Bonjour @digitainewsgirl & @ckinsobe:
Both of you might like Laguedoc-Occitanie. I chose Beziers over Montpelliers because it's an up and coming city of 85K, much more affordable real estate and lovely. Beziers has a large expat community from all over the world, rich culture, walkability, excellent public transportation and access to the rest of Europe. The city is also 15 miles from lovely beaches, access to the Canal du Midi and is surrounded by vineyards. Americans will need expat health insurance for about the first 6-months to 1-year, but don't let a smarmy insurance company tell you that you need full coverage to obtain a visa. You don't. Once here in France, apply for "Carte de Sejour" registered long stay visa, "Carte vitale" health insurance card, which (can take 6-months to get. This is done through www.ameli.fr. I'm over simplifying just to give you an idea of what to do.I think expatica.com has a very good clear explanation and overview of the process, Paying out of pocket for basic doctor visits is very inexpensive as are prescription meds. It can be difficult to get a first appointment with a GP. If you need help, contact the "pharmacie" in your neighborhood. A wealth of info can be found with Pharmacists and they often speak English. This is not CVS! French Pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics and give first aid. Fun fact? They are also trained in toxicology so if you're a wild mushroom hunter, they can check your mushrooms to make sure they are safe to eat! Good luck and write back to let the forum know which region/village/city you choose. A bientot! Diana R.
Both of you might like Laguedoc-Occitanie. I chose Beziers over Montpelliers because it's an up and coming city of 85K, much more affordable real estate and lovely. Beziers has a large expat community from all over the world, rich culture, walkability, excellent public transportation and access to the rest of Europe. The city is also 15 miles from lovely beaches, access to the Canal du Midi and is surrounded by vineyards. Americans will need expat health insurance for about the first 6-months to 1-year, but don't let a smarmy insurance company tell you that you need full coverage to obtain a visa. You don't. Once here in France, apply for "Carte de Sejour" registered long stay visa, "Carte vitale" health insurance card, which (can take 6-months to get. This is done through www.ameli.fr. I'm over simplifying just to give you an idea of what to do.I think expatica.com has a very good clear explanation and overview of the process, Paying out of pocket for basic doctor visits is very inexpensive as are prescription meds. It can be difficult to get a first appointment with a GP. If you need help, contact the "pharmacie" in your neighborhood. A wealth of info can be found with Pharmacists and they often speak English. This is not CVS! French Pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics and give first aid. Fun fact? They are also trained in toxicology so if you're a wild mushroom hunter, they can check your mushrooms to make sure they are safe to eat! Good luck and write back to let the forum know which region/village/city you choose. A bientot! Diana R.
