Department: Gard
Region: Languedoc - Roussillon
Price: € 265,000
Tuesday 31 January 2012
Charming Stone Village House - French Property of the Week
Department: Gard
Region: Languedoc - Roussillon
Price: € 265,000
Monday 30 January 2012
Great Value at Parigny: railway cottage in lovely location
Town: Parigny
Department: Manche
Region: Lower Normandy
Price: € 110,000
Railway cottage set in the countryside next to walks on the old railway line. Access 1km to the town walking. Very close to all amenities. A rare property in very good condition. All recently renovated.
Back garden and further garden opposite with shrubs, lawn and trees. In all approx half an acre. Double gates to parking area.
More Photos and Room details: Parigny Railway Cottage
Pont du Gard - one of France's Top 5 Tourist Attractions
Photo by Wolfgang Staudt Did you know that one of France’s top five tourist attractions is located in the South of France? It’s called the Pont du Gard, and it’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. Both the Pont du Gard and the surrounding countryside are absolutely stunning - and New York Habitat highly recommends putting the area on your “must see” list for your next vacation in the South of France. If you’ve never heard of it before, the Pont du Gard is the masterpiece of the ancient Roman aqueducts that wound its way through the region. A recent redevelopment project has made the Pont du Gard site easily accessible from the highway while appearing to be a hidden oasis now that it has been closed to vehicle traffic. Spend the day touring the museum and the Pont itself, either on your own or with a guide; pack a picnic and dine on the banks or the Gard river; or, bring your swim trunks and cool off with an afternoon dip! You might see many names and other markings etched into the massive stones of the structure. That’s not vandalism; instead, it’s a tradition that has been a part of the Compagnons du Tour de France, a yearly tour given by and for masons from around the world who come to marvel at the construction, which was performed without the use of any mortar. If you look closely, you can even see etchings from the original builders, who labeled each stone so they were put in their correct positions. This unique structure has survived two millennia and countless natural disasters, including a major flood in 1998. To read more: Pont du Gard: Roman Aqueducts in the South of FranceVideo about Pont du GardThe Pont du Gard was built shortly before the Christian era to allow the aqueduct of Nîmes (which is almost 50 km long) to cross the Gard river. The Roman architects and hydraulic engineers who designed this bridge, which stands almost 50 m high and is on three levels -- the longest measuring 275 m -- created a technical as well as an artistic masterpiece.
Friday 27 January 2012
Tax Returns in France
With tax declarations due in the UK at the end of January, what is the system in France?Residents of France:
As residents of France, you are obliged to declare all of your worldwide income and capital gains for tax in France. The tax year is the calendar year and there is no PAYE in France, so all income must be included in your annual tax return.The tax declaration for 2011 income is to be submitted by the end of May 2012. Those making their first declaration will have to obtain the forms from their local tax office.All income declared will be subject to income tax (“impôt sur le revenu”) and “social taxes” (“contributions sociales”). The latter is an extra tax on most sources of income, which is used to finance the health and other services, and is a set percentage of what you declare.On the other hand, income tax is on a banded system and involves a complicated calculation. This is because different allowances are given for different types of income. For instance, pension income is only taxed on 90% of its value, up to certain limits. Unlike the UK, you are taxed as a “household”, rather than as individuals, with each member of the “household” considered to earn part of the income, irrespective of its origin.To read more about: How many declarations to make, What to declare?, What exchange rate to use? - then go to Understanding Income Tax in France
As residents of France, you are obliged to declare all of your worldwide income and capital gains for tax in France. The tax year is the calendar year and there is no PAYE in France, so all income must be included in your annual tax return.The tax declaration for 2011 income is to be submitted by the end of May 2012. Those making their first declaration will have to obtain the forms from their local tax office.All income declared will be subject to income tax (“impôt sur le revenu”) and “social taxes” (“contributions sociales”). The latter is an extra tax on most sources of income, which is used to finance the health and other services, and is a set percentage of what you declare.On the other hand, income tax is on a banded system and involves a complicated calculation. This is because different allowances are given for different types of income. For instance, pension income is only taxed on 90% of its value, up to certain limits. Unlike the UK, you are taxed as a “household”, rather than as individuals, with each member of the “household” considered to earn part of the income, irrespective of its origin.To read more about: How many declarations to make, What to declare?, What exchange rate to use? - then go to Understanding Income Tax in France
Thursday 26 January 2012
Promoting French Culture
Paris Marais photo by AndyRobertsPhotos This extract is taken France's Official PR Blog called My France à moi, and the post called Club French Heritage & Culture France is famous, not only because of the beautiful landscape and scenery, but also because it’s long and rich culture. Diverse, fascinating and exciting, visitors can enrich themselves by visiting one of the 33 UNESCO World heritage sites, or one of the many museums, castles or abbeys. For those looking for something more contemporary, there is a wide variety of dance and musical events as well. The Club Patrimoine et Cultures of ATOUT FRANCE brings together 54 of these bodies and sites, all with the aim to promote French cultural abroad.In total, there are more than 150 sites, representing the wealth and diversity of France: The French cultural landscape alternates between historic establishments and new architectural spaces. There is also a great range of sites– including street theatre, museums with unique collections, sculpture, photography, fashion, live performances, new media and applied arts – demonstrating the vitality and constant reinvention of culture in France. Although the Club’s sites are spread out across France, they are easily accessed by taking advantage of the highly efficient transport network. The Club also offers information regarding accommodation, including Chateaux-Hotels and Demeure de Charme- charming holiday residences. It’s a great place to start planning a holiday. More about the club Wednesday 25 January 2012
Enchanting Chateaux of the Loire Valley
Chateau de Cheverny Photo by KLMircea We have found a new blog: EuroTravelogue which states "European travel impressions brought to life through the power of lens and pen."It has some great copy and fabulous photos - take a look at this latest entry about the chateaux of the Loire Valley. Enchanting Chateaux of the Loire ValleyReady to embark with me on an unforgettable journey to the enchanted chateaux of the Loire Valley in France? Located in eastern-central France along the banks of the River Loire, this "Garden of France" comprises an area of roughly 300 square miles and is renowned for its magnificent fairy tale castles, French-provincial villages, impeccable gardens, abundance of vineyards, and of course, some of the most scenic landscapes in all of France. After I spent day touring this alluring French countryside dotted with more than 1,000 of these majestic fortresses, wanderlust surged and now I am determined to visit every one of them in my lifetime! To stand in the shadows of these imposing chateaux is quite humbling and awe-inspiring – imagine castles dating back to Classical, Renaissance and even medieval times having survived hundreds of years preserving intact their magnificent architecture. But it’s not only the castles, for surrounding them are the most exquisitely manicured gardens and scenic vistas adding even more elegance to the splendor of the Loire canvas. If you’re planning a holiday to France, make sure you spend a day or two or perhaps three roaming through the glorious Loire Valley! They choose to visit the following chateaux:Chateau de ChenonceauChateau de Cheverny
Chateau de ChambordDetails of Visit: Enchanting Chateaux
Tuesday 24 January 2012
Notable cities in Languedoc
Languedoc-Roussillon, or simply Languedoc, is a region in France that shares the southern coast with the Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera. Languedoc is not nearly as ritzy, but it makes up for this with a stunning, rugged coastline, some serious history, beautiful beaches and many, many less tourists than its sister region to the east. I want to introduce you to this, your new favorite region, so keep your calendars open and check back on this page for more updates on its lovely villages and vibrant cities!Notable cities in Languedoc 1. Montpellier
The capital of Languedoc is Montpellier, a charming town that houses Europe’s oldest medical school, France’s oldest botanical gardens, and the country’s largest LGBT population outside of Paris. Montpellier also serves as an in-city TGV hub for longer trips to and from Paris, Barcelona, Nice and Italy. (“In-city” is opposed to special TGV stations outside out town, such as is the case with Avignon.) It has great restaurants and there are often big-name acts that play the Corum or the Zenith. 2. Nimes
3. Carcassonne
4. SeteTo read about Nimes, Carcassonne, and Sete: The Languedoc RegionEnjoy a video about Languedoc-Roussillon:
The capital of Languedoc is Montpellier, a charming town that houses Europe’s oldest medical school, France’s oldest botanical gardens, and the country’s largest LGBT population outside of Paris. Montpellier also serves as an in-city TGV hub for longer trips to and from Paris, Barcelona, Nice and Italy. (“In-city” is opposed to special TGV stations outside out town, such as is the case with Avignon.) It has great restaurants and there are often big-name acts that play the Corum or the Zenith. 2. Nimes
3. Carcassonne
4. SeteTo read about Nimes, Carcassonne, and Sete: The Languedoc RegionEnjoy a video about Languedoc-Roussillon:
Monday 23 January 2012
Lake, House, Pool and Land in Normandy - French Property of the Week
JUST REDUCED!!
The house and Lake are situated in mature planted park of over 6.5 acres with ponds and a river. The wooden house comprises of four main rooms, outbuildings and heated swimming pool.Just reduced by 60,000 euros
Town: Le Perche
Department: Orne
Region: Lower Normandy
Price: € 255,000More Photos: Normandy Lake
Department: Orne
Region: Lower Normandy
Price: € 255,000More Photos: Normandy Lake
Friday 20 January 2012
Lifestyle with Income near the Mediterranean
Of course, you still need to earn an income! How about this luxurious property with no less than 3 pools.
With so many opportunities to earn income - this could be the lifestyle change you are looking for?
A SUPERB DOMAINE - an 18th C. character property comprising Main House and 12 Gîtes, 1500m² of living space, one indoor and two outdoor pools, all set in 2.5 acres of mature parkland, surrounded by vineyards, near towns, airports and lovely sandy beaches. Constructed between the 8th and the 18th Century on a Roman site, a still visible Roman way with cobble stones is testament to its long history.
More Photos and Details: Languedoc Dreams
Brittany Farm with 42 acres - FRENCH PROPERTY OF THE WEEK
Town: QUINTIN
Department: Cotes-d'Armor
Region: Brittany
Price: € 364,000
In the heart of the COTES D'ARMOR: farm with 49.42 acres.
The principal house comprises a kitchen, a living room, toilets, a bathroom, a boiler room/ laundry with a shower and 4 bedrooms.
Two stone dependances, two buildings one of 1280 M², two calf barns. a shed.
More Photos: Brittany Farm
Wednesday 18 January 2012
Top Places to Visit in France
Photo by Alexandre Prévot Did you know: France is the most visited country in the world, receiving 82 million foreign tourists every year! Most mention Paris, Cote d'Azur and Brittany so where else is worht checking out? You could add these to your schedule: Loire ValleyThe ‘Garden of France’, as this area is also affectionately know, lives up to its name. As an area of outstanding natural beauty, the valley is filled with culturally and historically important architecture, which has earned it a world heritage site status. It is one of the most visited places to visit in the country and is renowned for its large collection of fairytale châteaux and mansion, beautiful landscapes and one of the most striking rivers in Europe.Mont Saint-Michel
Sitting on top of a rocky, peaked island Mont Saint-Michel forms an imposing sight. Surrounded by sandbanks and powerful tides, the heritage site is most celebrated for its Gothic-style Benedictine Abbey.Whereas most castles of this stature were built for defence purposes or the arts, Mont Saint-Michel is different. Complete with Monastery, medieval village, small houses and souvenir shops, with complimentary winding streets, Mont Saint-Michel is the one of the best-loved landmarks in France. Annecy, The Alps
The French Alps are best known for its prestigious ski resorts, although the region is also home to many pretty towns which are great to visit, summer or winter. One of the most attractive is Annecy which has a medieval picture-postcard quality. The centre is built around a 14th century Chateau and the whole town is interspersed with small canals which is why some locals refer to it as the ‘Venice of Savoie.’ With its canals and backdrop of snowy mountains, Annecy is easily one of the most photogenic towns in France. Lourdes
Famous for being the site where the Virgin Mary had been sighted a total of eighteen times from 1858, Lourdes has developed into a major place of Roman Catholic pilgrimage and of miraculous healing. Lourdes itself is a small market town lying in the foothills of the Pyrenees, that features a fortified castle that rises up from a rocky escarpment at its centre. The castle has been at the heart of much of French history, especially during the ‘Hundred Years War’ and ‘Peninsular War’. Normandy
Famous for its food and drink, as well as the ‘D-Day’ landings, Normandy is one of the most rich and diverse regions in France. It is of historic importance, especially the link between Normandy and England with the ‘Norman Conquest’. Explorer Samuel de Champlain left the port of Honfleur in 1604 and founded Quebec City (Canada). While Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and his brother Lemoyne de Bienville founded Louisiana, Biloxi, Mobile and New Orleans. Dordogne Valley
The scenery, the peace, the coffee in a small cafe, the picnic next to a stream. The Dordogne is beautiful and serene. Some of the best known highlights of the area include Lascaux caves, the gouffre de Padirac caves and Marqueyssac gardens and canoeing the Dordogne. It is a very scenic area, most suited to those who enjoy outdoor activities – walking, cycling (road and mountain biking), horse-riding, canoeing and fishing are just some of the things you can do.For the complete list published on Mobal.com: France – Facts & Places to Visit Enjoy a video tour around France:
References:
More videos about France
Guides to France Regions
Tuesday 17 January 2012
Renting a Car in France
France's transport system is very good - easy access across the country with airports, TGV(rail), and a great network of autoroutes to every corner of France. You can hire a car at airports, ferry terminals or take your car across the channel. France Travel Guide list their top 5 tips ... Tips to Finding a Rental Car in France 1. European cars tend to be rented for a 24-hour period,(with a 59 minute grace period), though for most people looking to travel by car through the France, the most economical option it to rent a car by the week with unlimited mileage. Daily rates for car rentals in France can be quite high, so renting a car for the week is probably the best way to go. 2. Look into rail-and-drive passes at car rental companies. These passes allow you to rent a car one day at a time at one-seventh the cheap weekly rate. 3. Book your rental car in France in advance as part of your travel package. Often booking your rental car at the same time as your flight and hotel can save you a lot of money (not to mention hassle). 4. Rates for car rentals in France vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, which can make it difficult to really know how much your car rental will cost. As to be expected, rates often go up in the high-tourist season summer months and are down in the winter months. Expect to pay substantially more if you are planning on renting a car in say July versus February. 5. A great way to save time on backtracking is to rent a car in one city and drop it off in another. Of course, there are often some extra fees involved in doing this, but it’s usually well worth the time you’ll save (not to mention the gas money spent backtracking). References:
Read the complete article: Renting a Car in France
Need car hire? Car Hire Today
Travel in France: Travel Services France
Read the complete article: Renting a Car in France
Need car hire? Car Hire Today
Travel in France: Travel Services France
Monday 16 January 2012
Video Tour of France
Missed this glossy view of France - from Mont St Michel, to Paris, to skiing, to beaches, ports and seaside landscapes.Much to enjoy in this video tour across France
Friday 13 January 2012
More Flights to France!
Your favourite airline strikes again!A NUMBER of new routes across Europe have been launched by Ryanair from Girona Airport, offering new links to south west France.
The airport, which is around 100km from Perpignan, will see new services to Doncaster, Cork and Knock, as well as a new route to Poitiers, which will start in March.
Come on Easyjet, BA, FlyBe - lets have some more competition!
Thursday 12 January 2012
More Favourite Things About France
Last week we added a post called 20 Favourite Things About FranceIt has received some comments and Tamsin Todd has suggested another favourite thing! Tamsin suggests "A Winter Market in France" - yes, we agree although we have yet to visit a Norman Market. Tamsin says they are an urban family testing rural waters in Normandy. Anyhow I am already won over by her description: A fairy-tale cottage by the Seine! 
Photo of Seine by isamiga76 She describes her market:What comes to a local market in the dead of winter? Very little, you would think – the fields are empty, the trees are bare, there’s nothing but rain and a dull grey sky. You’d be surprised. Here are some of the delights we found at our Norman market at the end of December. Boxes and boxes of the freshest oysters, only a squirt of lemon needed. Holly and mistletoe grow everywhere in Normandy. Look up any old tree in the winter and what looks like a messy kind of birds nest is probably mistletoe. And there is a whole forest of holly, la Forêt d’Eu, in the Seine-Maritime. But if you don’t have time to collect your own, you can buy some at market. The pretty coquilles Saint-Jacques are a Normandy specialty which have been awarded the prestigious “label rouge” in recognition of their quality. (Does everything in France have a label?) Here is a video about the fishermen who catch them, and a recipe which, like all the best Norman recipes, is packed with wild (if you can get them) mushrooms and crème fraîche. For the complete article and some lovely photos:
A Winter Market in France
Photo of Seine by isamiga76 She describes her market:What comes to a local market in the dead of winter? Very little, you would think – the fields are empty, the trees are bare, there’s nothing but rain and a dull grey sky. You’d be surprised. Here are some of the delights we found at our Norman market at the end of December. Boxes and boxes of the freshest oysters, only a squirt of lemon needed. Holly and mistletoe grow everywhere in Normandy. Look up any old tree in the winter and what looks like a messy kind of birds nest is probably mistletoe. And there is a whole forest of holly, la Forêt d’Eu, in the Seine-Maritime. But if you don’t have time to collect your own, you can buy some at market. The pretty coquilles Saint-Jacques are a Normandy specialty which have been awarded the prestigious “label rouge” in recognition of their quality. (Does everything in France have a label?) Here is a video about the fishermen who catch them, and a recipe which, like all the best Norman recipes, is packed with wild (if you can get them) mushrooms and crème fraîche. For the complete article and some lovely photos:A Winter Market in France
Wednesday 11 January 2012
Moving to France: Helpful Hints
Always full of helpful tips, anecdotes, facts, etc. Chez Loulou has embarked on a series of "Moving to France" tutorials. So far she has covered:Part 1 - Why Do You Want to Live in France?
Part 2 - Finding Your French Consulate
Part 3 - Finding a Place to Live in France
Part 4 - The Carte de Séjour
Part 5 - Joining the French Health SystemToday she is featuring: 10 Year Carte de Résident A daunting subject, I know. Translated from the www.service-public.fr website:
"A carte de résident bearing the words "résident de longue durée - CE" may be issued to any foreigner who has resided legally and continuously for at least 5 years in France.
This card is valid for 10 years.
The applicant must meet several conditions." Sounds pretty straightforward, doesn't it?
I'm afraid it isn't. French bureaucracy never is.The first problem: the laws keep changing.
The second problem: each préfecture/sous-préfecture is its own little fiefdom. So while some friends have applied for the card and unfortunately been denied for no legitimate reason, others just have merely asked and received, without any hassle.Read the full explanation here: Moving to France Tutorial - Part Six
Part 2 - Finding Your French Consulate
Part 3 - Finding a Place to Live in France
Part 4 - The Carte de Séjour
Part 5 - Joining the French Health SystemToday she is featuring: 10 Year Carte de Résident A daunting subject, I know. Translated from the www.service-public.fr website:
"A carte de résident bearing the words "résident de longue durée - CE" may be issued to any foreigner who has resided legally and continuously for at least 5 years in France.
This card is valid for 10 years.
The applicant must meet several conditions." Sounds pretty straightforward, doesn't it?
I'm afraid it isn't. French bureaucracy never is.The first problem: the laws keep changing.
The second problem: each préfecture/sous-préfecture is its own little fiefdom. So while some friends have applied for the card and unfortunately been denied for no legitimate reason, others just have merely asked and received, without any hassle.Read the full explanation here: Moving to France Tutorial - Part Six
Former hunting lodge, 10 hectares, superb Pyrenees views
Built on a very manageable scale with all its original features, the property does have scope for development for a buyer who requires more living accommodation। The land is set along a ridge, with its own woodland, established parkland and an old fashioned swimming pool in need of refurbishment। Remains of the two original Roman belvederes offer far reaching views over the neighbouring countryside.
Town: Masseube
Department: Gers
Region: Midi-Pyrenees
Price: € 490,०००
More Photos and Details: Gers Property
Explore Auch and Gers:
Tuesday 10 January 2012
French Property of the Week: Magnificent Provence Gite
3 km. from Mons and sits in the middle of the Canton de Fayence and the Six Perched Villages.
Mons being one of the perched villages, has 5 restaurants, post office and one of the best boulangeries in the area!Successful Business
The owners have enjoyed a very successful business and are already receiving repeat customers for the 2012 season.
Revenues for the gites upon request.Photos and Details: Mons Gites
Monday 9 January 2012
Traveling in France? French Rail Tips
There is no comparison between UK rail travel and French Rail - trains do leave on time, and you need to be aware of the different procedures in France.The BonjourParis site have a produced a useful list of tips, and the comments are also very helpful. Here is an extract: Tip #1: arrive 30+ minutes before your scheduled departureThe name of your station is printed on your ticket; show that to your driver so there's no confusion about which station you need to get to. Plan to arrive at the train station 30 minutes or more before your scheduled departure time—SNCF advises that the larger the station, the earlier you should arrive. Be aware that the French trains usually depart on time and they will not wait for you. #2: check the departure board for your departure platformCheck the board to confirm your assigned platform and then allow a few minutes more reach the quai (platform) from which your train departs. Navigating your way through the crowds on busy days can be problematic in some large stations, especially if you haven’t allowed enough time and are toting baggage. Make certain you’re on the correct side of the platform to head in your desired direction. #3: validate your ticket before boarding, just to be safeYou will be expected to composter (validate) your own ticket with a time-stamp punch at a self-service ticket validation machine usually located in several places, such as at the start of the quai, on the platform, in the waiting area. Look for the yellow validator that reads: "'Compostez votre billet" or "Compostage de billet." Modern ticket validators are usually yellow, or in some cases orange. Sometimes—but not always—a directional sign (often small) is posted up high on a pole above the machine. Punch your ticket at the first one you see. #4: find your numbered 1st or 2nd class car, then your numbered seats#5. be prepared to show your ticket to the contrôleur (conductor)To read the full tips and useful comments: France Train Travel Tips for Beginners
Thursday 5 January 2012
20 Favourite Things About France
Photo of Cassis by austinevan Cute, but it is thought provoking. Also think what would you miss if you move to France.The Belle Provence Blog kicks off with their top 20 favourites!20 of my favorite things about my adopted home: -Strangers who say « Bon appétit » as they pass your sidewalk table.-Visiting Provençal villages in the springtime.-Toddlers speaking French (TCFW, too cute for words).-Paris Christmas markets. -The cheese aisle at the supermarket.-The flower market at Vieux Nice.-Do-It-Yourself wine touring.-Passing pastry windows that look like works of art.-Eating pastries that look like works of art. -Regional food festivals.-Social services.-Traveling on the TGV (*first-class if possible).-Cours Mirabeau at Aix-en-Provence.-Sunny days in Paris.-Calling your mother-in-law belle mere. -Eating a big bowl of Soup au Pistou in the fall/winter.-Drinking a big glass of rosé, port-side, in the summer.-The Calanques at Cassis.-Growing old gracefully.-Caramel beurre salé anything. Complete article here: 20 Totally Awesome Things About FranceWell that kicks off the debate - what are your favourite things about France? Please contribute in the comments below .... Wednesday 4 January 2012
Where to Buy in France - Review
France is still extremely popular with the Brits for both vacations and overseas property. But where are people looking?The results are a summary of the pages visited on 1st-for-French-Property.co.uk from 1st Jan 2011 to 31st December 2011. These are the results of 354,078 people visiting the site with just under 5 million page views. The top region was Provence Alpes Cote d'Azur property but closely followed by Brittany. Top 6 Regions
Provence
Brittany
Languedoc-Roussillon
Lower Normandy
Limousin
Aquitaine France is split up into regions and then subdivided into departments. This year the most popular department was the Dordogne in the Aquitaine region. Perhaps Dordogne property was popular due to the Little England TV series? Top 10 Departments
Dordogne
Charente-Maritime
Vendee
Haute-Vienne
Morbihan
Cotes-d'Armor
Pyrenees-Orientales
Gers
Aude
Creuse To find out more about popular towns, budgets , locality and types of property in demand, please read the full article at:
French Property Review of the Year 2011
Provence
Brittany
Languedoc-Roussillon
Lower Normandy
Limousin
Aquitaine France is split up into regions and then subdivided into departments. This year the most popular department was the Dordogne in the Aquitaine region. Perhaps Dordogne property was popular due to the Little England TV series? Top 10 Departments
Dordogne
Charente-Maritime
Vendee
Haute-Vienne
Morbihan
Cotes-d'Armor
Pyrenees-Orientales
Gers
Aude
Creuse To find out more about popular towns, budgets , locality and types of property in demand, please read the full article at:
French Property Review of the Year 2011
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