Lecture Notes: Moving and Living in Rural France

Introduction

• Speaker: Jo, a yoga teacher at 8VM
• Location: Darnack, France
• Studio opened in July 2022
• Offers 16 classes a week including chair yoga, one-to-one, restorative, and Hatha Yoga

Journey to France

• Moved from a pressured job as a child protection manager in Portsmouth
• Opted for France over Spain due to its greenery and countryside
• Bought a house in Darnack, originally planning to move 10 years later
• Transition accelerated by family circumstances and health scares

Visa and Moving Challenges

• Required a micro-entrepreneur visa
• Visa process complicated due to Brexit and COVID-19 delays
• Sold their house in Portsmouth quickly to facilitate the move
• Had to prove financial stability and private health insurance

Setting Up in France

• Initial house choice complications
• Required a thorough inventory listing for moving due to Brexit
• Dealing with local bureaucracy and planning issues (e.g., roulottes denied)

Business and Lifestyle

• Dean transitioned his career; involved in various small business activities
• Integration into local community with mixed success
• French language requirement and challenges with local authorities

Personal Reflections

• Initial isolation and challenges as a new resident
• Appreciation for French countryside and lifestyle
• Importance of community and supportive friendships

Practical Considerations

• Importance of organization and planning (e.g., shopping, managing utilities)
• Adjusting to rural life, including dealing with local shops and services
• Being prepared for seasonal changes and local fauna challenges

Future Plans

• Expanding the yoga studio for retreats and events
• Building additional facilities such as chambre d'hôtes and entertainment area
• Continued adaptation to living in rural France and community involvement

Recommendations for Potential Movers

• Have a robust financial plan and be prepared for unexpected costs
• Understand the visa and bureaucratic requirements
• Learn basic French for daily interactions and respect local culture
• Be ready for lifestyle changes and appreciate the local environment