In the run up to Brexit, national law firm Stone King has launched a service to support clients from start to finish in the sale or purchase of property in France. Usually people looking to buy or sell will hire…
From 2018 French residents no longer need to pay wealth tax on savings and investments, and investment income benefits from a new tax rate. The French tax reforms which were first announced in September came into effect on 1st…
‘A common error made by a lot of foreign business owners who moved to my area was to think that France was basically the same as back home, except for the language and this just isn’t the case,’. See what people working in France are saying.
This is a comprehensive list of things to do at various points during the removal process. Following this checklist will take away some of the pressure of thinking of too many things at once, or having to make last minute changes for forgotten necessities.
This fact sheet explains the procedure for importing and registering a UK registered motor vehicle or trailer/caravan in France. (The procedure is more or less the same for importing a vehicle from any EU country.) It applies to anyone living…
Want to invite more birds, butterflies, and bees into your garden? Here are the plants and flowers that will encourage biodiversity …
You have made the decision to move to France and are gradually ticking off your checklist of things to do. But if they are not on your list already, you need to consider your finances
While you will be familiar with home and car insurance, in France you also have to know about civil liability and other policies that may be new
High up on everyone’s list when setting up a new home in France is getting a telephone line and broadband service ahead of time so it will be ready for the day they move in.
For anyone trying to learn French or hoping to communicate better in France, this page is the place to search our many useful French glossaries on a wide range of topics, from living in France to what to say at the hotel on…
Mar Bonnin-Palmer runs down the basics of planning a trip to check out likely French dream homes and explains the advantages of getting your budget sorted out beforehand
There’s nothing like the pleasure of eating vegetables fresh from your own garden. The flavour and texture far exceed anything you can buy in a shop. Growing vegetables is also a natural incentive to to spend time outdoors. It is not necessary to have a large space to begin a vegetable garden, you can start one with just a few pots.
Want to know what your carbon footprint is? Measure how green your lifestyle is the impact it’s having on the environment.
French law no longer requires non-resident sellers domiciled in the EU to appoint a fiscal representative on the sale of property in France, an experience that could be quite costly and verging on the surreal.
A pet passport means that your much-loved animal can easily travel with you to France, but getting your pet ready for travel can take weeks or months. Vet Diana James takes you through the process, step-by-step.
If you are a EU citizen residing in France (primary residents only), you have the right to vote in both European elections and local communal elections. You will need to register before December 31.
Wine is a complex beverage, or at least it should be, and to understand a wine’s complexity and depth you need to analyze it.
Advertising with us Reach more than 350,000 Francophiles, expats, property buyers and investors through FrenchEntrée’s leading portfolio of magazines, newsletters, and website. FrenchEntrée offers a flexible and proven range of online and print marketing solutions to suit every type of…
If you’re buying property in France then you will need to make an international money transfer to move your money from the UK to France. The traditional way of doing this is with a high street bank; however you could…
Look out for these four definite legal”no-no’s” when buying in France.
If this is the year to sell your French property, here are some top tips to help you which we have collated from estate agents and property experts across France…
Award-winning designer James Besson shows us how a garden can thrive in an unlikely setting in the south of France.
What is the best approach if you’re planning to put your house on the market, or if it has lingered on the market for a while? Three ways savvy sellers can make their property stand out from the competition.
The role that Diagnostic surveys play in the purchase of a house in France is very different from what you may be used to.
Preparing your pool for the winter is an essential task that will keep the pool and equipment in good condition ready for quickly re-opening the pool in the spring. Here is a guide to the procedure that should be followed…
The process of borrowing money to fund a property purchase is broadly similar on both sides of the Channel, but there are certain differences between French and UK mortgages which buyers need to bear in mind. Overview The…
Many of the properties for sale come with that key caveat. they ‘need work’. Our expert contributor shares tips for buying a property to renovate in France.
The French conveyancing system is very well organised and secure. There is no equivalent of reported problems with non existent title deeds (such as in Cyprus) or invalid planning permissions (such as in Spain). So what should those preparing to buy a property in France be wary of?
Introduction: Although being expensive to maintain – the World Health Organisation has stated that France spends 11% of GDP on healthcare and outranks major countries on this basis – France offers a wide choice of general practitioners and healthcare specialists.…
When you register your child for school you will be asked for an attestation d’assurance scolaire (certificate of School Insurance). This confirms that your child is covered for damage caused by them to school property or other people. To be…
Pool security is a legal must in France. There are four government approved methods – here is an explanation of the pros and cons of fencing, alarms, covers and abris.
There is an unbelievable choice of swimming pools available nowadays. Here, Chris Harrison of Piscine-Plus runs through how they differ in terms of price, space, number of pool users, filter type, sanitation and security.
French state education is well-organised, well-funded and with generally average to high standards in comparison to other European countries. The state system is also complemented by a comprehensive network of Private Schools including international schools…
If you would like to choose an alternative or greener supplier of electricity in France, there are providers who can supply energy produced only from renewable sources such as hydropower, wind power and biomass…
All in ground swimming pools in France require planning permission. Abris or pool houses also require planning permission, but above ground pools that are not built as a permanent structure do not.
Another way to start a winter herb garden indoors is to move plants from your garden into your kitchen, says gardening topic host Elaine Jarvis.
Insurance broker Aon conducted an online survey. It was sent to five-hundred English speakers in France (66% of which are British). There was some interesting feedback concerning confusion with French insurance…
In France, insuring your main place of residence against fire, theft and natural causes is not obligatory but it is advisable. However, you do have to insure yourself against damage you could accidently cause your French neighbours
Do you love wine and dream of having a wine cellar of your own instead of just buying a bottle when needed? This simple guide to starting a wine cellar will show you how to go about it.
Installing your own swimming pool can be very rewarding and certainly save you a packet. Follow these 10 easy stages and you won’t go far wrong.
A handy list of common terms in French on gardening, plants, and tools.
The french national anthem “La Marseillaise” got its name during the French revolution because it was sung by troops from Marseille upon arriving in Paris. Here are the words in French and English.
A brief introduction to wine, its components and how it is made. Wine is produced from the fermented juice of the grapes of the Vitis Vinifera, a species of vine known to man for millennia. A number of natural factors are important …
The separation of church and state has an impact on school and public administration. France is a secular state, but what are the implications of “laïcité” in everyday life?
Image not found.One of the joys of gardening is seeing your garden grow in sheer numbers of plants that you have produced yourself. Obviously there is always the time and …
Leading French property developer, MGM French Properties presents Le Chalet Apsara, a prime Alpine residence nestled in Le Villard, Méribel Les Allues. Also known as ‘heart of the three valleys, Meribel forms the centre of the world’s largest ski area renowned for its sporty reputation.
The votes are in: the most desirable place to own a holiday home in France is Arcachon Bay.
Top Tip – Thinking of opening a gîte? Find an area that will generate income all year round, not just during the summer months Q We are looking at the new Fondation du Patrimoine grant and wondering if…
Legendary French chef Pierre Koffmann waxes lyrical about his idyllic childhood in Gascony. In this exclusive extract from his book ‘Memories of Gascony’ he recalls the place of duck and goose on the family menu and how his beloved grandmother prepared her own confit.
Looking for stunning views and a warm climate? The ancient fishing port of Marseillan offers this and more
Fashions come and go, but Pierre Sauvage, director of homewares company Casa Lopez, has his finger firmly on the pulse. Here he tells Marion Sauvebois how he put his keen eye for style to work when renovating his homes and shares his top interior design tips…
Getting your house in order – Sally Stone runs through the common pitfalls of holiday lets and shares handy tips to maximise rental income and keep your home spotless while you’re away
Her (French) husband’s family thought they were mad when they moved to Charente 30 years ago, but just like Édith Piaf, Heidi Fuller-love has no regrets
Tight budget? We reveal the cheapest cities in which to buy in the Hexagon
This classic dessert carries the name of the two famous Tatin sisters who invented the recipe. Everybody loves it, I think, because of the smell of warm apple mixed with caramel, and the delicious crunchiness of the light pastry.
We propose a toast to Marne, where grapes are grown and both red and white wines flow! From coq au vin de Bouzy, to chocolate liqueurs, this departement’s delicacies are inextricably linked to the fruit of its vines.
A smart and sought-after Belle-Époque spa destination, Évian-les-Bains stands proudly on the southern shore of Lake Geneva and benefits from a year-round tourist trade
By making the lifestyle choice to live in France, you will want to make the most of what this country has to offer by enjoying the beautiful scenery and climate for as long as you possibly can. That may…
We’ve discussed in this series of articles about management of property in France, many aspects of the thought and care which goes into stress-free ownership at a distance of a holiday home here, most especially if that is let to…
Camembert and Calvados are two very famous examples of the fine French food and drink to come out of Normandy. But what of the goat’s milk, oysters and pears also on offer? No trip to Normandy would be complete…
French goat’s cheese – called chèvre – is a winning ingredient all year round. Here Sophie Wright presents some of her favourite recipes Grilled goat’s cheese mini-log and walnut pesto ciabatta Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Makes 1…
From the trendiest cities and up-and-coming student towns to a sought-after Alpine resort, we get to the heart of France’s hottest areas to snap up buy-to-let properties 1 Bordeaux Thanks to its booming wine industry, Bordeaux attracts hordes of…
THE INS AND OUTS OF THE FRENCH TAX SYSTEM Major tax reforms are being rolled out this year, making France a more attractive country to live in – but watch out for the pitfalls and make sure you are prepared…
THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF CURRENCY Mar Bonnin-Palmer makes sure you don’t get caught out by post-Brexit swings in the currency market – and secure a competitive exchange rate Q I am retiring to France and need to…
Ready to make the move? The FrenchEntrée Property Services team reveals its top search areas – on and off the beaten track MAUBOURGUET, Hautes-Pyrénées, Occitanie Maubourguet is close to the Spanish border in the historical province of Gascony. Once…
Charlotte Macdonald, an associate solicitor in Stone King’s international and cross border team, sets out a number of scenarios that a British owner of French property may encounter. Over a 12-part series of articles Charlotte will cover topics such…
Reblochon is made in the Savoie region of southern France using cows’ milk. It’s rich, fruity and nutty with a semi-soft, almost chewy texture. Or look for a cows’ milk cheese with a washed rind and an earthy aroma. …
Dominic Bliss looks at the world of French spirits and raises a glass to their place in the country’s social fabric and mealtime traditions Look at the shelves behind any French bar and the vast array of colourful bottles…
Seafood is a staple of French cuisine, and although the number of people attending church regularly has dropped over the years it’s still traditional in some areas of France for fish to be served on Friday. Whether you buy…
When you hear the name Burgundy it conjures up most of all the fabulous wines that make the area so famous: Chablis, Nuits St George, Meursault and the list goes on….. But Burgundy has much to offer beyond the…
Property developer Fiona Jones on her four-year restoration of the Chateau du Masgelier, a 12th-century Limousin gem… Situated on a hilltop, with 360° views over the Creuse countryside, and set within its own parkland, the Chateau du Masgelier dates from…
Well-known as ‘the garden of France’, Pays de la Loire is the place for fresh produce. But with its rivers and coastal edge, there’s also plenty of fishy business going on. Justin Postlethwaite browses the menu… Nestling between Brittany…
Thanks to the lemon syrup, this cake keeps moist for several days and is the ideal cake to take to the country on a picnic. Makes 2 cakes Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes For the batter…
Late summer and early autumn is often the busiest time of the year for buyers of second homes in France committing to new purchases. Here we look at two key points to ensure your French property purchase remains on track!…
An Agreement in Principle Why it pays to get your application for a French mortgage sorted out before hunting for your dream home… “When you possess an ‘agreement in principle’ it sends a very clear message to vendors that you…
The Wilkinsons used their aesthetic talents and exquisite taste to return a dilapidated farmhouse in the south of France to its original splendour. Greg Cook finds out how… Barely off the plane, Marianne and David Wilkinson took one…
The first time Donna Critcher clapped eyes on Château Saint Michel, she knew she had to have it. Two years on, she has turned this old wreck into a thriving events venue… FRENCHENTRÉE MAGAZINE: What brought you to…
There has never been more choice for what Britons can do with their pension. While this freedom is generally welcome, unfortunately it has brought a sharp increase in pension scams attempting to defraud people out of their retirement savings. British…
Rope-grown mussels steamed with Roquefort cheese, white wine, garlic, parsley and bacon lardons. This simple but tasteful dish has a great combination of flavours and is sure to impress any guest! Our quick and easy recipe makes it perfect for…
There are many things to enjoy about living in France – the excellent food, the culture, the climate. It is also a country that boasts a very high standard of healthcare, but if you’re planning to reside in France long-term,…
The ‘Pink City’ is a well-established culinary centre, one which boasts famous specialities that range from cassoulet and Toulouse sausages to violet-flavoured sweets. Toulouse is most famous for its speciality charcuterie sausages – historically made from pork that’s marinated…
Sun, Ski and Sand Over 300 days of sunshine a year, glorious mountain resorts, welcoming beaches and plenty of rental potential – it’s no wonder we all love this département, says Annaliza Davis Pyrénées-Orientales enjoys a whopping 300 days…
Filets de carrelet meunière aux amandes One of the best-known and loved flatfish of all, plaice can be easily identified at the fishmonger’s by its distinctive brown colouring and vivid orange spots. If cooked well, this tasty fish…
Make sure your passport and vaccinations are up to date! Before travelling, it’s really important to check that your pet’s passport and vaccinations are all up to date to make sure you comply with the requirements set out by…
Purchasing a property can be a complicated process and when that purchase is abroad with a foreign language it can become that much more difficult….. 1 –WHY USE A BROKER? – HB Property is your independent bilingual mortgage adviser throughout…
Charlotte Macdonald, an associate solicitor in Stone King’s international and cross-border team, sets out a number of scenarios that a British owner of French property may encounter. Over a 12-part series of articles Charlotte will cover topics such as how…
There is more than a bridge linking Deauville with Trouville. Both villages on Normandy’s lovely Côte Fleurie have a casino, a beach boardwalk and a film festival… Given its small size and a population of just 4,000, Deauville…
Once mastered, this beautifully light dessert with intense raspberry flavour will be in your repertoire of special dinners for years to come. You might even feel like investing in individual copper pots that are the perfect size for soufflés,…
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Spanish Pyrénées in the South-West of France is the Pays Basque and it has a much respected culinary style all of its own! As an appetizer, you can’t beat a few slithers…
Provence has triggered many a creative impulse. Patrice Bertrand meets two expats who have drawn on art, and the local fare, to make ends meet “I think I’m probably the most stressed person in Provence, which is a very…
Everybody deserves a little sweet self indulgence once in a while, and what better way to round off a meal than with a delicious French dessert? This is a simple microwave version of the classic French dessert, also…
The latest property market analysis focusing on foreign investors in the French property market show that the British are still the largest group of international property buyers in France. British buyers account for 25.9% of non-resident foreign buyers, which…
To create the compagnard, or “country” look, go for useful items without cluttering Would you like to create a touch of French chic in your home without breaking the bank? Interiors expert Mayke Hogestijn looks at how to achieve the…
Rupert Springfield and Franck van der Hooft fell in love with the Dordogne one summer, there and then making plans to return and create their perfect home and business. They’ve turned the fantasy into reality! FRENCHENTRÉE MAGAZINE: How…
Being aware of the costs when selling a property is important. Aspects such as agent’s fees and legal costs should be checked out. Tax implications could also be relevant and should be discussed with a specialist. Importantly, if you…
