For many people, moving to a foreign country seems like something only other people do. A dream, a fantasy, impractical or just plain silly. And yet there are certainly a mot of us expats over here in France. So many, in fact, that some people even jokingly refer to American and English 'colonies' in France. One thing I think that's interesting is the many different types of people that move to France. They're not all rich art dealers, retired professors, or executives on assignment. You don't have to be rich, or even well off to come and live in France. But it sure makes it easier!
Some come as students (like yours truly), some as au pairs or English teachers. Some just come over as backpackers and never leave. Once you're actually IN France, and find some sort of accommodation, the rest isn't as hard as it looks. Even big cities like Paris and Nice aren't as expensive as you'd think if you take public transport and buy your food at the markets instead of eating out. Legally speaking, it's much more difficult for North Americans (and anyone else who isn't European) to live and work in France. If you're an independent worker (like a writer or artist), and already receive an income from this from home, then you're much better off. If you're a telecommuter in the US anyway, why not move to France? Basically, if you're not planning on sponging off the 'system', and have independent means or income, then there's no reason you shouldn't be able to live in France legally.
If the serious thought has ever crossed your mind, you may wonder where to start looking for information. For France, there are quite a few books available. Type the words "living working France" into any online bookstore search and you should get at least ten good examples. Most libraries have books on this topic as well, if you don't want to blow lots of money on research. You'll want to examine the logistical aspect (legal, taxes, cost, customs, etc.) as well as the social aspect (what life as an expat is really like). Before I came to France for the first time I read "French Lessons", a memoir by Alice Kaplan that covered her student years in Paris, and "French or Foe" by Polly Platt, which seemed to be targeted more towards diplomats wives than myself. To its credit, it prepared me for the way French people don't smile at strangers in public (sure sign of an American or a stalker).
