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Thinking of Moving to France?

© Heather Stimmler-Hall

The internet is a great lifeline for the expat communities around the world (I don't know how I would be here in France without the internet, but that's another story). There are sites for individual cities like Paris, for certain groups (religious, students, alumni, etc), and for expats as a whole. My new favorite one is Expatica.com. You'll find French, international and business news, articles on relocating, personal finance and housing. There's also information that even visitors would enjoy, covering shopping, events, eating and drinking. There's a job section with good articles on how to prepare for the French job hunt. It's a well-done site that's easy on the eyes and enjoyable to read.

Expat Exchange covers many cities, but the Paris section is quite active, and there's even get-togethers at pubs around town for those who wish to chat in person with other expats. Otherwise, a great site that doesn't forget about military expats, children and retirees. Also covers the oft-forgotten repatriated contingent (when they say you can never go home again...).

Escape Artist and International Living seem to target the "off-shore investment" genre of expats, and are particularly concerned with quality of living (well, who isn't?), taxes (or avoiding them), and retirement homes. But they also have great articles, so don't discount them if this doesn't seem like your cup of tea. Escape Artist features listings of many other expat magazines, newsletters, and resources, as well as country reports and real estate listings. Looking at those photos of island properties in the Caribbean makes me think I may have to move myself! Subscribe to their free Escape from America newsletter if you need further convincing delivered to your inbox. International Living is an online and print magazine whose editors particularly like France and Central America for quality expat living. Their 'postcards' feature little tips from travelers 'in the field' on great places to eat, shop, sleep, and buy property.

For the more down-to-earth and student expat wannabes, Transitions Abroad covers working, studying, living and travel abroad in their online and print magazine. They consider themselves to be the affordable alternative to mass tourism as well, so their articles are of interest to budget travelers as well. However, there's limited info on Paris and France.

For Paris-specific websites, the Paris-Anglo Pages and Bonjour Paris are great for those looking for information, chats, articles, 'life in France' commentary and forums with like-minded English-speaking expats. Paris Anglo just relaunched their site with a new directory and events calendar. Bonjour Paris is for anyone who hasn't already fallen in love with France, and you can practice your French in the language lesson chat room.