Les Voisins

I moved to France because my husband is half-French and had never lived in France, so we wanted to experience being French, and to give our kids the gift of the French language. Since we arrived, I have spent a lot of time at the local market, buying cheese; surreptitiously squeezing fruit; and accidentally ordering entire sides of salmon when what I wanted was small pieces of fillet. The thrill of buying locally and seasonally and from people who know their produce inside-out - including which type of strawberry should be used for which purpose - has not yet dimmed. What also fascinates me is that France is at once a country dominated by rules governing every aspect of life, and inhabited by people who delight in rule-breaking.
- Emily

Studying in the UK (for a MA in Human Rights at UCL) helped me gain my autonomy and independence as a severely disabled person and opened so many perspectives for me on a personal and professional level.
I also do not forget the bonds that my grand-parents and great grand-parents forged between our two countries and families by serving in HM Armed Forces as Free French or rescuing British Commonwealth pilots shot down behind enemy lines.
Neither do I forget that at the time of mankind’s darkest hour, Britain stood as a beacon of hope and helped affirm that every man and woman mattered, ought to be valued and deserved a chance to fulfil his or her potential, irrespectively of any creeds, wealth or lack thereof, origins, sexual orientation, abilities or lack thereof.
Thus, as I move along with my journey on the European disability scene, diplomacy and the international human rights arena, I want the British people to know that I will always be there, wheeling alongside them!
- Matthieu

Growing up with a French mother and an English father, I have always wanted to work in a multilingual environment. I thus moved to Paris as a city rich in cultural diversity, with endless opportunities in the international field. I now work every day in French and English, in an international organization with people from all over the world who all speak at least two languages… and with a view on the Eiffel tower!
I find that people in Paris are a lot more relaxed that in other big cities. When I walk home, cafes and restaurants are full with people socializing, so the catchphrase ‘metro, boulot, dodo’ is not accurate in my opinion! Neither is the stereotype that Parisians are rude. On the contrary, there is most definitely a community vibe to the city: people are much more open and straight-talking than in Britain.
One of my best memories from living in France, though, is spending the day in Versailles, one of the most amazing places I have ever been to – it quite literally takes your breath away! It is so interesting to get to see where so many historical events took place… and the water shows were just spectacular!
- Emily

I lived in Agen for a year for my third year of university. I made some tremendous friends (with whom I am still in contact), saw many wonderful things and had great experiences. I would love to go back one day, hopefully with my family to show them how amazing France is. Paris is such a wonderful city, but places like Agen, Bordeaux and Albi tend to go under the radar and shouldn't. They offer so much lovely scenery!
Living in France, I discovered a whole new world and way of life. At the same time, it opened my eyes to the close links between our two countries – in terms of beliefs and attitudes to the wider world, but also in terms of the closer cultural ties such as language. These links should be observed and protected.
- James

After doing my Post Graduate Diploma and my Legal Practice Course in London, I never really considered going back to France. I started working, made a lot of friends, bought a flat... I now work for the English sparkling wine producer Nyetimber which some people could find quite surprising! I love living in London, particularly East London. I live just off Brick Lane and I love the buzz – there is always something interesting happening and it is a great melting pot of locals and tourists. However, the English countryside will always have a place in my heart, particularly the Cotswolds. It is a beautiful part of the world.
- Raphaele

Through my mother and my maternal grandmother, I can trace a clear French lineage back to 1066 – so that is surely evidence of a long-standing link! Indeed, all my life, my family and I have had great links with France, from school exchanges to childhood camping holidays, to rugby and cycling tours or other holidays… and now we find ourselves at work and living here.
It is indeed a great experience. Down in the south there is copious sunshine and the sea is warm. The hills and mountains are superb, the cuisine magnificent. Areas are simply breathtaking.
My French colleagues have all enjoyed their time in the UK however. And some are settling there. The humour, the variety, the sport, the traditions and history, the eccentricities – they have all made an impression. The bonds are strong and will remain strong… if only because some UK water may yet be needed in the south it seems!
- Chris

I came to spend one summer with my father and succumbed happily to his bookshop, ‘Shakespeare and Company’, and to Paris. I love living in a city that has something very poetic about it – as my father described it in a letter he wrote sixty years ago: “A city where culture is vibrant, a city where music is passionately loved, and where love is something holy and beautiful . . . where poetry is part of life, where people are poets and life is a poem.”
My best memory: A warm June evening, out with a few friends, plus a few thousand other people, everyone dressed in white, all of us taking over the Place de la Concorde, literally stopping traffic, for a pop-up dinner. That celebration was, for me, the most exquisite manifestation of the love for food, and for sharing food with others, that one finds in France.
- Sylvia

I moved to France because I could never have afforded a vineyard in Britain but also because of the French way of life and because it is a great place to bring children up.
But I appreciate most in France must be its health service, which I have used many times over the past 23 years without ever being disappointed.
As to the things you are told about the country in the UK, what you shouldn’t talk about at dinner etc., I have learned that is a complete loads of rubbish!
- David

Regardless of our differences, France's and Britain’s histories are so intertwined that we, in fact, have so much in common.
Thus, despite being French, I related so much to Britain when I lived there that I’ve come to love everything British, making everything my life about it (I studied English Lit and became a translator). And it was sheer bliss to find out when I turned 22 that I had - albeit distant - British relatives!
- Alexandre

This is the third time that I have had the privilege to live and work in France. Speaking the language opens up so many opportunities to have fascinating discussions with French people. The overarching sentiment that I am left with is one of friendly rivalry that exists between our two nations. Much of this is historically based relating to events such as the Norman Conquest or the death of Napoleon under British guard on St Helena, but rugby remains a passion for both the English and the French so nothing beats “Le Crunch” for debate and scrutiny…particularly when England win and there is a sense of French injustice!
- Mark

My first memory of France is when I came to stay in Rue de la Montagne St-Genevieve with my penfriend back in 1969 – wandering back from school for “goûters” with madeleines, going to the Foire du Trône…
I am sure that the fine food and wine I discovered whilst visiting France over the next 30 years explains a lot. I jumped at the opportunity to work for L'Oreal in Paris in 2000, and have lived here ever since. I was able to continue my oenology studies, sit my WSET Diploma and become a wine professional. Since then I have spent my spare time travelling all over France to judge wines and decide whether they merit a gold or a silver medal.
What I have always appreciated about France is that, even in busy Paris, life is about enjoying the good things at a slower pace. I am happy to introduce my friends and family to this way of life – including my little great nephew who loves queueing to buy the croissants and baguette!
- Sue

Visiting Guémené-sur-Scorff in 2001, I sat in a garden close to the town centre where you could only hear the church bells and the birds. I fell in love with that ambiance… and went home owing a tumbledown cottage, which I restored. By April 2003, I was running my business from there. Its aim is to act as a liaison between absentee home owners and local French artisans. And its name is… Les Bons Voisins!
I called the business purposely after my own wonderful neighbours here in Brittany. Living as a foreigner in a different country which you want to make your home takes humility AND a sense of humour. You will never be a 'native' but as an adopted child you can still share the love... My family is here to prove it: as it is we are now three generations settled in France!
- Sally

I was born and brought up in Paris but travelled extensively. I studied British history at Oxford and enjoyed the magic of the dreaming spires while working at the Bodleian Library for my D Phil. I am a great admirer of the British political system and wrote a biography of Tony Blair and David Cameron. I have commented on British elections and Brexit on French television and radio in the past few years. France and the United Kingdom have such a long history together but I can remember celebrating the centenary of the Entente Cordiale in 2004 and being interviewed on television about our very special links. King Edward VII’s State visit to Paris was definitely a turning point in our history and he managed to convince the French that France and Britain were better together than apart… The new Museum for Franco-British relations in Ouistreham will promote the historical ties between France and Britain.
- Sophie

It's interesting to see what 'real England' is like, to learn regional expressions and local history. After 7 years in the country I'm glad to have moved to Suffolk and to see that I can still experience 'culture shock' every now and then. When I first started to look for a job in London after my internship, I felt overwhelmed because I didn't have much savings, not much of experience (basically none), nowhere to stay and London was so big and impressive that I felt completely lost. Being in this situation, London made me realise that we can achieve much more than we think ourselves capable of.
- Lucie

I had been teaching French and German in England for one year and two terms when I met my future husband while accompanying my sixth-formers on a trip to Paris. That was the determining event of my life. This is why I moved to France, and I stayed because I was, and still am happy – happy with French family, friends and colleagues, and always in close touch with my English family and friends.
There are a lot of little details that make up daily life in France and that I felt I had to get right: what to give a workman to drink (the offer of a good strong cuppa would have caused sheer amazement!), when to use "tu" - or not! How to write a letter to one's Directrice - in the sixties the codes were most elaborate.. and daunting! ("Madame la Directrice, J'ai l'honneur de solliciter de votre haute bienveillance ...")
As an assiduous reader of Elizabeth David's cook-books, my earnest desire was also not to let the side down. (English cuisine didn't enjoy a very good reputation in those days!)
- Margaret

I think it is important that countries aim to work together towards a more sustainable energy economy, particularly in research. It is an exciting time to be involved in this challenge and I think that British engineers, such as myself, can learn a lot from the engineering excellence in France. If I can do that with great food and the odd wine tasting session then even better!
I have swapped one unhealthy breakfast for another – my morning bacon bap is now a pain au chocolate. Shouting a general hello when arriving at a social gathering is now replaced with a tour of the room and giving everyone a kiss on each cheek. Coffee is always in espresso form for me now, but whenever I go home I also realise I miss a good builder’s cup of tea!
It’s a steep learning curve, but working in French has helped me progress – with some of the more embarrassing mistakes providing good comedy along the way!
- Rebecca

I moved to France twice: once for studies, once for love – but I stayed for the language, the cuisine (pure culinary bliss!) and the history. I am now completing my PhD in French colonial history and am moving back to Paris for archive work: I couldn’t be happier!
Having lived both in Paris and Menton (an experience I will never forget: the natural beauty in the area is incredible!), I learned a lot about the differences in French cultures: the experiences couldn’t have been more contrasting, they are both such unique places!
One the whole, however, I would say that French people look at their history and their country in a different way to us Brits, and it is important to respect that. They are a very proud people, and don't share the same deprecating humour that many of us across the channel do!
- Rachel

I think one of my fondest memories of France is of tearing round L'etoile in Paris with a group of French people, of a similar age to me, who for some reason adopted me when I moved to Paris for an extended holiday about thirty years ago. There were at least five of us jammed into Christophe's 2CV which was post box red and customised with long black eyelashes. It was rush hour and the traffic was crazy, but somehow Christophe managed to safely co-ordinate the round-about. The moment has stayed fresh in my memory after all these years, somehow summarising the wildness, unpredictability and carefreeness of youth, with a quintessentially French twist.
- Eilidh

My best memory in France was setting up our tent in an unfamiliar campsite in the Var and meeting fellow French campers. We only intended to stay one night, however we actually stayed for 3 weeks… and 25 years later, we were still going to the same same campsite every year, still with the same (now lifelong) French friends. We learned to play boules and all about the protocol of "aperos" and fell in love with all things French.
- Linda

I first moved to France for a year as an Erasmus exchange student studying French literature at La Sorbonne and, having moved back three years later, I now intend to stay for good after I found a job I loved (teaching English first in universities and now in a bilingual school).
The first day I arrived in Paris I was struck by the friendliness of the people with whom I came into contact. I have thus never understood the reputation Parisians have of being standoffish. This memory was only strengthened when Parisian friends and acquaintances continued to welcome me in their country after the Brexit vote.
Furthermore, when I secured my first CDI in France and reported to friends back home the various benefits of my job (‘tickets resto’, subsidised transport costs, etc.), I understood why this country is so renowned for protecting its workers!
- Rebecca

I moved to London in 2016 in order to practice and improve my English, and then decided to stay: I need years to know the country better, its people and its language!
Learning about the British culture and way of life also makes me learn about the French culture and way of life. None is better than the other: they are just two ways of living, a bit different but so connected – like two siblings who do not want to be identical.
My best memory is probably when I attended a French event organised by local people at Belsize park library in April 2016. An organiser asked me to sing the Marseillaise and then all the attendees sang with me as a choir. It was... great.
- Christian

I first came to France aged 23 to work as a Chalet girl. I lived in a little hamlet, in a manger that had only recently been occupied by sheep in the bottom of a Grand Chalet, under the watchful eye of Monsieur Monier – an old gentleman who was never without his Black Beret.
My French was quite bad, and everything was new to me. I was also a novelty to the locals: I don’t think a kettle had ever been heard of in France back then and certainly not a parsnip for the Christmas lunch we were expected to cook for our first guests.
I never left France as a residence after that. I feel a sort of limbo between France and my Britishness but I always feel like I’m at home the moment I hit France.
It seems like everyone has a kettle these days and parsnips are in all the shops. We are still a channel apart but seem to become closer all the time. C’est formidable!
- Heidi

It is a constant source of amazement that 2 countries separated by 22 miles of sea can be so culturally different – and that is why the entire experience of organising and developing the Open Gardens/Jardins Ouverts association has been an absolute delight.
Although it is usually the British who initiate the scheme in new areas, it has been so encouraging to witness the support from the French and to see that 40% of gardens are now French-owned (as at October 2017). The pleasure in witnessing the growth of the association in 5 years is indescribable, particularly towards the end of the year when we are in the wonderful position of making donations to charitable bodies in France which support children with serious illness or who are in remission from cancer.
- Mick

I’ve been living in France for sixteen years – sixteen years of continuous learning! My dad is British, my mother is French, and I have spent half my life in the U.K. half my life in France. So I am a perfect representative of what a half/half person is. I always say that I am like a leaf continuously swept up in the wind, showing that miscegenation is an amazing and important thing in our society.
Since I work in the food industry, I suppose for me everything is about food. I am pleased to be asked what British food is, how it is made as well as what sort of dishes are eaten, and I am amazed, each time I travel around France, to discover a new speciality as well as having people simply express their personal passion for their “pays”. Everyone has a plate that defines their identity and I love sharing mine with others so that people are more open to British food.
- Roxane

I moved to study in Paris… and I’m still here even though I’ve graduated! I have learned to embrace the French way of life: not eating at my desk and savouring the little things, like having a drink with friends in the sunshine after work. I love the exciting challenges that I face every day. And the wine! But one of my best memories must be when I went shopping at the Saxe-Breteuil market in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower the week I moved into my little chambre de bonne.
- Kate

My first time in France – and in fact my first time abroad – was in 1995. We travelled to a camping near Biscarosse on July 14th, avoiding the motorway. It was amazing. As a northerner, the very hot weather was completely new to me – and the further south we got the hotter. One evening we ate in a tiny 1st floor restaurant; the windows were open, the voiles blowing warm air gently into the room. That was the eureka moment that I knew my home was going to be France… and it has been now since 2001.
Influenced by the gentle nature of my French neighbours I have learned to relax, be kind, thoughtful and polite and I always say bonjour/bonsoir whether I know somebody or not. Nothing is more important than sitting together, nibbling food, drinking wine and making the most of what you have... and sharing, sharing, sharing.
- Katie

After having visited France on many occasions, we finally decided to purchase a holiday home in the area of the Vendee, where we opted to remain after retirement. After 15 years in our little Port we do not regret one minute of it. We love our charming village and its people. Why would we go anywhere else?
When our home was flooded in 2010 by Xynthia, many people here and from other unaffected areas of France came to our rescue. Their generosity showed no bounds. Whilst our property was drying out we were offered a holiday home belonging to a family who lived five hours away, rent free. These wonderful people said they could not stand by whilst others suffered. Other helpers came to sort out our garden that had acquired much driftwood and mud; they would not even accept a bottle of wine as a thank-you. This was the French at their best and we will never forget their kindness.
- Jill and Ian

Having lived all my adult life in France after I married a Frenchman, I am now truly 'Frenglish'. For my French friends, I am still "L'Anglaise" (that they love) and for my English family and friends, well, I'm still me, but I've become rather French.
Being truly bi-cultural is an immense privilege. It makes of one a more tolerant person, by showing how all the faults we may find in the other have reasons and good sides. Do French people take themselves too seriously? Sometimes, yes, but they take such joy in discussing, really discussing, politics, literature, films… Are British people too lax? Maybe, but there is a culture of tolerance and caring for others at the root of that. I could go on... and on.
"L'enfer" said Sartre "c'est les autres"... Well, I think that it is more "moi, c'est les autres". There is more that links us than separates us.
- Katsy

I wanted to widen my perspectives, explore and compare with practices in my home country, learn and understand how others operated. This is why I took the opportunity to study in the University of Nottingham for a 3-month Erasmus program in 1993. What a fantastic international cultural experience in the beautiful British countryside! I particularly enjoyed the informal professor-student relationship, which was unthinkable in a French context. A major driver for well-being, mutual trust and learning!
- Marie-Cécile

I came here to set up a public relations agency and support some existing clients with issues in France. Both work and life outside of work went so well, we decided to stay. Paris is now home for us, and our 9-year daughter is fluent in French: she rolls her r's in a way I can only dream of!
My most memorable Paris evening was in the courtyard of the Irish Cultural Centre with my husband listening to the poet Seamus Heaney read his work. The audience was full of people from Ireland, Britain, France and beyond. It was a blue-sky Paris evening and we knew we were witnessing something very special. Indeed, it turned out to be one of his last public appearances anywhere.
The evening summed up for me the open love of the arts Paris celebrates and the fact that there is always something interesting happening in this city. You can never be bored.
- Jennifer

I have always been interested in the UK, its people, its Royal Family, its culture and its beautiful language. I have taught Shakespeare's language for 7 years. I often go there to discover new places and as a young English teacher, I often organize trips for my students.
One of my best memories is the start in 2014 of a strong partnership and friendship between my secondary school located in Mons-en-Baroeul and a British one,located in Strattford-upon-Avon, in the heart of beautiful Shakespeare country. I met the French teacher in Stratford (who is now a friend) with my group of year 9 students and hers: speaking English and French, the students realized they share the same interests...it was an amazing meeting! And it was above all the beginning of a strong Franco-British school twinning!
- Christophe

Having developed a passion for the French language at University, I came over to France as an English assistant for my 3rd year. Everyone was so welcoming that I really felt at home, and, eventually fell in love with France, the French savoir vivre… and with a charming French man who is now my partner and father to my two children.
We live in a beautiful old house that we bought together in Poligny, in the Jura. This is the capital of Comté cheese, and its importance here has made me realize how great local foods are to promote a region and its savoir-faire.
I am an active member of the local community but everyone will always call me "l'Anglaise". I have the confidence and pride to live happily with that label and to make the most of the two cultures and languages.
- Jennifer

I had always dreamed of living in Paris for one year. As a teenager, I would visit Paris each year for my birthday with my Mother. We would always go get hot chocolate in Montmartre on the first night we arrived. This is why the city is so special to me: it reminds me of her. I lost my Mother when I was 17 and I know she would be so happy to see me living here now.
- Alice

I moved to France because there were benefits to my business of me working abroad and even though France wasn't the best 'tax' choice, it was the best choice from a personal point of view.
I am proud to be English and will never forget it, but I also have so many great memories about France. Both countries have so much to offer as a resident or visitor. It is easy to walk around looking at the ground but if one lifts one's head and absorbs what there is around us, our lives will be greatly enriched.
- Windsor

I was first sent in France by my mum when I was 12 with no French and, in the bathroom, there was a bidet. I had never seen one before. Cripes, I thought, no one told me French people’s digestive systems are different. What shall I do? I just had not understood that the WC was outside so spent an uncomfortable first three days… but when I returned to the UK I could speak French and I could cook as the host mother was a fabulous cook. I owe her a great deal.
We moved to France with my husband after we got married, and ended up opening a now award winning French school in Rouen – the city we spent our first night of our first ever holiday abroad together. My husband died in 2014, but I stayed to ensure that what we started continues to grow.
- Eleri

My first time in the UK was in 1968, aged 17. As soon as I set foot in London, I just knew it: the city was waiting for me, with the sound of the Swinging Sixties in the air, Mary Quant's mini-skirt, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Herman Hermitts, the Troggs, and so much more. I’ve now been living in London since 2009. I wanted to pick up my life where I left off, forty years after that first experience, and discover everything that London has to offer; eight years on, I’m still hungry to discover new things.
- Edith

My wife and I moved to France as we had planned to on retirement.
When our car was broken into on holiday in Canet Plage, we went to the Tourist Office to ask to use their phone to call our insurance assistance. Before they closed they gave us all the spare cash they had in their pockets in case the money we were expecting later that evening did not arrive so we could have a meal. Beautiful people…
I think living in France as a Brit is about balance. We live in the wine growing area of Blaye and have embraced its traditions and customs, running a Gîte specializing in introducing visitors to the process of wine making. We are perfectly accepted locally: I am involved in French associations such as the Hermione as well as being Vice President of the local Photographic Club. But I also work for the Royal British Legion… and I still like my marmite!
- Duncan

Buying a house in France after finishing work in the UK was the best move my husband and I ever made. We enjoy the warmer climate, the slower pace of life, the culinary delights of the food and wine, the French customs. And what a magical feeling when you arrive in this beautiful country!
French people tend to guard their privacy in all aspects of their lives and to guard themselves to any outsiders, but once they get to know you and you have gained their trust and respect, then you have a good friend or neighbour you can count on for life.
My husband and I have hosted the annual Fete Du Voisins at our French home the last two years and it's been a great success both years. It’s really enabled us to form a close bond here with our French neighbours. Wish they had something similar for neighbours in the UK!
- Deborah

I think I can say without exaggeration that I totally fell in love with the UK and the British people. Spending one month at Oxford for a summer internship, I have learned that the British reserve, that some people here in France see as coldness, actually hides a great kindness and generosity, something that has warmed my heart very much towards British people. The evening strolls I took in Christ Church Meadow, watching the sunset on Oxford, these moments of peace are amongst the best - and most relaxing - memories in my life. I plan to come back as soon as I find an academic position as this is where I feel most at home: it's like the British way of life has been created just to fit me and my personality.
- Christine

I first moved to France when I was 26, because I wanted to learn French… and I have now been living here for 20 years!
I stayed because I found a good job with a French company. When I started, I was the only English person there and I had to learn the language the hard way - evening classes at the Sorbonne and being forced to speak French.
At the time I did not realise my family's link with France was going back 300 years! My Great Grandfather was a French Naval Commander who married a British woman, and was naturalized British by Sir Winston Churchill, my grandfather was instrumental in the French Resistance, and one of my ancestors worked directly for Napoleon.
Although we are very similar and the links are entwined very deeply, I have learnt that patience and understanding is needed from both parties to understand each other.
- Caroline

Long story short, I moved to France after I met my french partner Jean-Pierre on a boat travelling between Cyprus and Greece. We live near Nantes. I love the vineyards and the Loire, and I fitted in very well. In fact, I was one of the founding members of the Centre Culturel France-Britannique in Nantes where for a time I was the only native English speaker! French was not my best subject at school, but becoming bilingual was an incredible experience, opening up a whole new cultural world: making French friends, discovering French literature etc. Once able to join in conversations, I discovered the joy of spending hours around the table eating, drinking wine and talking -- often complaining – about the state of the country… but proud of being French.
- Anne

When I chose “A”-level French at school, I never imagined that I would end up married to a Frenchwoman and living in France. Indeed, university led to the UK's Scientific Civil Service. However, linguistic skills later allowed me to undertake two different secondments to Paris. After many years working for the UK government, a restructuration programme allowed me to stay on in France. I have now worked 10 years for a scientific agency of the French government, again deploying my linguistic skills – the English ones.
Besides marriage, other memorable moments have included attending the 90th anniversary commemoration of the Battle of the Somme - my paternal grandfather had been badly wounded on the first day of the Battle. One of his brothers was tragically killed in November 1918, near the Franco-Belgian border, and I made an emotive visit to a military cemetery there. A much happier occasion was at Beaulieu-sur-Mer, for the inauguration of a square named after the Duke of Connaught.
Living in France has changed my entire worldview – and for my French family too!
- Adrian

A big rock'n'roll fan from a very early age, my main influence about the UK lies in three legendary words: British Rock Bands. As a teen, I used to translate all the lyrics of most Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin songs. Despite the fact my mum is English, that was my dad who got me into it as he was a guitarist himself, and I got involved into playing music from then on. Today I do it as a job and I ended up in a band with a British celtic rock singer who is now my partner for 6 years: that goes to show how far my passion took me!
In plenty of occasions I travelled the UK and appreciated how cosmopolitan the country is. From learning the language to meeting and even sharing houses with all those different people coming from many foreign countries goes to prove how open the UK is to the world.
- Jessica

I moved to France to complement my doctoral research and finally adopted the country. This is where I learnt how to live, where I found myself, and where I made my career.
Not only do French people enjoy good food and good wine: everything is an art in this country.
- Frank

My wife Gillian and I and her daughter's family came to France in 2006. It all started as the familiar desire to run a Chambre d'Hôte in a farm that we had bought, but our ambitious project soon led us to open the business as an hotel.
When we arrived, my wife Gillian was in remission after three years of cancer treatment. As the disease finally returned, the full might of the French health system swung into action. One could not be more impressed with the care that she received from all the doctors and nurses at the centres she used. Unfortunately, after a valiant fight against the disease, Gillian finally succumbed. The dedication of the French medical personnel was summed up by the visit I received afterwards from our local GP, who was visibly upset by their "failure", and apologised for not saving her.
- Roger

My decision to come to live in Paris, 27 years ago, came to me suddenly and with real urgency while I dined on a boat on the Seine. It was a warm May evening, and I fell in love with Paris as I admired the beautifully lit buildings and bridges, as we glided down the river.
Since childhood and its many holidays in different parts of France, I had always had a fascination with France, the French and the French language – so I knew it was where I must live.
If there is one thing I have learned after all these years in a very French environment, it is that there exists a real " art de la conversation" which is still today very much at the heart of their social life.
- Faye

I should probably say that my best memory of moving to Paris is meeting my now husband in a bar, two weeks after I arrived in Paris! While meeting the man of my life is definitely a 'perk' of moving to Paris, one of my favourite memories is from when I had been living here for about 6 months. It was when I was velib'ing across town from a bar to a club with some new friends in the middle of the night, laughing so hard, that I realised how lucky I was to have this experience and how living in another country was going to open my life to so many new and happy opportunities.
-Louisa

My best memory is arriving in London as a young girl (I was 20) after having found a job, more than 35 years ago when French people were rare in that town...I only had a suitcase, and an address for a shared house... I must have been very brave ;-) When I was born my parents were working for the Duke and Duchess of Windsor in Paris, I guess Great-Britain and its history were part of my life from a very early age. Arriving in London was the fulfilment of a dream, without any doubt. My love story with the UK and the English started when I was very young and has never faded, even though I am nearly 58 years old. I must be one of the rare French persons who love everything about the British ;-) and most of all their sense of humour and the way they live their everyday lives.
- Elizabeth

I remember vividly the evening when I decided I would relocate to Paris. I was sitting on the banks of Canal Saint-Martin on a warm summer evening, hearing accents from all around the world, exchanging conversation over picnics of cheese and wine and being invited by strangers to join them. Having always wanted to live and work in France, I had the opportunity to join a law firm in Paris at age 24 and snapped up the chance to move to the city. The years that followed were the happiest of my life. I became fluent in French, explored the city's numerous (and delicious!) markets, drank in the rich culture of the many museums and galleries, went on weekend trips to ancient towns, relaxing beaches and vibrant cities. I always felt welcomed by the people I met, some of whom became lifelong friends.
- Catherine

When I lived in France, I was always the 'Scottish' or 'British' one when referred to by my French friends. Despite growing up in France, I truly identified with my British heritage, and my yearly visits to Scotland reinforced this feeling of belonging. On the other hand, never did I feel more French than when I moved to the UK. It was as if some invisible umbilical cord clung to me from the other side of the Channel. I'm now the 'French guy' in any social group, and feel a particular fondness for French language and culture whenever I remember my country or meet French people. I still appreciate the UK because it has a particular charm which I find both novel and deeply nostalgic. It's really a love brewed by contrast!
- Krystopher

I first came to London when I was 22, and I had no idea I would end up building my life here. I have now been living in London for 16 years. I met my British filmmaker wife at the Institut Francais, I was then working as programmer of the Ciné Lumière. It is a very romantic story but I am not going to give you the details here: just the fact that it's thanks to Catherine Deneuve that we met. I spent a lot of time promoting French cinema in the UK. Le Monde did a portrait of me in 2009 and the title was "The Ambassador of French Cinema". Although I am very French in spirit, with respect to certain traditions, I feel like I am a Londoner now. 20 years ago, I was immediately fascinated by this country and its people. The Beatles did the rest, and I fell in love with London. It's my place, and I still love it. Good bread is now the thing I miss the most.
- Julien

I have the privilege of meeting some very interesting people in my job from Presidents of France past and present, to film stars and the everyday people who make the country work. Organising the funeral for the policeman who was shot on the Champs Elysées earlier this year was one of the most rewarding things I’ve done. Without talking about the grass being greener on the other side, I’ve realised that England has a lot to offer on all fronts, whether it be landscape, culture, history to name but a few. I grew up in West Yorkshire, its moors, Bronte landscape and grit. I still miss it every day, but listen to BBC Radio Leeds everyday where my friend Liz Green presents her Breakfast Show.
- Rachel

I love the way French people greet everyone with'Bonjour' or shake hands in a bar, or say 'Bonjour Madame' in the supermarket. I like the pride the French have in their environment, lack of rubbish on the streets and their welcoming manner to their fetes and festivals. I liked the instant neighbourliness when I bought my first 'Maison Secondaire' (second home) and this has continued in the village where I now live.
- Vivienne

I moved to London after I graduated because I was petrified to have to look for a job and start the ‘serious’ boring part of my life. As a vibrant, tolerant, creative city, London provided the adventure playground I was looking for. I initially set-off for two months with the aim to brush up on my English and 20 years and a marriage to an Englishman later still haven't made it back.
I will always remember my time working as a bartender in a pub, a temporary job I started the very day after I arrived. I had never come across such a successful melting pot of cultures, social classes, colours, religions, generations etc. – a diversity well reflected in the wonderful English language with all its versatility. It certainly blew my little French provincial mind away!
- Alexandra

My best memory is the Tour de France coming past our house! From then on, I've always followed the Tour and the last two years I've cycled out to it from where I live with my younger brother who visits for it. This year I finished my ride at the top of the col de Ares with him, my son and two friends. Something I never dreamed I could do.
- Sarah

To get promoted at the restaurant where I worked in Paris, you needed to be bilingual or wait for the chef de rang to pop his clogs so I came to the UK to learn English. A recent great honour was being chosen to represent The Cook from The Canterbury Tales on the plinth of the new bronze statue of Chaucer in the middle of Canterbury. An anonymous customer paid £5,000 for this and I was shocked and delighted to be there for many many years to come.
- Michel

Swimming the Channel is without doubt one of the greatest challenges on the planet both mentally and physically. But you learn that very ordinary people can allow themselves to have the most incredible and unbelievable dreams and make them come true. Nothing great is easy, but very often it is possible. It is achievable and sport is a wonderful passport to friendships.
- Michael

I have lots of fond memories of France, which started with my parents bringing me to Paris for my 10th birthday. I remember being stunned by the beauty of the country. We came back every summer after that: fantastic memories of baguettes, pain au chocolat and sunny, sandy beaches!
- Joanna

I moved here just before the 2012 elections with my French boyfriend (now husband). We were at Solférino for the announcement of Hollande's win - I watched in amazement like an outsider looking in from the sidelines. 5 years, one wedding, 3 house moves, two children and another general election later, I feel like part of the gang!
- Jessamy

This is the third time I have moved back to Paris now. I may say it in jest to friends and family, but Paris seems to draw me back each time I leave. You can have days where everything seems grey, gloomy and you yourself play the role of a grumpy parisian, you "râle" it's raining, you're late, people are in your way, the metro is busy....but then you catch a little glimpse of Sacre Cœur in the distance, you turn a corner, forgetting you're near the Eiffel Tower and then get goosebumps when you see her.
- Chloe

The United Kingdom gave me the chance to realize one of my biggest dreams: creating my own company, an online marketplace that helps EU students/graduates find a job opportunity abroad.
Living in the UK made me realize that, even though we are really close geographically, our cultures are very different. I do not always get my British friends’ jokes, I often don’t know what they really think, and I still don’t understand why they drink tea with milk – but what matters is that they are always happy to live life. Don't be afraid to meet all your team in a pub at 5pm!
- Maud

To be given the opportunity to move to the south of France and to work within an incredible ITER project in the field of fusion science was a dream come true for a young researcher like me . Living in Aix-en-Provence has been really exciting, and the fact that a cemetery from the 15-17th centuries was recently discovered outside my apartment, turning it into an archaeological site, is something that I am sure I will never forget.
- Aneeqa

In the early 80s, after I started work, I visited a friend in Paris for a week. Every day I took the bus along a beautiful tree-lined avenue with buildings built from stone. I imagined what it would be like to live there, never thinking it would ever be possible. Today, I live on that same avenue!
- Edward

I moved to London for the amazing energy the city has. You can feel it at every moment - the city literally resonates.
My best memory in the UK is probably one Christmas there. I had at least 2/3 parties planned every week from mid-November through December, and learnt the meaning of (and need for) “dry January”.
- Amélie

My most memorable experience in France has to be a 1000-mile road trip my wife (then girlfriend) and I took after we graduated. We surfed, camped and ate our way around Brittany, driving a 40-year old British Reliant Scimitar that could not have been less suitable. The heating permanently on, the car would only do 50mph on the autoroutes and we spent half our budget on fuel. But it was definitely worth it because everywhere we went, the French were eager to speak to us crazy Brits in our ridiculous car.
- Kim

It is my late father's experience that stays with me most. He was in hospital with a French man (Pierre). Neither of them spoke each other’s language but somehow they got along wonderfully and had a lot of laughs using a dictionary. When they both left the hospital they met every week and became very close. Pierre would bring gifts for my mum and when he became so ill that he couldn't leave his house he used catalogues to continue to send presents for us all. My father went to see him every week until Pierre passed away. Language and nationality separated them, but could not keep them apart.
- Paul

I moved because I fell in love with France, in the way that I'm in love with my home country of Wales. I moved because I couldn't stand a life that wouldn't be straddled between the two. Because when I travel across the Channel, either way, I'm going home.
- Bethan

When I left the UK at the age of 30, I could arguably have gone to the USA, Italy or the Middle East but chose Paris. I found myself on the steepest of learning curves but managed to survive, a feat of which I am proud. Integrating into a foreign culture is a process of self discovery. As for me, I have my Parisian wife, 4 children, my law practice, good friends and I am a truly settled. But I do admittedly miss great and inimitable English telly.
- Nicholas

Coming out of the Pont de Neuilly metro station in 1992 when I first moved here and realising that I was in a city of 10 million people and I knew no-one and that I was going to have to do something about it.
- Derek

Before I moved here I was incredibly nervous... I thought everyone would be proud and unhelpful. I couldn't have been more wrong. All the local people I've met have been kind and patient with me, coaching my terrible French. I realised I was basing my worries on stereotypes. I've made some wonderful friends – it doesn’t matter that some conversations are still basic...all you need is to share a laugh and a smile.
- Mercedes

My best memory in France was my first-ever invitation from a friend to his family's country house. It was the first time I spent a weekend away with just French people. And no phone signal – instead we just ate, drank, laughed, talked, played games - and had a great time.
- Ekow

One of my best memories of my life in France is when, a few years ago, I was at dinner with some French friends. Half way through, I realised that I was no longer translating from French to English in my head. It dawned on me that I was thinking in French – it was the most incredible moment! I wanted to cry I was so happy! It felt like one door had closed and a hundred more had opened. It just clicked, then and there and I felt as though I was finally becoming a true Parisienne.
- Chloe

My most influential experience about UK is music I have discovered, very young; with David Bowie for example and many others: this has guided me in my life and given me happiness, creativity and freedom, not to mention historical and artistic events – the UK is a kind of lighthouse!
- Isabelle

My best memory? Sitting in Cassis harbour with my husband and newborn son, enjoying a kir and some charcuterie in the sunshine. France is amazing for offering so many different experiences in one country. Go sailing in Brittany, skiing in the Savoie, the beach on the Cote D`Azur, or walk around amazing old towns, like Lyon. What also appealed to my husband and me is that there is a huge emphasis on work/ life balance in France, and that family is always priority. Oh and the food - did I mention the food?
- Sinead

It’s hard to look past the big moments that have moved the country. I arrived a few months before Hollande’s victory and I was there at Place de la Bastille that night. The optimism and exuberance was incredible! I was also here for the march after the Hebdo attacks. The solemn defiance of that day was awe-inspiring. It showed me that the French spirit of unity and freedom is as strong now as it’s ever been.
- Duncan

I’ve spent delightful springtime weeks exploring the rugged coast of Brittany, the rolling colza fields north of Paris, the Pyrenean mountainsides and the vineyards of Bordeaux, which is where I now live. Perched on the saddle of a bicycle is arguably the best way to visit France and to enjoy not only its wide open spaces, but also the countless small towns and villages that have managed to retain their own timeless heart and soul.
- Tim

When I started French lessons at the age of 11 in secondary school I was totally and utterly clueless. My parents were so desperate to help me scrape through my French O-level that they sent me on a French exchange. My French correspondent, Sophie, lived near Angers and we got on really well. Everything about France was so different and exotic - from the sign posts to the TV ads, from the pillow on the bed to the "carottes rapées" on my plate, from the socks people wore to the Orangina they drank. Needless to say, my French improved dramatically. As a result I got an “A” in my French O-level, continued to a degree in French, and ended up marrying a Frenchman and living in France - something my 11 year old self could never have imagined, and all thanks to that exchange.
- Bethan