Let the movers take care of the practical stuff
The first thing to take care of is that all your belongings arrive safely in France and in one piece. While it’s tempting to attempt the packing and organising of the move yourself, you’ll save an incredible amount of time and aggravation by choosing a professional removals company. Experts from AGS Global Movers advise checking that the company you choose is a member of a recognized moving association; confirming quote accuracy; and the presence of extra services and their additional costs, in particular insurance and storage services.Some moving companies also provide consolidated moving services, as well as pet transportation to your destination country.
Look at the Just Landed France guide for details and information on everything that needs to be done to immigrate to France. You can find information on visas, permits and all the documentation required to settle in smoothly. Start arranging these matters early and keep good track of them! Remember that the French like their paperwork, so get all your documents in order and make many copies.If you are moving to France from the United Kingdom, remember to do your research regarding changes due to Brexit. Although it is still possible to move, the process may take a little longer than normal.
Fit in with French culture seamlessly
Familiarise yourself some of the main features of France’s culture. The French have their own customs and etiquette and you wouldn’t want to start off your stay by offending your new neighbours or colleagues! There are many things you would normally do in other countries that are considered rude in France: for example, never address a new acquaintance with tu or address someone you have just met by their first name. Monsieur and madame will do. When dining out, never, ever address the waiter as “Garçon!”, it is considered incredibly disrespectful. It is also not customary to tip, as a service charge is generally included in the bill.
It will also be helpful to have some prior knowledge of the language before you arrive, because the French don't tend to speak much English. Making the effort to speak French is also warmly appreciated by locals.There are many useful (and free!) apps that can help you learn the basics of the French language. Start learning before the move whenever you have the opportunity.
Settle into your new home in France!
Settling into a new place and creating a new social circle is one of the biggest expat challenges. Fortunately, there is a foolproof way to get acquainted with new people: getting out and about! Join a gym where they offer group workouts, a group sport, a course or a language exchange event (you even learn the language!), or just strike up a conversation with someone.
Joining an expat group or club is a great way to connect with the local community and learn about their culture. Clubs also allow plenty of opportunities to make new friends and connections.
On the practical side of things, if you come from an Anglo-American country, remember that France uses the metric system. That speed limit that seems a little high? It’s actually in km/h, not mph. And before you head off for a relaxing evening at the movies, remember all films are dubbed in French, so you will have to go to a cinema that shows films in the original language. These are easy to find in most big cities but are less common in smaller ones. On the other hand, it’s an opportunity to learn the local language!
Finally, enjoy the amazing food France has to offer, including its almost 300 types of cheese! Every region in France has typical traditions and cuisine, so wherever you end up, apply these simple tips and you will be in for a great adventure.