November brings a fresh round of tax deadlines and proposed changes affecting households and property owners in France, alongside new charges, planned industrial action and changes to consumer credit. We also look ahead to property advice events and festive food and drink ideas for Christmas. Here are the headlines you need to know about France this week.

Second Home Tax Notices Now Available

Owners of second homes in France can now access their 2026 taxe d’habitation notices online, with bills available from 2 November for taxpayers who do not pay monthly. The tax continues to apply to furnished second homes, even though it has been abolished for main residences. The payment deadline is 15 December 2026, or 28 December for those paying by direct debit on the due date. Owners should check their online tax accounts and make sure their property details are correct.

New Fee on Small Parcels from Outside the EU

People shopping online from retailers outside the European Union may face additional charges following the introduction of a €2 handling fee on certain small parcels from 1 November. The fee applies to goods entering the EU from non-EU sellers, adding to existing import charges where applicable. For British residents in France who regularly order clothing, gifts or household goods from UK websites, it is worth checking the final delivery cost before placing an order.

France Considers Tax Changes for Family Gifts

Proposed measures in France’s 2027 budget could make it easier for parents to pass money to their children with reduced gift tax, potentially allowing qualifying family gifts of up to €400,000 to be made tax-free under the proposed arrangements. The plans are still subject to the legislative process, so the final rules and eligibility conditions may change. For families with property in France, the proposals could be relevant to estate planning and helping younger relatives with a home purchase. Anyone considering a substantial gift should seek advice on the rules that apply to their own circumstances.

Dordogne to Replace Pay-as-You-Throw Waste Charges

Households in more than 350 communes in the Dordogne are set to see a change to their rubbish collection charges from 1 January 2027. The existing pay-as-you-throw system, which combines a fixed charge with a variable amount linked to household size and use of communal bins, is being replaced by a property-based tax. The change follows years of complaints about the system, although some households could see their costs rise. Residents should watch for further details from their local authority and waste management service.

UK and EU Draft Deal Could Ease Post-Brexit Trade Rules

The UK and EU have agreed a draft deal aimed at removing many of the checks and paperwork introduced for food and agricultural trade after Brexit. The proposed sanitary and phytosanitary agreement could reduce costs for exporters, remove certain health certification requirements and allow some British food products, including fresh sausages and seed potatoes, to resume exports to the EU. It could also restore the use of British pet passports for travel into the EU, potentially simplifying trips for people travelling between the UK and France with their animals. In return, the UK would be expected to align with relevant EU rules on plant, animal and food standards. The draft remains subject to consideration ahead of a UK-EU summit later this month.

Nationwide Strike Planned for 5 November

Trade unions have called a nationwide day of industrial action on Thursday 5 November, with demonstrations and possible disruption to transport, schools and public services. The action comes amid continued concerns about purchasing power, public spending and proposed budget measures. Student protests have also resumed following the autumn school holidays, although the number of schools affected by blockades has been lower than during earlier demonstrations. Residents should check local transport services and public announcements before travelling.

London Property Exhibition Offers Advice for French Homebuyers

Anyone considering buying a property in France can get advice on the practicalities at the French Property Exhibition in London on 23 and 24 January 2027 from the experts. Held at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith, the two day event brings together property professionals and specialists in legal matters, tax, mortgages and currency exchange. Free seminars will cover key aspects of buying a home overseas, whether visitors are just starting to consider a purchase or are preparing to make a move. Find out more about the French Property Exhibition.

New Consumer Credit Rules Coming Later This Month

New consumer credit rules are due to take effect on 20 November, strengthening affordability checks and protections for borrowers. The changes will extend to some forms of short-term credit and deferred payment arrangements that may previously have fallen outside the same requirements. For residents in France, the reforms could affect how banks and other lenders assess applications for certain types of credit, including smaller loans and payment plans. Anyone considering borrowing should check the terms and costs carefully before committing.

FrenchEntrée to Host Online Session for Americans Moving to France

Americans considering a move to France in 2027 can learn more about the practicalities of relocating at an online event hosted by FrenchEntrée on 10 November 2026. Moving to France as an American in 2027 is scheduled for 11pm GMT and will offer an opportunity to find out more about planning a move and the considerations involved in settling in France. The online format allows prospective movers to take part from wherever they are based. Register for the online event.

New 2027 France Calendars for Francophiles

Looking ahead to Christmas gifts, France Media has launched its 2027 France calendars, featuring 12 glossy photographs celebrating the country’s landscapes and heritage. With bilingual French and English days, public and school holidays, saints’ days and historical facts, they make a practical gift for anyone who loves France. A 20% discount is available when buying three or more calendars. Get yours here.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

Interest rate expectations, political uncertainty and economic data are set to shape currency markets this week, with investors weighing developments in the UK, US and eurozone. The Bank of England’s upcoming decision follows a controversial Budget, while US midterm elections and employment figures could add further volatility to the markets.

In Europe, rising headline inflation could strengthen expectations of another European Central Bank rate rise, potentially influencing the euro’s recent performance. Meanwhile, Canadian employment figures and Mexico’s central bank decision will provide further insight into the outlook for other major currencies.

For those buying property in France, transferring savings or managing regular payments between the UK and France, these developments could influence sterling to euro exchange rates in the days ahead.

UK focus on the BoE meeting after a Budget of nothingness

There’s an old saying that “if you’ve got nothing good to say, then say nothing,” and that would appear to aptly sum up the UK government’s Budget from last week. A Budget that continued to tighten the screw on businesses and households, and one that failed to tackle the growth in spending in the near term, instead relying on significant cuts in spending around the time of the next scheduled election. A Budget of borrowed time is the best description, in my view.

This week, the UK focus shifts to the Bank of England meeting, with the MPC decision, press conference and quarterly update all due. The markets are convinced that the BoE will hike by 25 basis points, despite disappointing data and surveys. I think they will as well, given that the updated forecasts and press conference give them their best chance to explain.

Meanwhile, GBPEUR continues to push higher, but generally because developments in the US and Euro Area appear to be in greater focus than those in the UK. The markets have been fooled into thinking the UK has time to rectify its deficit problem, but in my view, time is not on the government’s side.

US midterms could significantly constrain the administration’s programme; payrolls at the end of the week

The US midterm elections are either going to be very bad for the Republicans, or very bad for the US polling industry. The latest polling data would suggest that the Republicans are set for some historic defeats in their traditional heartlands, with the US administration’s programme having been derailed because of the war in the Middle East and other geopolitical and trade headwinds.

If the administration’s ability to deliver its policy programme is hampered by changes to the make‑up of the Senate and House of Representatives, then there is a risk that the President will increasingly use his executive powers, with the other arms of government then having to reverse those measures through legislative powers. That could cause more volatility in FX markets, especially given the recent turbulence in equity markets.

The focus will quickly shift to the end‑of‑week non‑farm payrolls data. Will there have been a recovery, or will the markets be disappointed by lacklustre US employment and average earnings growth? Will weak labour market figures reinforce that the US Fed is likely to hike far less than the markets are pricing in, and what will that mean for the USD?

ECB focus on CPI inflation likely to prime the rate hike pump again

Last week’s announcement from ECB President Christine Lagarde that she would be standing down early from her post gave the markets fresh reason to be concerned about the direction of travel for the euro, with speculation turning to who might succeed Lagarde in the top job.

However, for this week, the focus will be on inflation once again. There has been a growing disparity between headline and core inflation rates, and that should show up again in data released on Wednesday, with the composite CPI figures for preliminary October likely to report the headline rate rising to 4% y/y, but the core rate remaining at 2.5%.

The jump in headline inflation could prime the pumps for another ECB rate hike at the end of the year, or early 2027, so could that be something that turns the tide of EUR underperformance? The focus on demonstrations in Europe continues, with problems in Germany now emerging, but the issues in France, Spain and Italy appear to be dying down. That could mean the euro enjoys some welcome respite in the sessions to come.

Canadian jobs report and Budget in focus; Mexico waits on Banxico

The Bank of Canada’s decision to hike interest rates was something of a surprise to me, given the weakness that has been observed in the Canadian economy and the fact that Canadian inflation appears to be less impacted by geopolitical and trade issues than elsewhere. This may prove to be a precautionary and unnecessary move, with data and surveys likely to refocus attention on economic underperformance in the coming sessions.

The end of the week sees the Canadian jobs report due. Will this show further signs of economic stress in terms of weak jobs growth (or even another contraction)? Will earnings growth continue to disappoint? How will it compare with Canada’s neighbour, the US, which releases its report at the same time? The CAD might give back some of its post‑Bank of Canada gains this week, in my view.

In Mexico, Banxico meets this week. There has been speculation that the central bank might be considering lowering interest rates again. That could put additional pressure on the peso, should the central bank make such a move, but the risks to inflation look limited and the weakness of the economy merits such a move, in my view. USDMXN has been bucking the trend of USD weakness in recent weeks. Could we see it again this week?

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Buying a property in France is an exciting milestone for many UK buyers, offering a wonderful lifestyle change. Whether you are settling down permanently in a rustic Dordogne farmhouse, renovating a sunny village house in Provence, or keeping a charming coastal retreat for the holidays, setting up your overseas haven takes careful planning.

However, many British buyers run into trouble when arranging cover, assuming that property insurance in France works just like it does back in the UK. Because the French system has unique legal requirements and operational quirks, misunderstanding the finer points can leave you unexpectedly exposed.

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your French investment stays fully protected.

1. Assuming Insurance is Always Optional

In the UK, buildings insurance is typically a choice unless stipulated by a mortgage lender. In France, the rules are much stricter: insurance is legally mandatory for tenants, as well as for owners of apartments in a co-owned building (copropriété). While standalone house owners are technically not required by law to have cover, it is strongly recommended to protect against third-party liabilities, and virtually all mortgage lenders will make it a strict condition of your loan.

2. Overlooking the “Vacancy Clause”

This is one of the most frequent traps for holiday home owners. Because second homes can sit empty for weeks or months at a time, insurers apply strict rules regarding extended periods of unoccupation.

• Many standard policies suspend certain theft and vandalism cover if the property is left unoccupied for more than a specified number of days without specific notification or enhanced security measures.
• Winter rules may require you to turn off the water mains or drain your pipes to prevent freezing damage. Always check the fine print regarding how long your property can sit vacant.

3. Forgetting to Declare Holiday Lets

If you plan to offset your maintenance costs by renting out your French property on platforms like Airbnb, you must explicitly declare this to your insurer. Failing to mention commercial or short-term guest use can be treated as misrepresentation, potentially invalidating your entire policy if a guest causes damage or triggers an incident. A small adjustment to your premium ensures you have the correct legal and third-party protections in place.

4. Underestimating the Rebuild Cost (Valeur de Reconstruction)

In the UK, insurers often help calculate your building values automatically. In France, you are generally expected to provide an accurate estimate of what it would cost to completely rebuild the property from the ground up at current local material and labour prices. Underestimating this figure can lead to a proportional reduction in payouts if you make a claim. If you have a mortgage, check your loan documents for valuation figures, or consult a local builder or surveyor.

5. Overlooking Outbuildings, Pools, and Gardens

If your French property includes a detached barn, a swimming pool, a summer kitchen, or extensive boundary walls, do not assume they are automatically covered by a basic policy. Outbuildings and high-risk features like swimming pools often need to be explicitly declared and added to your policy schedule to ensure both property damage and liability are valid.

6. Missing Out on Tailored Options

Many buyers simply accept the first basic policy offered by their bank when opening a French account. However, bank-tied policies can lack flexibility for non-residents.

To find a policy that accommodates extended absences, specific security requirements, and your exact usage pattern, exploring a specialized holiday home insurance comparison platform can make all the difference. Comparing dedicated French property policies side-by-side lets you spot crucial nuances—such as English-speaking claims assistance and natural disaster extensions (catastrophes naturelles)—ensuring your overseas home is protected without paying for features you do not need.

At MyInsurance we allow you to compare holiday/second home insurance products and premiums from leading UK insurers that can provide comprehensive and specialist cover for your overseas home, including properties that are let out to third parties.

All policy wordings are in plain English and claims are dealt with by English speaking staff.

Follow this link to compare prices and save time, money and effort.

What are the most common mistakes people make when organising a move to France and how can they avoid delays?

BEN HINGLEY of Burke Bros Removals responds (burkebros.co.uk): One of the biggest pitfalls is misunderstanding post-Brexit customs procedures. Moving household goods from the UK to France is no longer a simple intra-EU transfer. Customs clearance is now mandatory and those making the move must qualify for ‘Transfer of Residence’ relief to avoid paying import taxes.

This requires proof that the goods have been owned and used for at least six months, along with evidence of a genuine change of residence. Engaging a removal company experienced in Franco-British moves, and starting paperwork early, is essential to prevent shipments being held at the border.

Documentation errors are another frequent cause of delays. Missing or inconsistent paperwork, such as incorrect addresses, unsigned declarations or mismatched dates, can result in customs queries or inspections. French authorities are meticulous and even minor discrepancies can halt a shipment. Preparing a clear document checklist, including passport copies, proof of address, residency documents and customs forms, helps ensure nothing is overlooked.

Incomplete or vague inventories also create problems. French customs require a detailed, itemised inventory, ideally in French, listing the contents of each box and identifying high-value items separately. Generic descriptions such as ‘miscellaneous household goods’ can raise red flags and trigger inspections.

Timing is another area that is often underestimated. Many people plan their move around property completion dates without accounting for customs processing times, seasonal congestion or French public holidays. Delays of several days, or even weeks, are not uncommon if paperwork is submitted late. Building flexibility into the schedule and avoiding peak moving periods can significantly reduce stress.

Moves to France often involve household effects and possessions going into storage. It’s important to discuss this with your chosen removal company and ensure they can make arrangements for this. Items may go into store for weeks or even months, so it’s important to discuss this in advance to avoid expensive last minute solutions.

Finally, don’t underestimate access challenges, particularly in rural France. Narrow lanes, weight-restricted bridges and limited turning space will pose difficulties for large removal vehicles to reach a property. It’s important that you discuss access issues with your removal company in advance as it may be necessary to arrange a smaller vehicle to act as a shuttle vehicle, for example.

In short, the key to avoiding delays lies in early preparation, detailed documentation and working with professionals who understand both UK and French regulations. A well-planned move is not just smoother; it is also more cost-effective.

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As November approaches, several changes are coming into effect across France, affecting tenants, property owners and motorists. The government has announced plans to reduce fuel prices, winter driving requirements return in mountain areas, and the annual eviction truce begins. Meanwhile, new education reforms have been announced following weeks of demonstrations, with further protests expected in the coming days. Here are the headlines you need to know about France this week.

Winter Eviction Truce Begins on 1 November

France’s annual winter eviction truce begins on 1 November and runs until 31 March 2027. During this period, landlords generally cannot evict tenants from their homes, even if a court has ruled in their favour over unpaid rent. Gas and electricity disconnections are also prohibited during the winter period. However, there are exceptions, including certain cases involving squatters and properties deemed unsafe. The truce does not cancel outstanding rent debts, and eviction proceedings may resume once the period ends. The rules are particularly relevant for landlords and tenants navigating the French rental system.

French Government Announces Fuel Price Cuts from November

Motorists in France could benefit from lower fuel prices from 1 November, following a government announcement on 22 October. The release of 10 million barrels from strategic oil stocks is intended to reduce pump prices by an estimated 12 to 18 cents per litre between November and January. The government is also offering financial support to eligible independent rural petrol stations to help ensure the reductions reach customers. Actual savings will depend on how quickly individual stations pass on the lower prices, making it worth comparing prices locally over the coming weeks.

Sterling Strengthens as French Property Buyers Gain More Spending Power

Sterling is currently trading close to €1.19 against the euro, giving British buyers looking at property in France a stronger exchange rate than at this time last year, when the pound was closer to €1.15. The approximately 4% appreciation means that a £100,000 transfer now converts to around €4,000 more than it would have a year ago, offering additional purchasing power for those considering a French holiday home, investment property or permanent residence.

However, exchange rates are only one part of the overall cost of buying property abroad. The rate offered by a currency specialist can differ from that available through a traditional high street bank, potentially making a significant difference on larger transfers. Moneycorp can help buyers understand their options and plan currency transfers around their property purchase. To discuss your circumstances with a currency specialist, speak to Moneycorp.

Winter Driving Requirements Return Across Mountain Regions

Drivers heading to France’s mountain regions should prepare for the return of winter equipment requirements from 1 November. Until 31 March 2027, vehicles travelling in designated communes across 34 departments must either have four winter tyres fitted or carry suitable snow chains or snow socks. The rules cover parts of the Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura and Vosges, as well as other mountain areas. Not every commune in these departments is necessarily covered, so drivers should check the official map before travelling. Anyone planning a winter holiday or regularly driving through mountain areas should make sure their vehicle meets the requirements before setting off.

France Announces Major Changes to University Admissions

The government announced a series of education reforms on 26 October following weeks of demonstrations by secondary school pupils and students. The Parcoursup university admissions platform is set to be replaced by a new system for the 2028 admissions campaign, with improvements planned for 2027. These include clearer explanations of admission decisions and greater support with choosing courses. The government has also pledged 15,000 additional higher education places between 2027 and 2028, including 10,000 new places in vocational higher education courses known as BTS. Student grants are also due to be adjusted in line with inflation from 2027. The proposals aim to address concerns about access to education, overcrowded classes and the cost of studying.

Further Demonstrations Expected Across France

Following demonstrations on 24 October, further protests are planned for 31 October, with additional trade union action expected on 5 November. Demonstrations have been driven by concerns about living costs, public services, education and inequality, placing pressure on the government to respond. President Emmanuel Macron has said that measures will be taken to protect shops and businesses during future demonstrations, following reports of disruption and damage in some areas. Residents and visitors should check local announcements before travelling, particularly in major cities, where demonstrations may affect public transport, road access and opening hours.

Property Wealth Tax Payment Deadline Approaches

Property owners liable for France’s impôt sur la fortune immobilière (IFI), the real estate wealth tax, should check their payment arrangements ahead of the November deadline. The deadline to sign up for direct debit for the November payment is 31 October, with the debit scheduled for 26 November. The tax applies to qualifying net property assets above €1.3 million, subject to the relevant rules and exemptions. It is calculated on the value of taxable real estate holdings after eligible deductible debts, rather than on the purchase price of a property alone. British residents with substantial property assets in France should check whether their holdings fall within the scope of the tax and seek professional advice if their circumstances are complex.

Cognac in Charente is famous worldwide for its brandy, but it’s also a fantastic place live, writes Eleanor Hewitt-Coleman

Set along the gentle bends of the Charente River, the town of Cognac is known worldwide for the amber spirit that carries its name. Yet for those who live here, Cognac is less about the drink and more about a way of life shaped by the river, the vineyards and a long tradition of craftsmanship.

Despite its global reputation, life here is refreshingly down-to-earth. Surrounded by vineyards and the gentle countryside of the Charente, Cognac offers a lifestyle that feels both relaxed and practical. Many arrive here as visitors and end up calling it home.

Local life is closely tied to the land and the spirit produced here. The surrounding countryside is planted largely with Ugni Blanc grapes, supporting generations of growers, distillers, coopers and cellar masters. Cognac, itself, is very much a working town rather than a showpiece. The major houses – Hennessy, Martell, Rémy Martin, Otard and Meukow – remain central to the local economy. Otard operates from the Château de Cognac overlooking the Charente, one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.

Life along the river

The River Charente plays a central role in the town’s atmosphere. People walk their dogs along the towpaths, cyclists cross the bridges into the surrounding countryside, and rowing clubs train early in the morning. Just by the river lies Parc François I, once part of the king’s hunting grounds and now a large area of meadows and woodland. Families come here to walk, picnic or simply enjoy some space outdoors.

Markets are, of course, an important part of local life. While the covered market in the centre is currently undergoing renovation, traders have temporarily moved into the surrounding square and nearby streets, creating a lively meeting point for residents buying fish, vegetables, cheeses and local specialities. The town centre itself offers a relaxed mix of cafés, bars and restaurants, while nearby villages add their own character with small restaurants and local artisans.

Cultural Cognac

For a town of its size, Cognac has a lively cultural calendar. Spring begins with the Festival Art du Mouvement, dedicated to contemporary physical theatre. In early July, the well known Cognac Blues Passions festival fills parks and riverfront spaces with music from international artists. Later in the month, the Fête du Cognac celebrates local gastronomy and the famous spirit along the river quays. In early autumn, Coup de Chauffe turns the town centre into an open-air stage, while the Ban de la Distillation marks the traditional start of the distilling season. These events add an extra energy and life to the town, but Cognac continues to feel welcoming and authentic.

Beyond the town, the Charente countryside offers opportunities to explore. Vineyards stretch across gently rolling hills, dotted with farmhouses and small villages. Nearby towns have their own character. Saintes, a short drive away, is known for its Roman heritage, including the Arc de Germanicus and a remarkably well-preserved amphitheatre.

Angoulême offers a larger cultural scene and is famous for its international comics festival, while Jarnac sits beside the river a few minutes from Cognac. Weekends might involve cycling through the vineyards, browsing a village brocante, or lunch at a local restaurant.

Accessibility

Despite its rural setting, Cognac is well connected. The nearby TGV station in Angoulême means Paris is two hours by train, while regular regional services connect to Saintes, Royan and La Rochelle, making coastal trips easy. By road, Cognac sits between the N10 via Angoulême and the A10 via Saintes, allowing easy travel north or south. Several airports are within two hours’ drive, including Bordeaux, La Rochelle and Angoulême, while Paris can be reached in about four hours by car. This combination of countryside tranquillity and practical transport links makes Cognac appealing both for permanent living and as a second home base for exploring the region.

Character Property

Cognac and the surrounding villages offer a wide range of homes, from historic townhouses to rural properties in the midst of vineyards. In the town centre, 17th/18th-century houses often feature high ceilings, tall windows and stone staircases, sometimes with private courtyards hidden behind traditional façades.

Riverside apartments also offer attractive views across the Charente river. Prices for town apartments typically range from €200,000 to €450,000, while larger historic houses can reach €500,000– €900,000 depending on their size and location.

Slower pace of life

Outside the town, villages and hamlets provide more space and a quieter pace of life. Traditional Charentais stone houses with terracotta roofs and timber beams are common, often with gardens, barns or additional outbuildings. Renovated farmhouses and manor houses offer larger plots and countryside views, with prices typically ranging from €250,000 to €600,000, while vineyard estates or larger properties can exceed €1m.

Although Cognac’s name travels the world on labels and bottles, for residents it’s simply a place to live. The Charente river flows quietly through the town, vineyards stretch across the surrounding hills, and life follows a steady rhythm shaped by the seasons. From elegant townhouses to village homes and countryside estates, property here has character and a connection to the traditions and landscape of the Charente.

Cognac charms effortlessly, with a relaxed, authentic feel. It’s a welcoming town with a strong sense of community and a comfortable pace of life.

Eleanor Hewitt-Coleman is on the marketing team at Beaux Villages Immobilier

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

Global economic uncertainty continues to influence currency markets, with investors weighing geopolitical developments, energy prices and the outlook for inflation. These factors remain important for sterling and the euro, as any changes in market sentiment could affect exchange rates for people transferring money to or from France.

In Europe, attention remains on France’s economic outlook and political uncertainty, with concerns over public finances and the wider economic environment potentially weighing on the euro. Sterling’s performance against the single currency will continue to depend on developments on both sides of the Channel, as investors assess the relative strength of the UK and eurozone economies.

Looking ahead, markets will be watching closely for fresh economic data and signals from central banks to gauge the likely direction of interest rates. Inflation trends, growth figures and political developments could all influence sterling’s next move against the euro. For anyone buying property in France, moving savings or managing regular payments between the UK and France, exchange rate movements remain an important consideration.

Iran warns of a response “several times greater” to any renewed US strikes

Tensions in the Middle East have risen again over the weekend. US intelligence has reportedly warned that Iran has substantially increased efforts to target American officials both in the region and abroad, prompting the State Department to update travel advisories for fourteen Middle Eastern countries. President Trump has said he is weighing a renewed military response against Iran, while an Iranian military official warned that any limited action by the US would be met with a response “several times greater”, citing the country’s current state of readiness.

Separately, President Trump accused Iran of fabricating reports of tanker attacks in the Strait of Hormuz in order to drive up oil prices ahead of the upcoming US elections, a claim Iran denies. Attacks on shipping and regional targets continued over the weekend, including intercepted missile strikes on Saudi Arabia.

On Russia and Ukraine, there was a more constructive development. The two sides agreed on Friday to a localised ceasefire in the Russian‑occupied town of Oleshky, brokered through US First Lady Melania Trump, due to take effect this week and allowing humanitarian aid deliveries and civilian evacuations. Separately, negotiators from Ukraine, Russia and the US have agreed to hold technical‑level peace talks in Abu Dhabi in the first half of November.

It’s worth treating this as an early, localised step rather than a broader breakthrough: Russia continues to demand that Ukraine cede additional territory in the Donbas region, which Kyiv has rejected, and both sides continue to exchange long‑range strikes elsewhere along the front line.

For FX, the net effect of these developments has been a modest pickup in demand for traditional safe havens, alongside continued volatility in oil prices, both relevant for GBP, EUR and commodity‑linked currencies this week.

All eyes turn to Wednesday’s UK Budget

Chancellor John Healey delivers his first UK Budget this Wednesday, 28 October, and it arrives at an unusually sensitive moment. A sustained rise in UK government borrowing costs this year has significantly narrowed Healey’s fiscal headroom, down from an estimated figure in the twenties of billions of pounds back in the spring to somewhere between roughly £11bn and £20bn today, depending on the estimate used, with the Institute for Fiscal Studies’ own figure sitting at the higher end of that range. UK government borrowing also came in close to £2bn above official forecasts in September, adding further pressure.

Expectations are for a cautious Budget focused on reassuring bond markets rather than major new spending commitments, with reports suggesting the Chancellor favours stability over the bigger fiscal ambitions floated earlier this year by Prime Minister Burnham.

The key dynamic for sterling is less about the specific policies announced and more about how credible the plan appears to bond investors. A Budget seen as fiscally disciplined could help ease the recent rise in borrowing costs and support the pound, while one seen as over‑committing on spending risks pushing yields higher for the wrong reasons, a dynamic the market has been particularly alert to since the 2022 mini‑Budget episode.

Notably, investors have so far been considerably less alarmed by the UK’s fiscal position than by France, Italy or the US, which has helped keep sterling relatively resilient near multi‑month highs against the euro heading into Wednesday.

The Federal Reserve meets Wednesday, with markets strongly favouring a hold over a third consecutive hike

The Federal Reserve’s policy meeting concludes on Wednesday, the same day as the UK Budget, with the decision and Chair Kevin Warsh’s press conference due in the evening, UK time. Having raised rates in September for the first time in around three years, the Fed is now widely expected to pause this week, with prediction markets and futures pricing putting the odds of a hold at somewhere around 90%, and a further quarter‑point hike a much less likely outcome.

A December hike remains the market’s preferred window for any further tightening this year and is seen as considerably more probable than an October move.

Warsh has continued to steer away from giving forward guidance on the pace of future moves, repeatedly declining to pre‑commit to a particular path at recent public appearances. This has kept markets leaning more heavily on incoming data than on central bank signalling.

With the Fed broadly expected to hold steady, the greater source of volatility for the dollar this week may come from Wednesday’s UK Budget and Thursday’s ECB decision landing in such close succession, rather than from the Fed announcement itself.

EUR remains broadly stable as softer eurozone business activity reinforces expectations of an ECB pause this week

The euro has traded broadly stable through the weekend, having stabilised somewhat after a period of underperformance driven by French fiscal concerns. Last week’s flash business activity survey data came in weaker than expected across the eurozone, with France’s reading pointing to continued contraction, reinforcing market expectations that the European Central Bank will hold rates steady at its own meeting on Thursday, the day after both the UK Budget and the Fed decision.

Encouragingly, peripheral eurozone bond spreads, including France’s, have narrowed somewhat as the most acute flight‑to‑quality pressure of recent weeks has eased, even as energy prices continue to push inflation expectations higher across the region.

CAD eases back as safe‑haven demand fades and oil prices retreat from recent highs

The Canadian dollar has given back some of last week’s strong gains, as a reduction in near‑term safe‑haven demand, following President Trump’s comments ruling out an immediate strike on Iran, has taken some of the edge off oil prices after their recent climb

Given how closely CAD has tracked the oil price and Middle East headlines in recent weeks, this pullback illustrates how quickly sentiment can shift in either direction. The Bank of Canada does not meet again until later this week, and markets continue to assign a meaningfully elevated probability to a rate hike at that meeting, a dynamic that remains a key underlying support for the currency even on a quieter day for oil.

MXN weakens towards a one‑year low as the US‑Mexico interest rate gap continues to narrow

The Mexican peso remains under pressure, trading close to its weakest level in around a year as the interest rate differential between the US and Mexico continues to narrow. Banxico has held its policy rate steady in recent months, and markets are placing a high probability on it remaining unchanged again at its upcoming November meeting, while the Federal Reserve’s September hike and the prospect of further tightening into year‑end continue to erode the peso’s traditional carry‑trade appeal relative to US assets.

Broader Middle East‑driven risk aversion has added to the pressure in recent sessions, though some of that effect eased over the weekend as acute escalation fears cooled slightly. With a relatively light Mexican data calendar this week, the currency is likely to remain primarily driven by US dollar sentiment around Wednesday’s Fed decision and the broader geopolitical backdrop.

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Susannah Cameron offers some stylish ideas to decorate an entryway and make your guests feel welcome

An entryway is often thought of as a space we don’t really spend time in, just somewhere we pass through. In reality, it is one of the most social parts of a home. It is where a neighbour drops off the scarf you left behind after dinner, where eager trick-or-treaters arrive at Halloween, and where goodbyes stretch longer than intended after a lively evening with friends. Conversations at this threshold have a habit of lingering.

You can take in a surprising amount when you first arrive at someone’s front door. A glimpse down a hallway, the smell of something baking, or a familiar scented candle burning on a sideboard. There may be a family cat weaving and purring around ankles, or a dog enthusiastically greeting visitors and investigating the stories carried in on their shoes.

An entryway should feel welcoming;

These moments are universal, whether in our own homes or when arriving at friends’ houses here in Provence. There is something especially lovely about being welcomed into a warm house in the early evening, with the sun setting on the outside world and dinner on its way.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

The hall or entryway deserves far more attention than it often receives. It is also one of the hardest-working areas of the house. Guests may never see a study, a spare bedroom, a home cinema or a wine cellar, but they will always experience the entrance. It receives more foot traffic than most other rooms, which alone makes it worth thinking about carefully.

a plant or vase of fl owers can make the area feel complete

“The entryway deserves attention; it is one of the hardest-working areas of the house”

It is also a genuinely enjoyable space to design and decorate. An entryway does not need much to make it feel complete. A vase of garden cuttings, a piece of artwork you truly love, or an old mirror that has witnessed years of comings and goings can be enough. At the same time, it is wonderfully practical. This is where you pause before heading out to pull on shoes and a coat, take a quick look in the mirror to check that your collar is straight and there is no lipstick on your teeth.

give a hint at what’s to follow in the rest of the house

What I often notice in French homes is that entryways tend to be beautifully functional, thoughtfully furnished and welcoming. There is usually somewhere to sit, even if it is just a simple chair or bench, and a place to set down a bag while coats come off or shoes are changed. A console table often holds a vide-poche for keys and sunglasses. There may be a coat rack or hat stand for scarves, dog leads and jackets, and often a collection of walking sticks kept close to hand. There is almost always a sensible spot for a wet umbrella; a cast-iron umbrella stand works perfectly, with a tray beneath to catch any drips.

I have noticed more gallery walls, with an eclectic mix of botanical prints, antique engravings, watercolours and landscapes. Nothing matches too neatly, and it is this sense of accumulation and gentle collecting that gives these spaces their ease.

“Entryways are busy areas, and too much furniture quickly becomes an obstacle”

SIZE MATTERS

A table top to set things down while preparing to leave is handy

When decorating a hall or entryway, it helps to pay close attention to the architecture you already have. A French feel often comes from working with proportion and scale rather than imposing a look. High ceilings can comfortably take a larger lantern or chandelier, while smaller spaces benefit from wall sconces or lamps that soften the light and make the area feel inviting, particularly in the evening.

A mudroom entryway can be stylish as well as functional

Many village houses in France have a small foyer just inside the front door, acting as a buffer between the street and the rest of the house. In these cases, a circular centre table works well. It is easy to walk around and useful when your arms are full.

In narrower halls or along corridors and stairwells, a console or commode is often more practical. A demi-lune console is especially effective, as its curved front makes it easier to circulate past without catching a hip or a bag. An antique trunk can also be a clever solution, hiding shoes while doubling as seating or a place to put things down.

One anchor piece is usually enough. Entryways are busy areas, and too much furniture quickly becomes an obstacle. What matters most is how the space is used day to day. Where do people naturally stop? Where do they instinctively set things down? Paying attention to these small habits often leads to the best decisions.

Lighting plays a larger role than we sometimes realise. Soft, warm light makes arrivals feel calmer, particularly after dark. Sensor lighting can be very helpful, removing the need to search for a light switch with full hands. Lamps and wall lights are often more appealing than a single overhead tting, especially in areas that are used briefly but frequently. I like to leave a passage light on overnight when we have guests staying who may lose their bearings.

It is often the smaller details that make both you and your guests feel comfortable. When it is clear where everyday things belong, people relax. They don’t need to ask, so don’t worry about doing the wrong thing. That sense of ease is one of the most generous gestures a home can give.

SCENE-SETTING

The entryway sets the scene for the house and establishes the tone for what follows. Repeating a colour, a material, or a furniture style helps everything feel connected. If you love Louis XVI furniture, for example, you might choose a Louis XVI armchair for the entrance and then echo it with a mirror in the same style elsewhere in the house. These details may go unnoticed, but decorating with what you love creates continuity and a quiet sense of coherence.

A seat to rest and put on footwear is useful in a hallway

This way of thinking also encourages collecting over time. Choosing pieces that relate to one another, rather than chasing a look, gives a home its own character. Old mercantile furniture, drapers’ tables, scales, shop signs, and well-used pottery all bring a sense of purpose and history. When a home evolves in this way, new pieces tend to nd their place naturally.

Gallery walls of botanical prints are a popular option

Susannah Cameron is the Director at Chez Pluie Provence, an online boutique selling French antique and vintage pieces

Tel: 0033 (0)7 84 56 02 37

chezpluie.com

Gill Harvey meets three people with French ancestry, who made the move to France – back to their roots – and never looked back.

‘I embraced my french heritage‘ Ianthe Roper, Poitou-Charentes. When Ianthe Roper moved to France in 2003, she was aware that there might be some French in her background. “My great grandmother’s maiden name was Deverinne, although she was born and brought up in India until the age of eight when she moved to a boarding school in the UK. She believed the original Deverinnes had been an aristocratic family who’d fled from Paris to India at the time of the Revolution, setting up as planters. But I didn’t know if there was any truth in the tale.”

However, her main motivation for moving was to buy a large property with her then partner, Richard. “I was a freelance trainer at the time and realised that I could buy a place in France big enough to create a training centre, for the price of my property in the Chilterns.” She eventually decided to run a gîte in the Poitou-Charentes region, as regulations around running the centre, proved overly complex.

The property in Poitou-Charentes that Ianthe ran her gîte from until 2017

After her mother’s death in 2008, when she’d been in France for five years, Ianthe was prompted to look more into her past. “I inherited all the family photos and realised I hadn’t a clue who most of the people were. It made me realise how little I (and my mother) knew about our roots.”

Hard at work cleaning the gîte before the next guests arrive

After joining a popular genealogy site, Ianthe soon found that at least some of the rumours and family stories that she’d grown up with had been true. “The family did indeed originate from Paris, although they were wine merchants rather than aristocrats. And while they had moved to India, the first Deverinne moved there in the 1760s, before the Revolution.”

She also discovered that once in India, the family had become intertwined with another family – the Italian Savis – through several marriages. Armed with this knowledge and with the help of some family connections she’d discovered online, Ianthe was able to trace her line back through the 18th century.

“The first Savi to reach India was John Angelo Savi, a surgeon who married a girl called Elizabeth Corderan. She was the daughter of a military general, André François Corderan, who was in charge of the naval fleet in India, a man once presented with a gold pencil case by Napoleon.

“There was a sense of completeness in finding out I had French ancestry, even though the family hadn’t lived in France for centuries,”says Ianthe. “In fact, when I went for naturalisation in 2019 I mentioned I was descended from one of Napoleon’s generals and all the French were terribly impressed.”

After splitting up with her then partner in 2009, Ianthe met Jean-Paul, and the pair were together for five years until his death in 2015. “Being with him also made me feel more integrated, more French,” she recalls.

Ianthe closed her gîte business in 2017 and moved to a new home from which she taught English. Now retired, she’s recently been made a municipal councillor and is busier than ever.

“As for genealogy, there are still some things I’d like to explore, but research has come to a natural end until more documents become available. Still, it has given me a sense of belonging – in fact, chatting to some of my French friends, I’ve discovered I probably have more French ancestry than they do!”

MY FRENCH ANCESTRY WASN’T THE ONLY DRAW

Sam Parry lives in Corrèze with husband James Interior designer Sam Parry had always known that her family had French roots, but it wasn’t a deciding factor in her move to the country in 2008.

“I’d long known that my family, the Bous-elds, can be traced back to Normandy, and came over to Britain with William the Conqueror,” she says. “A distant family member is a historian, so has done a great deal of research, and has written books on the subject. There’s even a town called Bouville in Normandy where they think the name originates.”

“There was a sense of completeness in fi nding out I had French ancestry

The spontaneous purchase Sam and James now call home

While Sam admits that she wasn’t particularly investedin this family story, she did have fond childhood memories of France. “My aunt lived in Paris until I was eight, so we used to go over there for holidays. Interestingly, I visited years later and could still remember certain streets, like a déjà vu experience.”

But none of this was a factor in Sam’s eventual move to France with husband, James, and children, Will and Ben. In fact, the decision came out of the blue while they were holidaying there. “In 2007, we had a family holiday in the Corrèze region. We just fell in love with the area straightaway.

“Gradually, holiday conversations about what it might be like to live here led to a decision to up sticks entirely and give it a go! It was as if the universe had spoken to us!”

Their property was previously a shop

At the time, Sam’s business partner had just announced his decision to step back from their interior design company for personal reasons, which made the move more clear-cut. “We also felt that the children, aged seven and 10 at the time, might be able to integrate more easily than they would if we waited. As it was, the first year for them was quite difficult, but they settled eventually.”

While their decision to relocate was spontaneous, Sam and James spent a great deal of time planning how they’d make a living once they’d made the move, putting together a business plan and investigating rules and regulations before taking the plunge.

“We decided to operate cycling holidays. James is a keen cyclist and we thought we’d create a place that was a bit like a ski-chalet holiday, but for cyclists. When we opened in 2011, we were one of the first places in France to offer holidays of this type.” correzecycling.com

Sam’s French connection may date back to 11th-century Normandy, but it is Corrèze that has stolen her heart. “I become homesick when I leave Corrèze!” she says. “I really feel part of the local community. I’ve just been re-elected as a councillor after serving from 2014 to 2020, and having to step back while I awaited my French nationality. I’m very excited to serve the area again!”

Still, the anecdote about her past was a great conversation opener when the family first moved. “I used to joke to locals that I was ‘coming home’ by moving to France,” she says.

Our leap into the unknown paid off

Courtney Price lives in Haut–Saône with partner Steve Ruth Courtney Price was in high school in New Jersey, US, when she found out about her French roots. “My mother is a great fan of genealogy and she traced our family tree back several centuries. With no websites to help, she did it all through personal research.”

Unexpectedly, the family discovered they were related to someone who had made it into the history books: Marie Warenbauer Ferree, who had fled France in the late 1600s and founded a town in Pennsylvania named ‘Paradise’.

The couple renovated their home

Arriving in the states alone after her husband Daniel died, Marie was able to secure a land grant from William Penn, the English theologian and Quaker, who oversaw the founding of Pennsylvania – an unusual feat for a woman. “We’ve got a copy of the land grant somewhere. It was drawn up in her son’s name, but handed to her.”

But Courtney’s journey to France wasn’t linked to this discovery. In 2022, she and Steve decided to move abroad, tired of the political and financial situation in the US. They considered many places and were struggling to decide.

“In the end Steve told me his wish list for a home – it had to be in a village or town, with certain amenities, for a certain price. I found what he was looking for in Hauts du Val de Saône in France, somewhere we’d never been.”

As it was during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021 and travel was out of the question, the couple took a leap of faith, selling one of their properties to buy the house sight unseen.

Courtney and Steve’s move to France was the reverse of what Marie did

Having arrived in the town of Jussey (Franche-Comté) in May 2022, the pair set about renovating their home, which had been a shop previously, before subsequently purchasing another property in the town and moving to renovate that. Despite “constantly living in a construction zone” and arriving knowing little French, the couple have settled well into their new life, spending their time renovating and getting to know their new country.

“We’ve learned quite a bit of French. I still do online lessons and we go out and about to vide-greniers, talking French as much as possible to the stallholders. We have great knowledge of language when it comes to building materials!”

“My ancestor fl ed France in the late 1600s and founded a town in Pennsylvania named Paradise

And the pair feel very much at home. “We have French friends, Swiss friends, Dutch and English friends. People often ask us how we found this area, as Americans who knew little of the country. It’s quite tucked away.”

While Courtney credits the people and the relaxed pace of life in France for her current contentment rather than any ancestral connection, she does believe that she’s inherited something from her famous relative. “Marie was an incredible woman to achieve what she did at a time when women were barely listened to. My family has a lot of strong women, and we attribute that to her!”

Perhaps it is this that helped Courtney to make a success of her move overseas and settle so well in a completely new location. “We’re both so happy, less stressed. It was a leap into the unknown, but it’s really worked out.”

France is facing renewed unrest following demonstrations over the cost of living and public services, with local curfews introduced in several cities. Meanwhile, property owners face an online tax payment deadline today, President Emmanuel Macron has secured additional diesel supplies from Gulf states, France’s newest motorway is preparing to open, and airlines are adding new routes for the winter season. Here are the headlines you need to know about France this week.

French Property Owners: Online Tax Deadline Is Today

Property owners in France who are liable for taxe foncière (the annual property ownership tax) have until midnight on 20 October to pay online via the French tax website or mobile app. This includes owners who rent out their properties. The amount will be debited from their bank account from 26 October, with the exact date confirmed when payment is registered. The deadline for those paying by other permitted methods was 15 October.

Curfews introduced after violent demonstrations across France

French authorities have introduced localised overnight curfews following violent demonstrations across the country over the weekend. Clashes, looting and damage to shops and public buildings were reported in cities including Paris, Lyon and Marseille, prompting the government to review security measures.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the targeted curfews helped restore calm overnight on Monday and that further restrictions could be introduced where necessary. The demonstrations began with students protesting against deteriorating school conditions but have broadened into wider expressions of anger over the cost of living and public services.

Further demonstrations are expected on Saturday, 24 October. Residents should check local announcements for possible restrictions and disruption to public transport, particularly in larger cities.

Businesses assess damage following weekend unrest

Businesses across France are assessing the damage after widespread looting and vandalism during the weekend demonstrations. Shops, supermarkets, banks and other businesses were among those affected, with concerns about the financial impact on local retailers and small businesses.

The government faces pressure to support affected businesses as they deal with repairs, insurance claims and lost trading. The unrest has also affected cultural attractions in Paris, with protesters blocking the entrance to the Louvre on Monday, resulting in disruption for visitors.

The incidents highlight the potential impact of continued demonstrations on everyday life, businesses and tourism.

Macron secures additional diesel supplies from Gulf states

President Emmanuel Macron has secured commitments for an additional 200,000 tonnes of diesel per month from the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, according to the Élysée Palace. The announcement came during a diplomatic tour of the Gulf as France faces pressure from rising fuel costs and concerns over international energy supplies.

The additional supplies are intended to strengthen France’s access to diesel at a time when disruption to international oil transport has heightened concerns about energy security. However, it remains unclear how quickly the additional deliveries will affect fuel availability and prices at French petrol stations.

Fuel costs have become a central concern for households and businesses, particularly those reliant on cars and road transport.

2027 budget proposes tax changes for furnished holiday rentals

The French government’s draft 2027 budget proposes further changes to the tax treatment of furnished rental properties, with holiday lets facing tighter restrictions on deductions. Under the proposed measures, non-professional furnished landlords using the actual expenses tax regime would face a cap on property depreciation deductions of 2.5% of the property’s value, up to €7,000 per household each year. For furnished tourist accommodation, the proposed limit is lower, at 1.5% and €5,000 annually.

The plans also seek to prevent landlords from carrying forward unused depreciation deductions from 2027 onwards, while increasing penalties for rental platforms that fail to report users’ income to the authorities. The government says the changes are intended to bring the taxation of furnished and unfurnished rentals closer together and encourage longer-term letting.

The proposals could affect owners who rent out French properties as holiday accommodation, including those using platforms such as Airbnb. However, the measures are part of the draft Finance Bill for 2027 and may change as the legislation progresses through Parliament.

A69 motorway set to open between Toulouse and Castres

France’s newest motorway, the A69, is nearing its long-awaited opening in south-west France. The 62km route will connect Toulouse with Castres in the Tarn department, giving the town a direct motorway link and potentially reducing journey times for motorists.

The project has been controversial, facing sustained opposition from environmental campaigners and legal challenges over its construction. Supporters argue that the road will improve regional transport links and benefit local businesses, while opponents have raised concerns about its environmental impact.

Drivers planning to use the new route should check the latest opening announcements and toll arrangements before travelling.

New winter flight routes announced from France

Airlines are introducing new routes as their autumn and winter schedules take effect, offering travellers in France additional options for trips across Europe and further afield.

The new services include connections to destinations in Europe, North Africa and North America, with routes varying by departure airport and airline. The changes may be useful for residents planning winter holidays or visits to family abroad, particularly around the Toussaint and Christmas school holidays.

Travellers should check flight dates and operating schedules directly with airlines, as some routes will run seasonally rather than throughout the year.

French mortgage rates edge towards 4%

Mortgage borrowing costs in France have continued to rise since the beginning of September, with some rates approaching 4%, according to recent figures reported by French financial and property publications.

Although the increases remain more moderate than those seen during the 2022 interest rate shock, higher borrowing costs can affect how much prospective buyers are able to borrow and the overall cost of purchasing a property.

For anyone planning to buy a home in France, it is worth comparing offers from several lenders and factoring borrowing costs into the budget before making an offer.

Just over three months to go until the French Property Exhibition

Planning to buy a home in France? The French Property Exhibition returns to London on 23–24 January 2027, bringing together estate agents, property experts and specialists in French tax, legal matters, mortgages, currency exchange and relocation. Visitors can browse properties for sale across France, speak to experts face to face and attend free seminars covering the buying process and moving to France. Entry is free, with tickets available through the official French Property Exhibition website.

Some periods of history stand out as being special – Joanna Leggett looks back enviously at the Belle Époque, when life was full of optimism, fun and energy

Think of the Swinging Sixties – noted in France for moody songs and yé-yé singers – when imported Tamla Motown and mini-skirts ruled. Before that, after World War One, flappers and flaneurs celebrated the Roaring Twenties (les années folles in French, the American Jazz Age). More recently, there were the excesses of the Eighties when big shoulder pads and even bigger hair, loaded with copious amounts of hairspray, ruled.

However, the era that arguably beat them all was way back in the 19th century: la Belle Époque. It lasted the longest and was a time when art and architecture, fashion and folly joined in a glorious fusion of joie de vivre; a time when new ideas, optimism and creativity abounded.

It started in 1871, fresh off the back of the Franco-Prussian War. Napoleon III had lost his throne, was exiled and the Third Republic took power. The Belle Époque continued until August 1914 when, with the start of the First World War, everything changed forever.

LIFE IS GOOD

The Belle Époque was a period characterised by optimism, regional peace, technological innovation with railways opening up France, colonial expansion and a period of stability. French Imperialism was in its prime, and the 1889 World Fair in Paris was a highlight – marking the centenary of the French Revolution. It stimulated the economy and created Paris’s most recognised landmark, the Eiffel Tower – originally designed to be temporary.

The Impressionists painted and industrialists made money, creating a new social class: the nouveau riche. Haussmann’s renovations had already changed housing, creating walkable neighbourhoods in Paris, so new entertainment was required – the Palais Garnier flourished, as did the Casino de Paris, then the Moulin Rouge entered the fray, providing risqué shows. In addition restaurants and brasseries with bars flourished – with going out and travel becoming the norm – and culture never looked back.

Then there was fashion. Newly minted ambitious American mamas brought their daughters to Paris to be outfitted by Worth and other haute couture designers, spending fortunes on wardrobes in their quest to find titled husbands for their daughters. Many succeeded in propping up dukes, earls and other gentry’s estates on both sides of the Channel.

In any period of prosperity, innovation in architecture and design naturally follows, and throughout France there are buildings, châteaux, cities and towns brimming with beautiful buildings dating from the golden age of the Belle Époque.

Art Nouveau dominated design with its curved lines drawing inspiration from nature – just think of the ironwork that makes Paris’ metro stations so immediately distinctive. The style spread from Paris throughout France, and was adopted in Brussels, Vienna and Prague across the Continent and even further.

With new technology, styles of building could be expanded and changed, and glasshouses created to grow exotic fruits in winter. These advances meant more glass could be used in construction.

Most notably, perhaps, is the architectural icon which is Galeries Lafayette’s fabled store in Paris. Art Nouveau grandeur combined with the latest in modern design innovation was highlighted in its central glass dome, rising 43 metres above the roof in a Neo-Byzantine style that encapsulated the ambition of Belle Époque architecture. Its interior was further enhanced by gilded ironwork on balconies, marble galleries surmounted by delicate filigree – even today it’s fascinating to visit this beautiful light-filled mecca and just look – you could be forgiven for forgetting to actually buy anything!’

Le Train Bleu restaurant at Gare de Lyon, Paris, with its Belle Époque staircase

GLITTERATI HOTSPOT

Nice has always been one of the most popular towns on the French Riviera. With its wonderful weather and sun-baked Mediterranean beaches, it became the tourist hotspot winter destination for the social glitterati during this period. Belle Époque architecture still rules in some quarters such as Cimiez, and then there’s the Promenade des Anglais and Quartier des Musiciens – just look upwards as you promenade through the streets and the curved lines, decorative glass and beautiful balconies are hard to miss – especially in the flamboyant design of the houses of 19th-century winter visitors known locally as les hivernants.

Along the Riviera, Beaulieu-sur-Mer is charming, remaining exclusive (read expensive) and steeped in the elegance of the time. Aristocracy and the monied who came here to enjoy mild winters wanted the latest style for their winter homes – exquisite facades, intricate moulding, sculpted pediments with long balconies (enhancing the Haussmann design ethic) reflect the elegance of the period. Large windows created light-filled interiors, and premium materials were, of course, prerequisite.

While many of these properties were originally designed as palaces or grand hotels, some buildings have been reconfigured as luxury apartments with glorious views over the gardens and terraces that line the coast here – with prices to match. Thanks to expanding rail networks, tourism evolved during this period and the ancient Alpine town of Annecy also became a place to see and be seen, thanks to its glorious setting, hospitality and spas, where visitors could (and still can) benefit from ‘treatments’. Its Casino Impérial is considered emblematic of the Art Nouveau building style.

Not for nothing is Biarritz called ‘the Pearl of the Atlantic’. Belle Époque was at the heart of design of this and many other elegant resorts, already made popular by visiting royalty including Napoleon III, his Spanish wife Eugenie and Queen Victoria, no less. In Biarritz, the imposing grandeur and façades of hotels constructed during this time, facing the ever-changing Atlantic seascape, make stunning visual impact. Many traditional Art Nouveau villas (albeit with somewhat Basque overtones) still line the coast here and are also dotted around the countryside.

Belle Époque townhouse facades can be seen in Mers-les-Bains, Normandy

Inland, Pau also became a sought-after resort during this period, when ‘the Pearl of the Pyrénées’ as it became known became a meeting place for artists, international aristocracy (especially English and wealthy Americans) who recognised the therapeutic benefits of its climate and revelled in the grandiose palaces and activities. The city grew and the foreign colony left a lasting mark on its landscape, still appreciated today.

In Paris, and around France, the train stations picked up and ran with Art Nouveau architecture too. The Musée d’Orsay on the Left Bank, now rammed full of Impressionist masterpieces (and my absolute favourite museum of all time), started its life as a station, opening in 1900, designed to transport visitors to the expositions in central Paris. Light-filled and with massive glass roofs, it’s truly a masterpiece in itself.

AN INSPIRATIONAL TIME

The Belle Époque was the inspiration for many an architectural treasure. While capturing the beauty of the era, the charming film Gigi epitomises its elegance and charm. With luscious costumes, settings and music, it showed the era and Paris to its best advantage, the characters enjoying visits to the Bois de Boulogne and daily excursions, promenading in their carriages.

It also highlighted two other seaside resorts which flowered during this time – Deauville and Trouville on the Normandy coast – which continue to retain the elegance and charm of yesteryear, thankfully today coupled with the conveniences of the 21st century.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

Rising energy prices and renewed tensions in the Middle East are keeping markets on edge, with incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and further attacks in Yemen raising concerns over the outlook for energy supplies. With little sign of tensions easing, the prospect of sustained price pressures remains a concern for the global economy.

In Europe, escalating protests in France are adding to uncertainty surrounding the euro, as concerns over the country’s economic performance, Budget and forthcoming credit rating review weigh on sentiment. Sterling has reached fresh highs against the euro, while political uncertainty on both sides of the Channel could continue to influence the outlook for the single currency.

Attention now turns to a busy week for the UK economy, with inflation and labour market figures due ahead of the Budget on 28 October. The data could prove crucial in shaping expectations for the Bank of England’s next interest rate decision, with a potential rate hike in November still on the table. After recent gains against both the euro and US dollar, sterling faces an important test as markets weigh the latest economic figures against a backdrop of continued global uncertainty.

Energy prices continue to surge following incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and attacks in Yemen

Several developments over the weekend attracted market attention. In the Strait of Hormuz, reports indicated that two tankers were damaged after striking mines, prompting an immediate rise in energy prices. In Yemen, meanwhile, Iranian‑backed Houthi forces launched missiles and drones at Aden Airport, striking the site just as a passenger aircraft was preparing for departure. Separately, reports stated that the Houthis fired a ballistic missile at a major Saudi Arabian oil hub, although this was intercepted.

In a potential escalation, the UAE agreed with Saudi Arabia to re‑enter the conflict in Yemen, while Egypt announced its readiness to provide Saudi Arabia with full military support. Taken together, these developments do not suggest that tensions in the Middle East are set to ease. As a result, energy prices are likely to remain elevated in the coming weeks, despite the US President’s efforts to bring them lower.

Escalating protests in France continue to undermine the euro

Protests may be a familiar feature of French political life, but the recent demonstrations surrounding education policy and potential Budget cuts appear different and have generated greater market concern than would typically be expected. That may reflect the forthcoming Moody’s review of France’s sovereign credit rating, or the approach of the April 2027 Presidential election, where Marine Le Pen continues to lead polling for National Rally.

The protests have become increasingly violent, and French authorities have so far struggled to contain them. As a result, businesses and everyday economic activity are experiencing disruption. The French government is now considering stricter measures on demonstrations and additional powers for authorities to restore order.

Pressure on the euro remains present. The risk of these protests spreading to other countries, or materially affecting wider Euro Area economic performance, still appears limited. However, the economy’s near‑constant underperformance relative to other major developed economies remains a concern. GBPEUR has once again reached fresh highs for the year. Without progress on the situation in France, continued uncertainty surrounding the French Budget, and with a Spanish election looming in six weeks’ time, the euro could face a further challenging period against other major currencies, in my view.

The UK faces a significant week of data ahead of next week’s Budget

This week brings the release of UK labour market data (August/September), CPI figures (September), public finances data (September) and retail sales figures (September). Collectively, these releases could help shape the Bank of England’s decision on whether to deliver its first interest rate hike of the cycle.

The two key releases are likely to be CPI and labour market data, although not necessarily in that order. CPI is clearly the primary focus for the Bank of England. Markets will look not only at whether headline inflation increases again, but also whether core and services inflation follow suit. If all three measures rise, then regardless of what the other releases indicate, I think the Bank of England will opt for a rate hike in November.

If, however, the inflation picture remains more uncertain, attention is likely to return towards the outturn of the earlier released labour market data. Risks around slower average earnings growth, alongside weaker vacancies and employment figures, could keep the Bank on hold until December. That said, the November decision coincides with the next set of economic forecasts, which would provide further justification for a rate increase should policymakers decide one is warranted.

These figures arrive ahead of the UK Budget on 28 October. The public finances data could prove weak, adding to the challenges facing the Chancellor, who is seeking to direct additional spending towards priority areas without currently having the available funds to do so.

Sterling has performed well against both the US dollar and the euro in recent weeks, but could this week’s data alter that trend?

Political opposition to the temporary easing of Russia sanctions continues to build in the US

US President Donald Trump announced a temporary easing of some sanctions on Russia late last week, and opposition to that decision has emerged from both sides of the political spectrum. Congress is already seeking to overturn the President’s decision relating to Russian diesel imports and will likely add this latest announcement to the broader list of measures under review.

Despite these efforts, the latest polling data continues to paint a difficult picture for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections, with Democrats polling by as much as eight percentage points ahead nationally. The President’s own polling profile has also weakened, with disapproval ratings rising in recent months.

The Federal Reserve has now entered its blackout period ahead of the 28 October FOMC decision, while the economic calendar is relatively light beyond secondary housing market data for September and preliminary October PMI releases. None of these events is likely to generate significant market activity. However, the recent US dollar sell‑off, driven by lower Treasury yields, may prove vulnerable to interruption if inflation pressures re‑intensify, in my view.

Military base accident occurs ahead of Alberta referendum, although polling suggests the result is unlikely to be close

An accident that caused a fire at a Canadian military base in Alberta has resulted in the deaths of seven service personnel and left dozens more injured. The incident comes shortly before a referendum in the province on whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or pursue secession.

Polling suggests the result is unlikely to be close, with fewer than three in ten respondents supporting secession. Nevertheless, an incident of this nature may contribute to heightened concern within the province ahead of the vote.

The Canadian dollar ended last week on a stronger footing, supported in part by broad US dollar weakness. Support may also have come from comments by Bank of Canada Governor Macklem, who argued that higher energy prices could boost both inflation and economic growth. As Canada enters a period of heavier energy consumption, stronger earnings for some businesses appear likely. However, the negative impact of higher energy prices on household spending means the argument for stronger growth remains open to question, in my view.

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Joanne Harris, celebrated author of Chocolat, talks to Angela Sara West about the impact of her French family’s homes, food and scents on her fiction, from her earliest bestsellers to her latest prequel novel

More than 25 years after sensual Chocolat took the literary world by storm – telling the tale of mysterious single mother, Vianne, who sets up a seductive, contentious chocolaterie opposite a quaint French village church – Anglo-French writer Joanne Harris continues to captivate readers with her spirited storytelling.

With its lively narrative exploring themes of curiosity, temptation and transformation, the charming book became a novel sensation. And now, following three successful sequels, the award-winning author has published the prequel, Vianne, unveiling her vivacious protagonist’s origins.

Noirmoutier, where a young Joanne (inset) spent many summer holidays

In a tale of two cultures, Joanne was born in Yorkshire to an English father and a French mother who met in France. “French was my first language, and I’ve always spoken it to my parents and French family,” she explains, “but English is the language I write in.”

Drawing from her blend of British/French backgrounds, her bestselling books are enriched by Joanne’s dual legacy and unique perspective. France and her French family hugely influence the author’s work, which weaves together deeply rooted customs, cookery and, of course, chocolate. “I’m lucky to have two cultures to dip into: two kinds of cuisine, poetry, folklore, tradition and literature,” she tells me. “I was also lucky enough to have grandparents with interesting stories. I’ve used both in my books, depending on the location and the character of the novel.”

FRENCH CHILDHOOD

The French way of life plays a pivotal role in the narrative, resulting in a harmonious blend of intrigue, French heritage, gastronomy and everyday life, so what does this vivid writer like most about France? “I love the sense of connection to heritage and how le patrimoine lives on in all kinds of things: recipes, traditions, stories and dress, alongside the rapidly changing face of politics and society.”

Having first visited France at just two weeks old, she spent childhood holidays in Brittany and western France – summers at her grandparents’ holiday home on Noirmoutier, and Christmas and Easter in the historic walled town of Vitré.

“I have so many memories…Taking my grandfather’s fishing boat out on Noirmoutier, riding his bike all over the island, cooking langoustines and mackerel on the barbecue, picking figs from his trees and hunting for glow worms at night. Also, the carnival in Vitré every Easter, and the château – which I could see through my bedroom window – lit up every evening.”

The historical walled town of Vitré; Joanne (inset) visited here many times in her youth

“I’m lucky to have two cultures to dip into: two kinds of cuisine, poetry, folklore, tradition and literature”

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Joanne fondly recalls many memorable mealtimes. “The family together, 15–20 people at a time, all talking at once, helping my grandmother and great-grandmother in the kitchen, listening to their stories…”. Her French relations’ properties and fascinating tales are captured in the novels. “My grandfather’s fisherman’s cottage on Noirmoutier was very basic, comprising a main living room/kitchen with a concrete floor, in which my great-grandmother had her bed, and two attic bedrooms.

“His home in Vitré was an ordinary turn-of-the-20th-century terrace house, which had belonged to my great-grandmother,” she explains. “It’s part of my past, my heritage. To me, it’s the landscape of childhood.”

Joanne admires their design. “I like the simplicity of this region’s houses: whitewashed walls, red-tiled roofs, colourfully painted shutters, gardens filled with hollyhocks, tamarisks and rosemary.”

Gascony produced Chocolat’s concept. “My grandfather had an old friend who lived in Nérac, who he took me to see several times throughout my childhood. I fell in love with La Cigale chocolaterie there, where you could watch the chocolates being made from behind a glass screen, and loved the old wooden houses and narrowboats on the river, which became a part of the story.”

With chocolate the central metaphor, she kept the location quiet, although the town itself was very public about its association with the sell-out book. “I was deliberately vague about the inspiration for Chocolat until I realised that Nérac was completely supportive of the connection and started to advertise themselves with great pride as ‘the town that inspired the book’. So, I don’t make any secret about it now!

“Every village has a chocolaterie. It’s part of the French tradition of gourmandise. Some are famous, like A la Mère de Famille or Les Trois Chocolats in Paris, but it’s actually nice to discover for oneself what’s available. The best chocolaterie isn’t always the best known.

“Local French markets are the best,” she adds. “Wherever I go, I find out the market days and check out what’s available. Once again, the famous ones aren’t always the best: locals will usually know better than any guidebook.”

FAVOURITE PLACES

With location central to the atmospheric books, Chocolat’s Fictional Lansquenet-sous-Tannes is based on real places in Tarn-et-Garonne. “I’m very fond of the many little bastides along the river – despite their proximity to one other, each has its own distinct history, markets and special traditions. The culinary tradition is interesting too, with lots of small producers and independents, keeping the food very authentic.”

Joanne’s family sitting in front of her grandparent’s house on Noirmoutier

A fan of the capital, she loves the Île de la Cité, long walks along the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay and Louvre. “My great-aunt lived in Paris and took me all over the city, so I know it well, although it’s always changing. I set The Lollipop Shoes in Montmartre because, despite its enormous tourist appeal, it still has such a villagey feel and re  ects so many different facets of Paris and its history.”

Four of her other books are set in France too: Coastliners, Holy Fools, Blackberry Wine and Five Quarters of the Orange, their narratives intricately imbued with dramatic backdrops depicting France’s rich history, vibrant culinary traditions and unique cultural landscapes, with the latter set in a small village on the Loire.

“We often stayed with my parents’ friends in La Bohalle, outside Angers. Many of those childhood summer stories ended up in the book. There were no tourists at the time, and the community was small and close-knit. Every house had an attic full of war memorabilia: helmets, guns, grenades, uniforms, and we’d dress up and play war games. No one ever batted an eyelid…”

Bustling and vibrant Marseille, where the latest book in the Chocolat series, Vianne, is set

NOSE FOR A TALE

Joanne has a form of synaesthesia, enabling her to ‘smell’ colours. “I find my condition enhances my perception of the world from below. Colours trigger scents: bright red is chocolate, blue is coconut, and some purples trigger diesel oil or patchouli.”

She infuses reminiscent smells deliciously into her storytelling: “From the scent of Noirmoutier’s tidal flats reminding me of childhood, the yellow mimosa that flowers there in February and a freshly made galette sold by the roadside, to the lavender markets in Provence, sardines cooking on a barbecue, rosemary in my grandmother’s garden and the wax floor polish she used on those perfectly polished floors.”

Joanne dedicated Chocolat to her French great-grandmother. “A strong, influential-personality throughout my childhood, she inspired the character of Armande as well as Vianne. She was a non-conforming woman in a very patriarchal rural community, who made everyone bow to the force of her personality.”

On returning to the wonderful world of Chocolat, she says: “I’ve never really left that world. This is the fifth book I’ve written about it. But writing a prequel has its own challenges – not least the portrayal of a Vianne who can’t cook, has never been a mother and doesn’t know anything about chocolate! But readers seem to like it, and to welcome the insights into her past.”

The novel is mainly set in bustling Marseille: “I love its excesses: the noise, the history, the clash of cultures, the division between wealth and poverty. It’s a very dramatic city, with lots of character and a wonderful series of culinary traditions. The perfect place for Vianne to start her journey.”

Joanne also created an exclusive bespoke fragrance, Vianne’s Confession (above left), to capture the aromatic essence of the village, characters, chocolate shop, church, Mediterranean scents and city smells of the book.

“I wanted a fragrance with a narrative, which would take a passage from the book and illustrate it in scent. It begins with bitter chocolate, progresses to the scent of the hot streets of Marseille in the rain, then moves to the incense of the basilica to create something both bittersweet and nostalgic,” she says.

FROM PAGE TO SCREEN

The Oscar-nominated film adaptation of Chocolat, featuring Hollywood heavyweights Johnny Depp, Juliette Binoche and Dame Judi Dench, was also immensely successful. Joanne tells me she was delighted with the casting, direction, music and overall aesthetic. “It feels a long time ago now and, at the time, it was rather surreal. The cast and crew were all great and made me feel very welcome.”

The film was shot in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain in Burgundy’s Côte-d’Or, and Beynac-et-Cazenac and Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne, among other places. “I was mostly on set but not on location, although I know Flavigny quite well. It’s a very small village, known mostly for its manufacture of aniseed dragées. None of the interiors were filmed there as all the buildings were too small to contain the equipment.”

I asked Joanne if she had any tips for Brits contemplating making the move to France? “Moving to France sounds like a great idea but be prepared for the challenges you’re likely to encounter,” she advises. “Bureaucracy is often daunting, and you’ll need a good knowledge of French and the systems in place that will either help or hinder your progress.

“Try to befriend officials in your area – the mayor, for example – and ask for help when you need it. Although properties in need of refurbishment can seem wonderfully good value, the actual work required to get them into shape may cost much more than in England, and may need to correspond to the strict building regulations of the region that are designed to keep their character.”

Can we look forward to indulging in more mouth-watering books in the Chocolat series? “Maybe… I try not to look too far ahead. But something tells me that Vianne has more stories to tell. As soon as I know what they are, you’ll be the first to know!”

Join Joanne at her scent–sampling/chocolate-tasting events and more at joanne-harris.co.uk

How do you transfer your existing knowledge and expertise to a new business in France? Leah Rottier has all the answers.

For those already well established in a skilled profession – electricians, plumbers and hairdressers – a relocation overseas often raises questions. Will my qualifications be recognised abroad? Is it going to be too difficult to start from scratch after I’ve spent years building up my trade at home? How will I be able to find enough customers to be successful in France?

At times, the dream of starting a new life across the Channel may seem overwhelming for those who have invested a lot of time perfecting their skills and building up their business in the UK. However, with some research, careful planning and a positive attitude, starting a new life and business in France is completely achievable.

A POPULAR CHOICE

The mild climate, reasonable house prices and proximity to neighbouring coastal departments have long made tranquil Deux-Sèvres a popular choice with British buyers. Tony Eyre and his family moved to the area more than two decades ago, settling in the charming commune of Melleran, close to the borders of Vienne and Charente.

“We decided to move to France for a better life, without the increase in violence [in the UK] and for the general wellbeing of our children,” Tony says. “We chose Deux-Sèvres because you have access to airports and it’s only a four-hour drive to Caen for ferries. It’s a great department with beautiful countryside and, in general, a very nice place to raise our children,” he adds.

Having obtained his mechanical engineering qualifications and having owned a successful garage in England, Tony wanted to transfer his expertise and experience to a new business in France. So, in 2005, he opened his garage, which he called Le Mécano Anglais (The English Mechanic).

ADVANCE PLANNING

With the family’s move to Deux-Sèvres thoroughly planned well in advance, Tony talks of the surprising ease of dealing with the dreaded French administration. “I had no problems setting up my business,” he says. “Research is definitely necessary. All my qualifications and certificates were translated to French. When I registered with the Chambre des métiers in Niort, they were very helpful and we had very positive relations with them.”

Getting all the relevant qualifications translated into French by a certified translator (traducteur assermenté) is essential before booking an appointment with the various authorities. The Chambre des métiers or Chambre de commerce et d’industrie (CCI) will look much more favourably on your application and business proposal if you can show you’ve done your research and arrive with all the necessary documents and translations in place.

Once up and running, Tony’s next challenge was marketing the business. With many communes in the area already home to small, independent garages, as well as larger franchises, Tony had to work out how he could achieve the success he’d had in England. “Finding a niche market is a must,” he says. “Many people set up businesses in France with little or no idea of the available market.”

Melleran is pretty – and accessible

With such a large anglophone presence in Deux-Sèvres, Tony decided to target British customers, who now make up the majority of his clients. “Marketing was easy using the free local magazines, my website and, after a while, word of mouth,” he says. And, as time has gone on, the need for marketing and publicity has diminished.

Further north, in the small commune of Torchamp (61), Iain and Louise Davison run a successful property maintenance service. They also relied on extensive research and invaluable help from the Chambre de commerce et d’industrie, when they established Property Care People in 2006. “When we started the garden and gîte maintenance business, we were fortunate to meet a lady who worked for the Chambre de commerce in Flers. She also ran the courses for new English businesses, which turned out to be invaluable.”

ARTISANAL WORK

As is often the case with property maintenance companies, the Davisons also had to register with the Chambre des métiers, because part of their business – chimney sweeping and installation of woodstoves – is classed as artisanal work.

“We had no issue with this, as our UK certificates of competence were translated into French,” Iain explains. “We had a lot of assistance at the time from the CCI and the Chambre des métiers to allow our business to grow.

The Davisons set up their property maintenance service in 2006

”Iain has trouble thinking of any negatives about his family’s move to France and transferring their business skills. With his wife, Louise, he has established a successful business that continues to grow, almost two decades later. While starting out with mainly British clients, the business is now sought after by French customers and international estate agents too.

“We have encountered many different situations in our work in France,” he says. “Unblocking toilets at gîtes in the dark and rain happens from time to time, and once we had to drive 30 minutes away to a property at midnight as the client had forgotten their keys,” he laughs.

“Despite all of this, it has been a great experience for us. My advice to newcomers is that if you follow the rules and work as hard as you did in the UK, then the rest comes. We were driven to achieve what we wanted to do, and we found that working with the French system is better than trying to challenge it.”

THE RIGHT DECISION

Another top tip from Iain is to choose your property and area well, depending on the business you’re planning, and whether you’re looking to work with English or French customers, or both.

Torchamp is a small commune, located next to St-Mars-d’Egrenne, which is popular with second-home owners because of its thriving local shops, dynamic community spirit and numerous associations. It’s also located on the illuminated village circuit, which draws thousands of visitors over the festive period each year.

The couple live near St-Mars-d’Egrenne, a dynamic town with lots going on

With house prices in the department of Orne among some of the lowest in Normandy, you can often find a good bargain, especially if you’re looking for a fixer-upper or total renovation project.

“It’s a quiet and clean area, with access to some large towns,” Iain says. “And for those who need it, there’s easy access to the UK too.”

Wherever you decide to settle in France, the advice for those looking to transfer a skill set or business is clear: cross the Channel with a good dose of determination and positivity, and have the necessary paperwork translated. Then, be prepared to work hard (not forgetting to enjoy yourself too) to ensure you make the most of your new life in France.

St-Mars-d’Egrenne is popular with second-home owners

TOP TIP

Depending on your profession, you’ll need to register with the Chambre des métiers or the Chambre de commerce et d’industrie, sometimes both. If you’re unsure which category you fall under, check their websites or contact your mairie which can o en point you in the right direction.

artisanat.fr

cci.fr

There’s good news for art lovers this week, with two Renoir paintings stolen from a museum in southern France now recovered. In Paris, meanwhile, a fire has damaged the historic Marché des Enfants-Rouges, while a cyberattack has disrupted supermarkets across the country. We also look at the latest student demonstrations and proposed tax changes for cryptocurrency investors.

October tax payment deadlines for French taxpayers

French taxpayers should also keep an eye on several upcoming tax payment deadlines in October. The deadline for using other authorised payment methods for amounts of €300 or less is 15 October, while online payments must be made by 20 October. For those paying by direct debit, the amount will be taken from their bank account on 26 October, whether they have opted for payment on the due date or online.

Cyberattack causes food losses at hundreds of French supermarkets

Hundreds of supermarkets across France have been affected by a cyberattack that remotely altered the temperatures of refrigeration systems, causing fresh and frozen food to spoil.

Major retailers including Carrefour, Monoprix, E.Leclerc and Coopérative U were targeted. The Les Mousquetaires group, which operates Intermarché stores, reported that hundreds of its supermarkets had been affected. The total losses could amount to several million euros.

The attack exploited refrigeration systems running outdated software that no longer received security updates. By changing the temperatures of fridges and freezers remotely, the perpetrators caused substantial quantities of food to become unusable. Some fires were also reported in connection with the incident.

French authorities have launched an investigation to identify those responsible. The incident has also raised questions about the security of supermarket infrastructure, particularly systems that rely on older technology and may be vulnerable to remote interference.

Two stolen Renoir paintings recovered in southern France

Two paintings by Auguste Renoir stolen from a museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer in September have been recovered, with six suspects arrested in connection with the theft.

The works were taken from the Renoir Museum on 8 September, when thieves cut through a fence and smashed a window to gain entry. The stolen paintings were Portrait of Madame Colonna Romano (1910) and Jeune fille au puits (1886). The thieves initially made off with four paintings but dropped two in the museum’s garden as they fled.

The two missing works were reportedly found hidden behind a cinderblock wall in southern France. The recovery was welcomed by the town’s mayor, Bryan Masson, who said the paintings were part of Cagnes-sur-Mer’s history and cultural heritage.

The museum, which opened in 1960, houses 12 of Renoir’s artworks alongside personal belongings, photographs and letters. The painter lived in Cagnes-sur-Mer during the final years of his life.

Fire destroys historic covered food market in Paris

A fire has ravaged the Marché des Enfants-Rouges in Paris, a historic covered market believed to be the oldest of its kind in the French capital.

The blaze broke out overnight, causing extensive damage to the much loved market, which attracts both local residents and visitors. No casualties were reported, but the fire has left vendors facing significant losses.

Located in the Marais district, the Marché des Enfants-Rouges has long been a fixture of Parisian food culture, with stalls selling fresh produce and prepared dishes from a variety of culinary traditions. Its popularity has made it a familiar destination for those looking to eat and shop away from the city’s larger commercial streets.

The full extent of the damage and the impact on traders remain to be established. The fire has raised concerns about the future of a market whose history forms part of the capital’s cultural identity.

Student demonstrations are expected to continue across France

Students are continuing to protest against poor classroom conditions, with further demonstrations expected in Paris and other French cities.

The mobilisation has received support from trade unions and the left wing France Unbowed party. A march is planned in the capital, while rallies are expected elsewhere in the country. Blockades have already disrupted parts of central Paris, and there are concerns about further disruption and possible clashes.

The demonstrations follow growing frustration over conditions in schools, with students calling attention to problems affecting their education. The latest action comes amid wider tensions over public services and the resources available to schools.

Residents and visitors in affected areas may face delays, particularly around demonstration routes and blocked roads. Anyone travelling through central Paris is advised to check local transport information before setting out.

French MPs consider new cryptocurrency exit tax

French MPs are considering proposals that could increase the tax burden on wealthy cryptocurrency investors who move abroad.

An amendment backed in committee would extend an existing exit tax framework to certain digital assets, including Bitcoin, for investors with cryptocurrency holdings above €800,000. The proposal would target unrealised gains, meaning increases in value that have not yet been realised through a sale.

Lawmakers have also proposed fines of up to €10,000 for failing to declare self custody cryptocurrency wallets. The measures form part of wider efforts to bring digital assets within the scope of France’s tax rules.

However, the proposals are not yet final and must undergo further parliamentary votes. Anyone holding significant cryptocurrency assets in France or considering relocating should check the rules currently in force and seek professional advice before making decisions based on the proposed changes.

New rental lease models introduced in France

From 1 October 2026, new standardised rental lease models come into force in France, introducing updated requirements for tenancy agreements. Landlords and tenants should ensure they use the correct documentation for new rental contracts and check the latest rules on the information that must be included in a lease.

French budget debate faces difficult parliamentary battle

The French government is facing a challenging budget debate as it attempts to push through a savings package worth €43 billion.

Lawmakers have already rejected a proposed measure at the beginning of the budget review, setting the stage for difficult negotiations in parliament. The government, which lacks a majority, faces pressure to secure sufficient support for its plans to reduce public spending.

The debate is expected to be a key test of the government’s ability to pass its financial programme. Disagreements over proposed savings and their impact on different groups are likely to complicate negotiations as MPs consider the measures in the coming weeks.

Medical costs rise as annual caps increase

From 1 October 2026, the annual ceilings for medical deductibles and flat rate contributions in France have increased from €50 to €70 each, raising the maximum combined amount that eligible patients may pay towards these costs from €100 to €140 per year. The charges apply to certain medicines, medical appointments, tests and transport, although exemptions remain for groups including children under 18, pregnant women in specified circumstances and recipients of complementary solidarity health insurance.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

Sterling faces a busy week, with UK monthly activity figures and a series of Bank of England speeches likely to shape expectations for interest rates. Meanwhile, the euro remains under pressure from political uncertainty and protests in France and Spain, while markets await the latest US inflation data for clues on the Federal Reserve’s next move.

The International Monetary Fund’s latest global economic forecasts will also be in focus, with concerns over weak growth, rising borrowing costs and geopolitical tensions weighing on the outlook. Across North America, comments from the Bank of Canada and continued pressure on the Mexican peso add to a packed week for currency markets.

UK monthly activity figures in focus, alongside Bank of England speeches

This week sees the release of UK monthly activity figures for August on Thursday, alongside a series of Bank of England speakers throughout the week.

The case for a further increase in official interest rates continues to centre on inflationary pressures, although there remain limited signs that these pressures are being driven by the domestic economy.

Sterling remains under pressure against the US dollar but continues to hold up well against the euro. This divergence appears to be driven more by developments in those economies than by domestic UK factors.

One additional area of interest is today’s parliamentary debate on rejoining the European Union. However, this is unlikely to alter the UK’s position on EU membership in the near term, in my view.

IMF forecasts to offer few crumbs of comfort

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will release its full global economic report this week, following earlier warnings about rising debt servicing costs.

The report, due on Tuesday, is unlikely to offer much relief to financial markets, given weak global growth, geopolitical tensions and further increases in government borrowing costs.

There could be downward revisions to growth expectations across the UK, the euro area and North America.

US CPI figures for September in focus this week

This week is likely to see considerable attention focused on the US consumer price index (CPI) inflation figures for September, due on Wednesday.

Markets will be watching to see whether core inflationary pressures have picked up or whether inflation remains largely concentrated in more volatile headline components such as energy, fuel and food.

Producer price index (PPI) figures, industrial production data and Federal Reserve staff projections are also due this week. However, alongside the CPI figures, comments from Fed officials are likely to attract the greatest attention.

Will the Fed argue for a further immediate increase in interest rates, or are concerns about parts of the US economy sufficient to keep policymakers on hold at their meeting at the end of October?

In my view, US dollar strength may prove another factor arguing against an additional rate increase at this month’s meeting.

Energy markets could also remain in focus, as renewed tensions in the Middle East and recent comments from President Trump regarding a possible energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine add another layer of uncertainty to the inflation outlook.

ECB speeches and political uncertainty to determine euro direction

The European Central Bank (ECB) appears to be preparing markets for another interest rate increase, potentially as early as the Governing Council meeting at the end of October.

Speeches last week indicated that several ECB officials believe acting sooner could provide a credibility boost to their efforts to tackle inflation, although I would question that assessment.

This week brings further appearances from policymakers, including Lane and Schnabel. Schnabel is also in focus as the candidate list for her Executive Board position closes the day before the ECB Governing Council decision.

There is also likely to be significant interest in developments in Spain and France, where protests showed little sign of easing over the course of last week.

Unless these political disruptions begin to ease, pressure on the euro could increase as downside risks to growth continue to build, in my view.

Bank of Canada speeches dominate as Mexican peso remains under pressure

Monetary policy signals from the Bank of Canada (BoC) will come primarily through three speeches this week.

Governor Tiff Macklem is scheduled to speak on Wednesday, 14 October, and Friday, 16 October, while Deputy Governor Carolyn Rogers is due to speak on Thursday, 15 October.

Ahead of the Bank’s late October rate decision, markets will focus on how policymakers interpret the latest economic data, particularly employment and activity figures. The Canadian dollar could weaken further if it appears unlikely that the BoC will sanction a rate increase.

In Mexico, last week’s inflation and vehicle production figures have added to pressure on the peso.

The Bank of Mexico has left interest rates unchanged for several months, and recent data suggests it may need to consider reducing rates, despite several other central banks continuing to debate further tightening.

Peso weakness could therefore continue this week, with little on the economic calendar, or in diplomatic developments around trade and border tensions, likely to alter the prevailing direction of travel.

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What started out as book-writing sabbatical in France for Mairi Watson resulted in a permanent move and a thriving yoga and walking business, she tells Alison Gibb

Turning 50 was a huge thing for me, not helped by everyone leaving home all at the same time, explains Mairi Watson. “Our youngest son was following his siblings and heading off to university; at the same time, my husband was starting a new career as an engineer offshore. I felt like everyone was off on a new adventure and I was stuck at home. I decided I needed to shake my life up a bit.” And shake it up she did.

Mairi decided to rent out the family home and move to France. “My plan was to have a year’s sabbatical somewhere warm to write a novel. Having worked in France as an au pair and later as a features writer, I had always wanted to return to live there – the question was, where?”

After much discussion, Mairi was outvoted and the family decided on a village in the Alps. They all loved skiing and hiking so moving to a ski resort for a year seemed like a fun idea. It may not have been warm, but at least it was France.

“We needed to be near an airport so that Peter had easy flights to Aberdeen, the children would be coming and going during the long holidays, and I still needed to pop back every now and again to see our ageing parents,” says Mairi.

Amazing panorama of French Alps, Photo: Shutterstock

Aside from the easy airport access, Mairi was keen for their new home to be in a village that didn’t close down between the winter and summer seasons and had a community feel. The family settled on Les Contamines-Montjoie, an hour from Geneva airport and 40 minutes from Chamonix.

“It was a place we had visited a couple of times when the children were small. It was very charming, cute and traditional with what looked like a strong, rural community. From afar, it looked perfect.”

The reality was somewhat different. The couple arrived on 1 May having rented an apartment through a friend of a friend. “The only time we had visited the village was during the ski season, so we just presumed it would be busy all year round,” says Mairi.

A QUIET START

Peter and their son Finlay helped Mairi and family’s two spaniels settle into their new rental home and then left – Peter to go back to work offshore, while Finlay headed to university. “I remember spending the  rst night in the apartment on my own with rain pouring down the Velux windows and thinking, ‘what on earth have I done?’. I had never felt so alone.”

With all the tourists gone and the locals on their much-needed post-ski season holidays, the village was deserted. “I got into a routine of waking early, packing a picnic of a baguette and cheese and a bottle of water, and heading out with the dogs. I would walk for five or six hours following the signposts up the mountains, literally passing no one on my way. Spring was starting to bloom, with wild flowers appearing and snow melt filling the rivers.”

Every lunchtime, Mairi returned to the apartment and sat at the kitchen table to write. As spring turned to summer, she started to meet people – in the village shop, in the one café that stayed open out of season, and through a yoga class in the next village, St-Gervais-les-Bains. Peter and the children came and went, she and the dogs got fitter, and Mairi started to love the solitude and time out.

It’s a welcoming space

IMPULSE BUY

“Although we were all loving ‘my’ sabbatical, we had no plans to buy a house – let alone stay. Then, one day in September, my son Sean and I looked in the window of the local estate agent and saw this tired, rundown 1960s chalet for sale. For fun we popped along and took a look. Within a day we had made an offer and it had been accepted!

The family rented out the top floor during the skiing season

“Eight months after our initial viewing, on April Fools’ Day, we finally got the keys to our new home! We walked out of the notaire’s o ce, across the road to a café and ordered a stiff drink. Peter and I sat there looking at each other not knowing if we should laugh or cry! On a spontaneous whim we had somehow managed to buy a house in France and commit ourselves to living there,” explains Mairi.

With everyone home for the Easter holidays, the family was able to progress quickly with the renovations. Within a month, they had moved in. “Vey luckily, we were able to move into the upstairs bit of the chalet, which is a separate apartment, and work on the rest of the property slowly over time.” Mairi’s writing was put to one side for a while and she became a full-time project manager, co-ordinating the electricians, plumbers, tilers, painters and decorators – in French. “There’s nothing like a project like this to develop your language skills,” she laughs, “nor a better way to get to know the village.”

The sitting room is cosy, with a traditional open fi re for cold nights in the Alps

With only seven out of the 1,300 full-time residents of the village being native English speakers, Mairi and Peter were forced to make an effort to learn French and integrate. “I speak enough French to have a decent conversation, but Peter’s French is still very school boy, however, I am always astounded at how he manages to communicate. With a combination of Franglais, Google Translate and sign language, he manages to make himself understood and can borrow a tournevis électrique (electric screwdriver) from the neighbour, no problem!” says Mairi.

LES JOLY DAMES

Over the next few years, the couple settled into the community. Peter continued to work offshore, while Mairi got a job in the village school teaching English and with a local friend interviewed the people of the village and wrote a book: Histoires Vivantes d’un Village Alpin, Les Contamines–Montjoie. She also managed the upstairs apartment of their chalet, which they rented out on Airbnb during the ski season and the summer holidays when the children weren’t at home.

“With Brexit, we were obliged to apply for residency, which required us both to have incomes in France. I set up a micro business for my teaching and writing and we put the income from the apartment through a micro for Peter. Our French residency cards (carte de séjour) allowed us to travel freely between the UK and France,” says Mairi.

Walking weekends are popular

It was the year before the Covid-19 pandemic, however, that Mairi decided to turn her hobbies of hiking and yoga into a business. “Everyone knows the French Alps for the skiing, but not everyone knows it for the stunning summers. It was the reaction of our friends to the amazing weather, the incredible wildflowers and the endless hiking trails that led me and a friend, June, to start our company, Les Joly Dames.”

Whether guests come in groups or alone, they get to know people

RELAXING RETREAT

Les Joly Dames hosts walking and yoga weekends for small groups of women. They are welcome to come on their own or with friends for a three-day, four-night weekend of hiking with a guide, eating delicious food, drinking good wine, practicing relaxing yoga and spending time in the company of other vibrant, interesting, likeminded women. Very sadly, June’s husband died and just after the pandemic, she returned to the UK to be nearer her children. Now, nearly six years on, the business has grown in the most exciting and unexpected ways. Les Joly Dames now offers walking and yoga weekends in Morocco and Slovenia, as well as the French Alps.

Post-hike refreshments

“We have an incredible team of chefs, guides, yogis and drivers who make the weekends seamless and fun for our Dames,” says Mairi. “And most importantly we have an amazing following of Dames, who come year after year for a weekend of adventure, challenges and spoiling.”

LIFE-CHANGING

But Les Joly Dames would never have come about if Mairi had not decided to have a sabbatical year in France to write a novel.

Delicious food is on the menu

“Living in France – and especially the Alps – has changed my life. I would say that, before we moved here, my life was probably a bit pedestrian. I cared about the car that I drove, what my neighbours thought and which shops I bought my clothes from. Now I can honestly say that none of that matters to me. I am fitter and stronger than I was in my 40s, my car, like everyone else’s in the village, is old, rusty and a bit dented. Our children have learnt to ski like the locals and have an appreciation of life abroad that I’m not sure they would have had, had we not left the UK,” Mairi explains.

However, she still enjoys waking early, packing a picnic and heading up the mountain. The only difference is that when she returns, she no longer sits at the kitchen table to write. Instead, she organises the logistics of the upcoming Les Joly Dames weekends. Maybe one day she will get round to writing her novel. She does, I gather, have 35,000 words already written!

Views from the balcony of the family’s Alpine home are truly stunning

Find out more about walking weekends for women at http://lesjolydames.com

Gillian Harvey meets the expats who run charities in France

WE OFFER A LIFELINE TO THOSE IN NEED

Former nurse Deborah Cortey moved to France from Brighton in 1980 with her French husband, Adrien, who worked in aeronautics. “At the time I didn’t speak a word of French. Initially, we lived in Geneva, on the French side. But I wasn’t particularly happy there.”

The pair moved to Bouyon on the French Riviera a few years later “and it was as if someone turned the colour back on in life. It’s more multicultural and easygoing,” says Deborah.

When Deborah’s mother died in 1982 aged 62, much of the care for her father fell to her brother and sister-in-law, Simon and Judy, in Sussex. “I’d pop over, but I wasn’t able to be very hands on.”

As she hadn’t been able to help with the care of her elderly father, Deborah wondered if there was another way to give something back. She briefly volunteered for a caring organisation and then, in 2003, set up Riviera Lifeline, an organisation that helps vulnerable elderly people living in the local community, particularly those who don’t have the skills or knowledge to access local services.

“Many come to live here from overseas in their 30s, but later in life their partner may have died, the money has run out, or they’re lonely and isolated. People fall through the loopholes. That’s when we roll our sleeves up and get stuck in.”

Riviera Lifeline provides important support to those in need, helping older people to stay in their home, have in-home support, and become part of a wider community.

This can involve anything from arranging care, covering rent, or helping with paperwork to meeting up with an isolated person for a cup of coffee. “Volunteers might help them with meals, do a little shopping or simply meet up for coffee – it all makes a difference.”

The charity also works with local authorities that can point them in the direction of someone in need. “The police and pompiers are fabulous,” says Deborah. “We get cases referred by doctors, the church, other charities and organisations.”

Deborah at the Riviera Lifeline charity HQ with volunteer Shirley Wrigglesworth

One of the highlights of Riviera Lifeline’s work for Deborah is a monthly meal they hold for members. “We provide a lunch for a €6 donation. They have a jolly good homecooked meal, wine and chat in a very nice setting, and a day out. It’s rewarding to see the happy faces when people enjoy the lunch.”

Deborah’s role in running Riviera Lifeline sometimes means working seven days a week, particularly in the winter months. But she’s found the work rewarding in more ways than one. “When Adrien died in 2024, I was able to show up and do what I’ve always done. I probably need the association as much as they need me. “Anybody can get involved in helping others. No matter what you are doing, you’re changing someone’s life for the better.” rivieralifeline.org

WE SHARE OUR GARDENS AND RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY

When Sue and Mick Lambert bought their French house in 2004, it was with the intention of using it as a holiday home. But having spent several holidays in Creuse, they decided to make the move full time. “We loved it so much here,” explains Sue.

At the time, having run a children’s day nursery in Hampshire for 20 years, the pair were able to take early retirement, and leaving behind a six-day working week meant they were more than ready for a break. “We were only 54 and 52, so were very fortunate.”

While their new property was small, it came with a huge garden; a field of 2,600 square metres. “I decided I wanted to create a proper garden in the field, and began by digging a vegetable patch on a portion of the land. I’ve since developed it naturally into sections, including a spring garden, autumn garden, a bit of a forest, a rose garden and a memory garden for my son Tom who passed away in 2010 aged 34.”

Sue and Mick’s garden

A few years after moving, Sue started a French conversation group once a week in a local café. There, she met Lynn, a garden opener and coordinator for Open Gardens. The British-run organisation encourages members to participate in open-garden events each year, to raise money for children and young adults with serious illnesses or disabilities.

“In 2017, I decided to open our garden; I live in a small hamlet, and another resident – a Parisian – asked me if she could join in. Then a couple who own a farm in the hamlet opened their large terrace. It’s since become an annual event with people coming, exploring the gardens and sitting having refreshments.”

Sue then attended the AGM held at the mairie in Vareilles that same year, with Lynn and her husband Tim. There, she met the founder Mick Moates, who was looking for volunteers. Sue joined the conseil and was soon asked to be garden development manager – a person tasked to meet gardeners and garner more interest.

Open Garden volunteers at an afternoon tea event

And in 2023, Sue became president of the organisation, with husband Mick taking on the job of treasurer. “My job is to lead the team into the future, to continue to get more people interested and opening their gardens,” she says. “The organisation has its roots in Creuse, but is now France-wide.

“I love the conviviality of the charity and that we encourage people to garden, which is good for both physical and mental health. We raise money for such an important cause – the organisation has donated €198,000 to good causes.”

Having moved to France in order to retire, heading up a large organisation – albeit on a voluntary basis – has given Sue a rather more active life than she’d anticipated. But while she hopes to retire in a few years, she finds the work more than rewarding.

“I do work every single day, in one form or another, probably half a day particularly through the working week. But I do it because I enjoy and believe in the whole philosophy of open gardens.” opengardens.eu

HANNAH’S MEMORY LIVES ON WITH EVERY BOOK

When the Jones family moved to France in 1996 it was meant to be temporary, however, they all fell in love with the country and decided to make a permanent move. “David, who works as an electronics engineering consultant, was sent over to Quimper in Brittany to work for a year. At the time we had three children and we all loved it. We came back convinced we wanted to make France our home.”

Hannah’s family (David and Lizzie on the right)

The family finally moved out in 2004, choosing a new location in the southwest, and now with seven children in tow. “All of the children had idyllic childhoods and really thrived here,” says mum Lizzie.

However, then came a tragic accident. “Hannah [left] had been training to be a teacher. Even as a child she’d always loved books and loved reading to her younger siblings. Sadly, before she could reach her full potential, she was killed in a car crash, in July 2025, aged just 24.”

As the family came to terms with her death, they realised they wanted to do something to celebrate her life and the sort of woman she’d been. “We wanted to create a lasting legacy in her name, so Les Histoires d’Hannah was born,” says Lizzie.

Creating the non-profit association was easier than the family had expected: “We had to provide a list of founding members, which was all eight of us, and give our individual roles: president, treasurer, secretary etc. We had to hold our first general meeting and provide minutes. And we had to create a constitution.”

some of the childrens’ books bought by the charity

The association, which began life in September 2025, gives away books to children in local schools, children whose lives Hannah might have touched had things turned out differently. They hope to grow the charity’s reach further, keeping Hannah’s memory and
love of reading alive.

“I’m a glass artist and create stained and fused glass. The first day I returned to my studio after she died, I wasn’t sure I was up to doing much. But I made a little sunflower on a glass square. I thought maybe I could sell a few for the charity – and ended up selling over 300.”

Since this time, members of the family have taken different initiatives to raise money for the fund, including a Christmas carol concert, an artisans’ market and a sponsored walk, working together to support each other. “All of us are involved. Everything we’ve done, we’ve agreed on. We make sure everyone is happy.”

artist Lizzie creates stained-glass sunflowers

The first set of books was donated to the school in Le Ségur, Tarn, where Hannah was a pupil and spent some of her teacher training in May 2023. The organisation has already raised enough money to donate over 500 brand-new, specially selected books throughout the region, spreading Hannah’s message and joy in the written word to a wider audience.

“Hannah’s Stories was created so that her passion for education through reading could continue, and her memory lives on through every book offered.”

What should I do with my UK pension when moving to France? Robert Kent explains.

One of the most common financial questions asked by British residents in France is what to do with their UK pension. Should you leave it where it is, consolidate it, or cash it in?

Many people assume that pensions remain a ‘UK matter’. However, once you become a tax resident in France, your worldwide income is generally subject to French tax. That includes pension withdrawals, even if the pension remains held in the UK.

This is why pension planning is one of the most important areas of cross-border financial advice. It is rarely complicated, but it is very easy to get wrong.

The UK tax-free lump sum

Under UK pension rules, most defined contribution pension holders can normally withdraw up to 25% of their pension pot as a lump sum, tax-free. This is often referred to as ‘tax-free cash’.

It is worth highlighting that ‘tax-free’ is a UK concept. It does not automatically mean tax-free in France. If you are a resident of France at the time of withdrawal, France will assess the lump sum under its own tax rules.

However, focusing too heavily on the UK 25% rule can distract from a more important question: what is the French tax treatment of pension withdrawals, and are there any special rules that can reduce the tax cost? Is there a money-saving opportunity?

Tax residency and timing

The key issue and most important factor is your tax residency, at the moment the pension payment is made. If you withdraw pension benefits while you are still a UK tax resident, UK tax rules still apply. If you withdraw after becoming a French tax resident, the French tax system becomes relevant.

This can create unexpected outcomes. For example, a pension withdrawal taken a few months too late can shift from being taxed under UK rules to being taxed under French rules. That difference can be substantial.

Temptations to consolidate pensions

When people move to France, they often want to simplify their financial affairs. A common approach is to consolidate several UK pensions into one pot. This can be sensible for administrative reasons, but it can also remove flexibility. Keeping pensions in separate pots can allow withdrawals to be spread across multiple tax years.

Consolidation can encourage large withdrawals in a single year, which is where French taxation can become painful.

In many cases, the desire to simplify can lead to an unnecessary tax cost.

A french tax opportunity – that many people miss

One of the most important points for UK pension holders living in France is that certain pension lump sums may benefit from specific French tax treatment. Some qualifying pension lump sums may be taxed at a fixed rate of 7.5% with a 10% allowance, giving an effective rate of just 6.75%, rather than paying marginal tax rates, which may be significantly higher. Use of this rule, therefore, can be very advantageous, particularly for those with significant income, whose pensions would otherwise be heavily taxed.

However, this favourable treatment is not automatic. It depends on the type of pension payment, its structure and the taxpayer’s circumstances. It also requires careful planning, timing and correct reporting.

One of the main rules of the legislation is that the pension must not be split. If withdrawals have been made or cash taken, this usually ceases to be an option.

This is exactly why pension planning should be done before a large withdrawal. Many people ‘cash in’ a pension without realising that the 6.75% regime exists, or without structuring or timing the withdrawal correctly to qualify. Once the withdrawal has been made, the opportunity may be lost.

This is one of the clearest examples of how cross-border planning can legally and legitimately reduce tax, provided it is done correctly.

Withdrawing too much in one year

Even where a favourable regime applies, it is still possible to create unnecessary tax costs by withdrawing too much in a single year.

France applies progressive income tax rates. The more income you receive in a year, the higher your marginal tax rate becomes. Large pension withdrawals can quickly push taxpayers into higher tax brackets. In addition, France applies surtaxes on unusually high-income years.

Charges for high incomes

France applies an additional tax known as the contribution exceptionnelle sur les hauts revenus (CEHR). This applies when your revenu fiscal de référence (reference taxable income) exceeds:

• €250,000 for single taxpayers (single, widowed, separated or divorced)

• €500,000 for couples taxed jointly (married or PACS) No increase is provided for dependants.

The surcharge applies at the levels in the table below. These percentages are applied in addition to the normal income tax bill. A large pension lump sum can therefore trigger not only higher income tax, but also this additional surcharge.

“The desire to simplify by consolidating several UK pensions can lead to an unnecessary French tax cost”

Furthermore, France has also introduced the contribution différentielle surles hauts revenus (CDHR). This mechanism is designed to ensure that high-income households pay a minimum effective tax rate of 20%.

The CDHR was initially introduced for income in 2025; however, it has now been extended into 2026. This reinforces the importance of caution when considering unusually large withdrawals in a single year.

Some advisers have suggested that CDHR does not apply to pension lump sums because they are ‘exceptional one-off payments’. France has mechanisms to address exceptional income, such as the quotient method, which can reduce the impact of certain one-off payments.

However, an income being described as exceptional does not automatically mean it is excluded from surtaxes. Whether CDHR applies will depend on how the pension withdrawal is treated under French tax law and the precise nature of the pension arrangement.

Threshold Single Couple

€250,000 or below 0% 0%

Between €250,001 and €500,000 3% 0%

Between €500,001 and €1m 4% 3%

More than €1m 4% 4

A common mistake

We recently dealt with a client who had several UK pensions and wanted to simplify matters. Their goal was to consolidate everything into one pension pot and take a large withdrawal in a single year. The creation of a single pension pot simplifies life, giving people less to manage; however, doing so without understanding the consequences can lead to punitive, unnecessary taxation. Keeping their pensions separate gave them extra flexibility, allowing them to draw only the amounts they needed and avoid extra taxes. This is a good example of why pension decisions should not be based purely on convenience. It is also important to consider that, in some cases, French social charges (prélèvements sociaux) may apply to pension withdrawals. Again, this depends on the pension, your age, timing and maybe other points.

Handle with care

There are significant financial planning opportunities with UK pensions, and it is vital that these are understood before taking any action, or you may inadvertently trigger unnecessary taxation.

UK pensions offer valuable options, but once you live in France, they need to be handled carefully. The main danger is not the pensions themselves, but the temptation to simplify too quickly and withdraw large sums without understanding the French tax consequences. For many UK retirees, the existence of special French rules means that good planning can yield a far better outcome than expected. However, the benefits are often lost if withdrawals are made without advice.

In pension planning, timing is not a detail. It is often the difference between keeping more of your money or being unnecessarily punished with excessive taxation.

Robert Kent is the founder and CEO of Kentingtons, specialising in French tax and investments – and official sponsor of the French Property Exhibition in Birmingham

Tel: 08451 238423

kentingtons.com

Checklist before taking UK pension cash

Before touching your pension, consider if:

✔ The withdrawal may qualify for tax below 7%

✔ There will be extra taxation on significant sums

✔ Staggering separate pensions will save you money

✔ Consolidating pensions reduces your flexibility

✔ Whether social charges are applicable and at what rate

✔ You can really manage this on your own with no professional advice

IS MY PROPERTY ‘SOLD AS SEEN’?

Once I’ve sold my house in France, isn’t it ‘sold as seen’? How can I protect myself from unpleasant surprises – or legal claims – after completion?

SARAH BRIGHT of Bright Avocats responds (brightavocats.com): Ah yes, the famous ‘sold as seen’ idea. I wish I had a euro for every time a seller has said that to me, usually with great confidence and occasionally with a raised eyebrow. Sadly, French law does not quite share this optimism.

In theory, buyers are expected to inspect carefully, ask questions – and if they are really curious – commission surveys (alongside diagnostics provided by the seller), in order to reassure themselves before signing. In practice, however, I see an increasing number of post-sale claims, often months or even years later, alleging that something was wrong with the property and that the seller must have known about it. Welcome to the world of vices cachés and imaginative hindsight.

So, what’s actually going wrong? The problem is not that most buyers are dishonest – far from it. The problem is that once the sale is completed, the narrative changes. A small damp patch becomes ‘a serious structural issue’. A hairline crack becomes ‘evidence of subsidence’. And suddenly the seller is asked to explain, justify, or compensate. At that point, the property no longer belongs to you, memories are selective, and the burden of proof becomes…uncomfortable.

Sellers may be more exposed than they think. French courts take allegations of hidden defects seriously. If a buyer can persuade a judge that a defect existed before the sale and was not disclosed, the seller may face compensation – even if they genuinely believed the issue was minor or insignificant. And no, saying “it was obvious” is not always enough. What seems glaringly obvious to someone who has lived in a house for 10 years is not necessarily obvious to someone who visited it twice with an estate agent and rose-tinted glasses.

Enter the bailiff’s constat (and no, this isn’t overkill). One increasingly sensible – and still under-used – solution is to commission a ‘constat d’huissier’ before the sale. This involves a bailiff visiting the property and recording, in a neutral and factual way, its visible condition on a given date. No opinions. No diagnoses. Just what is there, what is visible, and what is not.

If a dispute arises later, this document becomes a rather formidable ally. Judges like bailiffs. They like contemporaneous evidence. They like photographs taken before tempers, lawyers and renovation works get involved. Bailiffs are legal professionals and their constat is seen as reliable and unbiased evidence by the court.“But won’t this highlight defects?” you might ask, and indeed, this is the question I hear most often.

My answer is always the same: honest defects are not the problem – disputed defects are. A constat does not create issues; it fixes reality in time. It can demonstrate that a crack was visible (and therefore not hidden), that damp was localised, or that a particular problem simply did not exist at the time of sale. Used properly, it is not a weapon against the buyer, but a shield for the seller.

More lawyers are quietly recommending this now because we are seeing more litigation. More buyers encouraged to “see what they can get” after completion. Because a few hundred euros spent before the sale can save many thousands, and several sleepless nights, afterwards. Think of it as legal insurance for people who prefer not to discover, two years later, that their perfectly respectable house has apparently always been on the brink of collapse.

Selling smartly is not about mistrust. It’s about foresight. And after nearly 30 years of watching what can go wrong, foresight is something I wholeheartedly recommend.

Student protests, rising fuel prices and tougher driving rules are among the latest stories making headlines in France this week. There are also questions over energy efficiency rules following another summer of extreme heat, while the head of the Eiffel Tower is set to step down after a controversy involving female staff. Here’s what you need to know.

Strikes and demonstrations expected as student protests continue

French unions have called for a nationwide day of strikes and demonstrations on Tuesday, October 6, in support of lycée pupils protesting over a lack of resources in schools. The student protests, which began last month and have made headlines around the world, have already resulted in hundreds of schools being partially or completely closed.

Around 500 schools were expected to be affected by the protests on Monday, with further disruption anticipated as demonstrations take place in cities across France. In Paris, a large student demonstration is planned from Place de la République on Tuesday afternoon, with possible disruption to roads and public transport in the area.

The protests are focused on funding and staffing levels in education, with students calling for improved conditions in schools. Unions have also backed the action, adding to the wider wave of industrial unrest seen in France in recent weeks.

Salvador Dalí book cover stolen from French art centre

A 150kg bronze cover created by Salvador Dalí has been stolen from a contemporary art centre in Issoire, in the Puy-de-Dôme. The theft took place overnight between Sunday and Monday, October 4–5.

The elaborate bronze cover, decorated with gold, precious stones and seashells, forms part of L’Apocalypse, a unique illustrated book created between 1958 and 1961. The complete work weighs around 210kg and features contributions from artists and writers including Dalí, Jean Cocteau, Bernard Buffet and Jean Giono.

The cover alone is valued at several million euros and was once associated with claims that L’Apocalypse was the world’s most expensive book. The book itself was kept separately and remains safe. Gendarmes in Clermont-Ferrand are investigating the theft.

Fuel prices rise as shortages continue

Fuel prices in France have risen again, with shortages continuing to affect petrol stations across the country. Around 15 per cent of French service stations are currently reporting shortages of at least one type of fuel, according to the latest figures.

Average prices have reached €2.38 per litre for diesel, €2.17 for SP95-E10 and €2.28 for SP98. The situation is linked to continued disruption in global oil markets and tensions in the Middle East.

Drivers are advised to check fuel availability before setting out, particularly in areas where shortages are more widespread.

France to suspend licences for drivers caught using phones

Drivers in France face tougher penalties for using a mobile phone behind the wheel. Following pilot schemes in several départements, authorities are now extending driving licence suspensions nationwide.

The existing €135 fine and three-point penalty will continue to apply, while drivers caught using their phones in certain circumstances can also face a licence suspension.

The rules cover handheld phone use while driving, including making calls, sending messages, browsing the internet and taking photographs or videos.

Eiffel Tower chief to step down after staff controversy

The head of the company operating the Eiffel Tower is set to step down at the end of 2026 following a controversy over the treatment of female staff during a private visit by members of the BAPS Hindu organisation.

Female employees were removed from the landmark during the visit on September 5, prompting a staff walkout and widespread criticism in France. An internal investigation subsequently found that the situation was unacceptable.

Patrick Branco Ruivo, who has headed the Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel since 2018, will leave his position at the end of the year. The company has also announced measures and training aimed at promoting gender equality.

DPE rules could change after extreme summer heat

France could make further changes to its energy performance certificates, or DPEs, following this summer’s repeated heatwaves.

The DPE is required when properties are sold or rented long-term, but this year’s extreme temperatures have highlighted a weakness in the current system: homes can receive an excellent energy efficiency rating while still becoming extremely hot during summer.

The issue has prompted discussion about whether the certificates should take greater account of summer comfort, including how effectively homes can stay cool.

The phenomenon has even given rise to a new French expression, bouilloires thermiques, or ‘thermal kettles’, for buildings that trap and retain heat.

UK-France ‘one in, one out’ migration deal ends

The UK-France agreement allowing Britain to return some small-boat migrants to France in exchange for accepting asylum seekers through legal routes has ended.

The pilot scheme, which began in 2025, was designed to deter Channel crossings. Under the arrangement, some people arriving in the UK by small boat could be returned to France, while Britain accepted asylum seekers with family links to the country.

No new cases are now being processed under the scheme, although some returns will continue for people already detained.

Summer heat, drought and fires cost France €16bn

The extreme weather experienced across France this summer is estimated to have cost the country around €16 billion, according to a parliamentary mission examining the impact of heatwaves, drought and wildfires.

The investigation heard evidence from government departments, public agencies, economists, firefighters, farmers and insurers. It comes after a summer marked by repeated heatwaves, water shortages and major wildfires across several parts of the country.

The findings are likely to add to pressure for France to strengthen its preparations for increasingly extreme weather.

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Political uncertainty in France continues to weigh on the euro, with unrest intensifying over the weekend as concerns grow around the country’s political backdrop and ongoing budget difficulties.

The French government has attributed the growing unrest to far-left activists, while the student protests have added to concerns around the stability of the political situation ahead of the Presidential election.

Meanwhile, sterling has strengthened against the euro, with GBP/EUR moving through €1.18, although this appears to be more a reflection of euro weakness than renewed confidence in the pound. With a busy week of central bank speakers ahead, including several from the Bank of England, markets will be watching closely for any signals on the future path of interest rates.

Elsewhere, developments in the Middle East, the latest US monetary policy discussions and key economic data from Mexico and Canada will provide further direction for currency markets. In my view, political developments remain the dominant theme for the euro, with risks still skewed towards further weakness.

EUR weakness continues as political developments in France remain in focus

Conflict across France continued over the weekend, intensifying financial market concerns around the political backdrop ahead of the upcoming Presidential election, as well as ongoing issues surrounding the French budget. The French government has attributed the growing unrest to far‑left activists, arguing that they are using the student protests to advance their own objectives.

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Merz was in Kyiv over the weekend when a Russian drone strike targeted a bridge in the Ukrainian capital. In Spain, the government could be preparing to call an early election. Prime Minister Sánchez remains embroiled in a scandal, with his wife at the centre of allegations relating to embezzlement, corruption, misappropriation of funds and influence peddling.

In short, political developments currently dominate economic considerations, something that could continue to undermine the euro against the US dollar. Risks also remain skewed towards weakness against other currencies.

UK expected to impose EV tariffs on China, BOE speakers in focus this week

The pound weakened into the end of last week against the US dollar but reached multi‑week highs against the euro, both of which appear to have little to do with the UK’s domestic backdrop.

Weekend speculation suggests the UK is set to impose electric vehicle tariffs on Chinese manufacturers, which have come to dominate the UK fleet EV market in recent quarters. Such a move would bring the UK more closely into line with the European Union and could offer limited support to the domestic automotive sector, where production is projected to fall to multi‑decade lows.

Bank of England speakers are in abundance this week. The Governor, Chief Economist and several other MPC members are all scheduled to address seminars and conferences. Catherine Mann speaks first tomorrow morning, followed by Greene, Pill, Bailey and Lombardelli. Will they hint at interest rate increases? Given the inflation pressures seen recently, that would appear to be a logical line of discussion.

GBPEUR’s move through €1.18 could shake the tree for those positioned for further euro weakness. However, this remains a story of euro weakness rather than pound strength. Should UK‑specific problems emerge, which remains a material risk, this rally could reverse quickly and sharply, in my view.

Middle East focus shifts to Yemen as US withdraws bombers from RAF Fairford

Market attention in the Middle East has shifted away from the direct confrontation between the US and Iran and towards efforts by the Houthis to gain greater control of Yemen, alongside attempts by the Yemeni government to repel those advances. The Yemeni government continues to receive support from Saudi Arabia, and efforts to defend key cities intensified over the weekend.

The Houthis could disrupt key Red Sea shipping routes and have claimed responsibility for attacks on facilities in Riyadh, a claim disputed by Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities have reportedly cut prices to Asia in an attempt to gain market share from competing suppliers and, together with the UAE, have announced plans to build a crude oil stockpile in Asia.

Meanwhile, the US withdrew all bombers from RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire following the recent incident in which authorities detained several vans carrying petrol near the base.

The overall news flow is unlikely to trigger a significant decline in oil prices, but it may limit the scope for renewed increases, in my view.

Fed minutes and speakers become the focus after payrolls

September’s US non‑farm payrolls report, released at the end of last week, weakened the case for the Federal Reserve to deliver another interest rate increase at its upcoming meeting. However, softer labour market data has not been a consistent trend, with payroll outcomes continuing to swing between strength and weakness on a month‑to‑month basis.

The focus this week shifts away from economic data. Markets will receive the minutes from the latest Fed meeting, which could provide greater insight into the strength of the policy debate. Several Federal Reserve officials are also scheduled to speak throughout the week.

Meanwhile, the US mid‑term election race continues to gather momentum. Will this result in further off‑the‑cuff remarks from the President as he tours Republican heartlands in an effort to strengthen voter support?

For US financial markets, risks remain skewed to the upside for yields. As for the US dollar, questions around the strength of the US economy and the sustainability of growth remain present, in my view.

Could Mexican inflation and Canadian jobs data turn the tide against the USD?

A pair of important releases from Mexico and Canada could command attention this week, but whether they will prove sufficient to reverse the recent underperformance of the peso and Canadian dollar against the US dollar remains unclear.

Mexico releases September CPI inflation data on Thursday. Markets expect the figures to show an increase in headline inflation alongside a decline in core inflation, a combination that could confuse rather than clarify the outlook for monetary policy. The most likely implication is that Banxico leaves interest rates unchanged at its next meeting. Meanwhile, September vehicle production and export figures could disappoint again, which would strengthen the argument for lower interest rates, in my view. These releases are unlikely to alter the broader direction of the peso, meaning markets may once again look to developments in the US for support.

Canada, meanwhile, publishes September labour market data. The figures are expected to show further weakness, with subdued global growth and strained trading relations with the US continuing to suppress hiring intentions. Unless there is an upside surprise, I suspect the Canadian dollar will struggle to recover meaningful ground based on domestic factors alone.

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One of the first things many people hear when researching healthcare in France is that the French healthcare system reimburses 70% of medical costs. It sounds reassuring, but many newcomers are surprised after their first doctor’s appointment to discover that, despite being registered with Assurance Maladie and presenting their Carte Vitale, they still have part of the bill to pay.

The reason is simple: the famous “70%” is one of the most misunderstood figures in the French healthcare system.

It does not mean that the French state automatically pays 70% of every medical bill. Instead, reimbursement is calculated against an official reimbursement basis, known as the base de remboursement, or BR. The amount you ultimately pay depends on the treatment, the healthcare professional, the fees charged and whether you have complementary health insurance, commonly known as a ‘mutuelle’.

Does French Health Insurance Always Reimburse 70%?

No. Different types of healthcare are reimbursed at different rates.

Many GP and specialist consultations are reimbursed at 70% of the official reimbursement basis, while many paramedical treatments such as physiotherapy are reimbursed at 60%. Certain medicines may be reimbursed at 65%, 30%, 15% or 100%, depending on their recognised medical benefit.

Hospital treatment in approved establishments is commonly reimbursed at 80% of the official tariff, although some situations qualify for 100% reimbursement. Certain long-term medical conditions, known as Affections de Longue Durée (ALD), can also qualify for 100% reimbursement of eligible care related to the condition.

However, 100% reimbursement does not necessarily mean that every euro charged by a healthcare provider will be covered. The key point is that reimbursement percentages apply to the official reimbursement basis, not necessarily the amount shown on your invoice.

What Does the “70% Rule” Actually Mean?

Consider a consultation with a Sector 1 GP who is your declared médecin traitant.

With an official tariff of €30, Assurance Maladie calculates its reimbursement at 70%, giving €21. A €2 participation forfaitaire is then deducted, meaning the actual reimbursement is €19.

The remaining €9 is the ticket modérateur. Depending on your complementary insurance, your mutuelle may reimburse some or all of this amount. If your doctor charges more than the official tariff because they are permitted to apply dépassements d’honoraires, Assurance Maladie still calculates its reimbursement using the official tariff. Whether the additional fees are covered depends on your mutuelle.

This is why two people receiving the same treatment can ultimately pay different amounts.

Why Do I Still Receive a Medical Bill?

Your remaining bill can contain several different elements.

These can include the ticket modérateur, fees charged above the official tariff, the €2 participation forfaitaire, and medical franchises applied to certain medicines, paramedical treatments and medical transport.

The current franchises include €1 per box of reimbursable medication, €1 per paramedical act and €4 per qualifying medical transport journey, subject to statutory limits. Most responsible complementary insurance contracts cannot reimburse certain statutory contributions, including the €2 participation forfaitaire and medical franchises.

This is why even people with comprehensive health insurance can still have small amounts left to pay.

How Does Hospital Reimbursement Work?

Hospital treatment follows different rules from a standard doctor’s appointment.

In a public hospital or approved private clinic, Assurance Maladie commonly reimburses eligible hospital charges at 80% of the official tariff. However, this does not necessarily cover every cost associated with your stay.

Patients may also have to pay the forfait hospitalier, which contributes towards accommodation and maintenance costs. Since March 2026, this is €23 per day in hospitals and clinics and €17 per day in psychiatric departments, unless an exemption applies.

Additional costs can include a private room, television or telephone services, comfort expenses and specialist fee overruns. Whether these are covered will depend on your complementary insurance.

What Does a Mutuelle Cover?

A mutuelle works alongside Assurance Maladie rather than replacing it.

After the public healthcare system has made its reimbursement, your complementary insurer can reimburse some or all of the remaining eligible costs according to your policy. Depending on your level of cover, this can include the ticket modérateur, specialist fee overruns, hospital costs, dental treatment, optical care and hearing aids.

The 100% Santé system can also provide full reimbursement for certain eligible optical, dental and hearing products when the scheme’s conditions are met. However, choosing products outside the regulated 100% Santé baskets can still leave you with a significant amount to pay.

What Do 100%, 150% and 200% Mutuelle Cover Mean?

This is another common source of confusion.

If a policy offers 100%, 150% or 200% BR, these figures do not mean the insurer pays that percentage of your actual medical bill. Instead, they refer to the maximum combined reimbursement calculated against the official Base de Remboursement. This generally includes the amount already reimbursed by Assurance Maladie.

For example, a policy offering 150% BR could provide combined reimbursement of up to 150% of the official reimbursement basis, subject to the policy terms.

This can be particularly useful when seeing specialists who charge above the official tariff.

Do You Need a Mutuelle?

Not necessarily, but many residents choose one to reduce their exposure to healthcare costs.

Private-sector employers generally have to offer employees complementary health insurance and contribute at least 50% of the cost, subject to certain exemptions. For retirees, self-employed people and many expats, taking out a mutuelle is generally a personal decision.

The question is therefore not simply whether you need one, but whether you are comfortable paying the costs that remain after Assurance Maladie has reimbursed your treatment.

For routine healthcare these costs may be relatively modest, but hospital treatment, dental care, optical expenses, hearing aids and specialist fee overruns can quickly make comprehensive cover more valuable.

How Do Assurance Maladie and a Mutuelle Work Together?

Once your healthcare arrangements are established, the process is usually straightforward.

After presenting your Carte Vitale, Assurance Maladie processes its reimbursement. If your mutuelle is connected through the Noémie system, the reimbursement information can then be transferred automatically to your complementary insurer.

The mutuelle applies the benefits provided under your contract, often without you needing to submit additional paperwork.

The tiers payant system can also reduce the amount you need to pay upfront, although partial tiers payant does not necessarily mean that all costs are covered.

How Should Expats Choose a Mutuelle?

Choosing complementary insurance is not simply about finding the cheapest monthly premium.

Consider your likely healthcare needs and look carefully at specialist fee-overrun cover, hospital benefits, private-room allowances, dental and optical reimbursement, hearing-aid cover and access to the 100% Santé scheme.

A broker with experience working with expats can also help explain the differences between policies and identify cover appropriate to your circumstances.

Understanding the “70% Rule”

The biggest misconception about French healthcare is that one percentage can explain the entire system.

In reality, reimbursement depends on the treatment, the official reimbursement basis, the healthcare professional, the fees charged and your individual circumstances.

A mutuelle can then cover some eligible costs left after Assurance Maladie has paid its share, although certain statutory contributions remain payable. Rather than asking whether France reimburses 70% or 100%, the more useful question is: how much will I actually receive from Assurance Maladie and my complementary insurance, and what will I have to pay myself?

That is the figure that ultimately determines what your healthcare will cost.

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Living part-time in a French village has been a successful experience for Matthew Cushen, he tells Nicola Venning

When Matthew Cushen bought a 600-year-old townhouse in a village outside Bordeaux two years ago, he wasn’t sure that he was doing the right thing. He was planning to alternate between London and France but had never spent time in a small village and had never lived in two homes before. “It was a big experiment to see if I could spend half my life there,” he says.

The 56-year-old entrepreneur and venture capitalist, who likes the area because of his interest in and love of red wine, was therefore very careful where and what type of home he bought. Mindful that he might change his mind, Matthew needed a property that would not only appeal to British buyers but would also “be attractive to French families”. He went on to buy in the lively, agricultural village of St-Germain-du-Puch, about 31km southeast of Bordeaux.

“It’s in the wine-producing region of Entre-Deux-Mers, so it doesn’t have a great wine cachet but it appeals to (French) professionals,” he says. A butcher, two bakeries and quite a smart destination restaurant, are all within walking distance of his home.

There is also a train station with a regular 45-minute commuter service into Bordeaux. If Matthew needs to do some work, his visitors can easily take off for the day using public transport. “Bordeaux is a fantastic city, I love it. And it’s also of interest to my guests so when they visit, it gives me some space if I need it.”

Equally important was the ability to reach his home by train from London. Door to door, the journey is under five hours. “I didn’t want to be dependent on flying because in about 10 years’ time, we might not be doing that much.”

FORMER MONASTERY

Matthew paid €550,000 for the four-bedroom family house in late 2023. “One of the reasons I liked it, was because it was so deceptively big,” he says. The house which used to be a monastery, had also once belonged to the local mayor, as well as his “charming” elderly neighbour. “It used to be her grandfather’s. She also told me that the German commandant during the war (WWII) requisitioned it as his office and home. My games room was the German army’s storeroom.”

Although the home was perfectly habitable, it was tired and not in the style he wanted, but before making any changes Matthew lived in it for three months to “validate the kind of renovation” he was thinking about. He decided to enlarge the main rooms, maximise the natural light, enhance the original stone walls, and also update the plumbing and wiring. The family bathroom and a smaller ensuite were reconfigured to create an extra one and an additional bathroom was added downstairs.

The kitchen was expanded by replacing an old utility room with a shaded terrace, while the elegant stone staircase, which he “just loves”, was repaired and a box room removed to create a wider, lighter landing and make the most of the beautiful ancient stone steps.

Off the kitchen, an old utility room was replaced by a covered stone terrace

Planning permission was needed in order to add new doors and door-to-ceiling windows at the back of the house, so Matthew hired an architect and had the necessary professional drawings done.

“The architect had the idea of creating a new double-height ceiling in the living room and taking down the false low one, and then I suggested putting in Juliet balconies to make the most of the new height, so we were kind of ring of­ each other” he explains.

“Matthew wanted to maximise natural light and enhance the original stone walls”

KEEPING IT LOCAL

Handily, the architect also recommended workmen. As he was living in London during the renovation, Matthew visited at least once a month, generally for a day. “What I missed in France was having a foreman or a main contractor. I didn’t arrange it and assumed it would just happen, but the trades or artisans are all quite distinct. However, they all got on really well and there was never an instance where someone said, ‘so and so’s late so I have to charge you more’.  I missed having one point of contact though.”

As he wanted to be part of life in St-Germain-du-Puch, and “get under the skin”, Matthew was keen to employ local tradesmen and show that he was “investing in the village”.

The ceiling was lied in the living room and the old stone brought back to life

“I only viewed the house for about 15 minutes – it was a great example of when you know, you know”

Fortunately, he was lucky with his electrician who lives near him and has become a keyholder. “He did a great job. He WhatsApps me if there’s something I ought to know. He recommended my cleaner! It’s been a happy outcome.”

The renovation took about six months, in time for the summer, and came in close to Matthew’s original estimates. However, the garden, which he totally transformed by adding a large terrace, long lap pool and landscaping, bumped up the cost by about 40%.

“In my naivety, I hadn’t realised it was going to be quite so pricey,” he says. “But it’s been worthwhile. Last summer I had so many visitors. We were never in the living room, most of the time was spent around or in the pool.” T

he total refurbishment, inside and out, cost €500,000. The architect’s fee was roughly 5% of the final amount (€25,000), which Matthew thought was reasonable.

“I definitely would have spent that if I had got any of the contractor and building stuff wrong,” he acknowledges. However, the purchase price of the house and the renovation cost, at about €1m, is, he admits, more than the house is now worth: “I am under no illusions. I am definitely at a capital loss, but I have created a house that is perfect for what I want to do. I don’t think there is much room in the French market to create value through refurbishments.”

A small box room on the landing was removed to add space and light

WOBBLY WALLS

One of the biggest challenges was a beautiful old garden wall near the proposed terrace and pool, which had become wobbly. “If I tried to mend it in place, I would have lost a couple of months and most of the summer.”

Matthew had it taken down so it didn’t delay the main works, and then later rebuilt. It now has “the original stone around a breeze-block core, which is nice enough, although it no longer looks as beautifully old”.

There was also a problem in the living room when Matthew discovered that one of three main beams in the new double-height ceiling was, in fact, rotten. Although the architect suggested sourcing an older and pricey replacement, Matthew preferred to get a modern, cheaper one.

“One of the things I love about this house is seeing how it’s changed throughout its long life, such as wooden lintels in the walls from doors that are no longer there or old etchings in the stone fireplaces,” he says. “2024 was the year the house needed a new beam. And aesthetically I often like old next to new”.

HAPPY ENDING

A happy surprise occurred when he had the carpets pulled up in the bedrooms and attic. “I didn’t know what was under the floor coverings, but when we removed them we found original floorboards with handmade nails, so that was great and we were able to renovate them throughout.

The garden was transformed with a long lap pool and large sunny terrace

“Another pleasant surprise, is that it’s all worked out,” he smiles. The successful purchase was helped by Matthew giving a detailed brief and putting in the legwork. He spent about 18 months searching “in a relatively relaxed way” and visited the area, often with family or friends, six to seven times over long weekends, viewing three or four properties per day. “I didn’t know the region particularly well, although I knew the placenames because of the wine. Hence, I needed to explore around and stay in different places. I learnt a lot through that. Then it was a question of honing down where and what.”

As he did more research, he also realised that he might not need to pay as much as he originally thought. In the end, Matthew fell for a home listed with Leggett Immobilier. “I only saw this particular house for about 15 minutes and there wasn’t an opportunity for me to do a second viewing. It was a great example of when you know, you know.

There are four bedrooms – ideal for family and friends when they visit

“People ask me what’s it like living in France? But that’s not the pertinent question. For me, having lived in cities all my life, it’s living in a rural village that I am getting used to. The contrast between the two is really energising. I’m still loving London, but I’m loving France and village life just as much.”

The architectural vision of Napoleon III and Haussmann transformed Paris into one of the most beautiful cities in the world – you can buy your own piece of Haussmannian elegance in the capital and beyond, says Joanna Leggett.

Dirty, dark, dangerous and overcrowded. By the mid-19th century, the centre of Paris had become a melée of ancient medieval streets. It was unhealthy to say the least and ready for change – not least in its management.

Our story about its redevelopment begins with Napoleon’s nephew, Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte (1808–1873), who had swept himself into power after a period of imprisonment and exile. He became President of France in 1848 before staging an imperial coup in 1851 proclaiming himself Emperor Napoleon III and head of a new political system: the French Empire.

Paris, its capital, was a mess. With rubbish and sewage flooding into the Seine, cholera and typhoid were commonplace. The narrow winding streets meant traffic circulation was a nightmare, as wagons or carts could barely move through them. In addition, they were easy to barricade – perfect for encouraging revolutionary fervour and insurrection. Crime and discontent ruled.

It was Napoleon I who had said, in 1798, he wanted “to make Paris the most beautiful city that ever existed”, but his nephew was the one who expanded this idea to modernise and make Paris magical. Napoleon III was exiled in England for a time and, impressed by its town planning (thanks in no small part to the 1666 Fire of London), he wanted to bring grandeur, space, wide boulevards and cohesion, not least in infrastructure to his own capital. He wanted grand parks, gardens, tree-lined avenues and, most importantly, a modern sewage system. What Paris needed was light, air, clean water and good sanitation!

Man of action

The magnitude of his plans faltered until he brought in the ambitious and able Haussmann, a civil servant rather than an architect, to develop and implement his scheme. Over the next 17 years, they transformed and rewrote the tapestry of Paris, creating what is for many the most beautiful city in the world. Underlying the redesign were the remits for construction – Haussmann style.

Georges-Eugène Haussmann was born in central Paris in 1809. By the time he was 22 he had already commenced his career in public administration. Ambitious, well organised, a hard worker and driven, he moved around various departments before being appointed prefect of the Gironde in Bordeaux in 1851.

Napoleon III had started a project that would connect the Louvre to the Bois du Boulogne. Exasperated by the slow progress, he searched for a new prefect for the Seine to carry out his ambitious reconstruction programme.

Born into a bourgeois military family, Haussmann was imposing both physically (at 6’3, he was tall) and intellectually. He had studied at elite Parisian colleges and worked hard. Unsurprisingly, he got the job, and on 29 June 1853 he was given the mission of making the capital healthier, less congested and grander (a role he held until 1870), thus becoming one of the most famous – and controversial – urban planners in history. Within a week of his appointment, he was summoned to meet Napoleon who produced a map of the city with large black lines cutting through the streets and told him “this is what I want”!

Developing the grand plan to connect the north of the city with the south, east and west, Haussmann met with the Emperor almost every day. Important landmark buildings were connected by wide boulevards, and Napoleon expanded the size of Paris by annexing adjoining communes.

An aqueduct was built to bring clean water from Champagne, reservoirs increased water supply, grey water was used to wash streets and water new parks. Paris sewers were completely rebuilt and miles of pipes installed along the streets for gas lights.

Tens of thousands of workers were employed in construction and to improve sanitation, water supply and traffic circulation in the rapidly expanding, crowded city. For the next 17 years, Paris was the site for probably the largest ever public works programme in Europe. It’s thought that Haussmann funded much of the work by charging tolls on deliveries coming into the city.

Cutting a swathe through ancient neighbourhoods, Haussmann knocked down 12,000 buildings (including his family home), cleared space for the Palais Garnier and Les Halles, linked new train terminals around the city centre with long, wide, straight avenues, created an astounding 27 parks and squares, adorning them with intricate railings, decorative bandstands, lamp posts, newspaper kiosks – and the list goes on.

Smart new avenues were constructed and thousands of trees planted to line them – perfect for the future flaneur to parade along in elegant clothes before sitting at a convenient café on the broad pavements with seating spilling over the terraces, ideal for surveying the passing crowds.

Haussmann is celebrated, especially internationally, for much of what is loved about Paris – its wide avenues flanked by imposing, symmetrically designed buildings, neatly arranged stonework façades and intricate wrought-iron balconies.

His work was controversial though. Many at the time – some even today – consider his plans, which sliced through ancient slums displacing thousands, to be the work of an imperialist megalomaniac.

However, the style of architecture – Haussmannian – is the classic that defines Paris and immediately comes to mind when you think of its streets lined with those elegant apartment buildings so pleasing to the eye.

Aerial view of Paris showing Haussmann’s long straight boulevards lined with elegant buildings

By 1870, after what had been a frenetic rebuilding marathon, Haussmann’s work was mostly done. Some criticised him: accusing him of destroying the ancient charm of the city (though the Marais and other pockets escaped his developers’ zeal), and for the staggering 2.5bn francs bill for the work (estimated at around €75bn 10 years ago). Nonetheless, work continued in the capital until 1927 in order to finish his grand plan.

Elegant and spacious

A classic Haussmann building is no more than six storeys high and offers spacious apartments with small outdoor terraces. Initially, stairs were the only way of reaching different floors, but lifts were added later. The ground floor sometimes housed commercial activity; the first floor the most elegant apartments with the highest ceilings, beautiful parquet flooring, ornate plasterwork and marble fireplaces. French windows opened out to wrought-iron clad balconies. Servants’ quarters were on the top, usually sixth, floor. Today, they are considered highly desirable for their exceptional views over the city. Wide entrances leading through to a courtyard were the norm, allowing the nobility to enter with horse-drawn carriages. The apartments also had running water and WCs.

Pierre de taille (dressed grey stone) was used on exteriors. The architecture is marked by the use of dormers in slate-covered mansard roofs, angled at 45 degrees to allow maximum sunlight to flood the streets.

It’s said that up to 60% of Parisian buildings are built in this style. Apartments continue to be much in demand, despite being very expensive as they’re usually located in the most attractive parts of Paris.

Action

Haussmann’s style spread throughout the country. Artisans who had made money building in Paris returned to the countryside to build their own homes, echoing the architecture of the capital. Many town centre properties and countryside maison de maîtres boast their own version of Paris’s unmistakeable style, with symmetry, mansard roofs, dormers and iron balconies.

As for Haussmann, he was the first modern-day urban developer later labelled a genius. Today, he is remembered by the boulevard that bears his name and by his Haussmannian classical architecture.

Haussmann’s beautiful renovation of Paris attracted several Impressionist painters. Perhaps the best examples of his architectural backdrops are by Caillebotte, whose paintings depicting the transformed city are considered unprecedented. Pissaro and Monet (among others) also used his sublime architectural backdrops for their work. I wouldn’t mind hanging any one of those on my walls.

Joanna Leggett is the Marketing Director at Leggett Immobilier – view the full portfolio of properties for sale in France at leggettfrance.com

If you are planning to retire to France from the United States, healthcare is likely to be one of your biggest questions. How do you join the French system? How much will it cost? Will you need private insurance? And what exactly is the “PUMA tax” you keep seeing mentioned online?

In 2026, France introduced an important legal change affecting certain non-working residents who obtain French public healthcare through residence. The 2026 Social Security Financing Act created a new financial contribution under Article L160-1-1 of the French Social Security Code.

The change is particularly relevant to Americans retiring to France, who generally do not benefit from the same healthcare coordination arrangements as qualifying British pensioners. However, there is an important caveat: although the legal obligation now exists, the implementing decree setting the amount and detailed collection process has not yet been published.

So, while something has changed, there is currently no official figure that future American retirees can reliably budget for.

What is the new PUMA healthcare contribution?

The new measure concerns people accessing French public healthcare through Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMA).

PUMa allows people who live in France on a stable and regular basis to access French public healthcare even when their entitlement does not arise directly from working in France. This can be particularly relevant to non-working residents, including some people who move to France on a long-stay visitor visa and later apply to join the French healthcare system.

Under Article L160-1-1, certain people who reside in France regularly, do not carry out professional activity in France and meet the relevant conditions will have to make a financial contribution towards their healthcare coverage.

The rules are subject to European coordination arrangements and international social-security agreements, so not every foreign retiree will necessarily be treated in the same way.

Will American Retirees Have to Pay?

For many non-working American retirees who join the French healthcare system through residence, the new contribution is likely to become an important part of their healthcare costs.

The key change is that France has now established a specific legal mechanism for requiring a contribution from certain non-working residents. However, the precise amount remains unknown because the implementing decree has not yet been published.

It would therefore be premature to claim that every American retiree will pay a particular percentage or fixed annual amount.

There has been speculation that the eventual contribution could be simpler, and potentially less burdensome for some people, than the existing system. However, this cannot be confirmed until the official calculation rules are published.

For now, the main change is greater legal clarity around the possibility of a contribution, rather than a confirmed reduction in healthcare costs.

Are UK Retirees Treated Differently?

Yes. British pensioners whose healthcare rights in France are covered by the applicable UK-EU social-security arrangements are in a different position from Americans relying on residence-based PUMA.

Qualifying UK pensioners can use an S1 certificate to register with the French healthcare system, with healthcare costs coordinated through the UK rather than arising solely from residence-based PUMA entitlement.

For those covered by these arrangements, the new residence-based contribution should therefore not apply in the same way.

Thinking about life abroad, moving to a new country, or simply looking for trusted advice from people who’ve been there? FabExpat.com is here to help. Discover useful information, practical resources, local insights and inspiration designed for expats, travellers and anyone embracing life overseas. Whether you’re planning your move, settling into a new community, finding services or looking to make connections, FabExpat can point you in the right direction. Don’t navigate your international adventure alone. Visit FabExpat.com and discover a community built around making life abroad easier, more informed and more enjoyable. Get in touch today and start your journey with confidence.

There is a wonderful moment when the notaire finally hands you the keys to your French home.

You open the shutters, put a few things in the fridge, sit outside and think “we did it!”.

And then reality arrives.

After years of working with international clients, Britline have seen that purchasing a French property is only the beginning.

There are electricity and water bills, insurance, local taxes and internet to organise. There may be gardeners, builders and local tradespeople to pay. A French account, card and online banking soon become part of everyday life.

Then there are the unexpected expenses.

The pool pump fails in August. The boiler gives up in December. The small roof repair becomes a much bigger one.

Insurance is particularly important. That beautiful bargain discovered during a house-hunting weekend may look rather different when an insurer considers its condition. Some properties in poor condition can be difficult or expensive to insure, and essential work may be required before an insurer will provide the cover you want.

It is another reason not to be blinded by a low asking price.

When something unexpected happens, it also helps to know there is a person you can call. Someone at your bank who knows you, understands that your income may come from another country and has experience dealing with international clients can make an unfamiliar situation much easier to navigate.

Money itself needs planning too.

We have seen clients wait until they urgently need euros before thinking about exchange rates. On a large renovation, roof replacement or other major expense, currency movements can make a considerable difference. The difference with a second home is that the money may be sitting in another country and another currency.

Rather than simply searching for the cheapest advertised transfer, understand the different options available and talk to experienced, reputable professionals. The same principle applies to insurance, tax, legal matters and renovations: experience and good advice can save considerably more than choosing solely on price.

Over time, your relationship with France may change too.

A holiday home bought for family summers can become somewhere you spend several months each year. Retirement may enter the conversation, along with tax residency, succession planning or eventually selling the property.

Your banking arrangements should evolve with you.

Nobody buys a French home because they are excited about insurance policies, direct debits or exchange rates.

They buy it for markets and long lunches, friends arriving in summer and the pleasure of becoming a familiar face in the village.

The practical arrangements simply protect that dream. And having an experienced bank you can actually talk to can be an important part of doing just that.

Britline will be at stand 18 at the French property exhibition in London in 2027. If you would like to talk to them about your plans book a call at https://ca.fr/no/9RiQH5

Telephone: +33 (0)2 31 55 67 89 

Website link: https://ca.fr/no/9RiQH5

On the edge of the Massif Central mountains, Creuse is one of France’s most rural areas – with its low population density, it’s ideal if you love nature and are looking for a quiet spot in France, says Annaliza Davis.

Named after the river that winds through the spacious landscape, Creuse is primarily a land of space and silence that sits about four hours south of Paris. It is the second-least-populated department in mainland France, with around 115,500 inhabitants and a population density of just over 20 people per square kilometre, compared to the national average of 121/km2. Its capital, Guéret, is a modest town that only has about 12,000 residents, meaning there are no major sprawling cities here, just small medieval towns, hamlets and villages.

Gueret, France – 05 07 2022 : Senatorerie park, public park, city of Gueret, department of Creuse, France

Sitting within the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Creuse has landscapes of steep valleys and dense forests, and an impressive natural regional park of protected wetlands, lakes and rivers called the Creuse control Plateau de Millevaches, which you might take as a visual summary of the area. Given its wealth of natural resources, Creuse also attracts a lot of eco-tourism, mostly centred around the 1,000-hectare Lac de Vassivière, one of the largest artificial lakes in France and a haven for anyone who loves watersports.

As for the climate, it’s generally oceanic, offering pleasant summers with highs of around 24°C, although the forests, lakes and rivers can make it humid, while the mercury during heatwaves can reach 39°C and above. Winters are a stark contrast – especially if you’re closer to the Massif Central, with lows of 6°C and freezing temperatures at night – and it gets plenty of rain, which explains the lush greenery.

Limousin cows, mother and son, lie in the grass and fields of the rural Creuse in France

Property-wise, Creuse is famous for being one of the most affordable areas in the country, and there are usually more homes for sale than there are buyers. If you’re happy to live in a peaceful rural setting, Creuse can be a perfect location for a bargain, whether that’s for a renovation opportunity, a modest village house or a quiet holiday home.

Food and drink

This is the land of rustic, comforting, unpretentious recipes that come from Creuse’s high-quality produce. This region is famous for its world-class Limousin and Charolais cattle, so you’ll see plenty of beef dishes, alongside a classic potato pie or fondue and various specialities featuring mushrooms, chestnuts and hazelnuts.

Church of Moutier d Ahun, in the creuse, Limousin, France

Creuse doesn’t have the climate or the soil to produce wine, but it compensates splendidly with artisanal beers and liqueurs made from sweet chestnut or walnuts, which are sometimes drizzled over their local sweet treat, Gâteau Creusois. Forget the fussy two-tier concoctions in elegant pâtisseries: Creuse has created its own sweet treat that is a suitable refl ection of the region’s lack of pretension.

Gâteau Creusois (pictured left ) is a moist, golden cake made with ground hazelnuts, flour, egg whites, butter, and caster sugar, crisp on the outside and soft in the centre. To be sold under the offi cial label, the cake must be made by a registered baker who belongs to the recognised association and who follows the traditional recipe to the letter.

You might also hear of the cake’s legendary history. Locals will tell you that the recipe was said to be lost in time until 1969 when an ancient parchment from the 1400s was unearthed during renovations of an old monastery in La Mazière-aux-Bons-Hommes. Written in old French, the recipe was translated and went on to become a regional star.

Boussac Castle, Creuse Department, Limousin, France

Match the place to your pocket

Market data from Meilleurs Agents and SeLoger confirms that property in Creuse is excellent value for money: while the national average is currently at €3,140 per square metre, prices in Creuse are around €1,019/m2. This means that you can find detached village houses needing little more than a cosmetic update for less than €100,000 and large farmhouses with plenty of land from just €130,000. With most regions, there are hotspots around certain cities or geographical features that push up the prices, but even the more expensive parts of Creuse only cost a little more: the hotspots around Guéret or Royère-de-Vassivières fetch around €1,300/m2, which still comes in at well under half the national average.

Location: where to find what you want

The area’s capital since 1790, Guéret is located centrally within Creuse, just off the N145 dual carriageway, between Limoges and Montluçon. It is a modest town of 12,814 residents, within easy reach of the Guéret Hills and Chabrière forest, perfect for anyone who loves outdoor activities such as mountain-biking or hiking, and it has several tourist attractions, as well as a year-round programme of live music and cultural events. Although it’s the administrative hub of Creuse, properties are still extremely affordable, averaging €1,108/m2. In real terms, you can get a detached, four bedroom home for €159,000, three-bedroom family homes for €125,000 and a two-bedroom, 70m2 apartment in the centre for €58,000.

Chambon-sur-Voueize, Creuse department, France – May 29, 2025. The medieval abbey Sainte-Valerie with a Romanesque church and an green outdoor park.

For ease of access, head to La Souterraine (population 4,928), popular for its direct train connection to Paris and location on the crossroads of the A20 and the N145. This historic town has a wealth of heritage, a river running through the centre, a five-hectare lake and medieval remains in nearby Bridiers. Properties here are cheaper than in Guéret, at €849/m2, so you can get a two-bedroom townhouse for under €65,000, a detached three-bedroom family home for €95,000 or a grand, six-bedroom detached property for €250,000.

La Souterraine / France – July 26, 2016: View on the medieval town La Souterraine in France. La Souterraine is a commune in the Creuse department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in central France.

On the edge of the Millevaches Regional Nature Park, Aubusson is a small town of 3,108 residents, dominated by a multicoloured building that houses the tapestry museum. Aubusson has produced tapestry since the 1400s, and its history is clear from the timbered buildings and cobbled streets to its Art Deco town hall. It’s a great choice if you have a small budget, as houses average just €723/m2, so a three-bedroom home in need of updating costs under €80,000 while a budget of €100,000 could buy a period ‘maison de maître’ property with front and back courtyard, or a fully renovated and modernised townhouse.

One of the hotspots in Creuse is the lakeside village of Royère-de-Vassivière (population 572) in the southwest of the department. Ideal for water babies, it boasts two lakes complete with ‘beaches’, two rivers and watersports centres. It’s also a cultural hub with a sculpture park and modern-art centre, and its natural sites include moorland and the Chassagnas Peninsula. Properties here sell for an average of €1,326/m2, so a modest 33m2 lakeside apartment with one bedroom can fetch €130,000. But away from the lake, a detached stone house with three bedrooms and generous garden might cost just €110,000.

Crozant La Creuse France. June 02 2023. Summer view of the ruins of the medieval fortress of Crozant set against the sun and shadow here located in the Creuse region in rural central France.

If you’re looking for a low-budget purchase, you can search across the whole of Creuse, as there are properties for under €25,000 in various areas, including empty barns, neglected village homes, townhouses to renovate or tumbledown buildings set within acres of woodland and pasture. As with all renovation projects, you need to check for any restrictions such as your dream home being a listed property. You also need to be realistic about costs, because in Creuse it might make more financial sense to buy a property ready to move into.

As for building plots, a €50,000 budget would buy an incredible 5,000m2 in La Souterraine or in Ahun (between Guéret and Aubusson), but be sure to check that the plot is indeed constructible as there are many plots in Creuse sold only as ‘leisure land’, where you can go camping or fishing but cannot build any type of structure.

Transport

Located some 400km south of Paris, Creuse is fairly accessible: its capital Guéret is a four-and-a-half-hour drive from the capital (including toll roads)
and two hours east of Poitiers.

If you’re likely to travel by train, La Souterraine is a better bet: it’s three hours 40 minutes from Paris by car, and the same by train (Gare d’Austerlitz), thanks to the direct links, whereas Guéret by would be at least another 90 minutes.

The nearest international airport is located in Limoges, with Clermont-Ferrand offering domestic flights, as well as services to a few European destinations.

Employment and the economy

As Creuse is largely rural, it has suffered from an exodus of young people seeking work in cities, so it has an aging population, with 28% of residents aged over 65. However, it has surprisingly low levels of unemployment at 7%, compared to France’s average, which is 7.9%.

Forestry and agriculture – particularly beef farming – are vital here, employing 12% of the local workforce, but the biggest employer is the public sector, and services such as healthcare, social assistance and public administration, represent 47% of total employment. As for start-ups, Creuse records 94 business creations per 10,000 inhabitants (below the national average of 141 per 10,000) and these tend to be sole traders and freelancers rather than SMEs.

Despite buying their château sight unseen during the COVID-19 pandemic, South Africans Elbé and Christo Lindeque created a magical place, says Louis Jansen van Vuuren.

In the gentle, rolling countryside of the Tardes valley in central France, where mist lingers over the farmland at dawn, stands a château that seems suspended between centuries. With its three proud towers and a solitary pair of stone gargoyles keeping silent vigil, the 15th-century Château de Montflour is more than a residence. It is a presence. A guardian of memory. A place where, as its website so aptly declares, magic happens.

Approached by a quiet country lane and framed by mature trees, the château reveals itself gradually. First the slate roofs, then the towers, and finally the warm stone façade glowing in the golden afternoon light. It’s the kind of place that invites reflection.

Born of history

The origins of Château de Montflour date back to the 1400s, a time when France was emerging from the shadow of the Hundred Years’ War. In rural regions such as the Tardes valley, fortified manor houses were both family homes and defensive strongholds. The château’s three towers hark back to that era – symbols of vigilance and resilience. Weathered gargoyles have watched over five centuries of change: from feudal allegiances to revolution, from agricultural rhythms to modern quietude.

Elbé and Christo bought into a timeless piece of history and the local community

Unlike many grand estates that have been heavily altered and stripped of character, Montflour retains a sense of authenticity that is increasingly rare. Its proportions are harmonious, its stonework honest, its chapel intimate rather than ostentatious. The outbuildings – once stables, houses and workshops – are a reminder of an era of self-sufficiency and rural life lived to a seasonal rhythm.

Inside the château, there are signs of its long history everywhere. Its thick stone walls hold the coolness of summer and the warmth of winter fires. Beamed ceilings span gracious salons. Stained-glass windows frame vignettes of the parkland and the sky like living paintings.

Sight unseen

It was during the uncertain days of the global COVID-19 pandemic that fate bought Montflour and its current owners together. In a time when the entire world felt constrained and cautious, a South African couple, Elbé and Christo Lindeque, made a decision that many people would have considered audacious: they purchased the château sight unseen.

There was, however, nothing reckless about their choice. Those who know Elbé describe her as creative, with an eye for beauty she can see beyond the obvious. When the property became available, she recognised something intangible about it. She and Christo understood that Montflour was not merely a building. Here was an opportunity to steward something rare.

Christo and Elbé Lindeque made Château de Montfl our their own

As soon as they could, they headed to France full of enthusiasm. Within months, the château echoed with purposeful activity. They carried out the restoration needed with sensitivity and style, preserving original features wherever possible and integrating modern comforts discreetly. Elbé and Christo cleaned up the stone, revived wooden features and chose fabrics with care. They didn’t simply redecorate – they reimagined the château’s interiors – honouring its past while embracing the present and the life they wanted to embark on there.

Within a remarkably short time, the transformation was complete. Word spread throughout the local area and neighbours who had initially been curious about the South African couple who had taken on such a challenge, soon became admirers of what they had achieved. The château once again became a centrepiece of the community.

Each of the bedroom suites is themed around a French notable

Settling in style

It is no small feat to settle into rural France, particularly in an area where traditions are deeply held and neighbours observe newcomers with quiet discernment. Elbé and Christo managed to integrate gradually, by respecting and taking part in the local customs, embracing the language and participating in community life. They held gatherings at Montflour, welcoming in their new friends and neighbours.

The Richard Coeur de Lion bedroom

The château’s seven bedrooms and honeymoon suite were each given their own distinctive character. Elbé chose the fabrics with both beauty and comfort in mind, including fine linens for the beds. Attention to detail is evident everywhere – even in the bathrooms – from lighting to luxurious fittings.

Elbé and Christo named the bedroom suites after French notables: Madame de Pompadour, Chevalier Bertrand du Guesclin and Richard Coeur de Lion. The romantic honeymoon suite in one of the towers is aptly called the Joséphine de Beauharnais Suite after Napoleon I’s first wife.

Attention to detail continues in the ensuites

There’s a library for guests – lined with books and bathed in lamplight – and a games room, where a large pool table invites relaxed competition. Several salons offer space to relax or chat to other guests. In each room, Elbé and Christo managed to create an atmosphere that balances grandeur with intimacy. Montflour is truly welcoming.

Outside, is an expanse of lush parkland. Its mature trees cast dappled shade over lawns. In spring, apple blossoms soften the landscape and in autumn, leaves carpet the ground. Montflour’s small chapel is soon to be renovated and once that’s been done it will offer a quiet space for reflection. It is easy to imagine generations marking life’s passages here – weddings, baptisms, farewells.

Difficult choice

Just as the final touches were being added – Aubusson tapestries hung, artwork positioned, plans laid for the future – tragedy struck. On a perfect Sunday morning, under a blue sky, Elbé suffered a catastrophic aneurysm. Despite swift medical attention, there was nothing that could be done for her.

The loss reverberated far beyond the château walls. For Christo, it was as though the very axis of the world had shifted. Montflour had been Elbé’s dream, her labour of love. Every room bore her imprint; every carefully chosen detail reflected her vision.

The region mourned alongside him. In villages where lives are closely intertwined, such sorrow is shared. The château, once animated by creative energy, entered a period of stillness.

Eighteen months is both an eternity and the briefest of spans when measuring grief. Christo remained at Montflour, surrounded by the beauty they had restored together, yet acutely aware of the absence at its heart. To stay was to preserve her dream; to leave was to move on.

Brave decision

In the end, he decided to place the château on the market and return to South Africa. It was not a decision born of indifference, but of love – an acknowledgement that Montflour deserved to continue its story in the hands of someone ready to embrace it fully. And so Château de Montflour stands once more at a threshold moment.

What makes Montflour so special in a country abundant with historic properties? It is, above all, its authenticity combined with completeness. Many châteaux have lost their ancillary buildings or surrendered parklan to development. Here, the ensemble remains intact: the main residence, chapel, a magnificant pigonier, a maison guardien, several outbuildings and grounds forming a harmonious whole.

The seven bedrooms and honeymoon suite offer exibility. They make the château ideal for a private family residence, an intimate hospitality venture or a retreat space. The library invites long afternoons of reading by the fire. The games room encourages laughter and camaraderie. Multiple salons allow for both grand entertaining and quiet evenings. There are loft spaces that have been transformed into a studio or atelier and living quarters for staff.

Modern amenities have been integrated without disturbing Montflour’s historical integrity. The comfort that has been added doesn’t compete with character; it enhances it. The result is an estate that feels lived-in and loved rather than staged, gracious rather than being ostentatious.

In a world that is increasingly defined by speed, newness and uniformity, Montflour offers something profoundly countercultural: rootedness. Here, you are reminded that walls can hold stories, that craftsmanship and care matter, and that beauty that has been patiently cultivated over centuries carries a different weight than novelty.

There are several outbuildings in the château’s grounds adding flexibility

It is tempting to romanticise old stones, yet at Montflour that romance feels earned. The gargoyles perched high above the entrance have witnessed joy and upheaval alike. It has seen wars and weddings, neglect and renewal, love and loss. Its silent watch embodies the resilience of the place.

The château does not deny sorrow; it absorbs it, as it has absorbed centuries of human experience. And in doing so, it transforms grief into continuity. Elbé’s vision is not erased by her passing. It lingers in the colour palettes she chose, the textures she favoured, the welcoming atmosphere she so carefully cultivated.

A glimpse of magic

To visit Château de Mont our is to step briefly outside of ordinary time. Morning light filters through tall windows onto stone floors. The scent of old wood mingles with fresh air drifting in from the park. Evenings draw in with a gentleness that encourages conversation, reflection and contemplation.

This is not merely a property for sale; it is an invitation to stewardship. Whoever next walks beneath its towers will inherit not only an estate of architectural and historical value, but also a story of courage, creativity and love.

Fairytale Château de Montflour is imposing but welcoming too

In the Tardes countryside, where fields roll gently toward the horizon and the pace of life remains mercifully measured, Château de Montflour stands as a testament to what is rare and irreplaceable. It reminds us that magic is not spectacle. It is devotion. It is the willingness to see exciting potential where others see risk. It is the quiet transformation of stone and timber into a home.

And somewhere, in the interplay of shadow and sunlight across the château’s ancient walls, there is a sense that the magic endures.

For more information about Château de Montflour visit http://montflour.com

From nationwide strikes and student protests to soaring fuel prices and delayed rollout of TGV, there is plenty to keep an eye on in France this week. Pope Leo XIV has also wrapped up his visit with a call for peace, while one of the country’s worst wildfires in decades has finally been declared extinguished.

Nationwide public sector strike brings demonstrations and disruption

France is facing a nationwide public sector strike today, Tuesday 29 September, with unions calling on workers to walk out over pay, working conditions and the government’s plans for the 2027 budget. More than a hundred rallies and demonstrations have been announced across France, while teachers and other public sector workers are expected to join the action.

For travellers, disruption to national rail services is expected to be relatively limited. SNCF says TGV and Intercités services should run normally, with TER services also largely unaffected. Some Transilien lines around Paris are expected to experience disruption, while schools and other public services could be affected.

France’s largest wildfire since 1949 officially extinguished

A huge wildfire that burned 42,000 hectares in southwest France has finally been declared extinguished, almost two months after it began.

The blaze became France’s largest wildfire since 1949, devastating large areas of forest and prompting evacuations during the summer. Although the fire had previously been brought under control, firefighters continued monitoring the area for hotspots before it was officially declared extinguished this week.

164 students arrested in protests spread across France

Student demonstrations have spread beyond the Paris region, with pupils blockading schools and protesting over overcrowded classes, heavy workloads, poor quality learning materials and teacher shortages. The movement began in the Île-de-France region around the capital, Paris, but spread to other parts of the country on Monday, including Lille in the north, Marseille in the south and Sedan in the east.

The movement affected around 180 schools, with more than 160 people arrested amid incidents surrounding some demonstrations, according to French authorities. Student organisations have called for further blockades, coinciding with the nationwide public sector strike.

RN and UDR gain enough seats to form Senate group

France’s Senate elections took place on Sunday 27 September, with 178 of the chamber’s 348 seats up for renewal. The Rassemblement National (RN) gained nine seats, while its ally the UDR won two, giving the two parties enough senators to form a parliamentary group in the Senate for the first time.

The traditional right and centre retained their majority in the upper house, meaning the result does not change the overall balance of power in the Senate. However, the creation of an RN and UDR group marks a new development ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election.

Fuel prices remain high across France

Fuel prices remain a concern for French households and motorists, with diesel averaging around €2.39 per litre and E10 petrol around €2.17 per litre on 29 September. Prices have been pushed higher by the ongoing energy crisis linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

The government has expanded financial support for people most affected by higher fuel costs, increasing the number of eligible low income, high mileage commuters from three million to 5.5 million. Support has also been extended to sectors including farming, fishing and construction.

TotalEnergies is also continuing its fuel price cap at its French stations, with petrol limited to €1.99 per litre and diesel to €2.25 per litre.

New TGVs delayed as France opens railways to competition

The introduction of France’s new TGV M trains has been delayed again. The trains were due to begin operating on the Paris to Marseille route in September, but problems discovered during testing have pushed their arrival back.

The fifth generation trains promise greater comfort, lower energy use and more flexible capacity. Meanwhile, France is moving towards greater competition on its high speed rail network, with new operators preparing to compete with SNCF on some routes.

Pope Leo XIV calls for peace and unity during France visit

Pope Leo XIV has concluded his four day visit to France with a visit to Metz, where he called for peace, dialogue and greater European unity.

Speaking in the city associated with Robert Schuman, one of the founding figures of European integration, the Pope highlighted the importance of cooperation and respect in international relations. His visit also included Lourdes, where he met survivors of clerical sexual abuse and spoke about the Church’s responsibility towards victims.

Arranging car insurance in France can seem straightforward, particularly if you have decades of driving experience and a strong no-claims record. However, the French insurance system does not always recognise overseas driving histories in the way newcomers expect.

Foreign licences, overseas no-claims records and vehicles still carrying foreign registration plates can all create complications. An insurer may initially provide a quotation based on the information you declare, only to request supporting documents later and reassess the premium or, in some circumstances, decide that the risk does not meet its criteria.

For expats, getting your first French car insurance policy right is therefore important. Here are eight common mistakes to avoid.

1. Assuming Your Foreign No-Claims Discount Will Automatically Transfer

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a long, claim-free insurance history will automatically translate into an equivalent French discount.

Some French insurers accept overseas insurance histories, while others apply stricter conditions or do not recognise certain records. Even when foreign history is accepted, the insurer may require specific documentation, and your previous insurer’s letter may not contain all the information required.

Policies can initially be priced using information provided by the customer, with documents checked afterwards. If the evidence does not support the discount applied, your premium could increase and, depending on the circumstances, the policy could potentially be terminated.

Work with an insurer or broker that understands international insurance histories before taking out your first policy.

2. Losing Years of No-Claims History

France operates a bonus-malus system, where claim-free driving progressively reduces the coefficient applied to your premium. Building a strong French insurance record can therefore take years.

If your first French insurer only recognises part of your overseas history, you could find yourself paying higher premiums while rebuilding your French bonus.

Once you have established a French insurance record, future insurers will commonly rely on that history and your relevé d’information. This makes getting the correct recognition of your overseas driving experience from the beginning particularly important.

3. Assuming Every Insurer Accepts Your Foreign Driving Licence

Having a licence that is legally valid for driving in France does not necessarily mean that every French insurer will accept it.

Insurers have their own underwriting criteria, and foreign licences can be treated differently depending on where they were issued and the driver’s circumstances. British, American and other overseas licences may therefore present different requirements.

The rules surrounding whether and when a foreign licence must be exchanged also depend on the issuing country, the licence and your residency status.

Before taking out a policy, make sure the insurer knows exactly where your licence was issued and whether there are any future exchange requirements.

4. Trying to Insure a Foreign-Plated Car Without Planning Ahead

Importing a vehicle into France can make insurance considerably more complicated.

The number of mainstream insurers willing to cover vehicles that remain on foreign registration plates is limited, particularly as the registration process progresses. Insurance, registration and other import formalities therefore need to be considered together.

Temporary French registration may be possible in some circumstances, but eligibility and deadlines vary. Do not assume that a foreign-plated vehicle can remain insured indefinitely while you complete the paperwork.

Starting the process before your existing foreign cover expires can give you more options.

5. Assuming Anyone Can Drive Your Car on the Same Terms

French car insurance is primarily linked to the insured vehicle, but that does not mean every driver will be covered on identical terms.

Policies can include conditions relating to prêt de volant, exclusive drivers, inexperienced drivers and regular secondary drivers.

Young or inexperienced drivers can be particularly important. A policy might technically provide cover but impose a substantial additional excess, or franchise, following an accident.

If someone regularly uses your vehicle, they may need to be declared as a secondary or habitual driver. Always check the policy before lending your car, particularly to a young driver.

6. Ignoring Requests From Your Insurer

An insurer requesting additional documentation should not be ignored.

During the first months of a French policy, you may be asked to provide evidence relating to your driving history, licence, vehicle or previous insurance.

Failing to respond can turn a straightforward administrative issue into a much bigger insurance problem. In some circumstances, an insurer-initiated cancellation can make obtaining future cover more difficult and potentially more expensive.

If there is a problem with your policy, address it early rather than allowing the situation to escalate.

7. Assuming You Can Only Change Insurer at Renewal

French motor insurance policies generally renew automatically each year, but this does not mean you are necessarily locked into the same insurer until the next anniversary.

Consumer protection rules provide mechanisms for cancelling eligible contracts. Under the Hamon framework, motor insurance contracts that have been in force for more than one year can generally be cancelled when switching insurer, with the new insurer normally handling the process.

This means you do not necessarily need to wait for your annual renewal date to find alternative cover.

8. Choosing an Insurer Without Expat Experience

Perhaps the biggest mistake is assuming that the cheapest or most straightforward quotation will necessarily be the best solution for your circumstances.

Foreign insurance histories, licences and imported vehicles can all require specialist knowledge. A policy that appears suitable initially may change once supporting documentation has been reviewed.

An expat-specialist broker can help you understand which documents are required, how your overseas insurance history may be treated and which insurers are comfortable with your particular circumstances.

At FAB French Insurance, we work specifically with international residents dealing with these challenges, including foreign-plated vehicles, overseas insurance histories and foreign driving licences.

When arranging your first French car insurance policy, the objective should not simply be finding a policy that can be issued today. It is about making sure the cover remains suitable once your documents have been checked and your life in France gets underway.

Getting into the French insurance system correctly from the beginning can be far easier than trying to repair your insurance history later.

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Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.help you find out what your money is worth.

Oil prices have jumped this morning following news that the US has rejected Iran’s proposals for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by indicating that it would not soften its demands.

Even so, the US President has suggested that he expects negotiations to restart this week, despite the apparent impasse between the two sides.

What is clear is that the Gulf States are suffering from the problems in the Middle East, something that looks set to continue as we head towards winter in Europe, North America and parts of Asia, which will likely drive up demand for both fuel oils and gas products.

Meanwhile, the threat of a US diesel export ban has prompted diesel prices to surge across Europe. In my view, upward pressure on energy prices is likely to persist as we approach the next round of interest rate decisions from major central banks.

A gathering storm for the UK as fuel prices jump again

The UK looks particularly exposed to higher energy prices. Limited domestic production and a lack of increased licensing agreements for North Sea developments mean the UK is unable to fully benefit from higher tax revenues generated by oil and gas extraction, nor strengthen its gas and fuel storage capacity. As a result, it retains some of the lowest storage levels in the Western world.

This is not solely a current government issue. Previous governments also focused on expanding renewable energy production while overlooking the need for significant redundancy in energy generation capacity.

The backdrop for the upcoming Budget is therefore becoming increasingly challenging. Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Chancellor John Healey would have preferred to frame the Budget around building for the future, but present‑day challenges may well overwhelm that narrative.

The risks of higher inflation, lower growth and weaker employment will continue to ratchet up pressure on the public finances, which are already overshooting. As such, the risks to GBP against other major currencies remain skewed to the downside, even as the risks to interest rates lie in further hikes from here.

French Presidential poll suggests a Mélenchon‑Le Pen run‑off, focus on provisional September CPI

According to a poll conducted for M6 and RTL, the most likely first‑round Presidential election outcome would see Marine Le Pen comfortably secure first place, ahead of Jean‑Luc Mélenchon in second place and Edouard Philippe in third. In a subsequent run‑off, Le Pen would defeat Mélenchon by 69% to 31%, while a contest against Philippe would be closer, with Le Pen leading 57% to 43%.

It is clear that the National Rally party currently has momentum. However, French voters have been here before during the 2024 parliamentary elections, when a coalition of parties sought to prevent National Rally from taking power. That outcome has nevertheless left French politics in turmoil, with several Prime Ministers resigning following the unpopularity of Budgets presented to a divided parliament.

Meanwhile, this week brings a number of provisional September national CPI releases, including figures from Spain, France and Germany, culminating in the Euro Area aggregate reading on Friday. Headline inflation is expected to record a further increase, while core CPI is expected to remain largely unchanged. This could push yields higher still and yet, in my view, should not offer the euro support against most other major currencies given that yields are rising across markets.

Canada’s secession vote a damp squib, US‑Mexico trade discussions mooted

Alberta’s proposed secession from Canada will be put to a vote in a few weeks’ time, but the latest polling suggests the exercise is unlikely to change anything. More than 70% of respondents would vote to remain part of Canada, while only 23% favour leaving. As such, this ought to put to bed future suggestions of separation while dealing a blow to any ambitions elsewhere to break away from Canada.

Monthly GDP figures from Canada are due tomorrow and may attract some attention. However, with Canadian employment data running a week out of sync with US figures, the focus for CAD may centre on preventing further losses after its three‑week losing streak against the USD pushed USDCAD to multi‑month highs.

As for Mexico, the central bank held interest rates unchanged last week and now faces the prospect of renewed pressure from the US after comments over the weekend from US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The US is seeking discussions aimed at reducing the “ballooning” trade deficit with Mexico. Perhaps the US should look closer to home, and to the rise in energy prices and global inflation, when considering why that deficit has widened sharply over the past four months. In my view, the MXN is likely to remain under pressure this week.

US September payrolls report likely to set the tone for future Fed decisions

The US September payrolls report is due on Friday and is likely to be the release that attracts the greatest attention from financial markets. August payrolls were significantly stronger than expected, but questions remain over why that occurred and whether such strength can be sustained, particularly given the weakness in economic activity seen in recent quarters.

Should the payrolls report show net job growth of more than 100,000, markets will quickly increase their expectations for both the number and frequency of further Fed rate hikes. However, a figure below 50,000 would undermine confidence in another hike before year‑end, in my view.

Ahead of payrolls, the US calendar includes secondary labour market releases, final Q2 GDP figures, August PCE inflation data, August trade balance figures and September ISM manufacturing data.

It could prove an interesting week in determining whether the USD cements its recent strength, gives some of it back, or builds further momentum. With US yields rising again today, the risks to the USD remain skewed to the upside, in my view.

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Sarah Daly explores Rouen, Normandy’s capital city, along with the pretty port town of Dieppe

The only time I’d previously visited Rouen, I was 19 and coming to the end of a month-long Interrailing trip around Europe with a school friend. We were tired and it rained, but we were Monet fans, so we visited the spectacular Gothic cathedral immortalised in his work. Once we had ticked it off our list, we staggered back to the dry comfort of our B&B, before heading to Dieppe to take the ferry home.

It’s fair to say that Rouen’s most famous 19-year-old visitor had a very different stay in the city. On my recent visit, I learned that Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake here in 1431 at a site that can still be visited today in La Place du Vieux-Marché. Her crimes included wearing men’s clothes and claiming she answered only to God and not to the church.

In fact, she led the French army to victory over the English many times during the Hundred Years’ War. Her fascinating life and legacy are explored at the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and you can still visit the Donjon (Tour de la Pucelle) where she was held captive.

Dieppe, too, merited a lot more attention than we gave it (largely because we got on the wrong train and nearly missed our ferry home). It’s a really appealing town with a pretty seafront and a history entwined with England’s.

William the Conqueror created ports here and along the Alabaster Coast, in order to continue trading with his home territory in the Duchy of Normandy. A century later, Henry II, and his son Richard the Lionheart, built Dieppe’s imposing castle high on a promontory overlooking the sea. It’s now a fascinating museum full of art, incredible ivory sculptures and one of the oldest world maps in existence.

A less comfortable moment of Anglo-French relations occurred in 1694, when the town was almost completely destroyed by a British and Dutch feet launching incendiary bombs from the sea. Undaunted, Louis XIV ordered the town to be rebuilt and it retains much of that early 18th-century charm.

MEDIEVAL MAJESTY

We took a guided tour of the old town of Rouen, which has one of the highest densities of listed buildings in France– not surprising, as it was a Gallo-Roman settlement over 2,000 years ago. Despite the efforts of enemies, from the Vikings to the Nazis, to destroy the city, it’s clearly flourishing. If culture is your thing, many museums in Rouen are free to visit and as well as famous Monet paintings, the Musée des Beaux-Arts displays works by Renoir, Caravaggio, Velázquez and Modigliani.

Unique in France, the Aître St-Maclou, now a peaceful courtyard filled with trees and benches, was originally a plague pit. The charming timber-framed medieval buildings that encircle the space, housing a café and craft workshops, were then filled with bones from Black Death victims exhumed so that later plague victims could be buried. Up to 45% of the population is thought to have perished, making this lovely place one of the oddest makeovers of a seriously macabre past that I’ve ever visited.

The Gros-Horloge is even older in date. This astronomical clock tower straddles medieval streets in the old town. It’s distinctly eerie to think that these, and many of Rouen’s buildings would have existed in Joan of Arc’s time.

AGENT’S PERSPECTIVE

Guillaume Herbert is an estate agent in Rouen. He tells me that a lot of people live in Rouen and work in Paris, which is roughly an hour and 30 minutes’ journey by train or car. “The market has stabilised after the sharp rises following Covid,” he explains. “You can expect to pay around €2,500-€3,000/m2 for properties on the right bank of the Seine. If you want to be in the historic centre, however, prices can be as high as €4,500/m2 for the most sought-after properties. It’s always a good idea to buy a place in an area with stable values,” Guillaume advises. “You’ll pay more, but it should hold its value for resale.

“Historic properties with charm are often the most appealing to English-speakers, particularly our iconic timber-framed homes. Haussman-type flats with a lift and parking are also popular with this market as are the traditionally middle-class areas near the station and St-André-de-Mont-St-Aignan. They often offer opulent accommodation, with gardens, close to the city centre and to good schools. On the left bank, the area around the Jardin des Plantes is also popular.

“Beyond the city limits you will usually get larger plots for your money. To the north, the villages of Bois-Guillaume, Mont-St-Aignan and Bihorel have good local services and are well-served by public transport. They feature architect-designed modern properties as well as beautiful older homes. Le Mesnil-Esnard, Franqueville-St-Pierre and Bonsecours to the east are slightly cheaper but offer a good quality of life for families.”

MOVING BY THE BOOK

Jersey-born Paul Billington runs ABC Bookshop (abcbookshop.fr) in the heart of Rouen, specialising in English-language books. He and his Lebanese wife are French citizens and live with their two children in a modern flat they’ve recently purchased on Rouen’s left bank close to the centre. “I moved to France many years ago to teach English, and Rouen happened to be the first place I found work, but I love the city and never left,” says Paul. “I used to visit this bookshop and got friendly with the British owner. When she wanted to sell up, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to take it on. Most of my customers are French, and I still teach English here to adults and children.

Rouen’s famous medieval astronomical clock

“The shop also acts as a meeting point for English-speakers in the city. When I first moved here, I house-shared and it’s a great way to meet people if you’re moving on your own. It took me a long time to get to the point of buying a property, but that means I understood the city well before I did so. I love it: it’s big enough to have plenty going on, but small enough to retain that small town feeling and to get to know people.”

Paul Billington outside ABC Bookshop

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Dieppe has always been a town that faces the sea. It has around 30,000 inhabitants and is divided into six different neighbourhoods, each wit its own unique feel. It has a protected deep port, a marina and an innovative dry dock that can store nearly 300 motorboats. An exciting local project is also using waste scallop shells to create calcium for pharmaceutical use. A huge working swing bridge has just been restored and provides access to Le Pollet, traditionally where Dieppe’s fishing community lived.

Dieppe’s waterfront is lined with characterful historic buildings

This is a small town with global connections. Historically it traded with South America, Africa and Asia, and a project is underway to introduce electrically powered flights between Shoreham and Dieppe.

“I love the market, the proximity to the UK and the tranquillity of our village,” says Glenn Dudley, who has lived in Arques-la-Bataille since 2004, with his Dieppoise wife Claire and son Nino. “The region is green and beautiful in spring and autumn with rich colours from the rolling hills and valleys. The adjacent seaside resorts of Pourville, Fécamp and Le Tréport, as well as Dieppe, offer leisure activities and fine-dining opportunities throughout the year, and trains to Paris and its airports are frequent and travelling easy.

Glenn Dudley with wife Claire, son Nino, daughter Marine and granddaughter

“To anyone considering the move, I would say rent for a year to get to know the region before buying. It’s also essential to have a stable financial situation to cope with immersion into the local community. It’s not easy to find work unless you’re fluent in French with a transferable profession. There’s so much choice, space and quality of life on offer in France though, and I’ve always found French people to be welcoming and engaging, but for me it is the gastronomy and quality of life that win every time.”

Rouen’s cathedral

FOOD AND LODGINGS

One of the joys of France is definitely the food, and Seine-Maritime is no exception. Rouen is France’s only Unesco City of Gastronomy, part of its Creative Cities Network, and Dieppe and Rouen have some exceptional restaurants. The excellent O2 Mer in Dieppe, with views of the beach, has a creative take on seafood, while on the harbour Le Jehan Ango offers traditional, hearty dishes. La Couronne in Rouen is an atmospheric restaurant with imaginative food overlooking Place du Vieux-Marché, while Bistrot de la Pucelle offers fresh and seasonal dishes, and in Gill Coté Bistro, I had an excellent beef dish with an onion confit.

If you’re looking for a base for your property search, in Rouen, the Novotel near the cathedral is ideal for exploring both sides of the river, while the sea views from the Hotel Aguado in Dieppe are hard to beat. And the seafood market in Dieppe or the central market in Rouen, where I was introduced to the unctuous heart-shaped Neufchâtel cheese, provide plenty of opportunities to buy exceptional local produce in fascinating surroundings.

It was definitely worth taking the time to revisit this historic part of Normandy. Its coastline is beautiful and Dieppe is a lesser known jewel in its crown. And understanding just how merciless both the English and French authorities were to the young Joan of Arc doesn’t dim the appeal of the city that, in so many places, would have been familiar to her. Today her legend is rightly celebrated in this creative, vibrant and welcoming city.

ARTHER CUTLER of Navigate France responds:

There are a number of considerations to take into account when looking at this option, and some are not immediately evident.

Firstly let’s look at what the S1 certificate is. There is a cross-country agreement between France, other EU countries, and some other countries outside the EU (the UK being one). When a person is entitled to an S1, medical costs arising in France can be covered by the issuing country – essentially this means that although medical care is provided in France, another country pays the cost.

However, the S1 only provides the same level of cover as you would receive as a French citizen, which is generally not 100% of the actual cost of medical care. On average, the French healthcare system covers around 70% (but it varies between around 35% and 100%), leaving the patient to pay the balance from their own resources, or via a top-up insurance policy, called a ‘mutuelle’. Some specific major illnesses and treatments qualify for 100% reimbursement.

A UK individual of retirement age is entitled to apply for an S1 certificate from the NHS, and potentially so are individuals with long-term incapacities (note, it is the country of origin that defines this, not France). If one partner of a married couple (or civil partnership) qualifies, but the other does not because they are not yet of retirement age, then the younger spouse automatically qualifies for an S1 certificate by ‘piggy-backing’ from the older spouse’s entitlement.

See NAVIGATE FRANCE & BURKE BROS at the French Property Exhibition

Entitlement rules applying in other EU countries vary.

The next question is how soon after moving to France does the S1 provide cover, and the answer is not immediately!

It can take months because the S1 has to be registered by the local CPAM office (French healthcare authority), and that is usually not possible within the first three months of arrival. Even after that, it can take several more months to become registered.

To ensure you have health cover for this period, you will need private health insurance and if you also wish to be covered for 100% of actual costs, potentially a top-up policy as well.

Once fully registered, the S1 will provide health cover in France indefinitely. The holder will also still be entitled to full medical care in the country of issue.

In terms of a long-term visa application, an S1 certificate is accepted by the French authorities even though it does not provide immediate cover. However, it is important to take out appropriate private health insurance, because without that, you will have no cover for a considerable time!

Private health insurance policies vary in terms of cover, premiums and whether pre-existing medical conditions are taken into account. Seek alternative quotes and compare cover and cost before deciding.

Philip Weiser talks to Karen Tait about his corner of the sunny south of France

How long have you worked as an estate agent in France?

I started in 1981 after a chance encounter with a French property developer on a plane from Paris to Nice. By the time we parted ways at the airport, we had a mutual promise that I would take over his agency and if successful I would get 50% of the shares, it was successful and without any contract he gave me 50% and two years later I acquired the rest!

Where do you cover?

The French Riviera with offices in St-Jean-Cap Ferrat, St-Paul-de-Vence, Valbonne, Antibes, Cannes, St-Tropez – and La Garde-Freinet in the countryside.

Describe your area in five words

Elegant, accessible, prestigious Mediterranean lifestyle

What is its appeal?

A rare blend of Mediterranean beauty, cultural refinement and effortless accessibility. It combines elegant coastal towns, renowned resorts such as Cannes and Nice, and charming hilltop villages like Valbonne and Mougins and St-Paul-de-Vence, all set against a backdrop of sea and mountains. Plus over 300 days of sunshine a year, excellent connections via Nice International Airport, a cosmopolitan yet secure environment, and a long-established British affinity.

What’s your favourite corner of the region?

High in the hills, near the ancient Roman Road, above the coast and towns, with stunning 360-degree views of the rugged landscape and the sea.

Is the region easy to reach?

Direct flights via airlines such as easyJet, Jet2, British Airways from most major UK cities place the Riviera within little more than two hours’ flying time, making it ideally suited for frequent visits and longer stays.

Is it best for holiday or permanent homes?

The Riviera is exceptionally well suited to both holiday living and permanent residence; this dual appeal underpins its enduring attractiveness. For holidays, the region offers immediate lifestyle benefits: a mild Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine, proximity to beaches, restaurants and cultural events, and effortless accessibility from the UK. For permanent living, it provides a high quality of infrastructure, international schools, healthcare, security and a well-established expat community.

What distinguishes the Riviera is its ability to combine a resort destination with the practicality of everyday living, allowing owners to enjoy it as a seasonal retreat, a main residence, or a seamless transition between both.

Are there any hotspots, or less well known areas?

The most sought-after locations, particularly among international buyers, are Cannes (Croisette, Californie, Super Cannes) – glamour, events and strong rental potential; Cap d’Antibes – discreet luxury villas and proximity to beaches and exciting lifestyle; Nice vibrant city living with culture, airport access and year-round activity; St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat/Villefranche-sur-Mer/Èze, some of the most exclusive coastal addresses on the Riviera.

Established residential favourites (popular with British buyers) include Valbonne – a charming village with international schools and a strong expat community; Mougins – private estates, greenery, gastronomy and proximity to Cannes; Biot – slightly more accessible, authentic, and still close to the coast. These locations offer more space and land, a balance between countryside and accessibility

‘Insider’ areas (less known, strong potential), often overlooked by British buyers yet increasingly attractive, include the Cannes hinterland (Opio, Châteauneuf, Roquefort-les-Pins) – more land, quieter environment; Fayence and the Var countryside – excellent value and authentic Provençal lifestyle; Le Cannet (above Cannes) – residential, calmer alternative to central Cannes.

The Riviera is not just one market, but three: Coastal prestige (status and immediacy), hinterland living (space and authenticity), and emerging zones (value and long-term potential).

What kind of properties are on offer?

The diverse range of properties reflects both the area’s long history and its international appeal. Buyers will find everything from elegant Belle Époque villas and Provençal farmhouses to contemporary architect-designed residences and modern waterfront apartments. There is no single style, the region is characterised by a blend of architectural influences shaped by its heritage and evolving tastes.

Traditional Provençal properties — with stone facades, terracotta roofs, shutters and landscaped gardens — are particularly sought after around Valbonne, Mougins and Biot.

Along the coast, in areas such as Cap d’Antibes or St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, you find grand historic villas alongside sleek contemporary homes designed to maximise sea views and natural light. In towns like Cannes and Nice, elegant period buildings coexist with high-quality modern apartments, close to amenities.

What unifies Riviera style is an emphasis on light, indoor-outdoor living and connection to the landscape. Properties are designed to make the most of the climate, views and lifestyle.

What would people get for a budget of:

Under €100,000: A studio in a countryside village

€100,000-€250,000: A studio or one-bedroom apartment near the coast two-bedroom apartment near the coast

€500,000-€750,000: A two-bedroom apartment near the coast; a two/three-bedroom villa in a private estate not far from the coast; a three-bedroom villa in the countryside

€750,000-€1m: A three/four-bedroom villa not far from the coast, in the near countryside

€1m-€20m: Price determines location, size, orientation and standard of features – pool, cinema, sauna, tennis court, hammam, size of grounds

€1.395, Grasse: Four-bedroom villa with modern amenities, on a wooded plot with pool, sunny terraces, landscaped garden, and separate guest apartment

€750,000m Cannes-Les Croix des Gardes: Renovated two-bedroom apartment with south-facing terrace, sea views, communal gardens and pool

€1,65m, Riviera countryside: Four-bedroom villa with panoramic views of the sea and mountains; landscaped grounds, terraces, heated pool and BBQ

“The Riviera combines a resort destination with the practicality of everyday living“

What’s the cheapest property on your books?

A studio in Cannes for €222,000. In the sought-after Palm Beach area, this ground- floor studio is just a few steps from the beaches, in a peaceful, residential area. It’s suited to seasonal and long-term rental.

What’s the most unusual property you have sold?

On the water’s edge, Villa Aujourd’hui was a bold expression of Riviera modernism, capturing the essence of 1930s sophistication. Commissioned in the late 1920s by an American socialite, later owned by Hollywood film magnate Jack Warner, the villa became a meeting place for Hollywood and Riviera society, including Charlie Chaplin and Ava Gardner. The value today could be over €40m.

What would be your dream home in the area?

Founded by monastic orders in the 17th century, set within more than 10 hectares of unspoilt Provençal landscape, Domaine de la Sylviane is a rare historic estate where time appears to stand still. Centred around a former monastic residence, the property unfolds as a private hamlet of stone buildings, olive groves and shaded terraces — all just moments from the heart of the medieval village of Valbonne. On the market for €14.8m.

Why do British people buy houses in your area?

A combination of climate, accessibility, lifestyle and long-term value. Their motivations tend to be both emotional and rational. The Riviera offers a rare equilibrium — where accessibility meets escapism, and investment meets emotion.

What advice would you give to buyers?

Define your criteria in terms of size, environment and investment intentions. Consult an agency with whom you can communicate easily, who are familiar with the multitude of areas. Explain the reasons for your criteria and let them make the choice of properties for your visit.

Any tips for settling into French life?

Learn a little handy vocabulary and don’t be shy to use it. Smile and say “bonjour” and “merci beaucoup”. Explore and ask questions. Eat, drink and enjoy the sea, the sun, the countryside and the culture.

What are your predictions for your local property market?

The market remains stable, even during turbulent times; as demand outstrips supply, prices rise. Unlike many areas of Europe with a benign climate, strict urban planning prevents rabid development and high-rise projects.

Philip Weiser is the founder and CEO of Carlton International

carlton-international.com

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICES

How much would you expect to pay for:

A detached property with land in good condition?

€700,000 to €2.5m

A three-bedroom townhouse?

Between €600,000 and €1.3m

A renovation opportunity?

It varies a lot. As a useful guide, every euro spent adds 100% of that spend on top of the spend, to the value of the asset.

€950,000, Beaulieu-sur–Mer: Top-floor two-bedroom renovated apartment, with balconies and sea views, close to the beach, restaurants and shops

€1.315m, Tourrettes-sur-Loup: Three-bedroom farmhouse in the heart of natural surroundings, with an independent studio in a stone ‘mazet’, parking and cellar

€14.8m, Valbonne:Historic13-bedroom estate comprising a former monastery, two villas and an apartment, in 25 acres with heated pool, tennis, fitness area

€550,000, Grimaud: Renovated duplex combining charm with modern comforts; entrance hall, living room with fireplace, dine-in kitchen, two ensuite bedrooms

From travel disruption and rising costs to changes that could affect life in France, there is plenty making the headlines this week. Demonstrations have taken place across the country over a proposed police use of force law, while France and Canada are strengthening their economic and defence ties. We also look at how rising temperatures and increasingly frequent heatwaves could be changing where people choose to buy property in France.

For those travelling between France and the UK, October could bring further disruption with strikes affecting parts of the transport network. Healthcare costs are also in the spotlight, while the Pope is set to visit France in another major international event. We have the latest updates on these stories, along with news affecting French property, travel and everyday life.

French pilots and cabin crew call five day strike during October holidays

French pilots and cabin crew unions have called a five day nationwide strike from 17 to 21 October, coinciding with the start of the Toussaint school holidays. The action is linked to planned changes to France’s cumul emploi retraite system, which governs how people can combine employment and pension income. The strike could affect flights operated by crews covered by French labour law, although the exact level of disruption is not yet known. Anyone travelling during the October half term should keep an eye on their airline for updates.

Pope Leo XIV prepares for historic visit to France

Pope Leo XIV is due to make his first official papal visit to France from 25 to 28 September, travelling to Paris, Lourdes and Metz. It will be the first official papal state visit to France since Pope Benedict XVI visited in 2008. His packed programme includes meetings with President Emmanuel Macron and French authorities, a visit to UNESCO and services at Notre Dame and the Stade de France, followed by visits to Lourdes and Metz. The Pope is also due to meet survivors of clerical sexual abuse during the trip.

French healthcare costs set to rise as medical charge cap reaches €140

From 1 October, the annual ceiling for France’s franchises médicales and participations forfaitaires will rise to a combined €140, rather than the €200 originally proposed. Each category will be capped at €70 per year. These charges are amounts patients may have to pay towards certain medical care, medicines and treatments and are separate from the standard reimbursement system. The government has also confirmed further changes to healthcare reimbursements from 2027.

French healthcare reimbursements can now be sent digitally

A new service launched through the Compte ameli app allows people in France to photograph and submit certain paper medical forms directly to their CPAM using their smartphone. The service, introduced on 7 September, currently applies to paper feuilles de soins issued following treatment by a GP or specialist. It means patients who have been given a paper form no longer need to post it or deliver it to their local health insurance office.

Rising heat is changing France’s property hotspots

France’s increasingly frequent heatwaves could be starting to influence where people choose to buy property. Estate agents report that buyers are paying more attention to factors such as insulation, air conditioning and the local climate, with some traditionally popular regions facing questions about their long term suitability during increasingly hot summers. The impact is not yet dramatic, but property professionals say climate is becoming a more important consideration for buyers.

France and Canada forge closer economic and defence ties

French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in Saint Pierre and Miquelon on 20 September, reaffirming the close relationship between France and Canada. The two leaders discussed strengthening cooperation on security, resilience and prosperity, as well as closer France Canada and EU Canada cooperation. They also directed their space agencies, defence ministries and industries to work towards sharing infrastructure, including launch systems and ground facilities.

Macron and Trump discuss Ukraine and rocketing oil prices

Emmanuel Macron met Donald Trump in New York on 21 September on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, with Ukraine and the impact of the conflict on energy prices among the main topics. Macron said the two had discussed faster delivery of defensive weapons to Ukraine and the possibility of a moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure in Russia and Ukraine. The talks also touched on the wider energy situation and efforts to keep oil supplies moving through key shipping routes.

Lidl announces 30 new stores as it expands across France

Lidl is continuing its expansion in France, with 31 new stores planned between September 2026 and February 2027, according to reports. The first two are due to open on 24 September in Bordeaux and Paris’s 18th arrondissement, with further openings planned across the country in the following months. Lidl has said it wants to expand its French network significantly, with an ambition to exceed 2,000 stores by 2035.

Demonstrations held across France over proposed police use of force law

Thousands of people took part in demonstrations in Paris and other French cities on 20 September over a proposed law concerning police use of force and legitimate defence. Critics of the legislation argue that it could make it easier for officers to use their weapons, while the government presents its wider security reforms as measures intended to strengthen public order and the ability of police to respond to crime. The demonstrations come as debate continues over the balance between police powers and safeguards around the use of force.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

Trump and Xi meeting leaves markets in limbo as Greenland agrees security deal with US

US President Donald Trump and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping are set to meet in Washington this week, with efforts to de-escalate the ongoing tariff dispute high on the agenda. Trump has also threatened additional sanctions on countries benefiting from Iranian oil exports or assisting its war effort, a move directed at China among others.

The two leaders are also expected to discuss AI safety measures, although much of the groundwork has already been covered during preparatory ministerial talks held in New York.

Meanwhile, Greenland, alongside Denmark, is prepared to accept enhanced permanent US military and security powers, but only after the US dropped its demands to purchase or annex Greenland.

This week’s US data calendar is relatively light, with PMI, current account and University of Michigan consumer sentiment figures due. Federal Reserve speakers, including Goolsbee, Williams, Barkin and Hammack, may also provide greater clarity on future monetary policy moves, potentially offering the US dollar some additional support.

With USDCAD above a key psychological level and the dollar index above 100, downside risks for the dollar have eased for now.

UK mansion tax could put further pressure on an already struggling housing market

The UK government has spent the weekend considering proposals aimed at raising additional revenue, with reports suggesting that the threshold for the planned mansion tax could be lowered to £1.5 million from £2 million.

While this may appear to offer an easy way to raise funds, it could face legal challenges and generate significantly less revenue than anticipated, much like other flagship tax measures that now appear likely to deliver less than originally projected.

Rightmove’s latest house price data recorded a sharp decline in house prices. Coupled with recent falls in mortgage approvals, there are signs of further weakening in housing demand. Meanwhile, government targets to build 1.5 million new homes during this parliament have recently been described by Housing Minister Angela Rayner as a “stretch target”.

While stamp duty revenues are running at an all-time high, this appears largely to reflect the expiry of temporary relief measures that previously weighed on receipts while supporting demand. Homebuyer activity remains subdued compared with last year, with higher borrowing costs and a weaker labour market among the factors acting as a drag.

The UK economy continues to struggle despite several factors providing temporary support to activity. The government is currently attempting to identify additional revenue streams to meet rising spending demands, but has yet to outline plans to reduce spending, despite expenditure tracking above expectations during the first five months of the fiscal year. According to Moneycorp, this could represent a significant threat to sterling, similar to the market reaction to the Liz Truss Budget in 2022.

Eurozone PMIs and German IFO figures in focus as political uncertainty weighs on the euro

This week brings a relatively light calendar of economic releases across the Euro Area, although the September PMI and German IFO surveys will attract attention. Both should provide an early indication of whether activity and confidence improved following the summer months.

From a political perspective, the German government continues to face difficulties. Regional elections held over the weekend saw the CDU, the largest coalition partner, fall to less than 5% of the vote in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. In Berlin, Die Linke finished ahead of the CDU for the first time in a state election.

The coalition’s weak performance, including the SPD’s fifth-place finish, its worst result on record, could alter the German political landscape. Questions are increasingly being raised about the leadership of Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Political challenges are also evident in France, where National Rally maintains a lead in presidential polling, while similar trends are becoming visible in Italy and parts of Northern Europe. According to Moneycorp, this adds political uncertainty to the existing economic and fiscal challenges facing the euro.

Speeches from ECB officials including Christine Lagarde, Philip Lane, Joachim Nagel and Isabel Schnabel will also be closely watched this week.

Middle East conflict continues to put pressure on military resources and energy prices

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated over the weekend that Europe is more reliant on Middle Eastern oil and gas supplies and that developments involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz are therefore more of a concern for Europe than the United States.

Moneycorp notes that the conflict continues to place upward pressure on energy prices. Without meaningful progress towards renewed negotiations, prices could become even more elevated as winter approaches. The conflict also presents risks to global economic activity, with the outlook remaining skewed to the downside while the situation persists.

From an energy perspective, oil and gas prices are likely to remain elevated unless supplies return to something approaching normal levels. With European gas storage levels well below historical norms, those pressures remain present.

US-Canada trade tensions continue as Mexican interest rates remain in focus

Trade talks between the US and Canada still appear unlikely to resume in the near term, with mixed messaging from the US administration contributing to a sharp decline in container traffic across the Great Lakes and to ports in the United States.

The US President has suggested that a trade deal could be reached soon, but has also indicated that additional sanctions may follow if Canada and the European Union pursue closer economic ties.

USDCAD has moved back above key levels, making Canadian goods relatively inexpensive compared with their US counterparts. Beyond the release of August retail sales data, the Canadian economic calendar is relatively quiet, and Moneycorp expects that figure alone to be insufficient to provide the Canadian dollar with a significant boost.

In Mexico, attention will centre on this week’s Banco de México interest rate decision. A hold decision is widely expected, particularly following the Federal Reserve’s decision to raise interest rates.

If Banxico were to signal the possibility of further cuts, given the trajectory of the Mexican economy and the performance of exports to the United States, that could place additional pressure on the Mexican peso. However, Moneycorp notes that this remains the broader risk given the ongoing trade difficulties affecting Mexico’s largest trading relationship.

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Beware of currency risk. None of the information contained in this article constitutes, nor should be construed as financial advice. TTT Moneycorp Limited (company number 738837) is registered in England. Its registered office is at Floor 5, Zig Zag Building, 70 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6SQ. Moneycorp is a trading name of TTT Moneycorp Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the provision of payment services (firm reference number 308919).

Owning a home in France is the dream. However trying to manage it from Surrey or Somerset, or wherever else you live most of the year, is the bit nobody warns you about. There’s always something to do: a gutter to clear, a lock to fix, a garden that’s decided it wants to be a jungle before your next visit.

That’s where a property manager comes in.

What does a property manager do?

At its heart, property management is about having a reliable local presence for owners who aren’t always in France. Services may vary between companies, but typically include regular property inspections, key holding and security checks. Overseeing gardening and pool maintenance, cleaning and preparing the property for your arrival and organising repairs and maintenance. This may involve meeting tradespeople and overseeing their work, dealing with emergency call outs, managing deliveries, preparing the property for holiday guests, and handling guest arrivals, departures and rental administration.

Take a pool, for example. We’re often contacted by owners in early spring asking when they should open it for the season. After a mild winter, we would usually recommend mid-March, whereas April is safer following a particularly cold one. Once the water stays above around 18°C, algae can develop quickly, so having a manager who already knows your property and pool can make a real difference. They may spot a leak, a faulty alarm or another problem long before you would notice it from the UK.

For owners based in the UK or elsewhere, the real benefit is having someone local who can spot a problem and deal with it before it becomes a much bigger and more expensive one.

Why does it matter so much?

Picture arriving for your annual summer holiday and finding a burst pipe waiting for you. If the house has been empty for six months, the damage could already be considerable. You don’t want your holiday to become a plumbing project.

Regular inspections catch leaks, damp, storm damage, heating failures, electrical issues and security problems while they’re still small and manageable. A good property manager doesn’t just tell you “all fine”, they send updates, photographs, and honest recommendations, and can arrange access for trusted local tradespeople so you’re not trying to coordinate a repair from three countries away.

Does a property manager do the repairs themselves?

Sometimes, yes, a good property manager will happily take on the small, straightforward jobs themselves: tightening a loose hinge, resetting a trip switch, unblocking a drain, changing a lightbulb somewhere awkward. This tends to stay fairly limited, and deliberately so.

The reason comes down to insurance and qualification as much as anything else. Electrical, plumbing, roofing, heating and structural work should always go to an appropriately qualified, insured tradesperson. It’s not that a property manager couldn’t have a go, but their insurance and professional registration will generally only cover certain types of work. Step outside those limits, and both the manager and the owner could be left exposed if something goes wrong.

For anything beyond the everyday, a professional property manager is far more likely to organise and supervise the job, rather than carry it out themselves. They’ll spot the plumbing problem, photograph it, ring a local plumber, get a quote, arrange access, and report back to you.

Take a chimney sweep, as one example. French law requires most chimneys to be swept and certified at least once a year, and finding a good one is exactly the sort of thing local knowledge is useful for, a property manager will already know which registered ramoneur to call, will ask the right questions about how an old building will be treated, and will make sure you’re left with a proper certificat de ramonage rather than just a receipt.

It’s a similar story with more specialist artisans. Renovating an old barn, say, might call for a charpentier, a menuisier or an ébéniste depending on the job, three quite different trades that can be hard to tell apart from overseas. A good property manager already knows the difference, knows who’s properly registered and insured for the work, and can act as the go-between with the artisan, the mairie and local planning rules, rather than trying to be a technical expert themselves.

It’s a distinction worth understanding: the value a good manager brings here is judgement and local knowledge, not doing every job with their own hands which, if anything, is exactly what you want when it comes to anything regulated or safety-critical.

What about holiday rentals?

Property management becomes even more valuable if your French home is let to holidaymakers, as the rules around meublés de tourisme (furnished tourist accommodation) have changed considerably.

The legal deadline for registering a tourist rental through the new national system, was 20 May 2026, though the national portal itself is still being rolled out through the rest of the year, so many owners are still registering via their commune for now. Local authorities also have more power to regulate holiday lets, including introducing quotas and, in some cases, reducing the principal-residence letting limit from 120 to 90 days a year.

Tax rules have shifted too. For income earned in 2026, the micro-BIC allowance is 30% for unclassified furnished tourist accommodation up to €15,000, while classified accommodation benefits from a 50% allowance up to €83,600 up from €77,700 for income earned in 2025. Energy requirements are tightening as well: certain tourist properties subject to change-of-use authorisation must meet DPE standards, moving to a required rating of A to D by 2034. Because local rules vary so much, it’s worth checking the requirements for your own commune and getting proper tax advice for your situation.

How do you choose a property manager?

Don’t pick someone just because they happen to live nearby. Ask any potential manager whether they’re properly registered and insured, what services are included in their fee, and how often they’ll inspect your property. Find out whether you’ll receive photographs and reports, who has access to your keys, and what happens during an emergency. It’s worth knowing how much they can spend without your approval, which contractors they use, whether they can manage holiday guests and changeovers, and how you’d end the agreement if you ever needed to. If a company carries out regulated property-management activity, ask whether it holds the right professional authorisation, including the relevant carte professionnelle where it applies and always check its professional insurance.

Is it worth the cost?

If you live in France full time, you’re on hand to deal with most day-to-day things yourself, so the case for a full management service is weaker. It’s still worth a conversation with a tax adviser, though: French tax residents can often claim back 50% of the cost of certain home-help services, gardening and small maintenance jobs, through the crédit d’impôt for services à la personne, something non-residents generally can’t access. If your property manager, or one of their team, is registered to provide those services, part of what you’re paying could effectively be halved come tax time.

If you live overseas and only get to your French home a few times a year, professional management can be one of the most useful services you’ll ever arrange. The value isn’t really about someone mowing the lawn or opening the shutters before you arrive. It’s knowing that when something does go wrong, someone’s already on it.

A good property manager becomes your eyes and ears in France, protecting your property, coordinating local professionals, and giving you one less thing to worry about when you’re hundreds of miles away.

About Les Bons Voisins

Les Bons Voisins is a network of property managers providing property-care, maintenance, inspection and rental-related services to owners of French property. Their local managers help absentee owners deal with the practical responsibilities of owning and maintaining a home in France.

Please note: French property, rental and tax regulations can change and local rules may vary. This article provides general information and should not be considered legal or tax advice.

What are the key healthcare and insurance considerations when moving to France, and how can we ensure a smooth transition into the French health system?

PAULETTE BOOTH of Lonemi responds: To ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to plan ahead and understand the key steps involved. The process begins before departure. For those applying for a long-stay visa, proof of comprehensive health insurance is mandatory. The policy must include at least €30,000 in medical coverage, including emergency repatriation. It’s vital to choose a policy that offers continuous coverage for the entire stay (standard travel insurance, limited to 30 or 90 days, won’t meet visa requirements). Specialist expat policies are designed to fulfil these criteria, helping avoid visa rejection or delays.

UK retirees or benefit recipients should obtain an S1 form, issued by HMRC. This document allows access to French healthcare on similar terms as residents. However, even with an S1, you’ll still be responsible for costs not covered by social security, known as the ticket modérateur.

Upon arrival in France, registering with local health authorities is your next step. If arriving for work, self-employment or with an S1, you may apply for a social security number immediately. Otherwise, you’ll typically wait about three months aer establishing residence.

During this period, maintaining private health insurance ensures you have uninterrupted coverage and protection from unexpected costs. If you submitted insurance cover with your visa application, that should suffice temporarily. Otherwise, it’s strongly recommended to purchase a short-term private policy to bridge the gap.

Registering for a French social security number is crucial. While it may take several months, once completed you will receive a carte vitale, which streamlines reimbursements and confi rms your coverage.

In the meantime, keep detailed records of healthcare expenses, such as receipts (feuilles de soins, known by us English-speakers as the ‘brown form’), which can be submitted later for reimbursement.

Transitioning from private insurance to the French system also involves obtaining a mutuelle, a top-up policy that covers costs not reimbursed by social security. A mutuelle can signifi cantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses, especially for private hospital stays, dental, optical and other supplementary treatments.

Moving to France requires careful planning around healthcare and insurance. Securing appropriate coverage before leaving, maintaining private insurance during the administrative process, and understanding how to join the French health system are key.

With proactive preparation and expert advice, you can enjoy your new life confi dently, knowing your health needs are fully protected.

If you are planning to move to France, understanding the visa and residency process is one of the most important steps. From proving your financial resources and arranging healthcare to validating your visa and applying for a titre de séjour, here is what you need to know.

12-month non-working visa leading to residency: the VLS-TS visa

For those moving to France without working, the VLS-TS long-stay visa is one of the main routes towards residency.

There are three key requirements for a successful long-stay visa application.

1. Financial resources

You will need to prove that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself while living in France.

For an individual, this means a minimum of around €1,800 gross per month in income, or approximately €22,000 for the year.

If you do not have a regular income, savings, investments, shareholdings, ISAs or similar financial assets can be used instead, provided they are equivalent to the annual requirement. A combination of income and savings is also acceptable.

For a couple, the requirement is around €2,500 gross per month, or the equivalent in savings, or a combination of the two.

It is also possible for one person to financially provide for other members of the group.

2. Private health insurance

You will need compliant private health insurance for the duration of your visa.

The dates of your policy should correspond with the dates of your visa, so it is important to make sure the cover is arranged correctly before submitting your application.

3. A verified French address

You will also need to provide evidence of a French address covering the full 12 months.

This could be:

• a property you own
• a property you rent
• accommodation with family or friends, supported by written confirmation
• two consecutive six-month rental agreements

A series of short-term Airbnb reservations is rarely accepted as sufficient evidence of a permanent address.

The stages of the visa application process

The French long-stay visa application process involves several stages.

1. Complete your online application

The first step is to submit your application online.

If several family or group members are travelling together, applications can be prepared for everyone who will be making the move.

2. Book your TLScontact appointment

In the UK, TLScontact has been appointed to handle the physical application process on behalf of the French Consulate.

Applicants need to attend an appointment at one of the TLScontact centres in London, Manchester or Edinburgh.

There is also an “Apply Anywhere” option, where TLScontact can arrange to meet you at your home or another convenient location, although this service comes at an additional cost.

3. Submit your documents and passport

Once you have attended your appointment, your application dossier and passport are sent to the French Consulate in London for a decision and, if successful, the issue of your visa.

You cannot submit your application directly to the French Consulate. Applications must be handled through TLScontact.

4. Make sure your dossier is complete

The exact documents required will depend on your personal circumstances.

Errors, missing documents or omissions can result in an application being refused, and the reason given may not always explain exactly what was missing.

For example, a refusal may simply state that one or more required documents were absent, without specifying which ones.

For this reason, some applicants choose to use a specialist professional to help prepare their dossier, particularly if their circumstances are more complicated.

5. Receive your passport and visa

Once the application has been processed by the French Consulate, your passport and visa are returned to TLScontact.

You can then collect your passport, or arrange for it to be returned by courier for an additional fee.

Self-employed working visa leading to residency

VLS-TS “entrepreneur/profession libérale” visa

The application process for a self-employed working visa is similar, but there are additional requirements that need to be dealt with first.

1. Prepare a viable business plan

You will need to prepare and submit a viable business plan demonstrating that your proposed activity will generate enough income to support you and, where relevant, other members of your household.

The business plan and supporting documentation must be in French, with translations provided for official documents where necessary.

The plan needs to contain enough detail for the assessor to judge whether the business is genuinely feasible.

Typically, the key information can be presented in a four- or five-page business plan.

Importantly, the business must also be based at a specific address. It cannot simply be described as being based “somewhere in France”, even if you are planning to work remotely.

2. Apply for the visa once the business plan is approved

Once the business plan has been accepted, you can move on to the working visa application itself.

This should not be done before the business element of the application has been approved.

What happens after you arrive in France?

Obtaining your visa is only the first stage. Once you arrive in France, there are several further steps to complete.

Validate your visa

Your visa must be validated after your arrival in France.

For most long-stay visas, this needs to be completed within three months of your arrival, although those arriving on a working visa should generally complete the process sooner.

Healthcare: the first steps

Once you are resident in France, you can begin the process of joining the French healthcare system.

Depending on your circumstances and visa type, this may involve dealing with French immigration and healthcare authorities and providing the required supporting documentation.

Apply through CPAM

The next stage is to apply through your local CPAM (Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie).

Once your application has been processed, you can receive a French social security number and, subsequently, a Carte Vitale, giving you access to the French healthcare system.

Working visa holders

If you have moved to France on a working visa, your business should be registered as soon as possible after your arrival.

Registering the business will also start the process of entering the French social security and healthcare system.

S1 certificate holders

The process is different for those who are entitled to healthcare through an S1 certificate, so S1 holders should follow the procedure that applies specifically to their situation.

Applying for your titre de séjour

If you want to remain in France after your initial visa expires, the next step is to apply for a residence permit, known as a titre de séjour.

The process normally starts online and may be followed by a visit to your local prefecture.

Many of the documents required for your original visa application will also be needed when applying for residency, so it is worth keeping copies of all your paperwork.

Residency can then be renewed, provided you continue to meet the necessary conditions.

After five years of legal residence in France, you may become eligible for a longer-term residence card, depending on your individual circumstances and the conditions that apply at the time.

Need help with your French visa or residency application?

The visa and residency process can be complex, and the exact requirements depend on your personal circumstances.

Navigate France can assist with preparing your visa dossier, checking the required supporting documents, helping with business plans for self-employed applications and guiding you through the next stages of residency once you are in France.

Provided you meet the relevant requirements, Navigate France also offers free resubmission in the event of a visa refusal.

Find out how Navigate France can help with your move to France.

Information correct at the time of publication in September 2026. Immigration and residency rules can change, and individual applications are assessed on their own circumstances. Always check the latest guidance from France-Visas and the relevant French authorities before applying.

Finding the right French property is often the exciting part. But before signing on the dotted line, it is worth thinking beyond the purchase price. How you intend to use the property – as a holiday home, investment or permanent home – can have wider tax, residency and administrative implications.

Here are five areas worth considering.

1. Decide How You Intend to Use the Property

A holiday home and a permanent home can create very different considerations. Are you planning occasional visits, spending several months a year in France, renting the property or moving permanently?

Thinking about this at the outset will help identify the residency, tax and administrative questions you need to address.

2. Don’t Confuse Property Ownership With Residency

Buying a house in France does not automatically give a non-EU national the right to live in France permanently.

If your intention is eventually to relocate, investigate the appropriate visa or residency route separately from the property purchase.

3. Understand the Taxes Associated With Ownership

The purchase price is not the only cost to consider. Property owners should understand the French taxes and charges that may apply during ownership, as well as the potential tax consequences if the property is rented or eventually sold.

If you remain resident in another country, there may also be reporting or tax considerations there.

4. Consider the Wider Financial Picture

Buying a French property can be part of a much bigger financial decision. If the purchase is connected with a future move to France, consider how becoming French resident could affect your pensions, investments, savings and other income.

5. Keep Good Records From Day One

Keep copies of your purchase documents and records relating to significant expenditure on the property.

Invoices and supporting documents for eligible works and expenditure may become important later, particularly when the property is eventually sold.

The property itself is only one part of the picture. Considering residency, tax, finances and administration at the beginning can help you make better-informed decisions for the future.

There is plenty to catch up on from across France this week, so if you’ve been keeping an eye on the latest news, here are some of the stories worth knowing about. France is preparing for its Senate elections later this month, while Marine Le Pen steps up her campaign ahead of the next presidential race. The government is also facing a difficult budget battle as it looks for savings, with workers across the country taking to the streets over pay, working conditions and rising costs. Meanwhile, France is making another attempt to restrict social media use by children under 15, and new rules have clarified how minors can get their own Carte Vitale.

For those of you travelling between France and the UK, the rollout of new biometric border checks continues to be a moving target, with further delays to the full implementation of the system. There is better news for history lovers, the Bayeux Tapestry has crossed the Channel for its first UK exhibition in almost 1,000 years. We also have news for anyone dreaming of owning a home in France, with free tickets now available for the French Property Exhibition in London, while Céline Dion has returned to Paris for a new run of performances.

France and EU countries delay full rollout of biometric border checks

France is among nine European countries that have been given more time to implement the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will eventually require non EU travellers, including British visitors, to register fingerprints and facial images when entering the Schengen Area. The system was designed to replace passport stamping and improve the tracking of short stay visitors, but technical problems and concerns over queues at busy border crossings have delayed the full rollout. The latest decision means the system will continue to be introduced gradually rather than being fully enforced across France immediately. For British travellers using Eurostar, ferries, the Channel Tunnel or French airports, this means the exact border procedure may continue to vary depending on where they travel.

Workers across France stage protests over pay and rising costs

France is seeing a broad wave of strikes and protests on 15 September 2026, with workers across sectors demanding higher pay, better working conditions and more resources. Energy workers are among those mobilising, alongside police, healthcare, higher-education staff and other public-sector groups. The energy strike has already affected electricity production, with around 6.5 GW of capacity taken offline overnight, including output from seven nuclear reactors. The protests come amid wider political tensions over France’s budget and public spending.

France makes new attempt to ban social media for children under 15

France is making another attempt to restrict social media use by children under 15 after the Constitutional Council rejected the government’s previous proposal in August. President Emmanuel Macron has continued to push for stronger protections for children online and has also called for action at European level. The revised French proposal comes amid growing concerns about children’s exposure to harmful content, excessive screen time and the effects of social media on young people’s wellbeing. The government will now have to navigate the legal objections that led to the first proposal being rejected.

Children in France can now get their own Carte Vitale

New rules have clarified how minors can obtain their own Carte Vitale, making it easier for children to access healthcare in France. Parents can request a Carte Vitale for children from the age of 12, while those aged 16 and over can obtain one with parental consent. The card is linked to the child’s healthcare rights and can simplify reimbursements when they receive medical treatment. The change is particularly useful for families living in France, including those with children who may need to attend appointments or access healthcare independently.

France’s budget battle intensifies as government looks for savings

France’s government is facing a difficult battle over its 2027 budget as it tries to bring down the country’s deficit while avoiding measures that could further anger voters and opposition parties. The government’s finances have come under increasing pressure, with France’s growth forecast for 2026 recently cut and borrowing costs rising. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s government is preparing its budget proposals ahead of their presentation to parliament, with difficult decisions expected over public spending, taxation and social benefits. The debate is likely to become increasingly important as France approaches the 2027 presidential election, with purchasing power and the cost of living already major concerns for voters.

French Senate elections: Do you need to vote on September 27?

France will hold its Senate elections on 27 September, with 178 seats across 64 constituencies up for election. That is around half of the seats in the Senate. If you are a French citizen, however, you will not need to head to the polling station unless you are one of the country’s “grand électeurs”, or members of the electoral college. Unlike presidential and National Assembly elections, senators are chosen indirectly. Most of those voting are local elected representatives and delegates from municipal councils.

The election covers roughly half of France’s mainland departments, as well as several overseas territories. Six of the 12 senators representing French citizens living abroad will also be elected. So, for most French residents, there is nothing you need to do on 27 September. The results will nevertheless be worth watching, as the Senate plays an important role in France’s law making process and the election comes as the country heads towards its next major political contests.

Marine Le Pen puts housing at the centre of her presidential campaign

Marine Le Pen has begun setting out her plans for France’s next presidential election, putting housing at the heart of a campaign launch in northern France. The Rassemblement National leader is using the issue to promote her “national priority” policy, which would give French citizens preference in areas including access to housing. She is also returning to familiar RN positions on immigration, crime and environmental policy. Housing is likely to be an important issue in the years ahead, with high property prices in many parts of France and growing concerns about rents and access to affordable homes.

For British people living in France, the wider debate will be worth following too. Questions around immigration, nationality and access to public services are likely to feature heavily as the presidential campaign develops. The election itself is still some way off, 18 April 2027 to be exact, but France’s political parties are already positioning themselves and the issues emerging now could shape the campaign to come.

Bayeux Tapestry is back in the UK for the first time, and on display in almost 1,000 years

One of France’s most famous treasures has crossed the Channel. The Bayeux Tapestry is now on display in the UK for the first time in almost 1,000 years, giving British visitors a rare chance to see the remarkable medieval artwork without travelling to Normandy. The nearly 70 metre long tapestry tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, from the events leading up to the invasion to William the Conqueror’s victory over Harold at the Battle of Hastings.

It was created in the years following the conquest and has been kept in Normandy for centuries, making its visit to the UK a particularly significant moment for both French and British history. For FrenchEntrée readers, it is also a lovely reminder of the shared history between Britain and France, and the enduring links between Normandy and England. If you are planning a trip to see it, expect plenty of interest: visitors have already been queuing to get a glimpse of one of the world’s best known pieces of medieval art.

Free tickets now available for the French Property Exhibition

Planning to buy a property in France? Free tickets are now available for our next French Property Exhibition, taking place on 23–24 January 2027 in the Champagne Suite at Novotel London West. Meet French property experts, discover thousands of properties and get advice on everything from buying and finance to tax and moving to France. If you’re serious about buying in France, this is a must-attend event.

Céline Dion returns to the stage with Paris residency

Céline Dion has begun her long awaited Paris residency, performing her first show at the Plenitude Arena on 12 September. The residency marks a major return to live performance for the Canadian singer following her extended absence from the stage. She is scheduled to perform a series of concerts in Paris during September and October, before returning for further shows in May 2027, bringing the residency to 26 performances. The concerts are particularly significant for French audiences following Dion’s emotional performance of Hymne à l’amour at the Eiffel Tower during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

This week’s Fed meeting, due to announce its interest rate decision at 7pm BST on Wednesday, has been preceded by a significant amount of conflicting data. That culminated on Friday with August CPI figures, which continued to report subdued core inflation. The challenge for the Fed is that the data are pointing in different directions, providing no clear picture of the current state of the US economy, labour market, or inflation pressures.

Also released on Friday was the preliminary September University of Michigan consumer sentiment figure, which recorded another sharp decline in sentiment after recently recovering from the lows reached in May. Will that translate into weaker retail sales figures for the remainder of Q3, with August figures due just ahead of the Fed decision?

The risks to US economic growth, the negative effects of high necessity goods prices on discretionary spending, and signs of ongoing sluggish labour demand would all argue against a Fed hike. However, inflation risks offer a significant counterargument. Market forecasters think the Fed will stand pat, but Bloomberg interest rate probabilities assign an almost 90% chance of a hike.

As for the USD, I think it may struggle for headway this week, despite the improvement seen late last week against most major currencies, especially if the Fed defies market pricing and leaves rates on hold.

What will this week’s data deluge and BOE tell us after last week’s stronger activity figures for July?

Last week concluded with a strong July UK activity outturn, driven by strength in services, which may have tested the BOE’s patience regarding its policy hold strategy. The BOE meeting concludes on Thursday at midday. Market forecasters are unanimous that there will be no change, while Bloomberg interest rate probabilities estimate roughly a one‑in‑five chance of a hike.

Ahead of the BOE decision, the UK releases labour market data for July and August, along with August CPI figures, both of which could prompt a shift in rate hike probabilities. There have been some signs that the UK labour market may be set to improve, which would represent a welcome shift from the deterioration seen over the past two‑plus years.

However, aside from the employment and unemployment figures, weakness in average earnings will again be a focus. If these continue to show a further slowdown in growth compared with previous months, that could continue to squeeze disposable incomes. As for CPI, headline inflation is forecast to rise back above 3%, while core inflation is expected to remain steady at 2.6% y/y.

Following the BOE decision, GfK consumer confidence, retail sales, and public finances data are released. None of these are likely to offer support to GBP, but developments elsewhere may still leave sterling stronger against the USD and potentially other major currencies as well.

ECB’s hike in the face of headline inflation pressures could backfire, if followed up with more

The ECB raised official rates last week in a move that surprised nobody. The subsequent press conference contained numerous contradictions, but it did appear to hint at further hikes, despite weakness in the Euro Area economy and ongoing headwinds facing key sectors such as autos and engineering, given the renewed tariff regime from the US and other countries.

Growth is set to remain weak, despite ECB officials putting a brave face on developments, particularly with public sector expansion set to crowd out the private sector through higher debt financing costs and the prospect of higher taxation.

There are no particularly significant releases due this week, with September German ZEW figures unlikely to materially alter the outlook for the Euro Area economy or sentiment towards the euro. Consequently, the focus is likely to remain on developments elsewhere and the stream of comments from ECB officials due between now and the end of the week.

Canada PM pushes for closer EU ties after US trade talks collapse

According to a Wall Street Journal article, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought to foster deeper ties with Europe as relations with the US continue to deteriorate.

The same article highlighted potential cooperation in energy, AI, and defence, including the joint construction of AI data centres, cloud storage infrastructure, and new satellite networks.

The deterioration in trade relations between Canada and the US is, in my view, an own goal for both sides. The US could potentially cause lasting damage to trade relationships covering energy, car parts, travel, and construction imports from Canada. At the same time, Canada could face higher costs for some agricultural goods, electronics and consumer products, vehicles and machinery, and defence equipment.

Today at 13:30 BST, Canada releases August CPI figures. Could these force the hand of the Bank of Canada on interest rate hikes? I do not think so, as Canada has experienced some of the smallest increases in CPI inflation since the conflict in the Middle East began.

Chances of US‑Iran peace deal remain remote as Hormuz talks between Iran and Gulf States delayed

A meeting planned for today between Gulf nations and Iran, aimed at establishing a temporary shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz, has been postponed, according to Oman’s Foreign Minister.

Reports suggest that disagreement over details, including fees that Iran planned to introduce, prevented an agreement from being reached, despite a flurry of diplomatic activity that included a rare meeting between officials from Tehran and Abu Dhabi.

Meanwhile, the US and Iran appear unwilling to engage even through proxies on the possibility of a ceasefire, although there was no escalation in strikes between the two sides over the weekend.

Oil prices continue to rise, which is likely to prove harmful to the President and Republican Party ahead of the US mid‑term elections. Consequently, the possibility remains that negotiations could restart before the elections, if only to reduce pressure on energy prices, in my view.

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You might not know the name Hérault, but you’re sure to recognise Montpellier, the Mediterranean and the stunning, sun-drenched scenery – Annaliza Davis looks at why Hérault is a great pick for househunters

Hérault, in central southern France, enjoys around 300 sunshine days each year, and its landscapes encompass picturesque fields of vineyards and olive trees, sparkling Mediterranean seas and dramatic gorges. In other words, it encapsulates the essence of the south of France. It’s one of the country’s most popular regions for tourists, drawn by the sandy beaches, the glamour of the southern coast or by the rugged natural grandeur of the dramatic gorges and characterful rural villages – that’s without even mentioning the famous Canal du Midi. You can get lost in the bustling streets of Montpellier, explore the great outdoors of the mountain-biking and hiking trails in the gorges, or browse brocantes and markets in quiet cobbled streets. Even the architecture has it all, from tiny dry-stone huts in the corners of vineyards to grand classical structures framed by fountains, and the property market has just as much variety. Whether you want a modest stopover studio flat or a sprawling estate with acres of land, Hérault will have a home to suit you.

According to the national network SeLoger, properties in Hérault cost an average of €3,357/m2, which is around 8% higher than the average property price across France. Whereas houses in France generally offer far better value than apartments (€2,531/m2 compared to €3,870/m2), in Hérault they are almost equal at €3,364m2 and €3,351m2

On the Mediterranean coast, you’ll pay a premium of 60% or more, with homes in Palavas-les-Flots fetching €5,576/m2 although other resorts such as Agde and Sète are more reasonable at €3,700/m2. For the best prices in the region, look to the east around St-Pons-de-Thomières where properties sell for around €1,500/m2. This means that a 50m2 apartment in Hérault could cost anywhere from €75,000 to €280,000 depending on the location.

St-Guilhem-le-Désert is a medieval village located 45 minutes northwest of Montpellier. An official Plus Beau Village, it attracts about 700,000 visitors a year, many of whom come for the Unesco-listed Abbaye de Gellone, one of the steps on the Compostela pilgrimage trail. The winding streets are lined with craft workshops and boutiques, beckoning you to explore, and you can pause in the shade of a 160-year-old plane tree in the central square. Stay longer to make the most of the incredible surroundings, and cross the ancient Pont du Diable to explore the underground wonders of the Grotte de Clamouse.

St-Guilhem-le-Désert is a beautiful medieval village on the Compostela trail

Palavas-les-Flots is an exclusive (and pricey) coastal option

If you’re looking for city life, Montpellier tops the list: it’s a large, cosmopolitan hub that is easily accessible by train in three-and-a-half hours from Paris or Barcelona, and just 11km from the Mediterranean. Montpellier is bursting with heritage from all eras, including a university founded in the 1200s, while its grand citadel is now home to students of the Lycée Joffre.

A large cosmopolitan hub, Montpellier is an easily accessible urban centre

Of the city’s 550,000 residents, 66% are rental tenants and around 17% are students, making it an ideal place to invest in rental accommodation. An overwhelming 87% of city properties are apartments. A €50,000 investment in a 20m2 studio should bring a rental income of around €350 a month and there is often a shortage of rental options available, as Montpellier attracts around 8,000 new residents every year.

For a smaller historic town, Béziers (population 81,000), on the River Orb, offers both wide pedestrian boulevards and smaller medieval streets as well as some of the best value in terms of price per square metre. Over 55% of residents are rental tenants, and the average sale price of €1,973/m2 means you can buy a 20m2 studio for under €30,000 and rent it out for €300 a month. Béziers is accessible, with 10 daily rail services to Paris (four hours) boosting its ranking for holiday lets.

Inland, but still close to the coast, Pézenas is also popular, with charming historic streets, a theatrical heritage, enormous antiques fair and all amenities. The average price here is €2,736/m2. In the heart of the town, a three-bedroom house is for sale at €299,000, while a one-bedroom duplex apartment is on the market for €82,000.

“To maximise your budget, Béziers offers excellent value”

Another great tourist draw is St-Guilhem-le-Désert, a gorgeous medieval village northwest of Montpellier (see box-out on p25). Properties rarely come onto the market here, but a small townhouse with a courtyard would cost around €200,000, a character three-bedroom home in the region of €350,000 and a larger, modern property with B&B potential about €500,000.

For seaside living, try La Grande-Motte, a popular resort near Montpellier that sprang up in the 1960s and 1970s and features recognisable pyramid-shaped hotel buildings. There’s every type of holiday accommodation here, and you could buy your own 18m2 studio for around €80,000 or €100,000 in a complex with a swimming pool. In the slightly more upmarket, but older, resort of Palavas-les-Flots you’ll look a little harder and pay a little more, but you can still find a studio for around €110,000 – sometimes with a seaview balcony.

Alternatively, head to Sète, where you can enjoy the Mediterranean and the freshwater Étang de Thau lagoon, known for its fishing villages and oyster farms. Prices can rise to more than €5,000/m2 in the ‘Pierres Blanches’ neighbourhood, but you can buy a studio flat for €70,000 with a strong market for holiday lets.

With charming cobbled streets, Pézenas has a strong theatrical heritage

To maximise your budget, Béziers offers excellent value with a choice of apartments around €30,000 and small properties on a holiday complex for about €110,000. For larger homes, look in northern Hérault, in the Regional Natural Park between Bédarieux and Mazamet, where you can buy stone properties to renovate for as little as €28,000.

This is also the best area to focus on if you’re hoping to build your own home, as you’ll find more plots here. A €50,000 budget would buy you 2,449m2 of terrain constructible (land that is permitted to be built on) in Lamalou-les-Bains or 1,000m2 in St-Julien, but only 85m2 in Vendémian closer to the coast.

James Judd runs a B&B in Hérault and uses his skills as a chef to offer delicious evening meals.

“The choice of produce in Hérault is amazing, it’s great for traditional French cuisine, as well as dishes with Spanish and Moroccan influences. At the weekly markets, you can find a rabbit or whole chicken, nothing like what you might find in an English supermarket. As for local wine, Picpoul white or rosé is ideal for sipping in the summer sunshine, while red wines tend to be stronger and heavier. At our nearby cave cooperative, take a plastic drum and you can get an amazing rosé for €7.50 for five litres – an absolute bargain!”

Also look out for Pélardon goat’s cheese, which was selected to be served at a state banquet in Versailles for King Charles III, hosted by President Macron, and if you have a sweet tooth, the tartelettes aux noix (walnut tartlets) drenched in caramel are dangerously moreish.

Photographer Steve Turnbull moved from the UK to Hérault more than 10 years ago, with his French wife, who was originally from Paris. “We live in the charming market town of Lodève, near the Lac du Salagou and I make my living as a writer and photographer. This area is the ‘gateway to the Mediterranean’, and what I love most is the landscape. It’s remarkably varied, from deep dramatic gorges and vast limestone plateaux to lush forests and majestic mountains. In the summer, the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park is covered in purple heather and bathed in sunshine. “There’s so much on the doorstep and beyond, with Spain only a couple of hours’ drive away, so we never tire of Hérault and I would recommend it to anyone.”

Property Types

You’ll find plenty of grand winemakers’ houses, including this six-bedroom home with pool for sale at €359,700 (propertyinfrance.com, ref CC397850E)

Mas

A ‘mas’ is often a former farmhouse, so you can expect lots of land and outbuildings. The property itself is usually a two-storey stone building, a solid square or rectangular structure that can be very rustic or more refined. You can get an extensive mas with open views and several acres for €700,000, while more upmarket versions can sell for more than €2m.

Vineyard

This is wine country, so you’ll often see ‘viticole’ properties featuring a winemaker’s home among fields of vines, with outbuildings for processing the grapes into wine. A €1m budget will buy a period property bursting with character features and acres of working vines, or look for a ‘maison de bordier’, a former vineyard-worker’s home, which you can buy for around €350,000 complete with 1.5 acres to plant your own vineyard.

Maison de maître

These manor-like properties are often part of a vineyard or working estate, but you can also find them in towns or villages. Typically dating from 1850 to 1880, they are often symmetrical, featuring delightful architectural details such as sweeping staircases. A €595,000 budget buys a six-bedroom, fully renovated ‘maison de maitre’ complete with pool, but you can find some for €250,000 if you’re happy to update them.

Business investment

As this is a tourist destination, you might like to invest in an existing business, such as a 350m2 five-bedroom guest house with an annual turnover exceeding €60,000 in a tourist village near Clermont-l’Hérault for €425,000. For €850,000, consider a holiday complex with three gîtes, leisure facilities, a pool, an acre of land plus a fi ve-bedroom family home.

Village house

This area has a plentiful supply of charming villages, many featuring on the list of France’s Plus Beaux Villages (including Minerve, Olargues and St-Guilhem-le–Désert), while others such as Capestang sit on the Unesco–listed Canal du Midi. Renovation projects start at €35,000, while move-in-ready village homes with small garden start at €80,000, depending on location.

Apartment on the Med

It’s possible to find a 20m2 studio in Cap d’Agde with a harbour view for €75,000, or a one–bedroom apartment with full sea view for €140,000, while a 138m2 modern apartment with sea views and balconies will fetch over €1m: something for every budget!

EMPLOYMENT AND THE ECONOMY

Cap d’Agde is a major coastal resort with a large marina

Hérault’s is a service economy: 73% of jobs are involved in the production of goods and services and focused in Montpellier and the main urban centres. Tourism accounts for 9% of Hérault’s economy, and much work is seasonal: 49% of overnight stays happen in summer, 25% in spring, 15% in autumn and 11% in winter. An impressive 45% of visitors head to the 90km stretch of coastline and 42% to the area just behind, so that’s where you should focus if you want to set up a tourism business in the department. Unemployment is at 28% among 15 to 24-year-olds, but drops to 12.6% for those aged 25 to 64, higher than the national average of 7.7%. Of those employed, there’s a fairly even split between employees (27%), middle management (28%) and upper management (20%). Only 15% are manual workers.

La Grande-Motte is a distinctive seaside resort built in the 1960s and 70s

TRANSPORT

Hérault’s transport links make it a very accessible place to get to from the UK and further afield. Montpellier airport is a 10-minute drive from the centre and is currently home to 13 different airlines connecting across Europe and beyond, and welcoming 1.8 million passengers a year. There is also an airport in Béziers, although this is much smaller (260,000 passengers a year) and connects to only eight destinations. Rail links are excellent with up to 10 connections per day taking you to the country’s capital in four hours or even less. By road, Montpellier is just three-and-a-half hours from Barcelona, four hours from Italy, and roughly eight hours from Paris. If you’re travelling by ferry, the drive south will take you around nine hours from Caen and perhaps 11 hours from Calais.

The town of Béziers sits on the River Orb and is just six miles from the Mediterranean coast

Local property agent Freddy Rueda runs Real Estate Occitanie and has worked in the region’s property market since 1995.

St-Chinian is a renowned wine region

WHAT THE AGENTS SAY…

“For a couple of years buyers were holding back on buying property, but that seems to be changing. We’re noticing more interest from Americans and Scandinavians as well as British buyers, and there’s been a rise in people wanting to buy mortgage-free, with only around 20% needing a loan. “Many are still drawn to the key tourist areas, but if you head inland from Béziers there are beautiful towns and villages that are not yet well known, especially Pézenas and St-Chinian, for example. You can get excellent value for money in Hérault, particularly in the villages around Béziers, where you can buy a single-storey villa with a gîte, pretty garden and swimming pool for under €250,000.”

realestateoccitanie.com

France can be an appealing place to retire: excellent healthcare, good infrastructure, a slower pace of life, and access to everything from major cities to small towns and the countryside.

For Americans, moving involves more than finding a home and booking a flight. The practical pieces need to happen in the right order. For most retirees, the starting point is a long-stay visitor visa. Applicants typically need to show they can support themselves without working in France, have suitable accommodation, and have health insurance that meets the visa requirements.

Housing is often the first complication. You may ultimately want to buy a property, but your visa application still needs to show where you will be staying when you arrive. Depending on your plans, that could mean a long-term lease, property you already own, staying with someone in France, or appropriate temporary accommodation.

Healthcare also has two stages. Before moving, you generally need private coverage that satisfies the visa requirements. Once you’ve lived in France long enough to qualify, you can begin the process of joining the French healthcare system and obtaining a Carte Vitale. Many retirees also choose complementary insurance, known as a mutuelle.

Then there are the financial and administrative questions. Moving to France can affect how you handle banking, investments, Social Security, taxes, estate planning and even your US brokerage accounts. Americans also remain subject to US tax-filing obligations while living abroad, so it is important to consider the US and French sides of your situation together.

The biggest mistake is often treating each issue separately. Your visa affects your housing requirements. Your French address affects banking and other administrative steps. Your residency can affect your tax position. Healthcare enrolment depends on what happens after arrival. A delay in one area can create problems somewhere else.

That is why it helps to work backwards from your intended move date and build a single timeline covering the entire relocation.

At Aelos, we help Americans coordinate the practical side of moving to France, including visas, healthcare, banking, housing, tax coordination and other administrative steps. Learn more about our Move Concierge service or book a free consultation to discuss your plans.

The process can look complicated from the outside. Broken into the right sequence, it becomes much more manageable.

Living in France has been truly life-changing for these expats, who are all healthier and fitter than they’ve ever been before, they tell Gillian Harvey

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Billy, 58, and Sandra Moffat, 56, spent much of their time travelling for work. The pair ran a legal management consultancy company, which meant long hours on the road and at desks. However, the pandemic opened up the world of remote working and changed everything. “We suddenly realised we could work from anywhere,” says Sandra.

The realisation led to a property hunt, initially in the UK. “We visited a house in the Lake District and the owners were moving to France. It got us thinking and we expanded our search area.”

The couple settled on a 17th-century stone house on an acre of land in Chouppes in Vienne, near Poitiers, from which they now work as independent management consultants. They were looking forward to adopting aspects of the French lifestyle, but weren’t prepared for the health benefits of living in a rural location.

“After lockdown, we’d put on a lot of weight,” says Sandra. “We both had health problems too. I had an arthritic hip so couldn’t exercise much. Billy had diabetes, high blood pressure and raised cholesterol. We were both obese.”

However, over the years since their move, both have found their weight reduce significantly, with little conscious effort. “We’ve each lost exactly 32kg,” says Sandra. “It’s happened completely naturally, without our really setting our minds to it. We put it down to both the healthcare system here and the lifestyle we’re now living.”

The Moffats are now more relaxed

After their move, within six weeks of seeing a surgeon in France, Sandra was given a new hip. And fewer hours on the road have meant more time outdoors, walking and looking after the five cocker spaniels they’ve adopted since their move. “My new hip has meant I’m much more mobile,” says Sandra. “And Billy’s weight loss and improved fitness have meant he no longer has to take medication for his high blood pressure or diabetes.”

But how could moving to France have such dramatic benefits? “For a start, there are no takeaways near us,” says Sandra. “Before, we were travelling a lot, leaving at 6am and returning at 9pm. We’d often grab a takeaway as a result. Now, working from home and without a local takeaway, we’re cooking for ourselves at more reasonable times.”

“We’ve each lost exactly 32kg – we put it down to both the healthcare system here and the lifestyle”

The local markets also mean that the couple are eating more seasonally, choosing fresh fruit, and veg, less red meat. Plus, they’re now the proud owners of five cocker spaniels who have ensured that both are active on a daily basis.

“We also have more regular mealtimes, rarely snack, and have learned to savour our food the way the French do. We no longer guzzle and go. Taking our time means we’re more in tune with our bodies and aware when we’ve eaten enough.

“We’re also more relaxed generally. I feel better than I have for decades. I don’t wake up in the morning thinking ‘here we go again’. I have a spring in my step straightaway. The change is phenomenal!”

When Angus and Sarah Cameron, 52, moved to France in 2003, it was to fulfil a long-held dream of running a vineyard. Both worked for an airline at the time – Angus, now 55, as a pilot, and Sarah as cabin crew. “I got a degree in Wine Studies from Brighton University in 2003, and we bought a vineyard in the AOP Fronton region, which we ran until 2018.”

While managing a vineyard was quite an active pursuit, after the couple’s two children were born in 2005 and 2008, Sarah wanted to find a way to get fitter. “If I’d still been living in England I might have taken a class,” she says, “but in rural France there are very few options, so in 2012 I decided to try jogging.”

To her surprise, Sarah found she really enjoyed hitting the road. “I wasn’t sporty at school and hated PE – I used to hide in the bushes!” she says. “So nobody was more surprised than me when I realised I was enjoying myself.”

In 2013, a friend suggested they compete in a 10k together for fun in Montauban. “I thought I’d come last, but I came eighth out of 387 female runners. When I mentioned this to another friend, Mike, he suggested I sign up for the Sauternes marathon with him, just seven weeks later. We’d run together and aim for five hours.”

Sarah and husband Angus sample the competition to their AOP Fronton wine

“But when the day came, he had to drop out due to injury, so I ran at my own pace. To my astonishment, I finished in three hours and 32 minutes and came seventh, which qualified me for London and Boston.”

Sarah began to learn more about pacing and nutrition in an attempt to get her speed up. Then in 2019, she took part in a 24-hour race in Albi – running 215km, which qualified her for Team GB. “I was overjoyed!” She represented GB in a six-hour race in Bordeaux in August 2020, and was selected for the 24-hour European Championships the following month. Sadly, these were cancelled due to Covid.

Sarah with Team GB; (inset) winning the six-hour event in Bordeaux

Shortly afterwards, in 2021, Sarah had an accident. “I came off my bike and had to have a hip replacement.” Despite her injury, Sarah was determined to run again and has since completed a marathon and a few ultra marathons with her bionic hip. She finished an 80km race in November 2025 and won a 12-hour trail race in the Aveyron last February. But her pace isn’t as competitive and she does suffer some pain.

However, this doesn’t stop her running for up to five hours most mornings, and she now works as a coach in the afternoons, alongside her support role in the GB 24-hour management team. “I take my daughter Taliyah, 18, to school, then run in the Pyrénées or the Gorges d’Aveyron. Then it’s back for a siesta and coaching in the afternoon.”

Sarah’s running has also inspired husband Angus, who was already into fitness, to try his hand at marathons and triathlons. “I think if I’d stayed in the UK, I’d have been going out with friends and wouldn’t have had the same motivation. But we live in the middle of nowhere, and as a result, I became an international-level athlete. I credit France for changing my life for the better.”

“To my astonishment, I finished the race in three hours and 32 minutes and came seventh, which qualified me for London and Boston”

Sophie Hargreaves, 38, and husband, Will, moved to France in 2020, after he was made redundant. “Will was working in the wine industry supplying restaurants, many of which were completely decimated during Covid. I was working as a housing officer, but fancied a change,” explains Sophie.

Originally, the couple had been looking at properties in the UK, but wanting to purchase both a house and land, they gradually started looking at places further afield. “We’d always talked about having some sort of farm and living an outdoor life,” says Sophie. “Eventually we found the perfect property in Deux-Sèvres and moved over there in December 2020 to start farming alpacas!”

Sophie and Will take a stroll with Emilie (and a donkey)

At the time, Sophie was suffering from chronic pain after sustaining a back injury in 2015. “I tore a disc in my spine, and while I’d had treatment, I’d been left in terrible pain. The only way to deal with it was to take a lot of pain medication. In the UK, I’d been under a pain management team.”

Sitting down to drive or working at her desk seemed to exacerbate the pain, so Sophie hoped that, on moving, she might be able to practise a little more self-care. But she didn’t expect to experience the dramatic improvement she did. “When I first came to France, I went to the GP and explained my history,” she says. “He was happy to prescribe painkillers. But I began to realise that I was barely taking them,” she says. “Previously, I’d know immediately if I missed a dose, but my pain had eased considerably.”

Sophie credits much of her improvement to her new more active role on the farm. “I’m often moving and rarely sit still,” she says. “Being my own boss, too, means that I can listen to my body and choose tasks appropriately.”

Sophie and Will with their alpacas on La Petite Ferme d’Alpagas, Sanzay

“I had hoped for some improvement on moving, but nothing could have prepared me for the dramatic change. Just a month after we arrived, I was bashing a fence post in with a 16kg post knocker. Will just couldn’t believe it.”

The reduction in pain and end to her reliance on pain medication have also meant that Sophie has been able to become a mum, something she wondered whether she’d be able to do. “I had my first child, Emilie, in 2023, and I’m currently pregnant with baby number two,” she says. “I’ve actually found my back pain clears up almost completely during pregnancy, which is the opposite of many pregnant women!”

The Hargreaves also have a gîte, Vue du Château, that they rent out to visitors

While Sophie’s injury hasn’t healed – “I’ll always have to be more careful than the average person of my age” – her new lifestyle has worked wonders. “Working on the farm means my muscles are stronger, which really helps with spinal injuries. No two days are the same. I’ll be filling buckets, cleaning the fields, feeding the alpacas, or moving 12kg bales of hay. The range of movement has really helped. Living in France has been life-changing.”

lapetitefermedalpagas.com

Moving to France is an exciting prospect, but there is considerably more to think about than finding the perfect property and organising the removal van. Residency, tax, healthcare and financial planning can all be affected by your move. Addressing some of these questions before you relocate can make the transition considerably easier.

Here are five things to consider.

1. Understand your residency requirements

Owning a property in France does not automatically give you the right to live here permanently. If you are a non-EU national, you may need an appropriate long-stay visa before moving to France, depending on your circumstances and what you intend to do once here. Research the correct route early.

2. Think about tax before you become resident

Immigration residency and tax residency are not the same thing. Once you become French tax resident, France will generally require you to declare your worldwide income. This can include pensions, salaries, investments and rental income arising outside France. Understanding your likely position before moving gives you time to plan.

3. Review your existing financial arrangements

Investments, savings products and financial arrangements established in your current country may be treated differently once you become French resident. Before relocating, make a list of your pensions, investments, savings and other assets and consider whether becoming French resident changes their tax treatment.

4. Plan your healthcare

Do not leave healthcare until after you arrive. Your route into the French healthcare system will depend on your circumstances. Establish what will apply to you and whether you need healthcare cover during any transition period.

5. Bring your paperwork with you

Good preparation can make French administration considerably easier. Before leaving, obtain good-quality copies of important documents and keep secure digital versions too.

Many administrative difficulties can be made easier by considering them beforehand. A little planning before the move can make calling France home considerably simpler.

News from across France takes centre stage this week, with a dramatic art heist at the Renoir Museum on the Côte d’Azur making headlines, while property owners face rising taxe foncière bills in towns across the country. Meanwhile, the Eiffel Tower has reopened following a staff walkout, and France’s firefighters have begun a nationwide strike after a summer of record-breaking wildfires.

Elsewhere, changes to the DPE calculation coming in 2027 could affect the energy ratings of some electrically heated properties, potentially giving homeowners and landlords more flexibility when it comes to future renovation decisions.

€9 Million Renoir Museum Heist on the French Riviera

Two suspects broke into the Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer in the early hours of Tuesday 8th September, attempting to steal four works of art from the former home of French Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir: the alarm was triggered at 5:48 am and police arrived just five minutes later, but the suspects had already fled. Two of the stolen works were dropped during the getaway, leaving two others still missing, along with the suspects. The museum, founded in 1960 and renovated in the 2010s, is now the focus of a police investigation.

Cagnes-sur-Mer mayor, Bryan Masson, described the theft as an attack on the town’s history and heritage. Local reports have identified the four targeted works as Portrait de Madame Stephen Pichon (1895), Madame Colonna Romano (around 1910), Coco lisant (around 1905) and Jeune femme au puits (around 1886), all by Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

The heist comes less than a year after the high-profile Louvre robbery in Paris, when eight pieces of historic jewellery worth an estimated €88 million were stolen. Empress Eugénie’s crown, which was also taken during the raid, was dropped during the getaway and later recovered.

Taxe Foncière 2026: Where Property Tax Is Rising and Key Payment Deadlines

French property owners stay alert as property tax is on the rise in various towns, in several municipalities homeowners are facing significantly higher bills. In Île-de-France, increases range from 9% to 25%, with Montrouge seeing the largest rise at 25%, followed by Clamart at 16.9%, Drancy at 14.1% and Aulnay-sous-Bois at 9.18%. Nationally, 13.6% of communes have increased their taxe foncière rate this year, although nine in ten of these rises are below 3%.

For French property owners, the amount of taxe foncière varies depending on the municipality and the property’s cadastral rental value. The tax is paid by owners and usufructuaries, and the 2026 notices began arriving from late August. The payment deadline is 15 October for most non-online payments; check, bank transfer, or cash are only accepted if the amount is under 300 euros. While homeowners paying online have until 20 October.

Eiffel Tower Reopens Following Staff Walkout

Good news for Eiffel Tower visitors, the iconic Paris landmark has reopened following a one-day closure on Monday 7 September. The Eiffel Tower was closed after staff walked out during a dispute over arrangements for a private visit by a Hindu religious delegation on Saturday.

Around 100 people linked to the BAPS spiritual movement attended the visit. The tower’s operator, SETE, said the arrangements did not meet its usual standards, while BAPS later apologised for any inconvenience caused. The Eiffel Tower reopened to visitors on Tuesday 8 September.

French firefighters begin six-week strike after record wildfire summer

The devastating impact of this summer’s record high wildfires has led to increased pressures on France’s emergency services. Professional firefighters have begun a six-week nationwide strike as a result, due to lack of funding, staffing and resources. At least 120,000 hectares burned across France this summer, the highest figure since satellite imagery began being used to measure wildfires 20 years ago. Four firefighters died in July, while more than 100 were injured over the summer while responding to or travelling to fire incidents.

Eight unions are calling for more financial and material resources, as well as the mass recruitment of professional firefighters. The strike is due to run until 20 October, with further demonstrations planned in Paris later this month. Emergency services are expected to continue operating during the action, as France’s 44,300 professional firefighters can be ordered to work to ensure essential public services are maintained. Their campaign is due to end on 20 October when parliament begins examining France’s 2027 budget.

French DPE Changes 2027: What Property Owners Need to Know

From 1 January 2027, France will change the way electricity consumption is calculated in the DPE, with the conversion factor falling from 1.9 to 1.7. The change could improve the energy rating of some electrically heated properties, potentially giving owners and landlords more flexibility before carrying out costly renovations. If your property is close to a DPE rating threshold, it may be worth checking how the new calculation could affect its classification.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

US and Iran exchange fire on shipping targets, pushing oil prices higher once again

Oil prices have surged again after the US struck three Iranian crude oil tankers in retaliation for the IRGC firing ballistic missiles at two US warships. The renewed escalation pushed Brent crude oil to its highest level since the collapse of the peace accord in July.

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of Central Command, stated that the US intends to impose the highest economic cost on Iran. However, such action increases the risk of attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz by the Iranian regime, as well as the potential for attacks on refining facilities across the Middle East.

Meanwhile, US envoys completed talks in Russia and Ukraine, but neither side appeared ready to agree a ceasefire and Ukrainian President Zelensky predicted another winter of war. The prospect of a prolonged conflict in the region could provide further support for oil prices as supply remains constrained.

REC reports labour market stabilisation following a multi‑year downturn, though Jaguar Land Rover concerns weigh

The REC/KPMG employment report released this morning was more positive than recent releases, suggesting the labour market is showing signs of recovery in permanent job placements, while temporary placements grew at their strongest rate in more than three years.

However, employment news has not been universally positive. Media reports continue to focus on discussions between the UK government and Jaguar Land Rover, which may reduce its workforce by up to 4,000 employees as it seeks to lower costs. JLR faces significant revenue pressures as demand remains subdued following the 2025 cyberattack, a misplaced advertising campaign and increasing competition from Chinese EV manufacturers.

This week’s focus is on UK monthly GDP, industrial production, index of services and construction output data. Could the combination of the World Cup and warm weather provide further support to activity, or will activity have been negatively affected? The former remains the greater risk in my view, which could offer sterling some modest support into the end of the week.

Following robust US payrolls data, what will the CPI figures indicate?

Last week’s strong US non‑farm payrolls data left financial markets with a dilemma. Other secondary indicators suggested the labour market remains weak, but the USD rallied following Friday’s employment report. Yields also moved higher, suggesting the US Treasury’s attempts to reduce yields at the longer end of the curve have so far proven unsuccessful.

The key release this week is August CPI inflation on Friday at 13:30 BST. Risks remain that the headline rate stays elevated at 3.4% y/y while the core rate falls back to 2.4%. If that happens, it could increase the dilemma facing US policymakers. The Federal Reserve would face a choice between raising interest rates in response to headline inflation and risking limited transmission into core or second round inflation effects, or leaving rates unchanged and risking its credibility that policy is behind the curve if secondary inflation effects materialise.

The USD remains under pressure, particularly against the JPY, with the currency pair finally adjusting to economic realities as the yen had become significantly undervalued relative to purchasing power parity measures.

AfD wins in Saxony‑Anhalt, German industrial production falls despite strong factory orders, ECB in focus this week

News over the weekend that AfD secured victory in Saxony‑Anhalt, winning 43.8% of the vote according to preliminary results, left the party short of an outright majority but potentially makes a rainbow coalition among the remaining parties extremely difficult. The result is likely to send shockwaves through the German political establishment, with the largest governing party polling just over 17% of the vote.

German industrial production data for July also disappointed this morning, falling 1.1% m/m despite the surge in factory orders recorded over the past three months. The weakness may prove temporary, but it is another warning sign that conditions in the German economy remain precarious, particularly given ongoing challenges within the automotive sector.

The ECB meets on Thursday and is expected to raise all official interest rates by 25 basis points. Greater interest may lie in officials’ assessment of the disconnect between headline and core CPI rates, and whether tariff‑related pressures and trade uncertainty risk weaker GDP outcomes towards year‑end. If the ECB signals support for further tightening, the euro could strengthen. However, risks remain skewed to the downside for growth, which could weigh on the currency over the medium to longer term, in my opinion.

AI backlash presents potential challenges for Canada, while Mexico focuses on CPI figures

Some Canadian municipalities are introducing moratoriums on data centres or vetoing proposed projects as public scepticism towards AI continues to grow. Prime Minister Mark Carney has been keen to encourage such investment as the economy contends with the impact of US tariffs.

Concerns about labour market weakness driven by AI appear overstated. Nonetheless, they may continue to form part of the negative narrative around AI promoted by unions, alongside concerns around noise, energy consumption and water usage. With limited Canadian data releases this week, attention may remain on the weaker Canadian August employment report released at the end of last week, which has checked recent gains in the CAD.

For the MXN, focus this week falls on the release of August CPI inflation data in the middle of the week. Could inflation record a further decline in both headline and core measures, or even see the two move in opposite directions? The balance of risks for Mexican interest rates remains tilted towards lower rates, something recent strength in the peso may have accentuated, in my opinion.

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