France Made Simple

French Car Insurance: What You Really Need to Know Car insurance in France is one of those subjects surrounded by endless urban myths, conflicting advice and the inevitable “my friend down the road does it this way” stories. In this episode, I’m joined once again by Fabien from Fab French Insurance to cut through some of the confusion and explain how French car insurance actually works. We talk about the bonus-malus system and how your no-claims history is transferred from another country, why French insurers can be particularly demanding when it comes to proving your insurance history, and what can happen if the information on your application doesn’t match your previous insurance record. We also look at foreign-registered vehicles, including UK cars being driven in France while their owners are waiting for the import process to be completed, temporary French registration plates and the increasingly strict approach to cars that remain permanently on foreign plates. Another big difference is that in France the insurance generally follows the vehicle rather than being based solely around named drivers. So what happens if you lend your car to a friend, neighbour or family member? And what happens to your excess, your no-claims discount and your cover if they have an accident? We also get into the thorny subject of foreign driving licences…Including British licences after Brexit, EU licences and the different rules that can apply depending on where you originally obtained your licence. The main message? Don’t assume that because something was perfectly normal in the UK, US or elsewhere, it works the same way in France. And perhaps most importantly: don’t rely on Steve from Facebook. As Fabien says, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” Sometimes paying for the right advice at the beginning can save you a lot of money and headaches later. Fabien has been working with expats in France for many years, and we’ve worked together for more than a decade, so this is a particularly useful episode if you are moving to France, have recently arrived, are importing a vehicle, or simply want to make sure your existing French car insurance is doing what you think it is. France Made Simple — demystifying life in France and telling it like it is!

Buying a property in France can be exciting, romantic and, occasionally, a spectacularly expensive mistake… In this episode, I go back to one of the earliest topics I tackled on France Made Simple, finding a property in France, but with a rather different approach. After nearly 30 years of looking at French properties (and buying quite a few!) , I look at the five things you really shouldn’t do when choosing a French property, based largely on mistakes I’ve made myself. From getting carried away by how much house you can get for your money, to ignoring the realities of rural life, underestimating renovation costs, falling in love with a staircase and buying the wrong property out of sheer desperation, there are plenty of lessons to be learned. I also talk about how Survive France started back in 2009, the early criticism of its rather tongue-in-cheek name, why feedback from listeners is changing how I approach the podcast, and my recent discovery that an all-inclusive holiday involving sun loungers, swimming pools and absolutely no exploration whatsoever can actually be rather wonderful. As always, I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to!

French health insurance can leave you facing a maze of unfamiliar terms, confusing reimbursement percentages and potentially expensive gaps in cover. Choose the wrong policy or misunderstand what it pays, and a hospital stay, dental treatment or even a pair of glasses could cost far more than you expected. So what exactly is a mutuelle? Is it private health insurance, or something different? What does “top-up” cover really pay for? And when a policy promises 100%, 200% or even 300% reimbursement, what does that actually mean in euros? In this episode of France Made Simple, I’m joined by Fabien from Fab French Insurance to take a deep dive into the French healthcare system and, in particular, the sometimes baffling world of complementary health insurance. We discuss how French public healthcare works alongside a mutuelle, why this is very different from the private health insurance systems many of us are used to in the UK and US, and one particularly important point: why existing medical conditions generally don’t prevent you from taking out complementary cover. We also talk about hospitalisation, glasses, dentistry, physiotherapy, osteopathy, alternative treatments and some of the things you might be surprised to discover your policy covers. Fabien explains what those confusing reimbursement percentages actually mean, why the cheapest or most expensive policy isn’t necessarily the right one, and why understanding your own needs is far more important than simply choosing the policy with the biggest numbers attached to it. We also look at the French parcours de soins — the healthcare pathway — and why knowing how the system works can make a real difference to what you pay and what gets reimbursed. And, perhaps reassuringly, if you still find French healthcare and insurance confusing after all this… you’re not alone. As Fabien points out, plenty of French people don’t fully understand it either. If you’re moving to France, newly arrived, or have lived here for years and still find yourself staring blankly at your mutuelle documents, this episode should help make sense of one of the most important, and misunderstood, aspects of life in France.

From playing Little House on the Prairie in a London garden to fishing for mullet in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel… how exactly did that happen? In this rather more personal episode of France Made Simple, I tell the story of how a little girl growing up in Streatham, dreaming of ponies, vegetable gardens, chickens and a cottage in the countryside, eventually ended up living in rural France and, somewhat accidentally, creating the very life she had been fantasising about for decades. There are childhood memories, Escape to the Country fantasies, derelict French houses, vegetable gardens, an alarming quantity of green beans, homemade preserves, dehydrated courgette crisps, fishing nets, tidal rivers, seals, and one slightly terrifying adventure in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. It turns out that becoming self-sufficient is actually much harder work than it looks on television. But there is something incredibly satisfying about sitting down to a meal made almost entirely from things you’ve grown or caught yourself. And perhaps that’s the real point of this episode: sometimes the life you dream about when you’re young really isn’t as impossible as it seems. Moving to France isn’t always easy. There are frustrations, tears, bureaucracy, homesickness and plenty of moments when you wonder what on earth you’ve done. But it is an adventure. And after more than 20 years here, I still wouldn’t change it. So grab a cup of tea, coffee, glass of wine or something stronger, and join me for a slightly chaotic trip from Streatham High Street to Green Bean Hell!

If you’re moving to France with children, already living here, or simply trying to understand what happens when the long summer holidays finally come to an end… this episode is for you. In this 30-minute episode of France Made Simple, I’m taking a proper look at La Rentrée — how the French school year actually works, when children go back, what happens in those first few days, and all the things that can catch English-speaking families out. We’re talking schools, dates, paperwork, supplies, lunches, uniforms (or rather, the lack of them!), school transport, after-school activities and the wonderfully French admin that comes with getting your children back into the system. And because this is France Made Simple, I’m also covering the things you might not discover until you’re already in the middle of it! And here are the promised links that might.…make your shopping experience slightly less painful! https://www.cultura.com/papeterie/fournitures-scolaires.html https://www.rentreediscount.com/

This one’s a straight-up, no-filter Q&A. No polishing, no “France is perfect” fantasy, just me keeping it real! I’m answering your questions about what it’s actually like living here: financial woes, the weird social codes, the small-town dynamics, and the stuff people usually dodge because it’s awkward or not very Instagram friendly. I’m talking about the reality of certain expat pockets, the cliques, the odd behaviour that can show up when people stay too long in their own bubble and yeah, some of it’s blunt. That’s the point. If you’re here for a dreamy “quit your job, move to France and live happily ever after” vibe, this isn’t that. This is the messy, contradictory, occasionally uncomfortable version, the one people talk about in private but rarely say out loud. But I do!

In this episode, I’m chatting with Julia a therapist who made the move to France three years ago—and hasn’t looked back, despite the inevitable challenges along the way…! This is a really honest insight into what it’s really like to rebuild both your life and career in a new country. Julia shares her personal journey of relocating to France including the realities of settling in, and how expectations compared with day-to-day life. From navigating bureaucracy (and we all know about that!), and the cultural differences to managing isolation and building a new professional identity, this episode explores the sometimes less-visible aspects of expatriate life. We also look closely at what it means to work as a therapist across borders. She explains how she supports clients online as well as face to face, the types of issues people might encounter, and why mental health can become more complex when you’re living outside your home country. We’re talking identity shifts, relationship strain, loneliness, and the psychological impact of starting over. And most importantly, Julia explains the services she offers, including how she works and what people can expect from engaging with therapy in an online format. Whether you’re already living in France, planning a move, or simply curious about the potential impact on mental health when relocating, this episode will give you a a really practical perspective grounded in real life experience. This is a really interesting discussion of the ups and downs, with some very useful insight for anyone navigating life abroad. Give it a listen; you won’t regret it! And you can get in touch with Julia here via email Julia@safetherapy.co.uk Or via her site - link below! http://safetherapy.co.uk/

Moving to France sounds straightforward—until your visa gets rejected! In this episode, I’m chatting to immigration guru (!), or immigration GP as he prefers to be known, Fabien from FAB FRENCH INSURANCE and we’re going through the most common mistakes that cause refusals, and more importantly, how to avoid them. From incomplete documentation to weak financial justification, small errors can have major consequences. If you’re applying for a French visa (or thinking about it), this episode will help you approach the process with clarity and confidence. And if you’ve already applied for a French visa please feel free to share your experience - good or bad!

Every year, people move to France looking for a better lifestyle. Some absolutely love it. Others quietly (or sometimes, not so quietly!) regret the decision. So what makes the difference? In this episode, I break down the 5 small (but critical) mistakes that can completely shape your experience of living in France—from finances and paperwork to language and choosing the right place to live. Because it’s rarely one big thing that goes wrong… it’s the small details that catch people out. If you’re planning a move—or already here and wondering why it feels harder than expected—this one will give you some clarity. And most of all, you’ll realise that you’re not alone! 🎧 Listen now #LifeInFrance #MovingToFrance #ExpatLife #FranceLiving #StartOver #Relocation #ExpatAdvice

Moving to France after 50 can feel like the start of something wonderful… until it doesn’t. Behind the dream, there can be quieter challenges—loneliness, loss of routine, language barriers, and the unsettling feeling of having to rebuild a life from scratch. In this episode — Your Best Life in France After 50: Staying Active, Social and Sane — I take a clear-eyed look at what it really takes to stay mentally and physically well when you’re living abroad later in life. No fluff, no clichés—just practical ways to:• stay active (even when motivation is low)• rebuild a social life from zero• manage the mental load of living in another country• and create a life that actually works for you here If you’re already in France and finding it harder than expected—or planning the move and want to go in with your eyes open—this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen now and start making France work for you, not the other way around. #LifeInFrance #ExpatLife #Over50 #MovingToFrance #HealthyLiving #MentalWellbeing #StartAgain #FrenchLife And here’s my playlist https://music.apple.com/fr/playlist/running/pl.u-4Joma4DTaM0pNzm?l=en

What does it take to turn a simple idea into a product people genuinely rely on for recovery? In this week’s episode, I sit down with Ameline, the co-founder of Baume de Mont, a locally crafted cooling massage gel born near Mont-Saint-Michel. We talk about building a business from the ground up, the realities of launching in rural France, and how lifestyle, landscape, and love all shaped their journey. We talk about where the idea came from, the science behind how it works, and what it really takes to bring a product like this to market — from concept to something people trust on their bodies. If you’re into fitness, recovery, or just curious about how startups actually get built, this one’s worth a listen. 🎧 Listen now and discover the story behind the balm. Find out more here https://baumedumont.com/en And use my code CAT10 to get 10% off your order! #FrenchBusiness #NormandyLife #StartupStory #Entrepreneurship #MadeInFrance

Moving to France is often sold as a lifestyle upgrade—long lunches, beautiful villages, and a slower pace of life. And while all of that exists, the reality of building a life here is a bit more complex... In this episode, we’re taking off the rose (or should that be rosé !) tinted spectacles and looking at what it really takes to make a success of living in France long-term. Not just the logistics, but the underlying values and personal qualities that separate those who thrive from those who struggle. We're talking about patience in the face of mind boggling bureaucracy, resilience when things don’t go to plan, humility when navigating a different culture, and the importance of adapting without losing yourself. Because ultimately, making a go of life in France isn’t about changing the country, it’s about changing how you approach it. If you’re planning a move, already here, or wondering why it feels harder than expected, this episode will give you a more grounded, realistic framework for making it work. Grab a glass of rosé and enjoy!

In this episode, we explore practical and realistic ways to make your French home more environmentally friendly, without losing its character or charm! From improving insulation in older properties to choosing sustainable materials, reducing energy consumption, and navigating eco-friendly upgrades in France, this episode breaks down what actually works. And of course, as ever I’m approaching this from a totally down to earth and lets not break the bank point of view ! Whether you’re renovating an ancient French farmhouse or updating a newer home, you’ll get some ideas to lower your footprint and your bills, while creating a healthier living space.

Taking down internal walls in a French property can transform your space—but it’s rarely straightforward. In this episode, we look at what’s really involved, from structural considerations to cleaning up the mess afterwards. And yes, that’s the worst part! A concise, practical reality check to help you plan smarter before you start swinging the hammer.

Designing a dream kitchen in a French home sounds idyllic—until you run into the realities of old stone walls, uneven floors, and workmen that move ant their own pace. In this episode, we break down what it actually takes to create a kitchen that works for modern life while respecting the character of a French property. From planning layouts and choosing materials to navigating French suppliers, artisans, and timelines, this is a practical look at the decisions that matter. We cover budgeting in a market where costs can escalate quickly, the trade-offs between bespoke and off-the-shelf solutions, and how to avoid common (and expensive) mistakes. Whether you’re renovating a farmhouse, updating a village house, or starting from scratch, this episode will help you approach your kitchen project with clarity—and fewer (nasty!) surprises.

In this episode, I’m chatting to Ellen Hilton, a young American mum, who has made the leap across the Atlantic to start a completely new life in France. We talk candidly about the realities behind the Instagram version of expat life. She shares what surprised her most about raising a child in France, from cultural differences in pre-school and parenting styles to the practical challenges of healthcare, administration, and everyday routines. We also get into the emotional side: identity shifts, isolation, and the small wins that make it all worthwhile. If you’re thinking about moving to France with children - or you’re already here and wondering if everyone else is finding it just as complicated - this conversation is just what you need to hear! And you can catch up with Ellen’s various social channels including here blog here : https://www.americaineinfrance.com

Navigating life in France is easier when you’ve got the right tools in your pocket. In this episode, we break down the most useful apps to have on your phone—from transport and banking to food delivery, healthcare, and everyday admin. Whether you’re a newcomer trying to decode the system or a long-term resident looking to streamline daily life, these apps can save you time, money, and frustration. We’re talking essential services like getting around with ease, managing bills, finding the best local spots, and staying connected to French bureaucracy without the headache. Expect practical recommendations, insider tips, and a few lesser-known gems that even seasoned expats might not be using yet. If you want to simplify your day-to-day life in France, this episode gives you a curated digital toolkit to get started. And here’s a link to the CROWDFARMING app - https://cfarm.co/mgm?lc=LC3BCK8P

What is daily life really like in France? In this episode, we unpack the small but constant frictions of living in France—from confusing bureaucracy and slow administration to shop opening hours, strikes, customer service differences, and language barriers. If you’re an expat, planning a move to France, or already living here and wondering why everything feels just slightly harder than expected, this episode breaks down the hidden realities behind French life. A practical, honest look at expat life in France, French culture, and the everyday challenges that don’t make it into the dream—but shape your experience once you’re here.

When it comes to importing and registering vehicles in France, urban myths abound. And if you listen to ‘Mike’ down the Dog & Duck or rather, le Chien & Canard, you are likely to come a cropper.But never fear, we’ve put together an episode all about just that. Listen in and make sure you are road legal in France.Enjoy!

If you’re thinking about moving to France and wondering about the cost of living here, then this episode is a must. I’m chatting through the true cost of living here, from the obvious expenses and outgoings to the hidden ones that quietly drain your budget. Let me know what you have found to be more or less expensive than back home as well as those things you’d never budgeted for!