Retiring in France. David Hampshire discusses with Peter the ins and outs of moving to France to retire based on the new edition of his book 'Retiring in France'.

David feels that it is a good idea to start by looking carefully at where you want to live. Don't jump in with both feet, hold off a little and perhaps rent a house to see if you really do want to be in that region. Isolation from services you may need particularly if you are in later life can be a big problem. the barn conversion far from the nearest town may seem at first sight to be ideal but just imagine of you couldn't drive!

Issues like language, climate and even exchange rates are of prime importance and have to be looked at.

The language in particular is one topic that you should take seriously especially if you want to become part of the community and really enjoy the experience.

Also bear in mind that your family may be a big pull. Living away does lead to wonderful holidays in your new land but you can't just drop in for a cup of tea or deal with family problems when you are several hundred miles away.
Cheap airline tickets may help but the companies come and go so there may not be a service to your area in a couple of years.

Ferry companies are taking this situation into consideration more and more and offering discounts for frequent travel or if you are a home owner in France. Brittany Ferries for example offer 30% plus other incentives. There is a programme in out travel section telling you more about this.

Dying is something we all would rather not talk about