Good for you! I’m 73 and planning my move to France also. I raised my two kids as a single mom and have met many challenges in my life. It’s never too late to try new things.
It was Goethe who said: “Are you in earnest? Seize this very minute: What you can do, or dream you can, begin it; Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it."
Thanks Janice! I have followed your journey! We should meet up there. You can send me a personal email (address is in description of the video) Appreciate you watching!
@@eldergal and Janice, I go on looking at you both I admire you. First I discovered Janice in France and recently Eldergal. Happy you are giving a great lesson for us. I with I meet you one day… All the best!
Glad you don't listen to the naysayers. Too many people are Chicken Littles. I travel the world alone as a woman and I"ve heard it all. It will all work out!
I too have been traveling alone from when I was in my late teens. To date, I have travelled to several different cities & four different continents. I am still traveling alone in my 70s. I was just there in France a month ago, traveling to several areas on the French Riviera. It is sad to know that there are adults who have many unfounded fears about travelling solo.
Best wishes on your relocation, Allison. And very sorry at some of the nasty comments about your situation with your son. That took a lot of vulnerability & courage. One thing that I’ve learned is that our parents do the best they can & frankly, they don’t have all the right answers and make mistakes. We all do.
I just discovered your channel a few weeks ago and feel such a connection to you! Watching your videos I connected with so many things you talk about. I'm amazed that you're able to move to France on so little money. My dream was to move to Italy but I don't make enough social security to swing it. So I've promised myself that by the age of 70 (I'm 68) I'm going to save enough to take a trip. Fingers crossed. Good luck in France! I hope it's everything you want it to be.
Hey, Allison. Your math looks good. I don't see how anyone could do it for much less. Just stay safe and healthy. And board your planes, trains, and automobiles on time, and you should be ok. Take care, Allison.
Very down to earth. You don't need to explain yourself but I know you are just trying to help others. Good luck with everything! Really rooting for you! I love your mantra! I'm going to adopt it also.
A couple of suggestions. Don’t wait too long to have your stuff shipped to you. Import taxes will apply after a year even for stuff that was in a junk drawer. Also, transfer your US number to Google voice (it’s free). You can access messages by logging in with a computer. You can get a cell phone in France for about 1/3 of what you are currently paying. Sending you good vibes and hugs on your journey 🎉
Hopefully by now you have received your visa back, Perpignan here you come. 🎊 Very much like you, enjoy the journey it will all fall into place as it is supposed to. Joyeux Noël 🎄
@@eldergal welcome, everyone moving to a new country will have unknowns, right? After watching a number of UA-camrs, each experience and circumstance is different. 🍾
I would move today but my husband is not well. If he dies before me I plan to go. I only worry I might be too old to get a long term visa. In that case I will spend 90 days in France and travel to other than Schengen countries and then return. Be a nomad. I am confident you’ll be just fine. There is not much to give up here. Having said that, I am attached to my things and my clothes and I’ll take a few things, but minimum. Best of luck!
Friends of mine flew first class from the Seattle to Portugal via the East Coast and took advantage of more generous baggage allowances. Turned out to be less expensive than going coach and paying for excess baggage.
Hi Alison. As I mention in a previous comment, we moved to the UK 25 years ago. No internet, everything was done manually. You've got it easy!😅Enjoy the experience, the thrill and anticipation of a new start. It's going to be the best thing you've probably done in a very long time. As for your food bill, I have a hunch it will be going up once you get into the French food scene.😋
You seem totally up to this challenge to me. So many people are so afraid of change that they allow that to color every decision they make. I went to Paris last November with a group but essentially was a solo in Paris. So many people back home thought I was so brave for doing that. Was I nervous about it - of course. Did I want to let it stop me from seeing a bit of the world - absolutely not. I'm looking forward to following your journey.
I went to Paris from Germany in my twenties with one suitcase and worked there for my living. OmG it was an adventure - incl. some hard experiences. But I have never regretted it 😊
Taxi from CDG to central Paris is €55 fixed rate. There is no pick up area at CDG for Ubers so that would be difficult. BTW, my mantra is “it’ll all work out fine”.
Yes, and don't get scammed from one of the taxis that isn't marked. Make sure you know the price BEFORE you get in the cab and that the meter is running! Ran into some folks from Ca last month while in Paris who were scammed at the airport and ended up costing them $380 euros to get into Paris from CDG! Poor folks!
You are correct! You are going to be fine. I think you seem to understand it is best to go with few expectations. Just be flexible and open to the unexpected. You'll be fine! Things will not always work out the way you expect them to. And that's okay. You'll make it work out a different, maybe even, better way. Just enjoy the experience!
This is such an exciting vicarious experience. Here I am in a snowy rural Canadian winter, not eager to even go outside. "What if it all works out!" Oh, woman, you are a delightful spitfire!! France will love you!
I’m going to be the naysayer on your move for 2 reasons. 1. I am a retired housing attorney for low-income people. I have practiced in DC & NY with some experience in California. For goodness sakes, DO NOT give up low-income housing! It’s like liquid gold & makes housing affordable! Secondly, I’m an American married to a French guy forever. I know France. I speak decent French. Because we own property there & have very close, immediate family there with elder needs, I get what it takes to live there, especially as one ages. I doubt you will be successful in obtaining a long-stay visa. Your level of French isn’t enough to navigate the complexities of daily bureaucratic life in France. It simply isn’t. I think you are romanticizing living there without any idea of how to obtain a bank account (difficult, & I speak from experience!) a lease (hugely difficult because usually, you need proof of an employment contract or an approved business plan for a work visa, & AirBnbs will only take you so far. DO NOT GIVE UP THE ENORMOUS BENEFIT OF SUBSIDIZED LOW-INCOME SENIOR HOUSING!!!!!
I hope you realized that you don’t know much about what you are commenting on. There are several resources on the internet including other UA-camrs who have gone through the process and is now living in France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, etc. The people who are moving to France and other European countries are retirees, they are not seeking employment. Retirees have a source of income, i.e. a pension. Your biggest misinformation is the Employment bit. Also, there are several ways ways to access one’s money while outside of their country. And like all the others who have gone through the process, she too would be able to open a bank account when the time is right. Stop the spreading of misinformation. I am not moving to France or Portugal or Spain and I can tell that you are so out of touch about such matters.
@@ariannewdnotbe I'm interested in this topic and follow many older solo women as well as middle-aged couples who have made the move over there and have been successful. Allison speaks better French than any of those other people that I follow. Low income housing, especially with sketchy neighbors, is not what I would think of as living your best life. Just sharing my opinions here.
@eldergal at 0:49 you say you live in low income senior housing, but you answer this female housing attorney by saying you make too much money to live in low income housing. Could you elaborate? Thank you. Also, when you received your visa denial, you seemed surprised it was in French, coming from the government of France. You expect foreign governments to accommodate English language because an American citizen files a visa application?
I love all of your specifics! I have been planning for a move to France by this time next year, with a scouting visit next spring. My budget is very tight too, and it’s starting to panic me. So I will be following you very closely for guidance from your results. And now, the French government has just collapsed. I am trying to learn how that will impact the country, its people, and immigrants like us. Please include data on that as you discover it. I appreciate it and will continue to follow you closely. ❤
What a fanatastic adventure you have coming up. Really surprised a one-way airfare from West Coast to Paris is over $1000 (would have expected half of that) - and reality you have included 12 months travel insurance, when your real budget is showing your first month settling in, so you could have divided that by 12 and been under $4k total move costs. You will have a blast! Greetings from New Zealand, and a person who is still a few years away from a retirement adventure.
Just an FYI. If the visa doesn't pan out you can live in France as a perpetual tourist. You just need to leave and come back every 90 days. I'm not sure if you're aware of that or not. Another thought too is that there's nothing stopping you from moving on to another low cost country. Malta, for example, can be a bargain and they speak English.
Some suggestions to consider. Many people use Ship my bag for extra items which is fast and not overly expensive. Have you considered the drivers license exchange if your state is one of the exchange states? It may not be a prioroity but if you need it even very rarely it is a lot easier and cheaper and also faster than going through French drivers school and testing.Your budget looks accurate from our recent travels and scouting there. Bonne chance.
@@eldergal I'm sure you are aware the International drivers license is only good for one year of residency and after that a US and international license is no longer valid. I don't recall what state you are in but some offer an exchange and others don't but you can get one that is accpeted for exchange prior to leaving. You also will need a full driving record from all states you lived in or had a drivers license in all the way back to original license if possible that is no older than 90 days and the exchange must be completed in the first year. You use th ANTS system and it is an involved process so start as soon as possible once you arrive. Best of luck.
I'm so excited to hear about your Visa status! I've put your channel on notifications status. And fear not if it's not the outcome you wanted because I follow Janice in France UA-cam videos. She was approved only for a year, had to reapply and then the second time she was approved for permanent residency.
You are more than capable, you are a FORCE! ❤ So exciting to see all this info in black & white. I wanted it ask you about the passenger trains. I have heard that they're not so easy when you have a lot of luggage. I think you have to sit back with your luggage to make sure it's safe. Have you possibly looked into getting a driver to take you straight to your end destination? I'd be curious if you have, and what the quote was?
I love your "What if it all works out" mantra! Mine that I discovered (on a billboard) on a month long solo trip to NYC is "What's the best that could happen?" I love following your adventure. So exciting!!
I know this has been a long term goal for you, so you are well informed and well prepared.. The naysayers of the world will always be around,, I'm glad you're not listening to them . Life is to be lived. Best wishes Allison. ❤
I agree with you. Its will work out for you. Of course no matter where you are life presents challenges and we work through them no matter where on the planet we are. Your timing is very good for a big move as you are healthy and have good cognitive skills. I am rooting for you hard doesn’t mean bad.
How amazing and exciting. I was just there in France 2 months ago. I, too, have thought of moving there for a year or so when I retire. Going to check back to see your status. Safe travels.
I'm so excited for you🥰You are free to do new things in life, so why not move to Europe. Welcome❤As you sad, you dont get younger, right now is the best time to do it. France is a great country, and close to the Mediterranean Sea. I moved to Spain in my thirties and never regretted the decision. Now I am back in Oslo working and catching up with my old life here, after christmas I will be back in Spain. The climate is a huge antidepressant☀☀☀
This was a very direct and sound, to my mind, plan of action. Best of luck to you!! Can't wait to follow your adventure. You have a great attitude and mantra!! Yes, the nay sayers or I as call them, the noise. Better to turn our ears to mute. They may mean well but let us live our lives!
I have an apartment in Nice. I spend part of the year there and part in the US. I find my living expenses in Nice are a lot less than the US. In Nice I am outdoors more and get more exercise, while at home in the US, the weather keeps me indoors and my main entertainment is shopping!
You can find very reasonably priced small hotels for 360 euros, especially if you stay at two star hotels. As you probably know, the two stars are not an indication of the quality, but the amenities. Stay outside of the touristy areas too!
I am glad you are doing that. You can be an inspiration to so many people who feel stuck in the US and don't know what to do. My moving to an Hispanic country almost cost me the same and almost double with the process of getting my residency. I still have some more expenses to cover because I am the one furnishing my apartment.
I’m somewhat new here and it sounds like you live in/near Reno. My ears perked because my brother lives in Portola, CA, about an hour from Reno. And I have a sister in Half Moon Bay. 😊 Happy travels!! I’ll be here waiting in Iowa for updates!
Using a white board to avoid extra editing? Anything to avoid extra editing is what I say, lol! Thanks again for the video, I'm hoping my parents check your series out someday soon and make a similar path! Good luck to you.
Not to avoid extra editing. Just a learning curve and expense of software to film picture-in-picture. Still have lots to learn! Thanks for watching and for suggesting channel to your parents!
I do have one question. I assume that you currently have Medicare and are paying a Medicare Part B premium. Will you continue that to avoid the penalty when/if you return to the USA?
Hi Alison, It is very good that someone can ship it later on... This gives you time time to settle down. I don't think you would have to pay a huge amount of money if something happens to you ( knock on wood). Anyway, nothing will happen. Well done Alison!!! Now relax and enjoy your lasts days on the States. Enjoy every minute. Have a great day 😍😍
From reading through the posts, I get the distinct feeling some people are more worried about you and this move than you are. But that's not a critique of you at all, Allison, just an observation of the responses. I have faith in you, your problem solving abilities, and that knowing every change involves risks. But we can't live a quality life by trying to anticipate everything that might go wrong and have a plan A, B and C, just in case.
It will all work out, I am confident. I did this as a 20 year old and with only high school French. I landed in the middle of the night in the middle of a rainstorm which ruined my shoes. Long wet story but in the morning I made contact with my hotel ( there was no Uber, no Air B&B) started following leads posted on a student bulletin board and found a room to rent (very inexpensive) with a family and it lasted all year till I chose to move in with a schoolmate, also not difficult. You will do this with only minor frustrations. You go girl!
Good for you! I’m 73 and planning my move to France also. I raised my two kids as a single mom and have met many challenges in my life. It’s never too late to try new things.
Good luck to you, Gayle! Hope you make the move!
@@gayleparrish625 I agree. I was 70
It was Goethe who said:
“Are you in earnest? Seize this very minute:
What you can do, or dream you can, begin it;
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it."
Appreciate you sharing this inspiration! Thanks!
When one really wants to do something, doors seem to open up, and people help out as you go on your journey. I wish you the best.
Appreciate that so much!
❤
I'm a 65-year-old woman, and it warms my heart to see adventurous people my age get out there and go for it.
I'm looking forward to watching you.
Thanks much!
We should get together. I moved here when I was 70 with three suitcases, a dog and a cat.
Thanks Janice! I have followed your journey! We should meet up there. You can send me a personal email (address is in description of the video) Appreciate you watching!
Hi JaniceinFrance. I 👀 you. Long time subscriber.
@@eldergal and Janice, I go on looking at you both I admire you. First I discovered Janice in France and recently Eldergal.
Happy you are giving a great lesson for us.
I with I meet you one day…
All the best!
@@Staronqueen thank you
@@gracindaabreu6269 hope so
I admire your bravery and wish you well. Enjoy the ride!
Thank you for the kind words, Janie!
I find your adventures inspiring - thank you so much for sharing them with us!
Glad you don't listen to the naysayers. Too many people are Chicken Littles. I travel the world alone as a woman and I"ve heard it all. It will all work out!
I too have been traveling alone from when I was in my late teens. To date, I have travelled to several different cities & four different continents. I am still traveling alone in my 70s. I was just there in France a month ago, traveling to several areas on the French Riviera.
It is sad to know that there are adults who have many unfounded fears about travelling solo.
Great Mantra: "What if it all works out!"
I’m in my late 50’s with lots of family and work commitments. You’re living my dream, so I’m going to enjoy watching your journey. All the best!
Thank you so much, that's so kind of you to say, Sandy!
You are right. You will work things out as they come.
Best wishes on your relocation, Allison. And very sorry at some of the nasty comments about your situation with your son. That took a lot of vulnerability & courage. One thing that I’ve learned is that our parents do the best they can & frankly, they don’t have all the right answers and make mistakes. We all do.
Appreciate your kind and supportive words, Douglas! Thanks!
What you do and share so openly is truly an inspiration.
Very kind of you, thanks Meliya!
I just discovered your channel a few weeks ago and feel such a connection to you! Watching your videos I connected with so many things you talk about. I'm amazed that you're able to move to France on so little money. My dream was to move to Italy but I don't make enough social security to swing it. So I've promised myself that by the age of 70 (I'm 68) I'm going to save enough to take a trip. Fingers crossed. Good luck in France! I hope it's everything you want it to be.
Thank you for your kind words and support! I hope you make that trip too!
I’m so excited for you!!! This is awesome ❤
I love your can-do attitude and spirit of adventure. Go for it. You can do it, for sure!
Thanks so much for your kind words, Laura!
I think it will be a wonderful adventure! I’m so glad you are taking us along to see it!!
Thank you so much for joining me, Tami!
I'm excited for you! Congratulations!
Very cool that you're doing this. Should be a fun adventure.
Thanks so much!
You are almost up to 30K subscribers!!! Awesome!
Close, but still a ways to go! Thanks for watching!
Hey, Allison. Your math looks good. I don't see how anyone could do it for much less. Just stay safe and healthy. And board your planes, trains, and automobiles on time, and you should be ok. Take care, Allison.
Thanks for the kind words, John! We'll see - stay tuned!
@@eldergalYou are welcome, Allison. Have a peaceful night and a great week. Take care.
Very down to earth. You don't need to explain yourself but I know you are just trying to help others. Good luck with everything! Really rooting for you! I love your mantra! I'm going to adopt it also.
Appreciate you so much, Ladell! Thanks!
I hope everything will be good for you
A couple of suggestions. Don’t wait too long to have your stuff shipped to you. Import taxes will apply after a year even for stuff that was in a junk drawer. Also, transfer your US number to Google voice (it’s free). You can access messages by logging in with a computer. You can get a cell phone in France for about 1/3 of what you are currently paying. Sending you good vibes and hugs on your journey 🎉
Appreciate the suggestion about Google voice especially! Thanks!
@@HamiltonHikes I just watched a new Les Frenchies video that mentioned the import duties.
@ yes, I’m leaning from others who are already there. Im excited for you and will continue to watch your journey- what an adventure ❤️
You're a real gutsy lady! Bravo! Good luck. Hope we hear about your adventures.
What if it all works out! Fantastic mantra. You are amazing, great inspiration.
Thank you for the kind words Cecily! Appreciate it!
Bonjour Allison! Best wishes on this exciting journey to France!🇫🇷
Thank you! Appreciate the support!
I admire your courage SO much!! You have the right attitude! You’ve got this!!! Don’t listen to the naysayers. I wish you all the best! ❤️
Appreciate that, Michelle!
Hopefully by now you have received your visa back, Perpignan here you come. 🎊 Very much like you, enjoy the journey it will all fall into place as it is supposed to. Joyeux Noël 🎄
You are a great planner! I hope you find a wonderful apartment at a good price! 🍀🍀🍀🍀💜💜💜💜
Thanks, Rasa!
@@eldergal welcome, everyone moving to a new country will have unknowns, right? After watching a number of UA-camrs, each experience and circumstance is different. 🍾
I would move today but my husband is not well. If he dies before me I plan to go. I only worry I might be too old to get a long term visa. In that case I will spend 90 days in France and travel to other than Schengen countries and then return. Be a nomad. I am confident you’ll be just fine. There is not much to give up here. Having said that, I am attached to my things and my clothes and I’ll take a few things, but minimum. Best of luck!
I’ve been thinking the same thing since 2016! The states have more violence than many countries & some have MUCH better healthcare around the world!
Ha ha ha ha. She can renew a visa year to year. 😅😅😅😅😅
Thanks for sharing this! I have a feeling I will be a nomad for awhile. Appreciate you watching!
Can’t wait to follow you to France!!!!!
I honestly feel you'll be just fine AND dandy!
Thanks much Merri!
Thank you for sharing your info. You are an inspiration for us seniors to continue to have adventures & enjoy life. You go gal!!!🌺
Appreciate your kind words Cheryl! Thanks so much for watching!
So excited for You ❤😊
😊i am so happy for you ❤ you go Allison. Peace and many blessings to you.
Thanks, Rene!
You seem to have it figured out and I wish you all the best in your new adventure.
Thanks much, Jennifer!
Allison, You're going to be fine! You continue to be an inspiration to me. Cathy
Thanks Cathy!
We are so excited for you!! 🎉best to you!!
Friends of mine flew first class from the Seattle to Portugal via the East Coast and took advantage of more generous baggage allowances. Turned out to be less expensive than going coach and paying for excess baggage.
Hi Alison. As I mention in a previous comment, we moved to the UK 25 years ago. No internet, everything was done manually. You've got it easy!😅Enjoy the experience, the thrill and anticipation of a new start. It's going to be the best thing you've probably done in a very long time. As for your food bill, I have a hunch it will be going up once you get into the French food scene.😋
Good for you! Grab for this new life experience with both hands! I have faith that you can do just fine.
Thanks much, Nana!
I am complety surprised with the courage of this lady!
I wich you the best, you reserve it!
Regards from Portugal
Thank you so much, Gracinda!
This is so exciting 🎉 GO for it❤ IT will work out!!
To get around Paris the best way is by bus. You can take a ticket, I don't remember the price, and you can use it all day long
Yes, I did use that last time in Paris. Thanks!
How exciting Allison…🎉
You seem totally up to this challenge to me. So many people are so afraid of change that they allow that to color every decision they make. I went to Paris last November with a group but essentially was a solo in Paris. So many people back home thought I was so brave for doing that. Was I nervous about it - of course. Did I want to let it stop me from seeing a bit of the world - absolutely not. I'm looking forward to following your journey.
Thanks for sharing this, Patricia! I went to Paris alone more than 20 years ago and loved it! Appreciate you watching!
I went to Paris from Germany in my twenties with one suitcase and worked there for my living. OmG it was an adventure - incl. some hard experiences. But I have never regretted it 😊
And it will all work out ! 😊
Bonjour! Wishing you much success on your journey. So happy for you. Thank you for the inspiration!
Thanks so much for following!
You will be fine. I am really excited for you.
Exciting do happy for you
Taxi from CDG to central Paris is €55 fixed rate. There is no pick up area at CDG for Ubers so that would be difficult. BTW, my mantra is “it’ll all work out fine”.
Yes, and don't get scammed from one of the taxis that isn't marked. Make sure you know the price BEFORE you get in the cab and that the meter is running! Ran into some folks from Ca last month while in Paris who were scammed at the airport and ended up costing them $380 euros to get into Paris from CDG! Poor folks!
Good to know, thanks for sharing!
You are correct! You are going to be fine. I think you seem to understand it is best to go with few expectations. Just be flexible and open to the unexpected. You'll be fine! Things will not always work out the way you expect them to. And that's okay. You'll make it work out a different, maybe even, better way. Just enjoy the experience!
Your supportive words mean a lot Denise! Needed that today!
This is such an exciting vicarious experience. Here I am in a snowy rural Canadian winter, not eager to even go outside. "What if it all works out!" Oh, woman, you are a delightful spitfire!! France will love you!
Thanks much, Joanne!
This is so exciting, Allison!!❤
I’m going to be the naysayer on your move for 2 reasons.
1. I am a retired housing attorney for low-income people. I have practiced in DC & NY with some experience in California.
For goodness sakes, DO NOT give up low-income housing!
It’s like liquid gold & makes housing affordable!
Secondly, I’m an American married to a French guy forever. I know France. I speak decent French. Because we own property there & have very close, immediate family there with elder needs, I get what it takes to live there, especially as one ages.
I doubt you will be successful in obtaining a long-stay visa.
Your level of French isn’t enough to navigate the complexities of daily bureaucratic life in France. It simply isn’t. I think you are romanticizing living there without any idea of how to obtain a bank account (difficult, & I speak from experience!) a lease (hugely difficult because usually, you need proof of an employment contract or an approved business plan for a work visa, & AirBnbs will only take you so far.
DO NOT GIVE UP THE ENORMOUS BENEFIT OF SUBSIDIZED LOW-INCOME SENIOR HOUSING!!!!!
Already make too much for low-income housing - so that door is closed! But thanks!
1. She’s going
2. She’s going.
I hope you realized that you don’t know much about what you are commenting on. There are several resources on the internet including other UA-camrs who have gone through the process and is now living in France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, etc. The people who are moving to France
and other European countries are retirees, they are not seeking employment. Retirees have a source of income, i.e. a pension. Your biggest misinformation is the Employment bit.
Also, there are several ways ways to access one’s money while outside of their country. And like all the others who have gone through the process, she too would be able to open a bank account when the time is right.
Stop the spreading of misinformation.
I am not moving to France or Portugal or Spain and I can tell that you are so out of touch about such matters.
@@ariannewdnotbe I'm interested in this topic and follow many older solo women as well as middle-aged couples who have made the move over there and have been successful. Allison speaks better French than any of those other people that I follow. Low income housing, especially with sketchy neighbors, is not what I would think of as living your best life. Just sharing my opinions here.
@eldergal at 0:49 you say you live in low income senior housing, but you answer this female housing attorney by saying you make too much money to live in low income housing. Could you elaborate? Thank you. Also, when you received your visa denial, you seemed surprised it was in French, coming from the government of France. You expect foreign governments to accommodate English language because an American citizen files a visa application?
Perpignan - a great place!
I love all of your specifics! I have been planning for a move to France by this time next year, with a scouting visit next spring. My budget is very tight too, and it’s starting to panic me. So I will be following you very closely for guidance from your results. And now, the French government has just collapsed. I am trying to learn how that will impact the country, its people, and immigrants like us. Please include data on that as you discover it. I appreciate it and will continue to follow you closely. ❤
Yes, things may be a bit uncertain! Thanks for watching!
What a fanatastic adventure you have coming up. Really surprised a one-way airfare from West Coast to Paris is over $1000 (would have expected half of that) - and reality you have included 12 months travel insurance, when your real budget is showing your first month settling in, so you could have divided that by 12 and been under $4k total move costs. You will have a blast! Greetings from New Zealand, and a person who is still a few years away from a retirement adventure.
Thanks, appreciate you watching from New Zealand! Airfare includes 2 checked bags and is on a nonstop flight and allows changes. All that costs more!
I am confident that you will be okay. Admire you for doing what you want to do.
Just an FYI. If the visa doesn't pan out you can live in France as a perpetual tourist. You just need to leave and come back every 90 days. I'm not sure if you're aware of that or not. Another thought too is that there's nothing stopping you from moving on to another low cost country. Malta, for example, can be a bargain and they speak English.
Thanks for sharing that, appreciate it, Chris!
My friend is in Malta now and LOVES it!
So inspirational! Thank you for this video!
Thanks much!
Some suggestions to consider. Many people use Ship my bag for extra items which is fast and not overly expensive. Have you considered the drivers license exchange if your state is one of the exchange states? It may not be a prioroity but if you need it even very rarely it is a lot easier and cheaper and also faster than going through French drivers school and testing.Your budget looks accurate from our recent travels and scouting there. Bonne chance.
Yes, getting an international drivers license.
@@eldergal I'm sure you are aware the International drivers license is only good for one year of residency and after that a US and international license is no longer valid. I don't recall what state you are in but some offer an exchange and others don't but you can get one that is accpeted for exchange prior to leaving. You also will need a full driving record from all states you lived in or had a drivers license in all the way back to original license if possible that is no older than 90 days and the exchange must be completed in the first year. You use th ANTS system and it is an involved process so start as soon as possible once you arrive. Best of luck.
Good job I'm following you closely
Thanks for sharing. Have you considered staying at a hostel in Paris to save money?
I'm so excited to hear about your Visa status! I've put your channel on notifications status. And fear not if it's not the outcome you wanted because I follow Janice in France UA-cam videos. She was approved only for a year, had to reapply and then the second time she was approved for permanent residency.
Wow, that’s great. I will be moving across country again this time from New Jersey to Vegas. Or to Phoenix I’m hoping it only cost 5K.😅
Good luck with your move, Amy!
You are more than capable, you are a FORCE! ❤ So exciting to see all this info in black & white. I wanted it ask you about the passenger trains. I have heard that they're not so easy when you have a lot of luggage. I think you have to sit back with your luggage to make sure it's safe. Have you possibly looked into getting a driver to take you straight to your end destination? I'd be curious if you have, and what the quote was?
Uber is not a big thing in Europe. Go by regular old cab/taxi.
“What if all works out?”
Love it
❤🙌
Thanks, Rebeca!
You are amazing, Allison. And you clearly know exactly what you are doing. Just go on with it :) - I also have italian ancestors. Not the worst!
Thanks much, vibeke!
I love your "What if it all works out" mantra! Mine that I discovered (on a billboard) on a month long solo trip to NYC is "What's the best that could happen?" I love following your adventure. So exciting!!
What's the best that could happen indeed! Thanks Susan!
I know this has been a long term goal for you, so you are well informed and well prepared.. The naysayers of the world will always be around,, I'm glad you're not listening to them . Life is to be lived. Best wishes Allison. ❤
Thanks much for your support!
OMG what if it does all work out?!
Maybe in a way I don't expect!
I agree with you. Its will work out for you. Of course no matter where you are life presents challenges and we work through them no matter where on the planet we are. Your timing is very good for a big move as you are healthy and have good cognitive skills. I am rooting for you hard doesn’t mean bad.
Thanks, appreciate your support!
I like your new mantra what if it all works out❤❤❤❤❤❤
How amazing and exciting. I was just there in France 2 months ago. I, too, have thought of moving there for a year or so when I retire.
Going to check back to see your status. Safe travels.
Thanks so much, appreciate your support!
I have been researching Perpignan since you told us about your move! What a beautiful place. I am so excited for you!
It's really nice to see genuine love for the content creator
I'm so excited for you🥰You are free to do new things in life, so why not move to Europe. Welcome❤As you sad, you dont get younger, right now is the best time to do it. France is a great country, and close to the Mediterranean Sea. I moved to Spain in my thirties and never regretted the decision. Now I am back in Oslo working and catching up with my old life here, after christmas I will be back in Spain. The climate is a huge antidepressant☀☀☀
“Don’t trouble trouble til trouble troubles you”😄
Can’t wait to follow this journey with you, this is so fun😊
Thanks so much, drai!
This was a very direct and sound, to my mind, plan of action. Best of luck to you!! Can't wait to follow your adventure. You have a great attitude and mantra!! Yes, the nay sayers or I as call them, the noise. Better to turn our ears to mute. They may mean well but let us live our lives!
Thanks so much for your kind and supportive words!
You are amazing -- inspiring us scaredycats
I have an apartment in Nice. I spend part of the year there and part in the US. I find my living expenses in Nice are a lot less than the US. In Nice I am outdoors more and get more exercise, while at home in the US, the weather keeps me indoors and my main entertainment is shopping!
Thanks for sharing this! I hope to see Nice!
Freak out! LOL! Go for it.
You can find very reasonably priced small hotels for 360 euros, especially if you stay at two star hotels. As you probably know, the two stars are not an indication of the quality, but the amenities. Stay outside of the touristy areas too!
Go for it! Have fun and perhaps if the Good Lord willing and the creek doesn't rise, I'll see you in Perpignan.
Thanks so much, Carole!
I love your attitude and am hoping for the very best for you, but I have a feeling it's all going to work as you have planned. Good luck!!
Thanks, James!
That's awesome! So happy for you. I wish I could talk my husband into it. Best of luck to you and keep on posting.
Thanks much, Jann! Hope you keep watching!
I am glad you are doing that. You can be an inspiration to so many people who feel stuck in the US and don't know what to do. My moving to an Hispanic country almost cost me the same and almost double with the process of getting my residency. I still have some more expenses to cover because I am the one furnishing my apartment.
Thanks for sharing this, Vivi!
I admire your bravery. Do it.
Thanks, Christopher!
I’m somewhat new here and it sounds like you live in/near Reno. My ears perked because my brother lives in Portola, CA, about an hour from Reno. And I have a sister in Half Moon Bay. 😊 Happy travels!! I’ll be here waiting in Iowa for updates!
Using a white board to avoid extra editing? Anything to avoid extra editing is what I say, lol!
Thanks again for the video, I'm hoping my parents check your series out someday soon and make a similar path!
Good luck to you.
Not to avoid extra editing. Just a learning curve and expense of software to film picture-in-picture. Still have lots to learn! Thanks for watching and for suggesting channel to your parents!
Oh wow, I looked up that city, what a beautiful body of water, there. Exciting!
I do have one question. I assume that you currently have Medicare and are paying a Medicare Part B premium. Will you continue that to avoid the penalty when/if you return to the USA?
@@todddunn945 that's what I'm curious about...have been since I started following. I also just voiced this in comments.
Still deciding...
Hi Alison,
It is very good that someone can ship it later on... This gives you time time to settle down. I don't think you would have to pay a huge amount of money if something happens to you ( knock on wood). Anyway, nothing will happen.
Well done Alison!!!
Now relax and enjoy your lasts days on the States. Enjoy every minute.
Have a great day 😍😍
Thanks so much for your kind support, Silvia!
Ditto on what everyone else is posting! Also am looking forward to your new life in France! :)
Thanks much, ruby!
From reading through the posts, I get the distinct feeling some people are more worried about you and this move than you are. But that's not a critique of you at all, Allison, just an observation of the responses. I have faith in you, your problem solving abilities, and that knowing every change involves risks. But we can't live a quality life by trying to anticipate everything that might go wrong and have a plan A, B and C, just in case.
You’re right, there’s always risk involved! And I AM concerned!
Man, this has me really thinking……😊😊
It will all work out, I am confident. I did this as a 20 year old and with only high school French. I landed in the middle of the night in the middle of a rainstorm which ruined my shoes. Long wet story but in the morning I made contact with my hotel ( there was no Uber, no Air B&B) started following leads posted on a student bulletin board and found a room to rent (very inexpensive) with a family and it lasted all year till I chose to move in with a schoolmate, also not difficult. You will do this with only minor frustrations. You go girl!
Thanks much for sharing! Appreciate the supportive words!