Issue No. 18

La
Belle
Vie
Joanna Leggett, director of
marketing and public relations at
Leggett Immobillier explains the best
ways to integrate into French life,
beginning with the importance of
learning the language and adapting to
the culture
Every now and again, as I travel through
France, I have to stop and pinch myself. I
am actually living my dream! All the
magical places I'd read about for so many
years are passing by my window.
France seduces your senses:
The warmth of the sun on your back; smells
of fresh bread and coffee from the local
boulangerie; the scent of flowers – you only
have to sniff lavender oil to recall the fields
that turn the south of France purple.
The countryside is peaceful, from the
verdant landscape, where luscious vines
spill over their supports, to the coastal
resorts and pretty fishing villages.
And the French certainly know how to eat
well: oysters and fresh fish from the coast;
truffles from the Dordogne; salt-marsh lamb,
tender Limousin beef, and of course, the
cheeses.
Am I waxing lyrical? Mais oui, bien sûr.
Living in France means much more than
indulging your olfactory senses. It's not an
extended summer holiday, and it will take
some time to adapt to your new life. There
will be ups and downs – but, to my mind, it
cannot be bettered. So how should we adapt
to life in France? In my opinion, the two
basics are language and culture.
LANGUAGE
First, you must try to learn French.
Communication really is key. In the UK we
wouldn't expect to switch languages to
converse with a new neighbour. The French
are extremely courteous and polite. You
need to be able to converse so that you can
be courteous in return. At first you may find
your language skills limited to the needs for
materials for the travaux (renovations) on
your house, and the weather; however, it
won't be long before you want to discuss the
matters of the day and to make friends.