France Made Simple

“100% covered” doesn’t always mean what you think in France. In this episode, we unpack the realities of top-up health insurance—how the system works alongside state healthcare, where gaps can catch you out, and how to choose cover that actually protects you. Straightforward, practical, and jargon-free.

In this episode I’m taking a look at some of the highs and lows involved in building on an isolated plot. Lots of practical advice and some useful links and resources, plus, as always my “tell it like it is” approach to living and working here in France!Useful Vocabulary :Un terrain à bâtir - building plotUn terrain isolé - isolated plotLes règles de construction - rules determining what, in what form and where building can take placeUn terrain non viabilisé - plot without any services presentUn terrain viabilisé - plot with services presentUn bornage - the marking of the plot boundaries by a professional Une borne - boundary markerLa zone constructible - constructible areaLe Permis de construire - planning permissionLe certificat d’urbanisme - outline planning permissionUne risque d’innondation - flood risk Risk ZonesSince 2006, every plot sold has to come with a declaration stating whether or not the plot is situated in a natural, seismic or man made risk zone. Natural risks are said to include flooding, avalanches, subsidence and cracking and the declarations must be dated less than six months previously. Find plots for sale onwww.pap.frwww.journaldesparticuliers.comwww.leboncoin.fr Understanding an ad!Terrain plat à bâtir (flat building plot) viabilisé (services present) 1.927 m2 (size) hors lotissement (non estate) près forêt et centre ville (near to the forest and town centre). Certificat d'urbanisme et permis de construire acceptés (Planning permissions and consents in place). 59.000 E (price).

In this episode I’m looking at ways to get your property working for you and making some extra money; yes, we’re talking holiday rentals!There are numerous reasons why you might be thinking about renting out your French property and in this episode I run through some of the things you need to take into account before going down this road.Plus, there’s a whole load of practical advice on how to get your property rental ready!Give it a listen and let me know what I have forgotten to mention!

In this episode I’m chatting about my first ever time at an auction in France, and covering what to do (and what not to do!) when you go to an auction in France. Buying at auction is a fabulous way to bag a bargain and find some unique decorative pieces for your house in France. It’s also a lot of fun! I hope you enjoy this episode and don’t forget to make sure you follow the France Made Simple podcast and never miss an episode.And here’s the link to the online auction site I refer to - happy bidding! https://www.interencheres.com/

In this second part, I continue chatting with Paul who is not only an accountant but also runs five gites here in France.We’re chatting about the financial, tax and practical aspects of running gites. With increasing numbers of people looking at gites as a way of generating or topping up income here in France, this episode is a must listen.It’s in two parts - “Can you run a gite?” And “Should you run a gite?” - partly because we felt that this is an important subject and there’s a lot to take onboard. And partly because we had a massive technical issue - a power outage on his end - so please excuse my (not terribly good) editing skills!But the information is all there and hopefully it will prove useful - enjoy! You can get in touch with Paul directly via email [email protected] or take a look at his site www.houxservices.eu and if you contact him within the next 30 days and mention the podcast, you’ll get a 10% discount off the first set of any fees should you go ahead and use his services!

In this episode I catch up with Paul who is not only an accountant but also runs five gites here in France.We’re chatting about the financial, tax and practical aspects of running gites. With increasing numbers of people looking at gites as a way of generating or topping up income here in France, this episode is a must listen.It’s in two parts - “Can you run a gite?” And “Should you run a gite?” - partly because we felt that this is an important subject and there’s a lot to take onboard. And partly because we had a massive technical issue - a power outage on his end - so please excuse my (not terribly good) editing skills!But the information is all there and hopefully it will prove useful - enjoy! You can get in touch with Paul directly via email [email protected] or take a look at his site www.houxservices.eu and if you contact him within the next 30 days and mention the podcast, you’ll get a 10% discount off the first set of any fees should you go ahead and use his services!

There’s a new episode out and it’s not an Easter special! Sorry - I didn’t think of that in time but I will be doing one about Easter in France - however right now, I’m about to sit down to a rather special Easter Sunday lunch, so you’ll have to wait for that one!In the meantime, here are my answers to some of the questions sent in by you lovely lot. Please keep sending your questions - I love answering them and it’s always thought provoking.Happy Easter everyone!Cat xx

Unlock the secrets to buying property in France without falling into common pitfalls! Paul Simper, a seasoned property finder, reveals why the French real estate market is so different—and how you can navigate it like a pro.Most buyers rely on UK or US-style expectations, but in France, the process is more structured and less familiar—yet far more predictable once you understand the rules. From slower market pace and agent conflicts to the significance of legal deposits and diagnostic reports, Paul uncovers the hidden traps that could cost you thousands or even your dream home.You'll discover:- Why French agents are often less proactive—and how to overcome their slow response times- The critical role of proper surveys and why the standard diagnostic report isn’t enough- The true costs beyond the purchase price, including stamp duty and notary fees (often 7-8%)- The importance of clear timelines, from promesse de vente to act de vente, for certainty and peace of mind- How cultural differences and local laws can trip up international buyers and what to do about them- Practical tips to avoid pushy agents, misinformed expectations, and costly surprises!Whether you're considering a holiday retreat, a full relocation, or an investment property, understanding French buying procedures is crucial—especially if you want to avoid costly delays or legal pitfalls. This episode is essential listening for anyone dreaming of owning a home in France, particularly through an international lens.Paul Simper is a property finder with deep expertise in the French market, passionate about guiding buyers through the nuances and complexities. His insights could save you months of frustration and thousands of euros.Don't buy in France without knowing these insider secrets. Hit play now and start your journey with confidence—because buying property here isn’t just different, it’s better when you know how it works.If you’d like to know more you can get in touch directly : www.luxurybuyersagentfrance.comM: +33 (0)7 69 40 01 20    O: +33 (0)5 47 66 21 81UK: +44 (0)77 99 07 28 [email protected]

Whether you’re travelling to and from France for business or pleasure, taking the train is a great way to get there. And back!People often think that flying is going to be the cheapest and quickest option but this isn’t necessarily so. And going by train is a much nicer and less stressful experience.In this episode we chat through all the things you need to know when taking the Eurostar and travelling onwards in France or Europe. And of course, there’s the usual handy hints from yours truly 😉 I really hope this is helpful and do let me know if there’s anything I’ve missed. There usually is…

One of the best things about moving to France is having more time. And more outside space. Plus of course better weather…Put those three together and you’ll see why eating alfresco is such a big part of the French lifestyle. So in this episode I’m talking you through what you need to factor in when you are planning an outside cooking and eating space.Enjoy!

Having spent a week ranting about living in France and having then spent a week in the UK(!), in this episode I’m sharing my thoughts on why you SHOULD move to France. If you want a clue, it’s because it is basically just quite a lot nicer here…Do you agree? Give it a listen and let me know what you think!

Having spent the last week posting on social media about all the things that wind me up on France (believe it or not there are a few…), I thought I’d better counterbalance that with a bit of positivity.Plus, the sun is shining, I have planted my raspberry and gooseberry bushes and the bulbs are popping up. So all is good with the world here in deepest darkest La Manche.I hope you enjoy this and I’d love you to comment with your five top reasons to come on holiday here. Or even move here permanently. That way you too can experience the exhilaration of trying to get to Lidl before the cut-price raspberry bushes are sold out…Enjoy!Cat x

Every year thousands of people make the decision to move abroad and start a new life - hopefully in the sun! Although if you are actively looking to move somewhere wet and windy, that’s cool too😉And nine times out of ten that move involves a property purchase too.So how do you go about buying abroad?There are numerous ways to do this but one of the easiest and best is to visit an overseas property exhibition. You won’t just be looking at houses for sale. There’ll be a plethora of expert advice available from everything to currency transfer, legal requirements and removal firms.In this episode I’m explaining why you should consider attending one and chatting you through how to go about getting the most out of the visit.Enjoy!

Finding a job in France is never simple. You can have qualifications up the ying yang, speak fluent French and still get passed over time and time again. Even the French find it tricky so chuck in being an “étrangère” and you’ve got a perfect storm.As a result huge numbers of expats decide to start their own business. But this isn’t for everyone.There’s another option though. How about if you could continue to work for your existing employer but be based in France? Sounds good right?!And of course, this is France so there will be numerous bits of paperwork to be completed but it is doable. If you know how…Listen in to this episode and find out if this might be an option for you.Enjoy!Cat x

One of the things that comes up over and over again is people sharing their experiences of working with agents or realtors when they are buying a property in France.And as you can imagine, there’s no general consensus…People seem to either have really great or really bad experiences!In this episode I’m running through all the stuff you can do to ensure that you have a really good working relationship with your agent. Working on the premise that if you put some effort in they will too, I explain what you can do to help them to help you!I hope this is useful and please let me know how you got on, whether good or bad?!

In this episode I’m talking about daily life in France and revealing what it is really like. Is it one long round of sipping glasses of crisp white wine by the pool? Or is it one long battle with French administrative demands? Listen in and find out!Doctor Lib : https://www.doctolib.fr/You can support me here : buymeacoffee.com/francemadesimple

In this episode I’m chatting to Olivia who is a musician and Gestalt therapist. What’s really interesting here is that she is both French and English and thus, not only totally bilingual but has a unique ‘foot in both camps’ perspective. Moving to and living in, another country isn’t always easy and very often these type of life changes throw up issues that we need to address. Olivia works both online and in person and her background means that she is uniquely placed to help the Anglophone community. Enjoy!You can get in touch with Olivia by email : [email protected] or Olivia gestalt.com

There’s an urban myth that the French are a nation of hypochondriacs and compared to us ‘stiff upper lip’ British, there’s certainly an element of truth in that.But is it them? Or is it having a system that actively encourages you to run to the doctor at the first sign of a snotty nose?Having been ill for the last week (and no, I haven’t been to the doctor!), I thought it was time to take a look at the differences between the French and the AngloSaxon world when it comes to being under the weather. And the things that (allegedly) prevent you from getting ill in the first place. Enjoy! And don’t forget to tell me what you’ve found to be different about life in France.

In this episode I’m catching up with my favourite estate agent, Sheelagh co-owner of Agence Newton, an estate agency that specialises in Brittany, Normandy, the Limousin and the Corrèze. Sheelagh covers the Normandy area and luckily she lives close enough for me to pop round and snaffle her chocolate biscuits. Listen in and find out what she’s been up to since we last spoke and what the French property market is up to too!

In this episode I’m looking at all the ways to get rid of your clutter. Whether you have stuff to donate, sell or just recycle, we’ve got the low down on how to go about decluttering in France. And here are some of the useful sites I mention in the podcast :Interencheres - https://www.interencheres.com/ (Be careful - it’s addictive!)Donnons - https://donnons.org/ (Ditto!)Vide greniers etc - https://vide-greniers.org/ Brocantes solidaires - https://www.secourspopulaire.fr/les-braderies-du-secours-populaire-pres-de-chez-vous/

And here’s part two ! I’m continuing the conversation with superstar chef Lucy about the challenge of cooking French recipes for a French clientele. I loved recording this episode and hope you enjoy it as much as I did! You can get in touch with Lucy via her website http://www.simperskitchen.co.uk/ and follow her on instagram - @simperskitchen

In this first episode which is part of a two part interview, I catch up with British chef Lucy Simper who is managing to wow the French with her cooking. No mean achievement I think you’ll agree!Lucy caters for groups, weddings, dinner parties and just about anything else you can think of. You can check out her website here http://www.simperskitchen.co.uk/ or find her on instagram where she’s @simperskitchen. 

One of the things that comes up time and time again when I’m chatting to people about moving to France or even just visiting, is speaking the language. You can’t really make the most of everything that France has to offer unless you speak French but becoming fluent can be a challenge. Immersion is one of the best ways to develop your confidence and your vocabulary - fast!But finding well run and interesting courses isn’t easy. So I’m delighted to be chatting to Patricia who has come up with a great solution. The all inclusive three week program is a very reasonably priced and for a limited time she’s offering a promotional rate of just 1850€.There’s even an extra 10% discount if you mention the podcast- valid for 30 days! Enjoy or as we say here, Profitez bien!3-weeks-program-2026Bienvenue à Rennes – Support for International [email protected]+33 07 74 18 17 02

In this episode I’m talking about 5 reasons why you need to move to France. Although I actually ended up with seven - without even trying too hard!If you are thinking about moving to France or even just planning a holiday here, hopefully, this short episode will enthuse and inspire you.As always please keep your suggestions and comments coming. I love getting your feedback!

In this episode I’m talking to Paul Robson, a France based UK chartered accountant who understands both systems. And…can explain what to do and not what to do in an idiot proof manner. Which is exactly what I need when it comes to anything related to money and finances!Hopefully it will prove helpful to lots of you lot too.You can get in touch with Paul directly via email [email protected] or take a look at his site www.houxservices.eu and if you contact him within the next 30 days and mention the podcast, you’ll get a 10% discount off the first set of any fees should you go ahead and use his services!

I hope you enjoy this short episode. It’s by popular request so to speak…!Plus, I thought it was probably about time that I gave you, my lovely listeners, a bit of background and explain why I podcast about life in France.I really hope that you all enjoy listening and do keep sending your questions in. I absolutely love getting them.Have a lovely weekend everybody!Cat x

In this episode we’re talking about how to go about your French tax return. And honestly, it’s really not that bad!First off - here’s the link to the FREE tickets for the French Property show this weekendThen here are the useful links I mention in the show :Here’s the link that shows WHEN you need to file - https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/simulateur/calcul/DeclarationImpotsHere’s the simulator - https://www.impots.gouv.fr/simulateursHere’s the tax information hotline number - 0809 401 401

Buying a property in France can be a minefield and stressful to boot. Apart from anything else, the system is simply not the same and this can be hugely frustrating. This is especially true if you come to it from a North American perspective and trying to persuade a seller to accept your hard earned cash can seem like an uphill battle. And that’s if you’ve even got past the “incompetent agent” stage!But never fear, this week we’re talking to a property finder, Paul Simper who specialises in tracking down the perfect property for you AND making the process as stress free as possible. If you are even thinking about buying in France, you should definitely give this one a listen and if you’d like to know more you can get in touch directly :www.luxurybuyersagentfrance.comM: +33 (0)7 69 40 01 20    O: +33 (0)5 47 66 21 81UK: +44 (0)77 99 07 28 [email protected]

In this episode we’re looking at all the different options you have when eating out in France. From the humble ‘menu du jour’ to Michelin starred restaurants, France has something for everyone and every budget!Listen in and make sure you get the most out of your French dining experience.Here are the sites I mention in the podcast:Les Routiers https://www.relais-routiers.com/Flunch https://www.flunch.fr/Crescendo https://www.crescendo-restauration.fr/Michelin https://guide.michelin.com/fr/enAnd don’t forget you can get your free tickets for the French property show here :https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-french-property-exhibition-london-2026-tickets-1590912625489?aff=survivefrance

I thought it would be nice to start the New Year with a bit of positivity! This mini episode is my personal take on what you need to do to get the most out of your time in France.The advice applies whether you’ve been here for ages, have recently landed or are simply toying with the idea. And actually it applies even if you have no intention of moving to France! 😂And… I’m also talking about the amazing French Property exhibition held in London at the end of January.You can get your get your FREE tickets here :https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-french-property-exhibition-london-2026-tickets-1590912625489

To get you into the Christmas spirit I’ve devised a little Christmas quiz, so that you can see just how French you have become!Enjoy and bonnes fêtes to one and all!

A very short video where I explain a bit about the Survive France website and reveal what it can do for you!

The French are well known for their love of debate and discussion!And in this episode I’m talking about the subjects they love to discuss. And no, it’s not just food - although obviously that is a major topic1Give it a listen and tell me which are the ‘hot topics’ that you’ve noticed coming up time and time again?

In this episode we run through everything that you need to put onto your “Renovation Checklist”!Making a list like this when you’re viewing a property and before you sign on the dotted line, will help avoid making an expensive mistake. Or at least, give you an informed idea of what you’re letting yourself in for!I’m also talking about the French Property Exhibition being held in London at the end of January 2026. It is a ‘must’ for anyone considering buying in France and you can get FREE tickets here :https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-french-property-exhibition-london-2026-tickets-1590912625489?aff=survivefrance

Renovating in France can be super stressful and spiralling costs only add to that stress.In this episode we look at ways to keep a handle on your budget and make sure that you know what you are in for (in terms of cost at least!) before work begins.Joking aside, making sure that you don’t blow the budget simply because you have forgotten about a key element (and it can happen, trust me…), is something that happens all too often. This episode will reveal everything you need to consider when calculating your budget for a renovation project in France.And if you need to move money around to fund it, don’t forget our recommended currency exchange partners Lumon. They might not be able to help with the actual renovating but at least your currency transfers will be stress free!https://www.lumonpay.com/partners/survive-france/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=Regional%20Associate&utm_campaign=Survive%20France

The episode is a short one but I’m covering an important subject for anyone thinking about moving to France. And if you’re already here you will know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!I’m talking about, for want of a better word, charlatans. That group of people who move over here and try to make a living from exploiting others - listen in so you know what, or who (!) to avoid.

This one is by popular request and I was delighted to be asked to talk about one of my favourite subjects - horses!Now I know not everyone moving to France will be planning to keep horses but a lot of people might be planning some type of small scale (or otherwise) agricultural activity and lots of the stuff I cover will apply.As I mention in the podcast - this is very much an overview (as always!) as it’s a huge subject - so if you have any specific questions, please do get in touch. And I will do my very best to answer them.Useful links:Equine import regulations - https://www.ifce.fr/ifce/sire-demarches/au-cours-de-la-vie-du-cheval/importation/Find a riding club / get a licence / find out all you need to know about competing in France - https://www.ffe.com/Declare keeping your equines - https://www.ifce.fr/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SIRE-Fiche-Detenteur.pdfAnd if you want my farrier’s number - ping me a message!

In this episode I’m chatting to writer and film director Dave Hall about his first feature film, Passing Through;  an English-language family drama shot in and around the town of Agde in Languedoc. It tells the story of an Australian couple who have just moved there to start a new life together. It's just been released on Prime Video in the UK, after winning awards at various festivals and is due to be released soon in France and the US, on Prime Video and Disney+, dates TBC.You can watch here - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FR4YPZJ4/There is a press release at www.davidwalterhall.com/press-release/amazon-prime-uk or you can watch the trailer at www.passingthroughmovie.com.

The most complicated part of moving your stuff here used to be packing the boxes and making sure they were all labelled correctly.Not any more!Thanks to changing regulations there are all sorts of hoops to jump through.But fear not! Here at France Made Simple we’ve got you covered. Listen in and you’ll find out how Moving To France Made Simple actually works 😉I really hope this is helpful and if anything isn’t clear, please do message me on Insta / Facebook or just leave a comment on the podcast. Enjoy!And here are the useful links as promised!Cerfa form 10070 https://www.formulaires.service-public.fr/gf/showFormulaireSignaletiqueConsulter.do?numCerfa=10070And useful info from the French customs official site:https://www.douane.gouv.fr/dossier/trouble-free-travel-french-customs 

If you’re in France you’ve probably noticed that the cost of living seems to be on a permanent upwards trend 😢And if like me, you’re struggling on a low income, you’re probably always looking for ways to trim your outgoings.Sadly I don’t have a magic wand or even a failsafe solution but, I do have a lot of experience of living cheaply but well. After all, life is for living and there’s nothing more miserable than worrying about every last centime. equally there’s nothing more stressful than wondering how you are going to pay the bills.In this episode I run through some of my tried and trusted money saving hacks for life in France.

These days many of the people who are moving to France do so hoping to make a big lifestyle shift. And very often, this involves some level of sustainable and even, off-grid living. You can do this simply and cheaply and you don’t have to go the whole hog. Making just a few small changes to the way you live and consume can have a big impact on your quality of life. and your budget!In this episode we run through some of the things you can do to live a more sustainable lifestyle and explain how to go about it when you move to France.

In this episode I catch up with Tom Marron from Blevins Franks who explains (in words of one syllable, so perfect for someone like me…!) how French inheritance laws differ.And what you need to know and eventually do, so that you don’t get caught out. And of course, so that no one pays any more tax than they need to!If you’re moving to France, planning to move to France or already living in France, this episode is essential listening.Estate planning isn’t a particularly sexy subject but it’s vitally important!If you’ve got questions after listening to the podcast, you can get in touch with Tom via email : [email protected]  or Whatsapp : 0614246129

In this short bonus episode I talk about the various places that I’ve lived in during my 23 years in France. The subject of where to live comes up over and over again and there’s no one definitive answer. Everyone’s different and everyone’s needs, wants and requirements are different. But…listening to others and learning from their experiences is a key part of the journey.Here’s my outtake on what has worked (and hasn’t worked!) for me. Listen in and as always,  please do feel free to comment and share your thoughts.

The very first episode in a new ‘Behind The Scenes’ bonus series which will be available to subscribers only. But as I’m feeling generous today I’m putting this out here for all of you lovely listeners to enjoy!Please do keep your questions coming. I love getting them and it’s always really fun answering them 😊

In this episode I am taking a (light hearted!) look at that Great British Stereotype - the unwashed French…Joking aside, there are differences and I’m always intrigued by cultural differences. And of course, when it comes to things like politeness, child rearing or let alone, personal hygiene, we always believe that ‘our’ way is the ‘right’ way.Listen in and don’t hesitate to let me know what you think. And please do keep the suggestions for future podcast ideas coming in; I am working my way through them!

In this episode I’m talking about all the things you need to do to apply for French nationality.And of course, having made some very rookie errors myself during the process, I’ll also reveal what NOT to do!And here’s the really useful link which tells you exactly what you need to provide in terms of paperwork :https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/N111

Looking back on my first trip to a French déchèterie or le dump (j’adore le franglais) - it was apocalyptic. Think smouldering fires and piles of rubbish. Thankfully, things have moved on! This episode looks at all you need to know when going to le dump!And here’s a useful link from the French government site to find out more : https://www.notre-environnement.gouv.fr/

This week I catch up with George Symes from SJB - my tame pensions and investments advisor- who answers all your questions about pensions and investments in France. Not only does he really know his onions when it comes to all things pensions and savings, but he also explains stuff in an idiot prof manner..Which is what this idiot needs. Listen in to find out why an assurance vie is like a Taco…You can book a FREE consultation with George here : https://calendly.com/george-symes-sjb-global/sjb-global-cross-border-financial-adviser-spa-clone

In this episode of the France Made Simple podcast, we tackle the age-old question: Are the French rude? Join us as we explore cultural differences and perceptions, from the importance of saying bonjour to the nuances of French social etiquette. Discover why what might seem rude to some is simply a cultural norm in France. Whether you're living in France or considering a move, this episode offers insights into embracing and understanding these cultural quirks. Tune in for a “thoughtful discussion that challenges stereotypes and encourages cultural appreciation” - alternatively, it might just make you laugh!

The French have long had a love affair with “Taking The Waters” and in this episode we look at what going for ‘La cure’ involves. And more importantly, how you can access this wonderfully relaxing and restorative health break at minimal or even no cost. You can find out about all the requirements and the illnesses covered here https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F751 - make sure you listen in and hopefully it will inspire you to go for a ‘cure’ too!