I am searching for an area of Europe to move to on either a part time or full time basis. Would like to be in an area with low humidity. Have thought in terms of southern France such as areas of Provence. Any thoughts from persons who have knowledge of or are at present experiencing living abroad
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5790 posts
I'd start by researching requirements for an obtaining a long-term visa. That will narrrow down your list. Some countries have more lenient requirements for retirees of independent means. Others do not. They will all have specific requirements as to how you might qualify for such a visa. Make sure you understand the tax policies and health care options. You'll likely need to supply proof that you have adequate health care coverage. You will have better luck getting the information that you seek on a forum that is primarily for expats. The Transitions Abroad Website is one source of information. www.transitionsabroad.com
Posted by
San Francisco/Marin County
9436 posts
InternationalLiving.com is a good resource
Posted by
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
35 posts
In addition to Laura's comment, some countries in Europe offer a citizenship process for people who's grandparents came from that particular country and can prove it. Each country has its own laws on immigration and there is no overriding EU law on the matter. You'd need to check the embassy of your grandparents motherland for the requirements, if you are a descendant.
Posted by
Portland, Maine
2916 posts
Check out the Living the Life in St. Aignan blog (http://ckenb.blogspot.com/2012/09/une-fenetre-oscillo-battante.html). Ken and Walt have managed to do a great job of retiring to France from San Francisco.
Posted by
OP
Atlanta, GA, USA
70 posts
Thanks to all for your resource info. I will definitely look into those resources.
Nancy
Posted by
OP
Atlanta, GA, USA
70 posts
Thanks,Laura, for the info. I will look into those recommendations.
Nancy
Posted by
Decorah, Iowa, USA
345 posts
I would kill (OK, not really) to move to France to live full or part-time. First, I will have to win the lottery to afford to do so! As much as I love Provence, it is very expensive. Have you considered any other areas in the south? I will keeping checking your posting so I can learn more.
Posted by
OP
Atlanta, GA, USA
70 posts
Yes, areas of Provence are expensive, but we are hoping to find something within our budget. Some of the smaller towns off the beaten path may be a possibility.
Nancy
Posted by
southwest, Missouri, U.S.A.
1717 posts
Hello Nancy. Do you want to be at a place in Europe from which you can easily travel to other places for site seeing ? Or, will you be content to stay at one place for a long time. Many American people went to an island of Greece, stayed there a long time (one year ?), wrote a book while they were there. Or improved their skill in making art. I did not inquire about the requirements for acquiring a Visa for being at Greece longer than two months, but I guess the government of Greece wants Americans to stay at Greece a long time, and spend money in Greece. The islands of Greece have low humidity in the air.