made Read more...: How Do I Rent an Apartment in Paris?
Marianne C. Says: I love the romantic idea of retiring to the South of France. But what’s the climate like there? I hear it described as sunny, but would like to know some specifics. IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hi Marianne, The South of France rejoices in hot, dry summers—and it’s usually very mild Read more...: What’s the Climate Like in the South of France?
Paul W. Says: What can you tell me about buying a house in France? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hi Paul, The first rule of property buying in France is: Don’t rush in. Unless your heart is set on a home in the more popular areas of Provence or in Paris, there are Read more...: How Do I Buy a House in France?
Lucy G. Says: Is there an English-speaking agency that can help me find a home to rent in France? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hi Lucy, French real estate agents (immobiliers) are strictly regulated. They must be in possession of what’s called a carte professionelle, which can be issued only by the agent’s Read more...: Who Can Help Me Find a Rental in France?
nice to hear from you, and I’m really happy that you found the information on France helpful. Those are all wonderful locations to think about for retirement, especially St. Rémy, Aix-en-Provence, and Cotignac.
Currently, there’s no tax on valuables, like jewelry, if you’re planning on bringing those items to France.
David W. Says: What medical care is available to U.S. Citizens who relocate to France? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hello Dave, thank you for your question. Fortunately, signing up for French healthcare is easy and very affordable. Everyone goes into the public system (no need for private care), which is excellent. France operates Read more...: What is Medical Care Like in France?
My wife and I would like to move to the area in France where IL’s France Correspondent Tuula Rampont lives. We would like to get a place with two bedrooms and two baths. Is this possible in this part of France?