Life in a French village in Provence. Traditional hilltop village in the South of France with stone houses and green valley

Life in a French Village. The Realities of Moving to the South of France

Thinking about moving to a small village in the South of France? Before you pack up and chase the dream, read this honest guide to what life in a French village really looks like. I share the real costs, the slow pace, the beauty, and the challenges of building a life far from cities. From buying property and budgeting as an expat to learning village etiquette and dealing with isolation, this guide covers what no one tells you. Living in a small village in Provence is rewarding, but it demands more patience, resilience, and work than you might expect.

bagnols en foret france

Bagnols-en-Forêt: Discovering the Hidden Charm of Provence

Welcome to Bagnols-en-Forêt! Tucked away in the heart of the Pays de Fayence, this charming little village has become my home and a personal haven — a place where time slows down, and every street whispers a story. Our love affair with Bagnols-en-Forêt began long before we made it our permanent residence. Mathieu and his family had been drawn to this idyllic corner of France for their summer vacations for years. The allure of its rich history, captivating landscapes, and warm Provençal charm kept them coming back year after year. Little did I know that this village would also capture …

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